Updated 2024
Planning a construction, remodeling, or refinishing project in Frederick County, MD? Understanding the permit application process and fees is crucial to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Below is a comprehensive guide covering building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits along with their associated costs.
Building Permit Application Process
All building permits must be submitted online through the Frederick County Planning & Permitting Portal: Permit Application & Status Tracking
Approval Requirements
Approval is required for all new construction in Frederick County and its municipalities, except for the City of Frederick and Mt. Airy, which handle their own permitting.
Permits are also required for:
- Modifications, alterations, or change of use of any structure.
- Accessory structures such as sheds, pools, decks, garages, and signs.
- Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work beyond simple replacements.
Online Payments
Frederick County permits can be paid online via credit cards, debit cards, or electronic checks. A service fee applies:
- Credit/Debit Card Payments: 2.5% of the transaction amount.
- Online Check Payments: $1.49 per transaction.
- Payment Portal: Frederick County Permits & Inspections
Residential Building Permit Fees
Project Type Fees
- Basement Finish (≤500 sq. ft.) $112.00
- Basement Finish (501-1500 sq. ft.) $222.00
- Basement Finish (>1500 sq. ft.) $333.00
- Covered or Screened Porch / Deck (≤499 sq. ft.) $91.00
- Covered or Screened Porch / Deck (≥500 sq. ft.) $116.00 + $46.00 Zoning Fee
- Garage / Pole Building $182.00
- Automation Enhancement Fee (all applications) $10.00
- Filing Fee (all applications) $27.00
Residential Plumbing Permit Fees
New Construction – One- & Two-Family Homes
4,000 sq. ft. or less:
- Including gas: $396.00
- Excluding gas: $336.00
4,001 - 6,500 sq. ft.:
- Including gas: $455.00
- Excluding gas: $396.00
Additions, Alterations & Accessory Structures
- 1-4 Plumbing Fixtures: $91.00
- 5-9 Plumbing Fixtures: $152.00
- 10+ Plumbing Fixtures: $214.00
- Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs: $51.00
- Boilers, Steam & Hot Water Equipment: $51.00 per unit
- Water-Cooled AC, Refrigeration & Compressors: $51.00 per unit
For a complete list of plumbing permit fees, visit the Frederick County website.
Residential Electrical Permit Fees
New Construction – One- & Two-Family Homes
- Up to 200 Amp Service: $272.00
- 201-400 Amp Service: $365.00
- More than 400 Amp Service: $505.00
Alterations, Additions & Accessory Structures
- Includes low voltage work: $120.00
- Low Voltage Permit Only: $121.00
Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs
- Above Ground Pools: $51.00
- In-Ground Pools: $182.00
For more details, check the official electrical permit fee schedule.
Final Notes & Additional Resources
Permit fees are subject to change, so always verify with Frederick County Permits & Inspections before starting your project.
For the latest fee schedules and online applications, visit: Frederick County Permits & Inspections
By following the proper permit process, you can ensure a safe, compliant, and hassle-free construction project in Frederick County, MD.
