Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Anyone who lives outside of the County can have the same impact as those inside the County, minus paying the taxes that fund our essential services. Please consider volunteer, adopting, fostering, donating, or any other activity to lower our number of animals in our care to provide us with the additional resources to care for them.
911 Emergency Communications (Homeland Security)
Yes, 9-1-1 and dispatcher personnel are represented by the Police Civilian Employee Association.
Call us at 301-324-4327.
Personnel are assigned a ten or twelve hour rotating shift schedule based upon operational necessity.
The employment opportunity announcement indicates the starting salary for the position applied. The starting salary of an entry level position within the 9-1-1 Center is competitive with other 9-1-1 and dispatch personnel throughout the region.
Yes, all public safety employees must successfully complete a background investigation. The civilian background investigation process can take approximately 4 to 6 months to be completed.
Yes, PSC employees are part of the Maryland State Retirement System Plan under the "The Rule of 90 ".
Adopt-A-Road (Public Works & Transportation)
Call the Adopt-A-Road Coordinator at 301-499-8502 to receive an informational packet and application.
No fees involved, just your time.
Four clean-up activities are required each year.
It's a collaboration between the Department of Public Works and Transportation and civic or business organizations to help keep County roadways clean and free of trash.
Animal Management (Environment)
ASFAC does use euthanasia in certain circumstances. Euthanasia is the process of painlessly and humanely assisting the pet to pass away. No animal is ever euthanized inhumanely.
Anyone 14+ can volunteer to work with animals in our facility. For those younger animal advocates we can work with groups to offer activities that support our operations indirectly.
Anyone may apply to adopt an animal from our shelter. Identification reflecting your current address must be presented when filling out the application form. If you lease a house or apartment, permission to keep a pet must be verified from the landlord. The adoption staff may perform a house check before approving the application to ensure that the pet being adopted will be in a safe and caring environment. Upon approval, you are required to pay an adoption fee prior to taking ownership of your pet. For more information, please call the Animal Services Division at 301-780-7200 and select option "2."
The best place to find out about our adoption events is on our website or through our social media. Those places will have updates on where we are and what we are doing. We partner with organizations and groups as much as possible.
We appreciate the support of County residents that support us in a wide variety of ways. We have many multiple volunteer activities and opportunities here at the facility. We always need more assistance, especially with walking the nearly 300 rolling animals in our care. If you don’t have time please consider making a donation. Those funds are used directly to assist in the overall care of the animals within the facility.
Please visit our Foster web page here , to find information on our Foster process. We vet all of our fosters to make sure we are placing animals into good temporary homes.
Volunteers are a huge part of our operations and assist in a wide variety of ways here at the facility, including core functions like cleaning, feeding, and walking. If you would like to become a volunteer please go online here.
Volunteers are a huge part of our operations and assist in a wide variety of ways here at the facility, including core functions like cleaning, feeding, and walking. If you would like to become a volunteer please go online here.
Get any animals you have spayed or neutered. Spaying or neutering your animal is the best way to keep our County’s animal population down. On top of this adopt don’t shop. There are a lot of pets, big and small, young and old in our facility who need furever homes. These animals are as ready to be a good pet as any you would get from a breeder. Our adoption and facility staff will help you find the right match.
You can obtain a pet license from:
- Prince George’s County Animal Management Division (3750 Brown Station Road, Upper Marlboro)
- College Park Animal Control Facility (4500 Knox Road, College Park)
- Bowie Animal Control Facility (15901 Excalibur Road, Bowie)
When submitting a license application for Prince George’s County, the following must be include:
- Copy of the spay/neuter certificate (if applicable),
- Check or money order payable to Prince George’s County in the amount of $10 for altered animals or $25 for unaltered animals.
License renewals can be mailed or purchased online here.
For additional licensing information contact 301-780-7200 and select option "3".
To schedule a presentation, please call the Community Outreach Coordinator at 301-780-7200 and select option “6.”
Animals who have lower immune responses, such as young, old, or sick animals are most at risk for becoming sick.
Puppies, small dogs, and kittens are mostly short stay animals. All other animals move a little slower within the facility, especially our senior and bigger dogs. Adoptions are also dependent upon the time of year. Before Easter the rabbits move quickly and after Easter we see an influx. Check online or come in and see what animals have been with us the longest and see how they match your life to foster or adopt.
