If your project changes water runoff – like building a home, installing a driveway, or grading land – you’ll likely need a stormwater permit. Howard County requires these permits to manage water runoff, limit pollution, and prevent flooding. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Key Steps to Get Your Permit:

1. Choose the Right Permit Type:
   • Packet A: For residential projects (e.g., patios, garden sheds).
     • Processing time: 48 hours
     • Fee: $50
   • Packet B: For commercial projects (e.g., office buildings, shopping centers).
     • Processing time: 7 working days
     • Fee: $100
2. Submit Your Application:
   • Use the MS4 Portal to upload required documents (site plans, erosion control plans, etc.).
   • Ensure files meet Howard County’s format standards (e.g., PDFs must be searchable).
3. Review Process:
   • Residential permits: ~48 hours
   • Commercial permits: ~7 working days
   • Address reviewer feedback quickly to avoid delays.
4. Inspections:
   • Regular site checks ensure compliance during and after construction.
5. Certification:
   • Submit final plans digitally for approval.

Projects That Don’t Need Permits:

• Basic landscaping or lawn care
• Small yard improvements that don’t affect drainage

Pro Tip: Always confirm exemptions with the Howard County Department of Inspections to avoid violations.

Step 1: Choose Your Permit Type

The first step in your Howard County project is selecting the right permit type. Howard County offers two primary categories: Packet A for residential projects and Packet B for commercial developments ^[2].

Home vs. Business Permits

Packet A is designed for residential projects such as:

• Building a new single-family home
• Installing a driveway or patio
• Adding a garden shed
• Making minor grading changes

Packet B covers larger commercial developments, including:

• Office building construction
• Shopping center projects
• Multi-unit housing developments
• Large-scale excavation work

Once you’ve identified your permit type, ensure you understand the submission process to meet all requirements.

Projects That Don’t Require Permits

Some activities are typically exempt from requiring permits ^[2]:

• Basic landscaping and garden maintenance
• Routine lawn care
• Standard agricultural operations
• Minor yard improvements that don’t significantly affect drainage
• Regular property maintenance

It’s always a good idea to confirm these exemptions with the Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses, and Permits. Taking this step helps you avoid accidental violations and ensures you stay compliant with local regulations ^[2].

For more complex projects, consulting a professional can be worthwhile. They can help you choose the correct permit type, prepare the necessary documentation, and reduce the likelihood of errors during the application process ^[2].

Move on to Step 2: Submit Your Application for a detailed guide on the next steps.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve figured out the type of permit you need, the next step is preparing and submitting the necessary documents through Howard County’s MS4 Portal. This online system simplifies the process and ensures everything aligns with local requirements.

Documents You’ll Need to Submit

Here’s a breakdown of the key documents required for your application:

Your submission should clearly outline:

• The exact locations and specs of BMPs, outfalls, and drainage features.
• Parcel boundaries along with lot numbers.
• Technical details like dimensions, materials, and design parameters.
• Delineated drainage areas and flow patterns.

Once everything is ready, upload your documents via the MS4 Portal to complete your application.

Navigating the MS4 Portal

The MS4 Portal is your go-to tool for managing the entire permit application process. Follow these steps to make your submission as smooth as possible:

1. Set Up Your Account
   Head to the Howard County website and create an account using a valid email address and your contact details.
2. Upload Your Documents
   Email your files to stormwater@howardcountymd.gov. Make sure to:
   • Use the county-provided Excel template for attribute data.
   • Check that your .dxf files meet GIS compatibility standards.
   • Submit all PDFs in a searchable format.
3. Pay the Fees
   Fees are paid through the portal:
   • $50.00 for residential applications (Packet A).
   • $100.00 for commercial applications (Packet B).

Tip: Double-check that your files meet all requirements before submitting. This can save you from unnecessary delays during the review process.

Step 3: Application Review

Once you’ve submitted your application via the MS4 Portal, the Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits in Howard County, along with the Stormwater Management Division, will start the review process.

Review Time Estimates

The review timeframe depends on the type and complexity of your project. Here’s a breakdown:

To avoid unnecessary delays, it’s important to address any feedback from reviewers as quickly as possible.

Handling Review Comments

If reviewers find issues or need more details, they’ll notify you through the MS4 Portal or email. Common concerns include:

• Unclear drainage area delineations for Best Management Practices (BMPs)
• Differences between submitted plans and county standards

Here’s how to handle feedback effectively:

• Review and Organize: Carefully go through all comments, group similar concerns together, and note the required changes.
• Submit Revisions: Upload corrected documents via the MS4 Portal. Make sure files meet these standards:
  • PDF plans must be searchable
  • .dxf files should work with GIS software
  • Excel templates must follow county guidelines [1]

County staff will confirm that your plans and documents meet local and state requirements for stormwater management, erosion control, and sediment regulations.

If you disagree with a comment, you can request a meeting with the reviewer. Clear communication, backed by factual evidence, often resolves issues quickly.

Pro Tip: Responding within 48 hours can help keep your application on track and meet the expected timelines.

Step 4: After Permit Approval

Required Site Checks

Once your permit is approved, Howard County mandates regular site inspections to confirm that your project complies with the approved stormwater management plans. These inspections, typically carried out by the Howard Soil Conservation District (HSCD), focus on various stages of the construction process:

Keep all approved plans and permit documents accessible on-site, and ensure a knowledgeable representative is available during inspections. After completing these site checks, you’ll be ready to move forward with the certification process.

