Permitting Services Podcast

Gail Lucas

Go behind the scenes at the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services and connect with local experts about the permitting process for your commercial and residential projects.

  1. 22 mai

    Building the Future: Construction Trades and the Next Generation

    In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, host Gail Lucas, DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan, and Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Construction Trades Supervisor Steve Boden discuss a local program that introduces and prepares high school students for careers in construction trades, including carpentry, electrical, HVAC, masonry, plumbing, principles of architecture, and CAD design. Learn about the program, the house the students are building, and how DPS is involved!    Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered accessory dwelling units, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, outdoor projects, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more.   Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? We would like to hear from you. Send an email to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

    27 min

  2. 6 mai

    Permitting 101: Understanding the Basics

    In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, host Gail Lucas talks with DPS Permitting Manager Crystal Roberts about when a permit is required, common misconceptions, and how homeowners can avoid delays.   Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered accessory dwelling units, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, outdoor projects, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more.   Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? We would like to hear from you. Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov. You can find a transctipt of this episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2163316/19136359-permitting-101-understanding-the-basics/transcript

    13 min

  3. 15 avr.

    Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Projects

    As warmer weather arrives, many residents are heading outdoors to refresh their yards and outdoor living spaces. In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, host Gail Lucas sits down with DPS Residential Field Supervisor Jeremy Shupp to explain what homeowners need to know about permits and inspections for popular outdoor projects such as decks, fences, patios, pergolas, and sheds. They also share information about the popular residential deck maintenance inspection program, which takes place during Building Safety Month in May, and provide guidance about the importance of hiring a licensed contractor.  Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered accessory dwelling units, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more. Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? We would like to hear from you. Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov. A transcript for this episode is available here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2163316/19021258-decks-patios-and-outdoor-projects/transcript

    16 min

  4. 14 janv.

    Fire Code Compliance Permits: What's Changed and Why It Matters

    In this episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, we spotlight the new online application process for Fire Code Compliance (FCC) permits. Leading the conversation is Gail Lucas, chief of the DPS Customer Support and Outreach division, and FCC Manager Patsy Warnick, who is also the County Fire Marshal.   Every commercial building and tenant space in Montgomery County must have an FCC permit issued by DPS to ensure compliance with life safety and fire prevention standards. This episode covers who needs an FCC permit, how to check your permit status, and where to find more information. Plus, learn about a new requirement for multifamily apartment building owners to submit Emergency Safety Plans as part of the FCC permitting process.   Previous DPS Podcast episodes have explored topics such as accessory dwelling units, building safety, contractors, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, and vendor licenses.   Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? We want to hear from you. Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

    23 min

  5. 04/12/2025

    DPS Drone Modernizes Inspections

    This episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast focuses on the department’s new drone, which is modernizing the permitting process by increasing safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability during inspections and training.  The “DPS Drone Modernizes Inspections” episode is hosted by Gail Lucas, chief of the DPS Customer Support and Outreach division. Lucas is joined by DPS Land Development Division Chief Linda Kobylski and Field Supervisor Johnny Campos, who is one of the department’s newly certified drone pilots. Tune in to learn how DPS is utilizing drone technology to document compliance, monitor construction progress, and enhance training, all without the need for ladders or navigating difficult terrain.  Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, contractors, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, and vendor licenses. Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? We want to hear from you. Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

    14 min

  6. 31/10/2025

    Residential Demolition Permits

    The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) podcast episode, “Residential Demolition Permits,” explores when residential demolition permits are required, how they are defined, and what to expect during the permitting process. DPS Podcast Host Gail Lucas and DPS Plan Reviewer Richard Strouth discuss how DPS determines whether a residential construction project qualifies as a demolition, and how such a designation triggers the requirement to meet current building and energy codes for new homes. Plan Reviewer Strouth clarifies that if 67% or more of the first-story exterior walls of a one- or two-family dwelling are removed, the project is considered a demolition and requires a demolition permit. Listeners will learn about: The role of a plan reviewer when it comes to reviewing construction plans.The difference between demolition permits and addition/alteration permits with specific examples.Additional permits required for residential demolition projects, and what to know about impact taxes.How DPS can assist before construction begins, including resources and guidance.Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, contractors, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, and vendor licenses. Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

    17 min

  7. 02/10/2025

    The Pros and Cons of Being Your Own General Contractor

    This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode focuses on the pros and cons of serving as your own general contractor when embarking on home renovations or other residential projects. David Burch, DPS residential inspections manager, and DPS Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, discuss the risks and rewards of doing it yourself. Their conversation covers what homeowners should know before taking on the responsibility of managing a project, and why it is an important decision. Tune in to learn about:  What you should know before you begin a project.The importance of hiring licensed contractors.  The difference between contractors and subcontractors.Who should apply for the permits? How DPS can help, including resources to know about.  Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more. Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov

    19 min

  8. 25/07/2025

    Meet John Catlett: New DPS Commercial Building Division Chief

    Join us for the latest episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast, where we introduce John Catlett, the new DPS commercial building division chief. Hosted by Gail Lucas, DPS customer support and outreach division chief, this episode dives into Division Chief Catlett’s vision for excellent customer service, what’s new with commercial building codes and the future of the industry.  Tune in to learn about:  The latest on the codes and code cycle. The commercial building plan review process.Industry trends and upcoming improvements. This is the 28th episode of the DPS podcast. Previous episodes have covered topics like accessory dwelling units, building safety, eSolar, residential fast track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more. Have a question or idea for a future episode? Email us at dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

    25 min
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À propos

Go behind the scenes at the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services and connect with local experts about the permitting process for your commercial and residential projects.

Informations

  • Création
    Gail Lucas
  • Années d’activité
    2023 - 2026
  • Épisodes
    35
  • Classification
    Tous publics
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Permitting Services Podcast
  • Site web de l’émission
    Permitting Services Podcast