December 13, 2023

Latest Permitting Services Podcast Features Information and Tips About ‘Residential Fast Track’ Permits


The 10th episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) podcast features information and tips about the department’s “Residential Fast Track” program. The new program can help speed up the process to get permits for many residential projects. In some cases, where all information is correctly assembled before submitting an application for a permit, the program can lead to approval in days instead of weeks.

“DPS recently reenergized the Fast Track Program for eligible projects such as single-level decks and sheds,” said DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast. “Customers can now get permits for eligible Residential Fast Track projects in one day or two if their applications are submitted completely. We encourage homeowners to listen to this podcast to better understand the permitting process for residential projects.”

Joining Division Chief Lucas on the podcast is DPS Permitting Services Manager Crystal Roberts and DPS Plan Reviewer Mark Stup.

During the podcast, Manager Roberts reminds listeners that the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps is a great resource to learn more about the permitting process and to find the submission requirements for Residential Fast Track projects. She said DPS has designated staff to ensure these applications are expedited and customers will receive timely feedback. A project must not be served by a well or private septic system to be eligible for the Fast Track program.

Plan Reviewer Stup said it is important for submitted plans to be well-drawn and that they clearly convey what the project is about. He also shares information during the podcast about how quickly these projects can be reviewed by DPS.

Podcast listeners will find the Permitting Services podcast is now available on the DPS website and various podcast platforms including Amazon, Apple and Spotify. It also is available at https://permittingservicespodcast.buzzsprout.com/. Subscribe to the podcast by tapping the “plus” or “follow” sign on the podcast provider’s platform.

Previous podcast episodes have covered accessory dwelling units, building safety, deck permits, commercial building trends, use and occupancy certificates, fence permits, fire code compliance, the public right-of-way, septic systems, urban farming and zoning.

Listeners are encouraged to send questions and ideas for future podcast episodes to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

The Department of Permitting Services is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, 7th Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. Appointments are not necessary to get in-person assistance.