About
This division processes and issues permits or licenses for building, HVAC systems, fire protection systems, site grading, plumbing systems, electrical systems, taxicab vehicles and drivers, rental housing, animals and pawn brokers. This division also manages records and related retention schedules and information requests.
Notices and Announcements
Effective immediately, paper copies of all electrical, plumbing, building, fire and mechanical permits will no longer be mailed when issued. You will receive an email from our online permitting system to notify you that the permit has been issued, and a PDF copy of the permit will be attached. Similarly, if you renew your animal license online and we have a valid email address for you on file, your license account summary will be emailed rather than sent via regular mail. If you have any questions, please contact the Permits Office at (410) 313-2455 and select option #4.
Pet owners can log on to www.myHoward.info to create a user account. Once an account has been established residents can request a new license or renew an expiring one. The online service allows users to upload supporting documents including a required current rabies vaccine certification and proof of spaying or neutering to received discounted licensing rates.
Resources and Information
To Register as a Utility Contractor in Howard County please submit the following:
- Complete a Registration Card, which you can download here.
- Copy of valid and current Onsite Utility Contractor's License (or equivalent) issued by another Maryland jurisdiction, or complete the questionnaire showing at least two (2) years of experience (satisfactory to the administrative authority) working in the onsite utility contracting business. Download the questionnaire here.
- Certificate of Insurance meeting ALL requirements listed here.
- Registration Fee: $77.00 (Make checks payable to "Director of Finance, Howard County")
*NOTE* Registration Expires July 31st.
Renewals should be submitted by July 1st.
ANY QUESTIONS CALL LICENSES & PERMITS DIVISION AT (410) 313-2455 Option #4
Click below to download the list of licensed utility contractors.
We are pleased to offer our citizens, businesses, and visitors access to government services online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Beginning February 1, 2025, the County will cease absorbing merchant services fees associated with all payments made by credit card or ACH. These fees will now be paid by the customer and will be clearly shown during checkout at the completion of their transaction.
Click the below link to access the Accela Online Permitting Services Portal.
After obtaining your plumbing permit on-line, inspections for water/sewer replacement or repairs must be scheduled on the IVR dial up system, 410-313-3800. You will be given the next available date for your inspection. If your desired date is not available schedule the inspection anyway.
Please call the Plumbing Inspector the morning of the desired date prior to 9:00 a.m., the plumbing inspectors are available 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at 410-313-1840 Monday through Friday.
Every effort will be made to accommodate your inspection for the same day.
Click below to view our marketing analysis reports.