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Questions
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Q: Who enforces the building code?
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A: The Inspection Services Division and the Permit Application Center, two divisions of the Department of Inspections and Permits, enforce the building code. The Inspection Services Division is divided into six sections: Building, Combination, Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical Inspections and Complaint Investigation.
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Q: What does the Anne Arundel County Building Code regulate?
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A: The code regulates new residential and commercial construction. This includes the construction of additions or alterations to existing structures. This includes construction to finish a basement, the conversion of a garage into living space and the addition of a deck. These types of work require permits and follow up inspections.
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Q: Do I need a permit or an inspection just to spruce up my house?
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A: You may do some maintenance and repairs without building permits as long as it does not include structural work, or the construction or removal of ANY walls or partitions. Cosmetic changes, such as painting or carpeting, do not require a permit. However, such work still must comply with applicable codes dealing with fire safety and other safety issues.
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Q: When is an inspection required?
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A: Both Commercial and Residential must have rough-in inspections of construction progress before work is covered up, and final inspections after work is complete. Typically all sub trade inspections such as electrical and mechanical must be approved before the main permit (general construction) inspection will be done. Approved plans must be on the job site for each inspection. Note: Footings, and Slabs, must be inspected before concrete is poured or backfill material is placed.
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Q: What are the current editions of code that Anne Arundel County enforces?
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A: The County currently enforces the 2003 ICC Codes including the International Building, Residential, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas and Energy Codes, and the 2002 National Electric Code. All amendments to these codes can be found in Article 15 of the Anne Arundel County Code which is on-line at http://www.amlegal.com/library/md/annearundelco.shtml
Click Here For More Information
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Q: May I start construction before I receive a permit?
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A: No, a permit must be issued prior to the commencement of work. If construction is started prior to the issuance the contractor or homeowner is subject to civil fines and other penalties.
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Q: As a homeowner, may I get a permit to do my own plumbing, electrical and mechanical work?
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A: No. A homeowner may not pull a trade permit for work. Only licensed tradesmen may pull permits for such work.
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Q: Are contractors licensed?
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A: Anne Arundel County requires all plumbing, electrical, gas and mechanical contractors, but not general contractors, to have licenses. The State requires all home improvement contractors to have a State Home Improvement License. Home Improvement contractors must present their license to you upon request and any contract must include their license number. To check the status of a Home Improvement License, you may call the State Home Improvement Commission at (410) 230-6309.
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