System Certification

Once inspections are successfully completed, the next step is to certify your system by submitting final digital documentation. Here’s what you’ll need to provide:

Required Digital Submissions:

• A PDF of the final plan showing completed work
• A DXF file detailing infrastructure locations
• A completed Excel template with detailed specifications

Your submission must include comprehensive details about:

• Best Management Practices (BMPs)
• Outfalls and drainage systems
• Manholes and inlets
• Pipe networks
• Easements and property boundaries

Send your finalized digital documentation to stormwater@howardcountymd.gov. The county’s processing time for certification materials typically ranges from 7 to 28 days, depending on the complexity of your project ^[2].

Since July 1, 2017, Howard County has required all new stormwater infrastructure designs to be submitted digitally. This data is integrated into the county’s GIS inventory to meet Maryland Department of the Environment regulations.

To prevent delays in certification:

• Make sure all files follow the county’s format requirements and address any inspection feedback promptly.
• Include all necessary attribute data.
• Keep accurate as-built documentation throughout the construction process.

Certification isn’t just a final step – it lays the groundwork for maintaining compliance over time. After certification, continue to maintain detailed records of all future maintenance activities and inspections. This ensures your project remains in line with permit conditions and avoids potential compliance issues down the road.

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Common Application Errors

Missing Documentation

Submitting incomplete or missing documentation is a common issue that can slow down the approval process for stormwater permits in Howard County. To avoid unnecessary delays, make sure every required form and plan is included before submission. Additionally, be mindful of other potential setbacks, like permit violations, which can also extend the approval timeline.

Expert Help Options

Pro Landscapes MD Services

Pro Landscapes MD offers stormwater management services designed to help Howard County property owners navigate the permit process with ease. Their expertise spans a range of areas, including drainage solutions, water management systems, and installations that align with local regulations.

Here’s an overview of their stormwater management services:

These services form the foundation of their successful project execution, as demonstrated in the example below.

Project Example

Pro Landscapes MD excels in designing outdoor spaces that combine aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability ^[3]. Their process involves:

• Professional Assessment: Analyzing the property’s drainage patterns.
• Custom Design: Crafting solutions tailored to meet both client needs and permit standards.
• Installation: Executing approved designs with precision.

"We provide personalized designs that fit your specific needs, preferences, and landscape" ^[3].

Pro Landscapes MD proudly serves communities across Howard County, including Columbia, Ellicott City, and Elkridge. Their targeted approach ensures compliance with local stormwater regulations while delivering practical and effective drainage solutions.

Summary

The stormwater permit process plays a critical role in managing water effectively while meeting regulatory standards. Following the right procedures not only ensures compliance but also helps maintain the health and functionality of the surrounding landscape.

Main Points

Here are some essential practices to focus on:

• Install efficient drainage systems: Protect buildings and property from water damage by designing systems that manage runoff effectively.
• Incorporate natural elements: Features like berms and swales help control water flow and reduce erosion naturally.
• Ensure proper grading: Prevent issues like water pooling by maintaining appropriate land slopes.
• Adopt sustainable methods: Support water conservation and promote healthier ecosystems through environmentally friendly practices.

Together, these steps highlight the importance of responsible stormwater management and reinforce efforts to safeguard both property and the environment.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t get a stormwater permit for my project in Howard County?

Why Stormwater Permits Matter in Howard County

Skipping the stormwater permit process for your project in Howard County can lead to some serious setbacks. You could face hefty fines, legal troubles, or even be forced to stop construction altogether until you’ve secured the necessary permits. In some cases, any unapproved work might have to be removed or redone to align with local regulations – an expensive and time-consuming fix.

These permits aren’t just red tape; they’re in place to ensure your project meets environmental guidelines. By managing stormwater properly, they help prevent problems like flooding, soil erosion, and water pollution. Taking the time to follow the permitting process not only keeps you compliant but also safeguards your investment in the long run.

How do I know if my landscaping project in Howard County requires a stormwater permit?

In Howard County, obtaining a stormwater permit is a must for projects that significantly alter the land. This includes activities like grading, excavation, or adding features such as patios, driveways, or retaining walls that create impervious surfaces. These permits are essential for managing stormwater effectively, helping to prevent potential issues like flooding and erosion.

If you’re unsure whether your project requires a permit, it’s a good idea to check the county’s guidelines or seek advice from a professional. Pro Landscapes MD offers expertise in stormwater management and can guide you through evaluating your project and handling the permitting process. They’ll help ensure your project meets local regulations while enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor space.

What should I do if my stormwater permit application is delayed because of missing documents?

If your stormwater permit application hits a snag because of missing documents, the first thing to do is carefully review the application requirements outlined by Howard County. Go through the checklist to pinpoint any missing or incomplete items.

After identifying what’s needed, gather the required documents and submit them as soon as possible to the appropriate county department. If you’re uncertain about any part of the process or need more guidance, don’t hesitate to contact Howard County’s stormwater management office. Being proactive and keeping the lines of communication open can help get your application back on track with minimal delays.

Related posts

• Maryland Stormwater Act Overview
• Maryland Sump Pump Permit Requirements
• Stormwater Pipe Repair: Maryland Compliance Guide
• Maryland Stormwater Certification Requirements