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1. How long will it take for a review of my plan submittal?

Our staff strives to complete an initial review with written comments sent out to the applicant within ten business days and a resubmittal review within five business days.

2. How soon can a preopening or a site installation inspection be scheduled?

Our commitment is to schedule inspections to meet the needs of our clients and within the constraints of our workload within five business days. The plan reviewer who reviewed/approved your food, swimming pool/spa, well or onsite sewage disposal plans will be your on-site inspector.

3. What needs to be submitted for a plan review?

Refer to our plan design guides for food, public swimming pools/spas, and for sewage disposal systems at Health Forms.

4. How do I submit drawings for the plan review?

Complete the Plan Review Application and upload the drawings for Food Facilities, Remodels, Equipment Evaluations, Raze, and Septic Applications using the ePermits Online Portal. 

5. How do I obtain a raze permit?

Prior to any raze or demolition activity, a site inspection must be scheduled with the Health Department representative to determine the structure/property is free of asbestos-containing material (ACM) or other hazardous materials. The property will also be inspected for the presence of abandoned wells, septic tanks, and underground storage. Contact our field inspector at 301-636-2070 for additional information. 

6. Can I open a food service facility in my home?

In most cases, zoning constraints and food regulations do not allow residential property to be used for the preparation and service of food for public consumption. However, there are a couple of exceptions:
• Preparation of “cottage foods” & their sale at farmers' markets and temporary events.
• Bed & Breakfast operation: defined as eight rooms or fewer for rent, is not required to have a food service permit if food is limited to only “continental breakfast.” Refer to COMAR 10.15.03.02(16)(a),(b),(c).
Note: This also will require a single-family rental license for your home, which can be obtained from our website.