Prince George's County, Maryland, USA
Interior Nat Harbor

Patios

Applying

Building Permit applications are completed online. Please go to the Momentum portal and enter the information directly into the County's Permitting System. The residential Patio Permit application category in Momentum is Case Type:  Building Alteration and Permit Type:  Residential Exterior and Grading.


The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) has specific requirements for the form and content of every home improvement contract provided by the MHIC licensed contractor. Be sure you are familiar with those requirements before signing any home improvement contract. Home Improvement contractors must be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). For any questions pertaining to contract contents, what constitutes a home improvement, or the professional standing of a specific home improvement contractor, contact the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) at (410) 230–6309 or visit their web site at www.dllr.state.md.us.
 

Patio Construction

Patios are considered open-air leisure areas. Structures built from brick, block, pavers, stone or concrete (masonry) are classified as patios.

Patios are usually built at grade. For construction of a patio built at the existing grade, a permit is not required for construction if the patio is less than 500 sq. ft. If the lot is served by a private well and/or septic, an at-grade patio must be reviewed by the Quality and Septic Systems Program to ensure that access for septic tank maintenance is provided.
 

Requirements

The following plans are required when applying for a Patio Permit:

If you intend to construct a patio that is 500 sq. ft. or more and/or if stairs or ramps are to be constructed due to elevation change for any patio size, a Building Permit is required. Site plans showing the existing and proposed structure location(s), including well and/or septic (if applicable), must be submitted. Structural plans also are required.

If the home is located in a subdivision with a Homeowner’s Association (HOA), a separate approval from the HOA may be necessary. Unless erected by the homeowner, all home improvement projects require that a licensed contractor by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission is used.

Virtual Walk-Through
Use ePlan to upload support documents and required plans and drawings. For a better understanding of homeowner permits that qualify for the Virtual Walk-Through process, view the "Projects that Qualify for Homeowner Walk-Through Reviews" document. When the virtual Walk-Through option is selected, the guidelines on the "Walk-Through Permit Process" page must be followed.

ePlan 
Select "eplan" on the online application and upload required documents. For a better understanding of ePlan submission requirements, view the ePlan web page.
 

Fees

For permit, license and bond fees, view the DPIE Fee Schedule. Customers are encouraged to pay online.

  • Customers are encouraged to make payments directly in Momentum. 
  • For alternate forms of payment, visit DPIE's Payments page.

There is a Minimum Fee.

Fee Calculation (if higher than minimum fee):  $ Amount + Grading Fee + M-NCPPC Fee

All permitting fees are assessed an additional five percent (5%) Technology Fee. Fees are subject to change based on County codes.
 

Permit*

Following agency approvals of plans/drawings and payment of fees, a permit is issued. A permit may be revoked if issued in error. A permit may be voided if construction has not started, has been suspended or discontinued.

Permit Revisions
Modifications to the permit, plans, or drawings will require a Permit Revision. Submit a revision request in Momentum if your permit application is submitted in Momentum.

Permit Renewal Extension Request
Building Permits are valid for six (6) months after initial issuance, or for six (6) months after the latest inspection took place. If approved, permits that expire or require more time to complete, may be renewed or extended by submitting a renewal request in Momentum if the case originated in Momentum. If the case originated in ePermits, it may be renewed or extended by completing the following "Permit Renewal Extension Request" form and submitting it on "Contact DPIE," (a power app portal).
• Permit Renewal Extension Request (PDF)
 

Inspections

Inspections must be requested and conducted at least once every six months until your project is completed. To schedule an inspection, call 301-755-9000.
 

Assistance

For assistance in beginning a 311 ticket, use Contact DPIE.

 

*Note:  If electrical service is included with the project, an Electrical Permit is required.

Applications