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Permits & Inspections

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1. Where do I apply for a permit?

Permit applications are made on the portal.

2. How can I check the status of my permit?

Permit status may be found on the portal.

Online Permit Inquiry

3. Why do I need a permit?

Building codes including structural, electrical, plumbing, and other components are designed to help ensure safety. Codes set standards and help builders, homeowners and the community have safe and secure buildings for many generations. When you obtain a permit, you are gaining the benefit of a certified inspector that can offer experience and guidance to help save you time, money and frustration.

4. When is my project complete?

The end result of the permitting process is the issuance of the Certificate of Completion. The Certificate of Completion is issued when all final inspections have been approved and the construction has been approved for use. It is sent to the applicant of the Building Permit. A Certificate of Occupancy is issued for new dwelling permits and non-residential permits.

5. How can I obtain a Business License?

The Permits & Inspections Department issues electrical, plumbing and gaming licenses. A Business license may be obtained through the Clerk of the Circuit Court, 301-600-1976.

6. Do I need a permit for a fence?

If your property is not within an Incorporated Town or Frederick City, a permit for a fence is not required, because County Zoning regulations do not require a Zoning Certificate for a fence. Please check with Zoning Administration to confirm setback and height requirements.

7. Do I need a Building Permit to replace my deck if I’m replacing it with the same size deck?

Yes, a permit is required. Deck Application Packet

8. How do I obtain an inspection?

Inspection requests are made by email (permits@frederickcountymd.gov) or you may schedule an inspection through the portal at https://planningandpermitting.frederickcountymd.gov/.

The permit number, permit type, kind of inspection, name (and company if applicable) and phone number are required. Requests received prior to 12:00 p.m. will be accommodated the next business day. If the inspector is unable to meet this request, the person that requested the inspection will be notified by phone. Please review the inspection procedures for more detail.

Inspection Procedures

9. How will I know if the inspection passed or failed?

The inspector will leave an inspection sticker at the site along with a notation and contact information for further questions. You may also check the inspection status on the portal at https://planningandpermitting.frederickcountymd.gov/.

Online Permit Inquiry

10. If I purchase a pre-built shed that is delivered to my property, do I need a Building Permit since I’m not really building anything?

If the shed is 10 x 15 (150 sq. ft.) or larger, a Building Permit is required. A Zoning Certificate may be required for a shed less than 150 sq. ft. if the property is within an Incorporated Town or Frederick City – contact your Town/City office.

11. What do I have to show on my plot plan to submit for a Building Permit?

1)all property lines; 2)square footage or acres of property; 3)house location with proposed project; 4)setbacks; 5)property owner name and address; 6)well & septic locations if applicable; 7)driveway location, and; 8)any other existing structures. Contact the Permits Office at 301-600-2313 and select #4 for more specific requirements.

12. What are setbacks?

Setbacks are the distances in feet from the proposed structure to the property lines in all directions. If there is a structure between the property line then the distance from the structure is used as the setback.

13. Do I need a permit for minor cosmetic work in my home?

Redecorating and minor repair jobs such as painting, wallpaper, flooring, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work do not require a permit.

14. Do I need a permit for an inflatable pool?

Yes, a building permit is required if the pool depth is at least or greater than 24 inches. A 48 inch barrier is required by code. For more information, please visit the building permit information on swimming pools/hot tubs Swimming Pools/Hot Tub Building Permit

15. What type of plumbing work needs a plumbing permit?

Any new plumbing requires a plumbing permit. Any replacement appliance or fixtures that are not "like-kind" (same mechanical and electrical rating as the appliance being replaced) or if the replacement causes piping to be added or moved.

16. What type of electrical work needs an electrical permit?

Any new wiring, including low voltage, service work, reintroduction of service, generators, pools/hot tubs, street lighting and illuminated signs require an electrical permit. Replacement of an appliance or a fixture not of the same rating requires an electrical permit.

17. How do I obtain a Burning Permit?

Burning permits are issued by the Environmental Health Department,301-600-3168. Environmental Health website

18. Does my contractor need a home improvement license?

Check the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR) Maryland Home Improvement Commission's webpage.
DLLR Maryland Home Improvement Commission