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1. How to apply for a building permit?

Permit applications may be submitted in person or via a drop box in the lobby of County Administration building located at 220 S. Main St. in Bel Air, MD, applicants can submit a completed application and all accompanying documents via email at building@harfordcountymd.gov or check the ePermit Center for the growing lists of permits being accepted in this application. You must have an account set up through the ePermit Center to process these applications. Online transactions through the ePermit Center are strongly encouraged: https://epermitcenter.harfordcountymd.gov/energov_prod/selfservice#/home.

The Department is accepting in-person meetings. We strongly encourage electronic submission during emergency events.

2. Where do I get the building permit application and what information is required?

Applications and other necessary forms are available in person or from the Planning and Zoning main webpage ⇨ click on Zoning Administration Document Center.  If you have questions regarding forms and applications, please email us at Building@harfordcountymd.gov or call the office at 410-638-6442 any time for assistance.

The permit application is used for commercial permits, residential permits, and zoning certificates.  However, not all information is required for every application.  Please note, “occupancy classification” applies to commercial permits only. 

For most applications can be processed with the following information:

1.            Address of work site;
2.            Date;
3.            Public Water & Sewer or Private Well and Septic (check boxes);
4.            Height of structure;        
5.            Construction Cost;
6.            Applicant Information;
7.            Property Owner Information;
8.            Contractor; and/or
9.            Print, sign and date the bottom.

Building Permit/Zoning Certificate Applications may be submitted electronically to Building@harfordcountymd.gov

Building/Zoning Certificate Application

http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2315/Building-PermitZoning-CertificateApplication-PDF 

• Complete all applicable fields, including signature at the bottom of the page.
• If you would like to list a contractor on the application, you must provide a copy of the contract signed by both parties.

Site Plan

http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12388/Sample-Site-Plan 

• This is just a sample, please provide the site plan for the referenced property.
• Required for all new structures and additions (sheds, decks, additions, etc.).
• Indicate size and location of existing and proposed structures.

Owner Authorization Letter

http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2316/Letter-of-Owner-Authorization-PDF 

• The Property Owner must authorize who can apply for the permit.
• Complete the Signature blocks, along with witness and date.

Fences

 http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2494/Fences-in-Easements-PDF 

•  Fence in Easement form if fence will be encroaching easement

Decks

http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7358/Basic-Deck-Design 

• Fill in blanks front and back

Deck Guidelines

http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/318/Deck-Construction-Guidelines?bidId= 

Construction Plans

• Detailed plans for new construction, additions, and interior alterations must address entire scope of work with dimensions.

3. How and what can I apply for via the ePermit Center?

Please check the ePermit Center for the growing lists of permits being accepted in this application. You must have an account set up through the ePermit Center to process these applications. Online transactions through the ePermit Center are strongly encouraged: https://epermitcenter.harfordcountymd.gov/energov_prod/selfservice#/home.

4. How do I apply for approvals required by the Board of Appeals?

Anyone seeking a zoning variance or Special Exception approval should contact Planning and Zoning to schedule a pre-application meeting by calling 410-638-3103.  This meeting can be held in person, by phone or video conference.  Once the application is completed, the applicant may use the drop box in the lobby or mail the application to the Planning Office.  Once the application is deemed complete, we will contact the applicant to arrange payment.  After all fees are paid, the application will be sent to the Hearing Examiners office for scheduling.

5. How to submit a complaint of a potential zoning code violation?

Zoning violations can be reported to the Zoning Enforcement section @ 410-638-3103 x1910 or via email at hcgzoning@harfordcountymd.gov or in person. Please visit our Residential Zoning Violation and Unregulated Conditions page for more information. The Department is accepting in-person visits, however, we strongly encourage calls or e-mail submissions.

6. How to apply for a Site Plan Application Waiver?

A Site Plan Application Waiver (aka DAC Waiver) may be granted for minor changes or additions to nonresidential uses. A completed and signed waiver form must be submitted along with two copies of the proposed site plan. The application may be delivered, faxed, mailed or emailed to the Department or placed in the drop box in the lobby of the County Administration building at 220 South Main Street in Bel Air. The Department is accepting in-person visits, however, we strongly encourage the form and plans to be dropped off, faxed, mailed or e-mailed.

7. How long does it take to receive an approved permit?

Most applications are being reviewed and issued within 10 business days.  

Once issued, a permit is valid for one (1) year from the date of issuance. If construction is initiated, the permit will remain valid as long as work continues.  If work does not progress for six (6) months after initial construction start up, the building permit will be considered ‘expired’. Please call 410-638-3122 for more information.