Permitting Services Podcast

Residential Demolition Permits Oct 31, 2025

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) podcast episode, “Residential Demolition Permits,” explores when residential demolition permits are required, how they are defined, and what to expect during the permitting process. DPS Podcast Host Gail Lucas and DPS Plan Reviewer Richard Strouth discuss how DPS determines whether a residential construction project qualifies as a demolition, and how such a designation triggers the requirement to meet current building and energy codes for new homes. Plan Reviewer Strouth clarifies that if 67% or more of the first-story exterior walls of a one- or two-family dwelling are removed, the project is considered a demolition and requires a demolition permit.

Listeners will learn about:

The role of a plan reviewer when it comes to reviewing construction plans.
The difference between demolition permits and addition/alteration permits with specific examples.
Additional permits required for residential demolition projects, and what to know about impact taxes.
How DPS can assist before construction begins, including resources and guidance.

Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, contractors, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, and vendor licenses.

Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

The Pros and Cons of Being Your Own General Contractor Oct 02, 2025

This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode focuses on the pros and cons of serving as your own general contractor when embarking on home renovations or other residential projects. David Burch, DPS residential inspections manager, and DPS Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, discuss the risks and rewards of doing it yourself. Their conversation covers what homeowners should know before taking on the responsibility of managing a project, and why it is an important decision.

Tune in to learn about:

What you should know before you begin a project.
The importance of hiring licensed contractors.
The difference between contractors and subcontractors.
Who should apply for the permits?
How DPS can help, including resources to know about.

Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more.

Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov

Meet John Catlett: New DPS Commercial Building Division Chief Jul 25, 2025

Join us for the latest episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, where we introduce John Catlett, the new DPS commercial building division chief. Hosted by Gail Lucas, DPS customer support and outreach division chief, this episode dives into Division Chief Catlett’s vision for excellent customer service, what’s new with commercial building codes and the future of the industry.

Tune in to learn about:

The latest on the codes and code cycle.
The commercial building plan review process.
Industry trends and upcoming improvements.

This is the 28th episode of the DPS podcast. Previous episodes have covered topics like accessory dwelling units, building safety, eSolar, residential fast track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more.

Have a question or idea for a future episode? Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Offsite Construction Jun 18, 2025

This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Offsite Construction,” highlights a local construction project that is primarily being built offsite. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by Chris Allen, who is the assistant to the DPS director, and Joseph Phelan, who is the director of operations at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac. Their conversation notes the advantages of offsite construction, the variety of modular construction projects around the County, and the role of DPS when it comes to codes and permitting, as well as the importance of predesign consultations for those considering offsite construction. They discuss the difference between modular construction and mobile homes and provide tips for listeners who may be exploring this construction option for a future project. Got an idea or question for an upcoming podcast episode? Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Building Safety: Fire Department Access May 23, 2025

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Building Safety: Fire Department Access,” focuses on the importance of plan review for fire department access at buildings in Montgomery County. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas hosts the podcast. She is joined by DPS Plan Reviewer Marie LaBaw, who is also a structures specialist, for a discussion about her career path from the fire department to DPS and why ensuring fire department access in the built environment is important for emergency responders. Dr. LaBaw also shares information about her unique role as a structures specialist for Maryland’s Urban Search and Rescue team and discusses some of her assignment’s on that team around the country.

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode?

Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Permits, Pools and Safety May 06, 2025

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Permits, Pools, and Safety,” focuses on the permitting process for residential swimming pools and the importance of a pool barrier for safety. DPS Customer Support and Outreach (CSO) Division Chief Gail Lucas hosts the podcast. DPS Residential Manager David Burch joins her for a discussion about when a permit is needed for a residential swimming pool and what kind of barrier is required. Their conversation covers how the permitting process works from applying for a building and electrical permit, to the number of inspections needed, and the role of zoning when locating a swimming pool.

For more information about the permitting process for residential pools, visit the DPS website. Do you have an idea or question for a future DPS podcast episode? Email dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Special Events Mar 26, 2025

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Special Events,” focuses on the permitting process for carnivals, fairs, festivals, fireworks displays, sporting events and more. DPS Customer Support and Outreach (CSO) Division Chief Gail Lucas hosts the podcast, and she is joined by DPS Manager Chris Allen for a 15-minute discussion about when a special permit is needed for public events. Their discussion covers how the permitting process works from applications to inspections, the role of zoning, why special event permits are important for safety and how far in advance you should apply for permits before the event.

Are you planning a special event? To begin your permitting process, go here: https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/Process/combuild/Special-Event-DPS.html

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode?

Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

New Codes Feb 25, 2025

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “New Codes,” focuses on the new 2021 codes and amendments and how significant these changes are for DPS commercial building customers. The new codes (Executive Regulation 13-24 and Executive Regulation 14-24), with local amendments, become mandatory at DPS on Monday, March 31 and they replace the 2018 International Code Council (ICC) codes and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Commercial Plan Review Manager Crystal Maddox and DPS Sustainability, Energy and Mechanical Manager Bryan Bomer for a conversation about the background of the code cycle, how to learn more about the new codes including upcoming DPS virtual training sessions, and why the new codes are important for safety and sustainability of new and existing buildings and spaces in Montgomery County. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Water Runoff Jan 21, 2025

