WHAT IS THE RESIDENTIAL "WALK-THROUGH" PERMIT PROCESS?

The residential "walk-through" process is an abbreviated permit review and approval process that enables customers to receive rapid (in most cases, over-the-counter) approval of permits for minor single-family-dwelling additions/alterations and for construction of accessory structures. Single-family dwellings include one-and two-family detached dwellings and townhouses as defined in the International Residential Code(IRC) building code.

WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS QUALIFY FOR THE "WALK-THROUGH" PROCESS?

Examples of qualifying projects are:

• Small additions, such as garages, sun rooms, decks, and dormers



• Alterations, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, finishing an attic or basement, or re-configuring a floor plan



• Minor structural repairs or replacement



• Detached accessory/miscellaneous structures, such as fences and retaining walls, sheds, pools, and antennas

WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

• A completed building permit application must be submitted.



• The application must be accompanied by two copies of the site plan, as appropriate, and two copies of the construction drawings in sufficient detail to show the nature and scope of the proposed work. The plans must be prepared in accordance with "Plan Submittal Guidelines," available at the telephone 240-777-6300.

NOTE: Deficient permit applications and plans will be returned to the applicant with an explanation of the supplemental information or corrections needed for approval.

HOW MUCH DOES A PERMIT COST?

There is a minimum filing fee of $150. The fee for one- and two-family dwelling and townhouse additions is $0.1748 per gross square foot of construction area. The fee for one-family dwelling, two-family dwelling, and townhouse repairs or alterations is $0.1234 per square foot of construction area. The fee for construction of a deck with a gross area of 500 square feet or less is $88. If the deck area is greater than 500 square feet, the fee is $0.1748 per square foot or the minimum filing fee, whichever is greater.

An additional 10% Automation Enhancement Fee is charged on the cost(s) listed above.

WHEN WILL THE PERMIT BE READY?

Most walk-through permits can be issued "while you wait." Permits for more complicated projects are usually ready within ten business days. Actual time may vary according to the volume/complexity of plans in the process.

NOTE: Disapproved "Walk through" permits must be refiled as new applications.