Commercial Change Of Use Permit & Inspection Process
A commercial change of use building permit is required for all projects in an existing building where a change of IBC use and/or occupancy occurs. This change of use and occupancy may or may not include associated alterations. This permit type may be combined with other permit processes such as New Construction and Additions. You must also apply for a Use and Occupancy (U&O) Certificate for the new use. You may apply for your U&O at the same time you apply for the building permit.
DPS is no longer accepting paper permit applications or plans. Information must be submitted using our eServices programs. For assistance with eServices, email [email protected].
Change of use building permits commonly require associated electrical, mechanical, fire alarm, and/or fire protection permits, depending on the scope of work and the systems present; a Use and Occupancy Certificate application is also required. When a change of use is combined with another type of commercial building permit, such as additions or new construction, those requirements also apply to your project.
Required documentation may vary based on the type of project you are undertaking however, the Maryland Accessibility Compliance Form , manufacturer’s catalog (“cut sheets”) product listings, construction bid documents or other verification of construction cost, should be submitted with all projects. Additional forms which may be required can be found in the “General Information” drop down menu under Permits and Licenses on the Commercial Building Division page. (Goes to Index Page of forms)
Systems furniture installations do require a separate building and a separate electrical permit, unless the full scope of the systems furniture installation, including the electrical service, is provided for under the main building permit.
Please see our structural submittal requirements for a change of use for a detailed list of information that needs to accompany your submittal.
Depending on the scope and type of the project approvals may be needed from:
- Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC)
- Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC)
- Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- Local municipalities (Chevy Chase, Takoma Park, etc.) or other regulatory agencies which may have jurisdiction over the business operation or process.
Please note that DPS does not issue building permits for the Cities of Rockville or Gaithersburg.
Applicants and design professionals may request a no-cost Commercial Design Consultation to discuss preliminary or schematic design drawings in preparation for the submission of final construction documents for review. The consultation is primarily intended for architectural designs and submittal requirement assistance but, may also discuss engineered system design, fire protection systems, and/or inspection process assistance.
Projects involving restaurants may also use DPS’ Recipes for Success to assist in permitting and approval. DPS also offers special assistance to Places of Worship as part of our Featured Programs, coordinated by the Customer Service section.
Permit issuance times are dependent on review workload. Generally, review comments are provided by DPS within 30 calendar days for properly submitted plans.
The certificate is valid until the use of the building or space changes or there is an increase or decrease in the floor area used.