This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Water Runoff,” focuses on what to know about water runoff, especially for homeowners planning an addition or designing a project that may impact the flow of water on their property. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas (who hosts the podcast) is joined by DPS Water Resources Plan Review Manager Mark Etheridge for a 15-minute conversation about water runoff and the role DPS has when it comes to water runoff and the drainage code. From adding a rain garden to a dry well, listeners will learn their options to ensure water from their property does not adversely affect a neighboring property and how DPS and other County departments can help. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Recipe for Success: Guidance for Opening a Restaurant Dec 17, 2024

This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Recipe for Success: Guidance for Opening a Restaurant,” focuses on essential information on navigating the permitting process for opening a restaurant in Montgomery County. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas (who hosts the podcast) is joined by DPS Land Development Division Chief Linda Kobylski for a 15-minute conversation to help restaurant owners plan ahead. From researching the property and selecting a location to hiring experts and scheduling inspections, this episode will point you to key resources and services provided by DPS and other County departments and agencies. The goal is to ensure restaurant owners are connected and well informed before they sign a contract/lease and before they begin the permitting process.

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Fire Pit Safety Nov 22, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

A New Direction for Permitting Oct 24, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Plans Submission Made Easier Aug 12, 2024

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 dps.eservices@montgomerycountymd.gov or contact MC 311 at 240-777- 0311.

Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

eSolar for Residential Rooftops Jul 11, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Vendor Licenses Jun 18, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Commercial Building Safety: Codes, Designs, Plans and More May 20, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Home Improvements and Permits Apr 03, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

GIS Maps Mar 22, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Design for Life Property Tax Credit Program Feb 22, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

A Look Ahead at 2024 Jan 03, 2024

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 dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov

Residential Fast Track Permits Nov 28, 2023

In this episode, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas leads a discussion about Residential Fast Track permits for eligible projects and shares updates about the Apply Online platform. Lucas, who hosts the DPS podcast, is joined by Permitting Manager Crystal Roberts and Plan Reviewer Mark Stup. Their discussion features useful info and tips for customers who are applying for Residential Fast Track permits. Got an idea for a future podcast? Email dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Accessory Dwelling Units Nov 02, 2023

In this episode, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast Host Gail Lucas welcomes DPS Deputy Director Ehsan Motazedi for a conversation about accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and their growing popularity across the nation. Their discussion covers what homeowners need to know about the permitting and licensing process for an ADU in Montgomery County, Maryland. If you are planning to convert a space into an ADU, you will want to listen to this podcast!

Got an idea or question for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Fire Code Compliance and Safety Oct 16, 2023

In this episode, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast Host Gail Lucas and DPS Fire Code Compliance Manager Patsy Warnick talk about fire code compliance and safety. Their discussion covers what commercial property owners and tenants need to know about fire code compliance permits, inspections and renewals; pending code adoptions; general fire safety information and more.

Got an idea or question for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Public Right-of-Way Sep 27, 2023

In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, host Gail Lucas and DPS Plan Reviewer Alex Weintraub discuss the public right-of-way. Their discussion covers what every property owner needs to know about the public right-of-way, including the permitting process, how to know where the right-of-way is, and what can and cannot be placed in the public right-of-way. Got an idea or question for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Stay Septic Smart Sep 05, 2023

In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, host Gail Lucas and DPS Well and Septic Section Manager Heidi Benham discuss septic systems in advance of Septic Smart Week (Sept. 18-22). Their informative discussion includes what every property owner needs to know about their septic system (there are three things!), how important it is to take care of a septic system, and what should not go down the drain! In addition to these tips and resources, the podcast fields a listener’s question about the public right-of-way. Got an idea or question for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Urban Farming, Fences, Paving & Zoning Jul 24, 2023

In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas and DPS Code Compliance Section Manager Greg Nichols discuss urban farming (chicken coops), fence permits, surface parking and other code compliance and zoning topics. Got an idea or question for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Use and Occupancy Certificates Jun 21, 2023

In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas and DPS Commercial Field Supervisor Chris Allen discuss what you need to know about Use and Occupancy (U & O) certificates before opening a business. Learn why it is important to review the U & O before you sign a lease, what the inspection process includes, how long a certificate is valid, what questions you should ask about an existing certificate, and more. Got an idea for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Meet the Fire Marshal and Commercial Building Chief Jun 02, 2023

In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas discusses fire safety and more with DPS Commercial Building Chief Rick Merck, who is also the fire marshal. Some of the topics covered include firepit and grilling safety tips; what you need to know about fireworks in Montgomery County; the importance of knowing two ways out when entering a building; and, how the biotech industry is growing in Montgomery County. Got an idea or question for a future podcast? Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Check Your Deck May 04, 2023

In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas talks to DPS Field Supervisor Jeremy Shupp about the permitting and inspections process for decks, including what an inspector looks for when assessing the condition of a deck. Their conversation provides important information for homeowners, especially as many of us are spending more time on our decks this spring and summer. Learn about the importance of properly maintaining your deck and how the DPS website is the place to go for more information and guidance about decks, including a deck maintenance checklist. We hope you enjoy their conversation and learn something, too. Please send ideas and questions for future DPS podcasts to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Introducing the DPS Podcast Apr 11, 2023

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) launches its first podcast. Your host is DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who has worked at the permitting department for 20 years! DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan joins her in a conversation that covers a variety of topics from his vision for the department to how to know when you need a permit to some of the programs and services offered by the permitting department. The goal is to educate and engage DPS customers about the permitting process to ensure their future projects (commercial and residential) are a success! Visit the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps for more information and resources!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Permitting Services Podcast

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected