Home Renovation Permits in Maryland: Complete 2025 Guide
Understanding permit requirements is crucial for any home renovation project in Maryland. Skipping permits can lead to fines, forced removal of work, and problems when selling your home. This guide covers everything you need to know about permits in Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Washington DC, and surrounding areas.
What Projects Require Permits?
Important Note
When in doubt, check with your local permitting office. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and specific project details. Your licensed contractor should handle permit applications.
Permit Information by Area
Montgomery County
Website:
montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS
Phone:
(240) 777-0311
Average Processing Time:
2-6 weeks
Typical Fees:
$100-500+ depending on project
Online e-Permit system available for many projects
Anne Arundel County
Website:
aacounty.org/departments/inspections-and-permits
Phone:
(410) 222-7790
Average Processing Time:
2-4 weeks
Typical Fees:
$75-400+ depending on project
Expedited review available for additional fee
Washington DC
Website:
dcra.dc.gov
Phone:
(202) 442-4400
Average Processing Time:
3-8 weeks
Typical Fees:
$150-600+ depending on project
Historic district reviews may add time
Prince George's County
Website:
princegeorgescountymd.gov/DPIE
Phone:
(301) 636-2000
Average Processing Time:
2-4 weeks
Typical Fees:
$100-450+ depending on project
Contractor registration required
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Determine Permit Requirements
Contact local permitting office or consult with your contractor to determine what permits are needed.
Prepare Documentation
Gather required documents: site plans, construction drawings, contractor licenses, and project specifications.
Submit Application
File permit application online or in-person with required documents and fees.
Plan Review
County reviews plans for code compliance. May require revisions.
Permit Issuance
Once approved, permit is issued. Post permit visibly at job site.
Inspections
Schedule required inspections during construction phases.
Final Approval
Pass final inspection to receive certificate of completion.
Consequences of Unpermitted Work
Risks of Skipping Permits
- -Stop work orders halting your project
- -Fines ranging from $500 to $10,000+
- -Required removal of unpermitted work
- -Problems selling your home (title issues)
- -Insurance claim denials
- -Safety hazards from uninspected work
- -Liability if someone is injured
How Build Dog Construction Helps
As a licensed Maryland contractor (MHIC #140387), Build Dog Construction handles all permit applications and inspections for your project. We:
- Determine all required permits for your specific project
- Prepare and submit permit applications
- Coordinate with inspectors throughout construction
- Ensure all work meets current building codes
- Provide documentation for your records
This is included in our services at no additional charge - it's simply part of doing the job right.