Maryland

Permit Expediting in Montgomery County

Montgomery County is Maryland's most populous county, and its Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is one of the busiest permit offices in the region. DPS processes tens of thousands of permits annually across a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and institutional projects — from Bethesda high-rises to Poolesville additions. PermitCare has been navigating Montgomery County's permit process for decades.

Permit Office

Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS)

2425 Reedie Dr., 7th Floor, Wheaton, MD 20902

(240) 777-6300Online Portal

Typical Review Timelines

Permit TypeTypical Timeline
Residential Addition / Alteration4–10 weeks
Commercial Tenant Improvement6–14 weeks
New Commercial Construction10–20 weeks
MEP (Mechanical / Electrical / Plumbing)3–6 weeks
Deck / Fence / Accessory Structure4–8 weeks

Timelines are estimates for complete first submissions. Resubmissions and peak periods can extend these.

Common Permit Types in Montgomery County

  • Residential additions and basement finishes
  • Commercial tenant fit-out
  • New residential construction
  • MEP permits (HVAC, electrical, plumbing)
  • Swimming pool and deck permits
  • Solar panel and EV charger permits
  • ADA compliance retrofits
  • Special exception applications

Local Notes & Quirks

Montgomery County DPS uses a tiered review system — Express, Standard, and Complex. Express review is available for smaller residential projects. Note: Rockville City and Gaithersburg City are independent jurisdictions with separate permit offices — properties inside city limits use the city's process, not DPS.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a building permit in Montgomery County?+
Montgomery County uses its online ePlans portal for most permit submissions. You upload drawings, pay fees, and track review status online. DPS provides status updates throughout the review cycle. PermitCare manages the full submission and follow-up process on your behalf.
How long does a residential permit take in Montgomery County?+
Residential additions typically take 4–10 weeks in Montgomery County, depending on project complexity and current DPS workload. Complete, well-prepared submissions move faster — PermitCare's submissions are formatted to DPS's checklist to minimize correction cycles.
Does Montgomery County require energy compliance documentation?+
Yes. Montgomery County enforces the Maryland Energy Performance Standards, which require energy compliance documentation (ResCheck or COMcheck) for most residential and commercial projects. PermitCare prepares these reports as part of the permit package.
Does Montgomery County require architect or engineer stamps?+
Yes. Most structural projects, new construction, and commercial work require architect or engineer stamped drawings. PermitCare's in-house Licensed Architects (RA) and Professional Engineers (PE) provide the required stamps and certification.
How does Montgomery County handle code violation permits?+
Properties with outstanding DPS code violations require a Violation Removal Permit. PermitCare handles the full correction process — from initial assessment through permit approval and final inspection sign-off.
Can PermitCare help with permits in Rockville or Bethesda?+
Yes. Rockville is an independent city with its own permit office. Bethesda, Chevy Chase, and most of the county fall under DPS. PermitCare serves all Montgomery County municipalities and can advise on the correct jurisdiction for your property address.
Are there special requirements for areas like Clarksburg?+
Yes. Several Montgomery County communities have active Sector Plans that impose specific design requirements and require coordination with the Planning Department in addition to DPS. PermitCare is familiar with these overlapping review processes.

Why PermitCare in Montgomery County?

Over 25 years working directly with Montgomery County reviewers and inspectors — we know what gets approved and what gets kicked back.

Local Reviewer Relationships

We know the reviewers, the checklists, and the common comment types in Montgomery County — fewer correction cycles means faster approvals.

End-to-End Service

From drawing preparation and application filing to plan review responses and inspection scheduling — we handle every step.

Licensed Professionals

Our in-house Licensed Architects (RA) and Professional Engineers (PE) stamp and certify documents as required by Maryland code.

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