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1. What do I need in order to apply for a Land Use Permit?

For an overview of the permit application process and the materials you'll need, visit our Section on Applying for a Land Use Permit.

2. Which projects need a Land Use Permit?

A Land Use Permit (LUP) must be obtained from the Land Development Services prior to the start of any land development. This includes:

- Residential
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Institutional
- Grading
- Mining or quarrying
- Commercial timber operations
- Public, private, or commercial recreation
- Waste disposal
- Utilities
- Salvage or junk yards

All new construction greater than 100 square feet requires a permit. Generally, all new structures greater than 600 square feet are subject to the Building Permit Process, i.e. plan review, inspections and the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.

3. Why should I get a permit?

Simply, it’s the Law. But a permit is much more than a regulatory procedure, it’s a service. A processed application identifies your property for a myriad of legal purposes. Utility service accounts are based on the information provided on application. The application process is a conduit to all agents necessary for the successful accomplishment of your project. The Land Development Services (LDS) office provides a clearing house for water and sewerage services, issuance of an address, arranging for a “percolation” test, installing driveway access, and protecting your investment and your life through building code compliance. The LDS office informs about every agency or utility that needs to be involved with your project with one concise application, saving you the effort.

4. When do I apply for a Land Use Permit?

An early start will help keep your project on track! If you have a project in mind and are not sure if a permit is required, please feel free to contact the LDS office at 301-777-5951. If you are planning a project, please apply several weeks in advance.

5. Where do I apply for a Land Use Permit?

Land Use Permit Applications and plans are to be submitted to the Land Development Services office located at:

Allegany County Office Complex
701 Kelly Road, 1st Floor
Cumberland, Maryland 21502

Applications are accepted Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Applicants are encouraged to submit applications in person.

6. Can my permit application expire?

Any permit application which has not been issued within one year will be canceled unless the applicant or an approving agency notifies the Permits Division in writing that the application should remain active. For the applicant's convenience, the LDS office will contact the applicant at his/her last known address to notify the applicant.

7. When and where do I pay for my permit?

Fees for Land Use Permit Applications must be paid in full prior to Permits being issued. Fees are collected by the Allegany County Tax and Utilities Office, located on the second floor of the Allegany County Office Complex. Checks are to be made payable to the Allegany County Commissioners.

8. What is the process for creating a building lot?

If your lot was created after March 3, 1972, it is subject to the subdivision plat process. View Subdivision Regulations (PDF).