All applicable projects, including improvements such as fences, sheds, additions, garages, decks, pools, hot tubs, signs, propane tanks, demolitions and interior renovations,  within the town limits must go through a process to obtain a zoning certificate.   Small shed and fence permits need just town approval via a zoning certificate, while other improvements need building permit approval thru the County.

Applying for a Zoning Certificate:

You can file for your Zoning Certificate at the Town Offices on Monday – Friday from 8:00AM-4:00PM.  If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Town Office at 301.371.6171.

When applying for a zoning certificate, you should provide the following information:

• A description of your project
• Building plans or drawing showing your project/picture if it’s a kit
• Location survey plat (site plan) showing to scale how your property or structure will be altered.
• A check for your permit fees (see section on Fees below)

Fees:

Residential Permits:

• Internal/External Improvements          $40.00
• New Single Family Construction         $200.00
• New Multi Unit                                     $200.00 + $100.00 each unit
• Demolition                                           $50.00

Commercial Permits:

• Internal/External Improvements         $100.00
• Structure Conversion                         $100.00
• Demolition                                          $100.00
• Change of Use                                   $ 50.00 + other applicable fees
• New Commercial                                $500.00

 

After applying with the Town, all applicants must apply for a building permit through Frederick County Permits Department at:

https://planningandpermitting.frederickcountymd.gov/

(excluding fences and sheds under 150 sq.ft., which only require approval of the zoning certificate administered by the Town.)

 

Frederick County Permits

Certain projects require a Frederick County Building or Use Permit. You must apply for and obtain an approved Zoning Certificate from our office before beginning the permit process with Frederick County. After zoning certificate submission, the Zoning Administrator will review the zoning certificate for compliance with Town Code and then (if approved) mail or email you an approved zoning certificate.  With the approved town zoning certificate, you may then apply for a building or use permit with Frederick County.  Frederick County will not process a permit application without a copy of your approved zoning certificate.  Remember to include it as part of your submission packet to the County.

To apply with Frederick County you should first check their website for their requirements. Click on the link below to connect with Frederick County Division of Permitting and Development Review. Or call 301-600-3463.

https://planningandpermitting.frederickcountymd.gov/

To begin the permit process you will have to create your own login (email address and password).  Once complete, select "Submit an Application/Request" at the top of the screen.

If you already have a permit pending you can also check the status by selecting "Lookup Record" at the top of the screen.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Review

The Town Zoning Administrator will review your application looking for compliance with the Town’s zoning ordinances. The Zoning Administrator may ask you for additional information at this time or will tell you that further review by the Planning Commission may be needed. Standard time for review is 10 days. It may take longer if there are issues to be resolved.

Approval/Disapproval

You will receive notice of approval or disapproval of your zoning certificate in the mail, or by email.  If you do not hear from us please contact the office at 301-371-6171