Residential Demolition Permits

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.

Chapters

• 0:10 Meet The Plan Reviewer
• 1:07 What Counts As Demolition Now
• 2:41 Crossing 67 Percent Means New Home
• 4:50 How To Measure The 67 Percent
• 6:10 Demolition Permit Requirements
• 8:16 Meetings To Prevent Threshold Surprises
• 10:52 Impact Taxes And Timelines
• 12:17 Pre‑Design Consultations And Guidance
• 14:06 Keep Structural Support Intact
• 16:26 DIY Demolition Or Hire Pros