Commercial New Construction Permit & Inspection Process
A commercial new construction building permit is required for all projects to build or erect a new building or structure, or to relocate an existing building or structure.
DPS is no longer accepting paper permit applications or plans. Information must be submitted using our eServices programs. For assistance with eServices, email [email protected].
New construction building permits commonly require associated:
- Electrical
- Mechanical
- Fire Alarm and/or Fire Protection permits, depending on the scope of work and the systems present;
- a Use and Occupancy Certificate application is also required.
Required documentation may vary based on the type of project you are undertaking however, manufacturer’s catalog (“cut sheets”) product listings, construction bid documents or other verification of construction cost, should be submitted with all projects.
Additional forms which may be required can be found in the “General Information” drop down menu under Permits and Licenses on the Commercial Building Division page. (Goes to Index Page of forms)
A fire department access plan approved by DPS, and a WSSC hydraulic information sheet (HIS) demonstrating compliance with the fire flow requirements of NFPA 1, are also required.
If the applicant would like to submit multiple permits due to construction scheduling and /or phasing of construction for the same building, DPS currently accepting the documents to be submitted under the following types;
Systems furniture installations do require a separate building and a separate electrical permit, unless the full scope of the systems furniture installation, including the electrical service, is provided for under the main building permit.
Depending on the scope and type of the project approvals may be needed from:
- Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC)
- Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC)
- Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- Local municipalities (e.g. Chevy Chase, Takoma Park, etc.) or other regulatory agencies which may have jurisdiction over the business operation or process.
Please note that DPS does not issue building permits for the Cities of Rockville or Gaithersburg.
Applicants and design professionals may request a free Commercial Design Consultation to discuss preliminary or schematic design drawings in preparation for the submission of final construction documents for review. The consultation is primarily intended for architectural designs and submittal requirement assistance but, may also discuss engineered system design, fire protection systems, and/or inspection process assistance.
Projects involving restaurants may also use DPS’ Recipe for Success to assist in permitting and approval. DPS also offers special assistance to Places of Worship as part of our Featured Programs, coordinated by the Customer Service section.
Permit issuance times are dependent on review workload. Generally, review comments are provided by DPS within 30 calendar days for properly submitted plans.