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Community Planning and Development Services Department
Inspection Services Division

"The Inspection Services Division (ISD) ensures the safety and compliance of buildings to code requirements and maintains the value of property by permitting and inspecting construction, enforcing the zoning ordinance and enforcing fire safety codes." - Inspection Services Mission Statement

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are codes important?
Codes protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare by reducing potential hazards. They keep construction costs down by providing uniformity in the industry and by providing consistent standards in construction. Finally, codes contribute to the well-being of the community by preserving life and safety, as well as maintaining property value over time.

What work requires a permit?
All structural changes to a building, including additions, demolition, and alterations require a permit. Only Licensed contractors under a permit with the City should do all electrical, heating, and plumbing work.

Where can I obtain an application for a license or permit?
All applications may be obtained through the Inspection Services Division, located on the second floor of City Hall or they can be downloaded in a PDF file from the “Types of Licenses and Permit” section of this web page.

Where do I go to schedule a building inspection in the City of Rockville?
Call our 24-hour voicemail system at 240-314-5040.

When are fire inspections required?
Fire inspections are required for any construction project for which a fire code plan review has been conducted. Building Permits will have a Fire Code Plan Review comments sheet attached, usually to the plan set cover sheet, or noted "Subject to field inspection by fire marshal."

All fire protection system work requires a FPS permit and an inspection.

Fire inspections are required for initial license or license renewal for day care homes and centers, nursing homes, and automotive repair facilities.

How do I find out more about fire code inspections?
Please call 240 314-5041 to request a fire code inspection.

Do I need a permit in advance to build a fence?
Yes. All "accessory structures" on the property need a permit prior to construction.

License and Permit Application Forms

For your convenience, many City license and permit application forms are now available online. The applications are in PDF format and require Adobe Acrobat Reader to view them. (If you do not have this viewer, please follow the link above to Adobes free download area.)

Print out the application, fill it out completely, and send it to:

Inspection Services Division
City of Rockville
111 Maryland Avenue
Rockville, MD 20850

Please Note: The City of Rockville requires work to be performed by qualified tradesman. A City Masters license is required for Plumbing, Gas and Electrical work.

Codes

The design and construction of all structures shall be in compliance with Chapter 5 of the Rockville City Code. Please note: You may design to the 2003 Plumbing and Mechanical Codes and the 2002 National Electrical Code.

The Inspection Services Division also enforces the following codes with amendments:

  • 2006 International Residential Code (with amendments)
  • 2006 International Building Code
  • 2006 International Plumbing Code
  • 2006 International Mechanical Code
  • 2005 National Electrical NFPA-70
  • 2006 NFPA-1
  • 2006 NFPA-101
  • 2002 NFPA 13, 13R, 13D
  • 2002 NFPA 72

    Official copies of chapters and/or ordinances of the Rockville City Code may also be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office.

    Contact Information

    Inspection Services Division
    City of Rockville
    111 Maryland Avenue
    Rockville, MD 20850

    Hours of Operation: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
    The office is located on the second floor of the Rockville City Hall building.

    Phone: 240-314-8240
    Fax: 240-314-8265
    E-mail: permits@rockvillemd.gov

    Inspection Request Line
    Our 24-hour voicemail system allows applicants to schedule construction related inspections day or night at 240 314-5040.

    Fire Inspection Request Line
    Fire code inspections may be requested by calling 240-314-5041. This is a recorded scheduling system and is available 24 hours a day. A fire inspector will call back to confirm the appointment.

    Additional Resources

    Maryland Housing & Community Development
          www.dhcd.state.md.us

    Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
          www.dllr.state.md.us

    Smart Codes – links to the new Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code
          www.dhcd.state.md.us/smartcodes/index.cfm