A lot has changed in the last few years in animal management across the United States. During COVID there was a spike in adoptions because many people were home. That trend continued for a couple of years, but as people returned to work their ability to care for their animals was impacted and shelter numbers started to rise. Returning to physical work and lost years of spay/neuter activities are the main cause of the current spike in animals. These factors in addition to a rise in informal “backyard” breeding has led to a situation where nearly all public shelters are over capacity.
Get any animals you have spayed or neutered. Spaying or neutering your animal is the best way to keep our County’s animal population down. In addition to this, “adopt don’t shop.” There are a lot of pets, big and small, young and old in our facility who need forever homes. These animals are as ready to be a good pet as any you would get from a breeder. Our adoption and facility staff will help you find the right match.
Get active in our animal community one way or another. Become a volunteer who takes a dog on doggy day out. Become a Foster who promotes the animal to all of your friends. Become a promoter of our available animals and let your friends, family, and neighbors know to come here and adopt from us.
Any donation of new items for animals, new towels or bedding, or funds are greatly appreciated. The best thing to donate is funds because we can allocate them to the best service of the animals in our care at that specific time, but all donated items are appreciated.
We do not offer this service unless your animal is taken into our care by some means. In those circumstances it is the cost set by one of our spay and neuter partners. The PGSPCA or Spay Spot, which operates out of our facility, offers low-cost spay and neuter fees and microchipping. We do periodically run events with our partners to offer these services at low or no-cost.
Adopting is taking ownership of the dog. The dog becomes the property and responsibility of the person who adopts. Fostering is an extension of the care of the ASFAC facility. We have a limited amount of space, but with the help of our fosters we can expand exponentially. The dog is still the property of the County and the foster is helping us find the forever home for that animal.
The ASFAC has dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea Pigs as well as a variety of other animals like reptiles, fish, goats, sheep, birds, chicken, pigs, and horses. What many people don’t realize about Prince George’s County is we have urban and rural areas so our animal selection here at the facility reflects that.
You can adopt or foster any animal that is in our care, we run the gamut.
ASFAC offers a wide variety of services depending on if the animal comes into our care or not. Any animal that comes into our care receives all relevant vaccinations, such as rabies, licensing, microchipping, and spay/neuter as appropriate. All of these costs are at significant reduction to what is seen in the private sector. We also offer free or low-cost services such as spay/neuter, licensing, microchipping, and vaccinations either regularly or through larger events. We also offer adoption pricing for veterans.
For information on low-cost spay/neuter services, please contact the Spay Spot Spay/Neuter Clinic located within the Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center at 301-254-8151.
To report a missing, vicious or injured animal, please call the Animal Services Division at 301-780-7200. Be prepared to provide additional information as appropriate, such as type of animal, last known location and condition of the animal.
There is a common misnomer that “No Kill” shelters are where no animal is euthanized. To be a “No Kill” shelter the shelter should reach a 90% save rate. In the second quarter of 2024 the shelter had an 80% save rate for dogs and a 75% save rate for cats. These are improvements of 20% and 5% respectively quarter over quarter, a significant improvement due to staff involvement. However, unfortunately, euthanasia's do occur at the facility due to a variety of reasons.
ASFAC is an open admission facility and takes in animals from across the County in a variety of manners. We accept strays, owner surrenders, owner euthanasia requests, humane holds, and impoundments. We accept these animals and serve them to the best of our abilities. As with most other public shelter facilities across the US, there are more animals coming in than going out.
All of our clinics offer services to our community at low or no-cost. We look to highlight how to reach each of our distinct communities of animal advocates within the County throughout the year as much as we can.
Animal Management Lost & Found (Environment)
Please visit www.princegeorgespets4us or go directly to https://24petconnect.com/PGEOADOPT. Once there, you can search by zip code 20772, and then filter to our specific facility. We update our available animals regularly so if you don’t see what you want today, please check back or schedule a visit.
Automated Speed Enforcement Program (Police)
Yes. You may request to appear in District Court by returning the completed form at the bottom of your violation at least five days prior to the DUE DATE shown on your violation. If you appear in Court, the maximum amount you can be charged is a $40 fine and court costs. You will be notified by mail of the court date. If you do not receive a notice within 30 days, call Prince George's County at 866-979-4824.
The District Court will make any reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. Requests should be directed to the appropriate agency prior to visiting the facility. Prince George's County 866-979-4824. District Court 301-699-2766
On receipt of a written question or concern from a person, the ombudsman shall provide a written answer or response within a reasonable time.
No. This citation is not considered a "moving violation". It is a civil citation holding the registered owner or lessee responsible for the violation (similar to a parking ticket). NO points cab be assessed for this violation and it will not raise your insurance rates!
