Northwood News ♦ April 2005

Neighborhood Zoning Issues

By Carole Barth

Zoning issues seem to popping up in the neighborhood faster than mushrooms after a rain.  From mansionization to home-based businesses, residents are asking what is allowed and how various projects get permitted.  You can find out what permits have been issued for a particular address from the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services website (permitting services.montgomerycountymd.gov).  Click on the search function, enter the property address, and a list of issued permits comes up.  You can also download a complaint form from the edocuments page.

This form can be used to report uncontrolled sediment or request investigations of suspected zoning violations and illegal construction activities (building without permits).  Or, you can call 240.777.6259.

Zoning complaints typically involve allegations of improper uses/activities in residential, business, and other zones and violations of building restrictions such as setbacks, lot coverage, and height limits.  Complaints may be also registered about building construction and electrical work having been done without permits.  Complaints are assigned to zoning/building investigators/inspectors who, if they find violations, instruct the violators to take corrective action.  If a violation is not corrected within a reasonable time, the investigator/inspector will undertake legal proceedings, such as issuing civil citations (tickets).  Complainants names are kept confidential by the department.   ■