The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is launching an updated version of its “ePlans” software on July 29. ePlans aims to streamline the permitting process for customers who submit residential building applications electronically. The software will also be used to apply for permits and submit construction plans.
To help customers navigate the new software, DPS staff are providing virtual customer training sessions on Tuesday, July 23, and Friday, July 26, and post-launch on Monday, Aug. 5, and Tuesday, Aug. 6.
“These software updates are designed to streamline the permitting process for our customers to make it easier and faster to get a permit,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “DPS issues thousands of permits a year and customer satisfaction is a top priority. I hope our customers will attend the free training sessions and watch the new training videos to become familiar with how to apply for permits and upload plans in the new system.”
In addition to providing training sessions for customers, DPS has released five training videos on its website and the County’s YouTube Channel.
“As project partners, we want DPS customers to know we are accessible and readily available to answer questions and to assist them throughout the permitting process, particularly at the front end with ePlans,” said DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan. “Earlier this year, DPS unveiled updates to the ePlans software for fence, public right-of way, sediment control, sign, stormwater concept and all trade permit applications. These changes also included bringing well and septic permit applications online for the first time ever. Later this summer, the update will be expanded to include all commercial building permits. Indeed, we are very excited about these enhancements as the aspiration has long been 100 percent paperless permitting.”
