Do I Need a Permit for This? A Beginner’s Guide to Remodeling Regulations in Harford County

Blueprints laid out on a desk—symbolizing the detailed planning and documentation needed for a successful, fully permitted home remodel in Harford County."

Thinking of remodeling your home in Harford County? Whether it’s a new deck, bathroom upgrade, or home addition, your first question should be: "Do I need a permit for this?"

If you’re new to remodeling, this might sound intimidating. But getting the right permits is essential—and it’s easier than you think once you understand the basics. This guide explains what permits are, when you need them, and how to apply (even if you’ve never done this before).

✅ What Is a Building Permit—And Why Do I Need One?

A building permit is official permission from the county that allows you to make changes to your home. It ensures your project meets safety, zoning, and building codes.

Permits are important because they:

• Protect your family by ensuring the work is up to code

• Prevent legal trouble or stop-work orders

• Maintain your home’s value and insurability

• Keep buyers and inspectors happy if you sell your home later

Learn more from Harford County’s permit center here.

🏗️ What Kind of Projects Need a Permit?

The general rule: If you’re changing the structure, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC, you probably need a permit.

✅ Common Projects That DO Require a Permit:

• Building a deck, porch, or screened room

• Adding or removing walls

• Finishing a basement

• Installing a new bathroom or kitchen

• Electrical upgrades, new plumbing, or gas lines

• Adding a fireplace, fence, shed, or retaining wall

• Replacing your roof or windows if you're altering size or structure

For a detailed list, view Harford County’s Residential Construction Guide.

🛠️ Projects That Might NOT Need a Permit:

• Painting or wallpapering

• Installing new cabinets (if layout stays the same)

• Replacing flooring (tile, hardwood, carpet)

• Installing countertops

• Replacing windows or doors of the same size

When in doubt, contact the Department of Inspections, Licenses & Permits (DILP):📞 (410) 638-3122Or check Permit FAQs.

📝 How to Apply for a Permit in Harford County

If you're ready to get started, here's what to expect step by step:

1. Plan Your Project

• Write out what you plan to do

• Sketch basic drawings or hire a designer for layouts

  
  

2. Log in to Harford County’s ePermit Center

Use the ePermit Center to create an account and apply online. It’s the fastest and easiest way to track your permit status.

3. Submit Documents

You may need:

• Site plan

• Floor plan

• Contractor license info

• HOA approval (if required)

• Septic/well documents if applicable

More on required documents is available here.

4. Pay the Fee

Costs vary depending on the scope of your project. A small deck might cost $50–$100 to permit; larger renovations may be more.

5. Schedule Inspections

Once work begins, you’ll need inspections at various stages (framing, plumbing, electrical, final). Skipping inspections could invalidate your permit.

🛑 What Happens If I Don’t Get a Permit?

Skipping a permit may seem like a shortcut—but it can lead to:

• Stop-work orders from inspectors

• Fines or double-permit fees

• Problems with homeowners' insurance

• Issues when you sell your home

• Unsafe work that puts your family at risk

Even if you’re doing the work yourself, you’re still required to follow county rules. Learn more in the Harford County Building Code.

💡 Tips for First-Time Remodelers

• Talk to your contractor: PM Home Remodel can help you determine what permits are needed

• Get HOA approval first, if you live in a governed neighborhood

• Apply early: Permits can take 1–3 weeks, sometimes more

• Save all documents for future resale or refinancing

• Ask questions—the county is happy to help

🛠️ Let PM Home Remodel Handle the Permits for You

Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to figure it out alone. At PM Home Remodel, we handle all permitting, including plan submission, inspections, and code compliance, so you don’t have to lift a finger.

👉 Contact PM Home Remodel to schedule a consultation and let us help you build smarter—on time, on budget, and fully permitted.

🌐 Website: www.pmremodel.com

📞 Phone: (443) 272-4685

📍Now serving Harford County, Montgomery County and surrounding areas.