Updated 2024
If you're planning a basement remodeling or finishing project in Howard County, Maryland, you’ll need to obtain the necessary building, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC permits.
Below is a comprehensive guide outlining the fees and requirements.
Building Permits in Howard County, MD
The cost of a building permit depends on the type of residential structure:
- Single-Family Homes: $0.18 per sq. ft.
- Multi-Family Buildings: $0.22 per sq. ft.
- Technology Fee: A 10% technology fee is applied to all permits.
Foundation Permit
Requires prior approval and payment of all applicable fees (including building permit and water/sewer utility fees).
- Fee: $200 (+ filing fee)
Alterations & Repairs for Single-Family Homes
- Filing Fee (Non-Refundable): $25
- Single Room/Area (≤200 sq. ft.): $50
- More than One Floor/Area (>200 sq. ft.): $100
For a detailed fee schedule, covering additional structures like swimming pools, satellite dishes, and trellises, visit the Howard County Permits Website.
Electrical Permits
Application Fee: $50 (+ 10% technology fee)
Permit Fees vary based on service type and project scope:
Residential Flat Rate Schedule (New Construction)
- 1 or 2 Family Dwelling (0-200 Amp Service): $150
- 1 or 2 Family Dwelling (201-400 Amp Service): $200
- 1 or 2 Family Dwelling (401-600 Amp Service): $300
- 1 or 2 Family Dwelling (Over 600 Amp Service): $500
Multi-Family Electrical Permits
Includes service and common area wiring: $100 per unit
Residential Alterations & Additions
- Flat Fee: $50
- Multi-Family Units: $50 per apartment unit
For more complex projects, additional fees may apply. Check the electrical permit fee schedule for further details.
Plumbing & Gas Permits
- Application Fee: $50 (+ 10% technology fee)
Additional fees apply based on the number and type of fixtures:
Fixture Fees
- 1st Fixture: $25
- Each Additional Fixture: $5
Special Fixture Fees
- Sump Pump: $25 each
- Laundry Tray Pump: $25 each
- Sewer Ejector: $25 each
- Swimming Pool Pump: $25 each
- Hot Water Heater: $25 each
- Hot Water Boiler: $25 each
Commercial plumbing permits start at $50, with additional fixtures costing $5 each. Certain fixtures, like boilers and pool pumps, are $50 each.
For a full breakdown of commercial plumbing fees, refer to the Howard County Permit Fee Schedule.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) Permits
- Application Fee: $50 (+ 10% technology fee)
Permit Fees vary based on building type:
HVAC Fees by Property Type
- Single-Family Homes (Attached/Detached): $40 per heating/cooling zone
- Multi-Family & Multi-Occupancy Residential (Apartments, Condos, Hotels, Motels): $80 per unit/room
The HVAC fee schedule is simpler compared to other permits, but you can always check the official Howard County permit fee schedule for more details.
Final Notes & Additional Resources
Permit fees are subject to change, so always verify with Howard County Permits & Inspections before starting your project.
For the latest fee schedules and online applications, visit: Howard County Permits & Inspections
By following the proper permit process, you can ensure a safe, compliant, and hassle-free basement remodeling project in Howard County, MD.
