Department of Permits and Inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is your office located?
200 Chesapeake Blvd, Suite 2200, Elkton, Md. 21921
2. What are your hours of operation?
7:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Permit payments accepted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3. Do I need a permit for an above ground pool?
Any pool, whether vinyl or inflatable, that is more than 24 inches high requires a permit.
4. Do I need a permit for a fence?
If any part of the fence will be more than six feet high, you are required to get a permit.
5. Do I need a permit for a prefabricated shed?
Any shed, regardless of size or whether it is prefabricated or stick built, requires a permit.
6. Do I need a permit to replace an existing porch/deck?
Any porch/deck, regardless of whether it is new or a replacement, requires a permit.
7. What building codes do you use?
- 2006 International Residential Code
- 2006 International Building Code
- 2006 National Standard Illustrated Plumbing Code
- 2003 International Mechanical Code
- 2006 International Existing Building Code
8. Question: How can I get a question or issue concerning permit status, inspection, code, etc. resolved?
Each permit varies. To find out about your specific permit, inspection or code please call the Department of Permits and Inspections at (410) 996-5235. Calls are taken from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
9. What paperwork do I need to submit for a building permit application?
Click here for Building Permit Information Required by All Departments and Procedure for Obtaining a Building Permit.
10. Does your department issue burning permits?
Burning permits are issued by the Environmental Health Department. For more information, they can be contacted at (410) 996-5160.
11. Do I need a permit to finish my basement?
If you are finishing the space off to be used as any type of room you will need to get a building permit. Please contact the Electrical Inspector's Office at (410) 996-5230 to find out the requirements for applying for electrical permits.
12. What is the minimum footer depth requirement?
The minimum footer depth requirement is 32 inches.
13. What is the procedure for filing a landlord/tenant complaint?
Complaints are taken by the Department of Permits and Inspections. The telephone number to call to make a complaint is (410) 996-5235. Calls are taken from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. All pertinent information will be filled out by a staff member on a complaint form which is then given to an inspector who will perform a field inspection. Depending on the situation, the inspector will take all necessary proper action.
14. How much notice is required for inspections?
Twenty four hours notice is required for all inspections.
15. How much does a permit cost?
The fee schedule is established by the Board of County Commissioners through Resolution. The fees vary based on the square footage of the project. Please call the Department of Permits and Inspections between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to ask questions about your specific project.
