Montgomery County Maryland Deck Permit Guide

Montgomery County requires a building permit for all decks regardless of height above grade, with added electrical permit review for deck lighting, hot tubs, and spas.

Permit takeaway

DPS states that all decks require a building permit regardless of height, and decks with stairway illumination, hot tubs, or spas may also require an electrical permit.

Zoning and placement

Properties with individual well and septic systems have additional requirements, so location and utility details should be checked before finalizing the deck plan.

Building and trade review

Montgomery County Residential Deck Details may substitute for construction plans for eligible single-span, single-level decks without roofs, screened porches, hot tubs, or other additional loads.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the deck includes a roof, screened porch, hot tub, spa, stair lighting, unusual loads, well or septic constraints, or work near easements.

Documents to prepare

• Site plan
• Deck dimensions
• Construction plans or approved deck details
• Well and septic information if applicable
• Electrical scope if applicable

Inspection planning

• Apply electronically
• Submit plans through ePlans
• Complete permit plan review
• Schedule footing and framing inspections
• Schedule final inspection

Official sources

• Montgomery County Residential Decks Permit Process
• Montgomery County Residential Permits
• Montgomery County DPS Permit Page

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.