Go behind the scenes at the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services and connect with local experts about the permitting process for your commercial ...
This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Water Runoff,” focuses on what to know about water runoff, especially for homeowners planning an addition or designing a project that may impact the flow of water on their property. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas (who hosts the podcast) is joined by DPS Water Resources Plan Review Manager Mark Etheridge for a 15-minute conversation about water runoff and the role DPS has when it comes to water runoff and the drainage code. From adding a rain garden to a dry well, listeners will learn their options to ensure water from their property does not adversely affect a neighboring property and how DPS and other County departments can help. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email your ideas and questions to [email protected].
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Recipe for Success: Guidance for Opening a Restaurant
This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Recipe for Success: Guidance for Opening a Restaurant,” focuses on essential information on navigating the permitting process for opening a restaurant in Montgomery County. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas (who hosts the podcast) is joined by DPS Land Development Division Chief Linda Kobylski for a 15-minute conversation to help restaurant owners plan ahead. From researching the property and selecting a location to hiring experts and scheduling inspections, this episode will point you to key resources and services provided by DPS and other County departments and agencies. The goal is to ensure restaurant owners are connected and well informed before they sign a contract/lease and before they begin the permitting process. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email your ideas and questions to [email protected].
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Fire Pit Safety
The newest Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Fire Pit Safety,” addresses the importance of safety when using a backyard fire pit. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Fire Code Compliance Program Manager Michael Marchesani for a conversation filled with practical advice and essential tips to know before planning your next social gathering around a backyard fire pit. Fire pits are popular this time of the year when the temperatures are cooler. Dry weather, wind speed, and lack of rain should always be considered when deciding if the conditions are right for lighting up an outdoor fire. Other topics covered in this episode include how far back to keep people (and pets) from the fire pit to prevent injuries, how far it should be located from nearby structures (such as your home), the importance of having a water source nearby to extinguish the fire and how to dispose of the ashes safely. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Your input is important. Email your ideas and questions to [email protected].
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A New Direction for Permitting
The newest Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “A New Direction for Permitting,” features a discussion with County Executive Marc Elrich about recent improvements to the permitting process, the role of permitting and the County’s Climate Action Plan, how innovation and technology are adding transparency to the permitting process, and the department’s focus on providing excellent customer service. DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan joins DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, for this discussion. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Your input is important. Email your ideas and questions to [email protected].
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Plans Submission Made Easier
The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Plans Submission Made Easier,” highlights how the department is updating its ePlans software workflows system in phases to make the permitting system more efficient for customers and staff. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Senior Permitting Specialist Aaron Smith for a discussion about the updates and how these improvements have been received by customers and staff. To date, the ePlans software has been updated for fence, public right-of-way, residential building, sediment control, sign, stormwater concept and all trade permit applications. On Monday, Aug. 26, the commercial building workflow will also be upgraded. As each system is updated, DPS is providing virtual customer training and five ePlans training videos have been posted on the DPS website to provide additional guidance for customers. Customers who have questions about ePlans are encouraged to email [email protected] or contact MC 311 at 240-777- 0311.Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Email [email protected].
Go behind the scenes at the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services and connect with local experts about the permitting process for your commercial and residential projects.