Montgomery County is launching a new episode of its Department of Permitting Services (DPS) podcast, "New Codes." The episode covers the 2021 code adoptions that will change commercial construction standards. These changes, approved by the Montgomery County Council on December 10, 2024, will become mandatory on March 31, according to the Montgomery County release.
Hosted by Gail Lucas, DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief, the podcast features Crystal Maddox, DPS Commercial Plan Review Manager, and Bryan Bomer, DPS Sustainability, Energy, and Mechanical Manager. They discussed the background of the code changes, with Maddox noting a grace period allowing applicants to comply with either the previous codes or the new ones until March 30.
Key updates under the new codes include mandatory sprinkler systems in new public parking garages and restaurants. Bomer pointed out that new buildings over 5,000 square feet must meet 33 percent of their energy needs through renewable sources. Additionally, new buildings must be "electrification ready," meaning they will be prepared for electrical appliances, as mentioned in the same release.
DPS is offering resources like code commentary documents and virtual training sessions to help with the transition. Bomer explained, "We developed what we call the 'code commentary' document that identifies each measure that has changed or has been added, and then also provides some narrative around those changes to help inform people about the intent and purpose of those changes," in the release. For more information, DPS encourages customers to visit their website.
The New Codes podcast episode is available on platforms like Amazon, Apple, and Spotify, and is designed to help DPS customers and builders adapt to the new regulations. The podcast also covers topics such as building safety and urban farming, which helped the Permitting Services Podcast win an achievement award in 2024. Questions and suggestions for future topics can be emailed to [email protected].
