Commercial Change of Use

When is a Buidling Permit Required?

A building permit is required for commercial change of use in Montgomery County and municipalities, with the exceptions of the City of Rockville and the City of Gaithersburg.

What is the Permit Process?

For all change of use:

• Submission of a completed Commercial Building application
• Two complete sets of construction drawings (engineer/architect signed/sealed with certification and title block)
• Submission of a completed Use and Occupancy application include one site plan
• Four site plans (five site plans if the lot has a well and/or septic system)
• Two completed Energy Worksheets (IECC 2009)

Other Agencies Involved

Approvals may be required from the following agencies:

• SHA (State Highway Administration)
• Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission
• WSSC (Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission)
• Department of Health and Human Services
• Townships

Inspections Information 

Inspection requirements are attached to the approved set of plans. Inspection requests received before 12:00 noon are scheduled for the next business day (Monday – Friday). Inspection requests received after 12:00 noon are scheduled within two business days (Monday – Friday).

What will the Permit Cost?

Permit fees are assessed in accordance with Executive Regulation 5-11AMIII, Schedule of Fees for Permits, Licenses, and Certifications -Method 2, Department of Permitting Services. A 10% Automation Enhancement Fee will be added to the above cost.

Permit Duration

The permit is valid for one (1) year from the date of issue. An extension may be applied for prior to permit expiration.