Building permits are necessary for many, but not all types of home improvement projects. Below is a partial list of projects that need permits. Some construction can be done by the homeowner but some work must be done by a licensed (MHIC) contractor, registered plumber or licensed electrician. Always check before you build. Some projects also require a set of building and/or site plans. Your contractor can advise you as to which permits and plans may be required and whose responsibility it is for obtaining them. For your protection, insist on a contract, get and check their references and never fully pay up front for work.
Do I need a County and Town Building Permit?
Sheds more than 150 square feet - Yes
Add rooms by partitioning walls - Yes
Enclose a porch - Yes
Build an entranceway into a basement - Yes
Construct, dig or enlarge basement - Yes
Build a new, pave or extend an existing driveway - Yes
Home additions - Yes
Build or repair a porch, deck or above grade patio - Yes
Relocate stairs - Yes
Build fences over 4 feet but not more than 6 feet in height - Yes (see Town Code for specific restrictions and prohibitions)
Build a retaining wall more than 2 feet high - Yes
Install or replace a hot water heater - Yes
These are only a few of the projects that require a permit. Before beginning any construction, major installation, alteration or repair contact the Town for specific permit requirements on (301) 779-2161. The general rule is if a County permit is required, a Cottage City permit is required. The Cottage City Municipal Ordinances are also included on this web site on the home page. For further County requirements, contact the Department of Environmental Resources, 9400 Peppercorn Place, Suite 500, Largo, MD. 20774. (301) 883-5810 or by e-mail at: DERcares@co.pg.md.us
