Permitting Services Podcast

The newest Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Fire Pit Safety,” addresses the importance of safety when using a backyard fire pit. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Fire Code Compliance Program Manager Michael Marchesani for a conversation filled with practical advice and essential tips to know before planning your next social gathering around a backyard fire pit. Fire pits are popular this time of the year when the temperatures are cooler. Dry weather, wind speed, and lack of rain should always be considered when deciding if the conditions are right for lighting up an outdoor fire. Other topics covered in this episode include how far back to keep people (and pets) from the fire pit to prevent injuries, how far it should be located from nearby structures (such as your home), the importance of having a water source nearby to extinguish the fire and how to dispose of the ashes safely. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Your input is important. Email your ideas and questions to [email protected].

The newest Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “A New Direction for Permitting,” features a discussion with County Executive Marc Elrich about recent improvements to the permitting process, the role of permitting and the County’s Climate Action Plan, how innovation and technology are adding transparency to the permitting process, and the department’s focus on providing excellent customer service. DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan joins DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, for this discussion. 

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Your input is important. Email your ideas and questions to [email protected].

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Plans Submission Made Easier,” highlights how the department is updating its ePlans software workflows system in phases to make the permitting system more efficient for customers and staff. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Senior Permitting Specialist Aaron Smith for a discussion about the updates and how these improvements have been received by customers and staff. To date, the ePlans software has been updated for fence, public right-of-way, residential building, sediment control, sign, stormwater concept and all trade permit applications. On Monday, Aug. 26, the commercial building workflow will also be upgraded. As each system is updated, DPS is providing virtual customer training and five ePlans training videos have been posted on the DPS website to provide additional guidance for customers. Customers who have questions about ePlans are encouraged to email [email protected] or contact MC 311 at 240-777- 0311.

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email [email protected].

The 17th episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast features an overview of the new eSolar program for residential rooftops. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Sustainability, Energy and Mechanical (SEM) Manager Bryan Bomer for a discussion about the eSolar program, including how it works to get solar on your rooftop faster, what projects are eligible, and why you should ask your installer about the program. They also discuss the latest information about the code adoption cycle. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email [email protected].

The 16th episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast features an overview of vendor licenses, including door-to-door, regular route, sidewalk and site-specific. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Code Compliance Manager Greg Nichols and DPS Permit Technician Jorge Rueda for a discussion about the permitting and zoning requirements for vendor licenses. They discuss common mistakes on applications, safety requirements, local regulations, inspections, when a vendor requires a health department inspection, the importance of planning early, and more.

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email [email protected].

Ensuring building safety is a top priority at the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS). The 15th episode of the Permitting Services Podcast focuses on commercial building safety with an emphasis on codes, design, plan review, use and occupancy certificates, and more. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas and Architectural, Life Safety, and Fire Protection Section Manager Crystal Maddox discuss a wide range of topics about commercial building safety including why some homes, such as four-story townhomes, are considered commercial buildings. They also remind business owners to check with DPS before signing a lease or buying a property. Got an idea for a future podcast? Email [email protected].

Are you planning home improvements? The 14th episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast features DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas and Residential Program Manager Dave Burch in conversation about when you need and don’t need a permit for home projects. If you are planning to add a pool, modify an accessory structure, replace your flooring, renovate your kitchen, update your windows, and/or hire a contractor, this podcast episode is for you! 

Got an idea for a future podcast episode? Send an email to [email protected].

In this episode of the Permitting Services Podcast, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas and Information Technology Specialist Josh Cole discuss three new GIS Maps that are available on the front page of the DPS website and why DPS customers and stakeholders may find these new maps informative and useful. Their conversation features an overview of the Floodplain and Storm Drain map, the My Inspector and Property map, and the Use and Occupancy map. 

Got an idea for a future podcast episode? Send an email to [email protected].

In this episode, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas and Plan Reviewer Mariella Dallas discuss how to apply for building permits when adding accessibility design features to your home in order to qualify for the Montgomery County Design for Life Property Tax Credit Program. This episode, which is also available on video, highlights the two levels of the program, various design features, and the application process. Got an idea for a future podcast episode? Email [email protected].

In this episode, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan and Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas discuss some of the department’s new initiatives, programs and services, including the DPS Customer Bill of Rights, and they look ahead at what’s coming in 2024. Their discussion features useful info and tips for customers who are applying for permits. Got an idea for a future podcast? Email [email protected]