Automated Inspection and Permit Information

This 24-hour system provides interactive access to inspection and permit information. Using a touch-tone phone, you can check your permit status, request an inspection, check inspection results or cancel an inspection request (410-313-3800). Call Inspections, Licenses and Permits (410-313-1810) for an informational pamphlet.

Permits Required

The Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits (410-313-2455) processes permits for new construction, additions, alterations and miscellaneous work in cooperation with other agencies such as the Health Department, Highways, Planning and Zoning, and Public Works.

• Building permits are required for construction such as new housing, additions, basement finishing, pools, decks, and fireplaces.
• Permits are not required for patios laid directly on grade, for sheds less than 200 square feet or for replacing roofing.
• A building permit is not required to replace kitchen counters and cabinets, but an electrical or plumbing permit may be required.

Use and Occupancy

Inspections, Licenses and Permits (410-313-2455), automatically issues an Occupancy Certificate when all appropriate building inspections have been satisfactorily completed.

Walk-Through Permits

Curbside Recycling

Environmental Services (410-313-SORT) coordinates curbside pick-ups of mixed papers and cardboard, aluminum and tin cans, glass bottles and jars, and plastic bottles for all residents of single family and town homes with curbside trash service. Free collection is available for apartments and condominiums upon request by their managing company. Residents in the metropolitan area also have yard trimmings and Christmas tree collections.

Public Water Supply

Ninety percent of the public drinking water is purchased from Baltimore city; 10% is purchased from the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission. Call Utilities (410-313-4900) for information.

Water and Sewer Connections

Water and sewer connections may involve installation by the Bureau of Utilities (410-313-4900). The Department of Planning and Zoning (410-313-2350) coordinates permit applications and collects fees. After the county connection is installed, each homeowner's plumber installs the remainder of the system.

Water and Sewer Lines

For information about the location of water and sewer lines, call the Bureau of Utilities (410-313-4900).

Water and Sewer Service

Residents can petition for extension of water and sewer service or request renovations to the water and sewer systems through Public Works (410-313-4900). Water and sewer applications are processed through the Development Engineering division of Planning and Zoning (410-313-2420).

Water Leaks

To report a water leak inside or outside your home, no water, low water pressure or stopped sewers, call Utilities (410-313-4900); after hours, call Communications (410-313-2929). Utility workers will investigate the problem.

Water Quality

To request an investigation of water quality or water pressure, call Utilities (410-313-4900). Routine tests are free; others require an independent laboratory.

Wells and Septic Systems

Call Environmental Health (410-313-2640) for information about wells and septic systems. The bureau performs percolation tests and issues disposal system and well construction permits for lot owners and developers.

Drainage Advice

Land owners with drainage, erosion or water runoff problems can call the Soil conservation Office (410-489-7987) for advice.

Historic Property

Owners of historic properties can call the Historic Preservation Office (410-313-2354) for technical advice and assistance with improvements. The office provides information on the history and age of buildings and responds to community concerns in historic districts. Howard County also offers a property tax credit for eligible restoration and maintenance work on historic properties.

Home Fire Inspections

Upon request, Fire and Rescue's Life Safety Bureau (410-313-6040) will inspect your home and make recommendations for fire safety and injury prevention.

Home Occupations

It is possible, with certain limitations, to engage in an occupation or business at your home. Howard County zoning regulations delineate: the amount of space used in the business; location of activities; appearance of the site; sales; number of employees, deliveries and business vehicles; and types of businesses that are permitted or prohibited. Call Planning and Zoning (410-313-2393) for details.

Home Safety

Fire and Rescue (410-313-6040) provides information on injury prevention, smoke detectors and their placement, escape plans, residential sprinkler systems and house numbers. The department also furnishes smoke detectors for people who are elderly, hearing impaired or of low income.

Household Hazardous Waste