What to Know About Permitting for ‘Special Events’ is Topic of New Montgomery County Permitting Services Podcast Episode

For Immediate Release: Thursday, April 3, 2025

The new Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) podcast episode, “Special Events,” focuses on the permitting process for carnivals, fairs, festivals, fireworks displays, sporting events and more.

DPS Customer Support and Outreach (CSO) Division Chief Gail Lucas hosts the podcast, and she is joined by DPS Manager Chris Allen for a conversation about when a special permit is needed for public events. Their discussion covers how the permitting process works from applications to inspections, the role of zoning and why special event permits are important for safety.

If you are planning a special event, DPS Manager Chris Allen said organizers should apply for a permit at least 30 days before the event date and organizers of large events should apply 60 to 90 days in advance.

“It’s never too early to apply,” said CSO Division Chief Lucas, who noted other permits may be needed if organizers are planning to serve food, alcohol, erect tents or close any roads.

Other information highlighted in this episode includes the definition of a public event and why backyard weddings and family celebrations do not need a special event permit; the special event fee; the importance of communication and the role of other County departments; and how customers can find more information about applying for a Special Event permit on the DPS website .

The “Special Events” episode of the Permitting Services Podcast is available now on the DPS website and various podcast platforms including Amazon , Apple and Spotify . It also is posted at permittingservicespodcast.buzzsprout.com/ .

Subscribe to the podcast by tapping the “follow” sign on the podcast provider’s platform. In addition, it can be viewed on the County’s YouTube channel.

Previous DPS podcast episodes have covered topics, which include accessory dwelling units (ADUs), building safety, the Design for Life Property Tax Credit Program, eSolar, fire code compliance, GIS maps, home improvements, new codes, public right-of-way, septic systems, urban farming, use and occupancy certificates and vendor licenses.

Residents can send questions about a current or previous episode, or ideas for future podcast episodes to [email protected] .

In 2024, the Permitting Services Podcast was recognized with an achievement award from the National Association of Counties in the civic education and public information category.

The Office of Broadband Programs in the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Solutions provides technical support for the Permitting Services podcast.

DPS is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Seventh Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. An appointment is not necessary. Customers may reach DPS staff by calling MC 311 or 240-777-0311. For more information, visit the DPS website .

Release ID: 25-145
Media Contact: Sonya Burke 240-855-9813
Categories: Permits , Podcast

For updates and link to press release, see here: http://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=46822