The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) has launched three new geographic information systems (GIS) maps on the front page of its website to
keep the public informed about properties in an area's floodplain.
The maps will also highlight permitting activity around the county for commercial use and occupancies and inspections in near real-time.
A link to all three of the new maps is posted on the front page of the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps.
"I have asked all departments throughout the government to utilize innovative technology better to improve services to our residents and appreciate DPS's efforts to provide this helpful mapping tool," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "These interactive GIS maps are a tool to help residents and other stakeholders identify floodplains in the County and learn what construction is happening near their homes and businesses."
The Floodplain and Storm Drain Map provides engineers, planners, and property owners with useful information regarding floodplains and drainage. The map collates Federal and local floodplain maps in a single resource to enhance public awareness and understanding of flood-prone areas, potential flood risks, and associated hazards within a specific region.
The My Inspector and Property Map displays information about upcoming inspections, property details, and contact information for inspectors. DPS stakeholders also can find permit applications near their homes by using a bounding box tool. The map is designed to improve transparency and construction awareness.
The commercial Use and Occupancy Research Map is designed for stakeholders to search commercial use and occupancy (U and O) certificates by parcel. This may be helpful for those opening a business or changing the use type of a business. The data goes back to 1999. U and O certificates can be printed using DPS online services. Searches for U and O certificates before 1999, should be made to DPS through MC 311 or 240-777-0311.
"We expect these maps will be of high interest to our customers and stakeholders," said DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan. "The information displayed can help developers make informed decisions about building projects based on the elevation layers, drainage maps and natural resources within an area. Plus, we expect the maps will be important for prospective buyers and residents looking for permitting information at or around their homes and properties. This new GIS feature will be a prevalent tool and a great example of how DPS will innovate and leverage technology to improve the permitting process."
DPS customers can apply and pay for permits, submit construction plans, request records, file property complaints and schedule inspections online at any time. Customers who have permitting questions or need more information about the application process should contact MC 311 (240-777-0311) or stop by DPS offices. An appointment is not necessary to get in-person assistance. The customer service lobby, located at 2425 Reedie Drive (7th floor) in Wheaton, is open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Follow the DPS Podcast to stay connected with local code officials on a variety of permitting topics, and subscribe to Constructive Comments, the monthly DPS newsletter, for the latest news and information.
For more information about the permitting process, visit the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps.
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