Commercial New Construction

When is a Building Permit Required?

A building permit is required for all new construction, addition, alterations, change of use, including decks, sheds, retaining walls, and fences 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 new construction:

• Submission of a completed Sediment Control application (including two site plans showing topography)
• Submission of a Right-of-Way application (including one site plan)
• Submission of a completed Commercial/Residential 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 (if Commercial, include one site plan
• Four site plans (five site plans if the lot has a well and/or septic system)
• Two completed Energy Worksheets

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.  

Notice to Sprinkler and Building Contractors:

Be advised, all fuel-fired equipment located in attics/concealed spaces of all residential occupancies in buildings up to four stories in height and one-and-two-family dwellings starting with building permit numbers (COMBUILD) #660755, (COMFAST) #600668, (BUILDING RESIDENTIAL) #600659 or greater must be protected with sprinklers. This requirement is in accordance with NFPA 13R, 2007 Sec. 6.9.6 and NFPA 13D, 2007 Sec. 8.6.5.