If you fail to pay the citation and any late fees in full by the due date, your vehicle registration may be flagged and subject to refusal or suspension. If your registration is flagged, you may owe additional flagging fees to Prince George's County and/or to the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles. (The MVA will assess a MVA flag fee for each flag imposed. This fee must be paid to the MVA and is in addition to the fine and fees due to Prince George’s County).
You may call Prince George's County at 866-979-4824.
An ombudsman is a government official who hears and investigates complaints by private citizens.
The ombudsman can review concerns or questions regarding the County's speed camera program, a speed camera citation, picture quality of the citation, stolen tags/vehicles, transfer of liability, and any other possible concerns on the speed camera citation.
A vehicle registered or leased to you, was photographed by an automatic camera connected to a speed monitoring system. Vehicles exceeding the posted maximum speed limit are detected automatically and two photographs are taken. On each photograph are the date, time, location, and speed of the vehicle when the violation occurred.
Bag It Right
To avoid a fee, shoppers are encouraged to bring their reusable bags while shopping. Some stores may provide cardboard boxes that shoppers may use to package their items, or a person may bring their own box. Cardboard can be used multiple times and should be flattened before recycling in our curbside collections.
"Reusable Carryout Bag" means a bag with stitched handles specifically designed and manufactured for multiple reuses and is either:
- Made of cloth or other washable fabric; or
- Made of a durable material suitable for multiple re-use that is not made of plastic film.
The charge for retailer-provided paper and reusable bags incentivizes customers to bring their own and reduces the demand for single-use items. The retailer retains the fee in full to help offset the costs associated with the purchase and the option of providing paper bags and reusable bags. Each bag purchased from the retailer will be itemized on the customer’s receipt, just as all other merchandise purchased.
Benefits (Human Resources Management)
Under Federal law, the County is required to extend to you continuation of benefits under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) for up to 18 months for employees who terminate employment from the County. Employees that become disabled while on COBRA may continue the coverage for an additional 11 months. This will provide an employee with a total of 29 months of COBRA coverage. Employees who are separated from the County due to gross misconduct are not eligible for COBRA.
You may only change your health plan during the annual open enrollment period or if you experience a family status change (i.e., marriage, birth/adoption, divorce/legal separation, change in residence/work site). Please note that changes to your health benefit plans as a result of a family status change must occur within 30 days of the event and you must complete an Enrollment/Change form and provide supporting documentation within the 30-day time frame.
Yes, the County offers basic life insurance, at no cost to the employees, equal to two times your base pay. Life insurance maximums are set by the employee’s salary schedule or collective bargaining agreement. As an example, if your base pay is $36,427, your life insurance payable amount is $73,000. Employees also have the option to buy additional life insurance of up to 4 times their annual salary.
The County provides a specified percentage subsidy towards the medical, prescription and vision health benefit plans. The remaining amount is deducted biweekly on a pre-tax basis from the employees’ paycheck. The County has 26 pay periods over a calendar year. The employee pays the total premium for the extra life insurance, long-term disability and voluntary benefit plans, if they elect to enroll. The County deducts the premiums for the extra life insurance and long-term disability plans from the first payroll of each month on an after-tax basis and the voluntary benefits also are after-tax deductions each payroll.
Employees separating from employment with the County will receive written notification regarding their COBRA benefits. You must sign and return your election form within 60 days of your termination of benefits or the date of the letter, whichever is later. You have 45-days from the date you elect COBRA coverage to send in the payment for your benefits. Once the above information is received, your coverage will be the first of the month following termination of benefits. You may send payments for your benefits to:
Benefits Administration Division
1400 McCormick Drive
Suite 245
Largo, Maryland 20774
Please contact the Division for acceptable payment methods.
No, enrollment is optional; however, you may choose only one of the medical plans (i.e. HMO or PPO) in addition to the vision, prescription, dental and group legal insurance plans. You can only enroll in the Short-term disability critical illness, accident insurance and permanent whole life insurance plans during open enrollment.
You must enroll in coverage during the first 30 calendar days of your employment. Coverage begins on the first day of month following a 30-day waiting period from your hire date. Coverage will terminate the last day of the month of your separation from the County Government. The Long-Term Disability plan and Flexible Spending Accounts terminate the date your employment ends.
The County offers, at no cost to the employee, an accidental death benefit of $10,000 ($50,000 for police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, emergency response technicians, deputy sheriffs, and correctional officers; $15,000 for deputy sheriff civilians) which is payable upon the death or personal loss of an employee caused by an accident on or off the job.
