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Building Permit Process

The health department approves building permit site plan requests for new construction only. This is mainly associated with the on-site sewage disposal system, perc testing, and the well inspection. Once a site plan is submitted by a registered Maryland surveyor, our staff reviews the plan based on those requirements. A field check may be required.

For more information, please contact the health department at smchd.healthdept@maryland.gov or call 301-475-4321. 

On-Site Septic System

The Environmental Health Division receives applications for the construction or expansion of individual septic systems. When a septic system fails, the staff also reviews applications for repairs. For more information, click here.

Perc Testing

A perc test is a soils test to determine if the soils and groundwater conditions on a property are suitable for use as an on-site sewage disposal system. All properties not served by public water and sewer must have this test before beginning construction of any structure with plumbing. For more information, click here. 

Well Certification Program

The Well Certification Program certifies the potability of all residential drinking water wells, both for new construction and for the replacement of existing wells. For more information, click here.

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