The County offers two Health Maintenance Organizations and one Preferred Provider Organization Plan. Currently, the HMO providers are Kaiser Permanente and CIGNA Healthcare. The PPO Plan is administered by CIGNA Healthcare. Other health benefit plans offered include Vision, Prescription, Dental, Flexible Spending Accounts, Extra Life insurance, Long-Term Disability, and voluntary benefits to include Short-Term Disability, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, Permanent Whole life insurance, and Group Legal insurance plan. Learn more on our Benefits Page
You will be responsible for 100% of the monthly premium plus 2% for administrative fees.
The cost varies depending upon the level of coverage the employee elects. For more information concerning the health benefit costs, refer to the current year Open Enrollment Guide or contact the Benefits Administration Division on 301-883-6380.
Blue Line Corridor & TOD Guidance (County Executive)
“Yes. Based on the involvement of the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA), a prevailing
wage chart for the project will eventually be generated.
(https://mdstad.com/projects/prince-georges-county-blue-line-corridor-sports-and-entertainment-facilities-feasibility).”
The Prevailing Wage law applies to any public work project including school construction where the contract value is $250,000 or greater and (1) the State or an instrumentality of the State is the contracting body and there is any State funding for the project; (2) a political subdivision is the contracting body and 25% or more of the money used for the construction is State money; or (3) a political subdivision is the contracting body for the construction of an elementary or secondary school and 25% or more of the money used is State money. (https://www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/prev/prevwagefaqs.shtml#1)
This project will be governed by the State’s prevailing wage requirements and duly negotiated labor agreements.
Clear and specific guidelines for sustainability exist in the appropriation of these public funds. Broadly, the Administration maintains that transit-oriented development is the County’s best strategy available in growing. Dense development allows for conservation in other parts of the county that protect watershed and basins and priority forests through credits that these projects could create. Density protects the environment and invests in proper and modern stormwater infrastructure in critical parts of the county.
Growing opportunity for the employment of the formerly incarcerated remains a strong priority of the Alsobrooks Administration. This part of the program remains under development. Early recommendations coming back are looking at the County’s past successes in integrating the formerly incarcerated, and those successes and best practices from around the nation. We plan to involve existing local organizations and other best performers in that space to implement quality programming in the community. There isn’t any mandate, but this is how we work together to make sure an opportunity exists.
We can point to Cheverly as an example of where we’re taking some extra efforts to ensure that minority businesses are engaged. Our hope is to continue those efforts on the Blue Line Corridor and other projects in the County. When we set the Economic Development platform for the County— the engagement of minority businesses was a key goal for us.
Yes—we want to bring new facilities and new amenities, but we specifically seek to accomplish this while keeping equity at the center of development
Yes. As this project is being built with public resources, we must follow the State and County’s Small Business requirements. There are going to be multiple opportunities available for small businesses. There will be opportunities for design, contracting, operations, and concessions. Some of the facilities are going to require parking garages.
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program (Health)
Breastfeeding Peer Counselors help pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers on the WIC program. They are trained in answering common breastfeeding questions and often share their own personal breastfeeding experience expecting and new mothers.
A Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a mother who has exclusively breastfed her child or children and has a passion in helping other mothers to reach their breastfeeding goal. Peer Counselors nurture and support mothers who want to breastfeeding and those with breastfeeding difficulties. They listen to the mother’s concerns and offer evidence based solutions. Counselors also refer mothers who need more help to the Lactation Consultant, and other health, nutrition and social programs.
Peer counselors are mothers who have personal experience with breastfeeding and are trained to provide basic breastfeeding information and support to other mothers with whom they share similar characteristics, such as language, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Peer counselors reinforce, promote and support breastfeeding recommendations in a socially and culturally acceptable manner.
Business Development Section (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
You will need a permit if you plan to make any structural changes to the building or intend to change the use of the building. In order to occupy the business location, you will need to file for a U&O.
Once your plans have been screened and accepted, you will get an invitation to upload your documents. Your plans are then distributed for review to different disciplines depending on your case type. During the review period, the applicant may log into ePlan to review the status of the permit. This ePlan training video explains the most helpful tools in the ePlan application system.
The permit fee schedule is listed on the DPIE website at the following link. It includes information regarding exempt fees and fees by building type, project and trade.
There are two ways to schedule an inspection: online at the following link or by calling the County's Interactive Voice Response system (IVR) at 301-755-9000.
A job card is a document that is a part of the U&O application process. It allows you to call for an inspection. A permit is the actual document that states the work you are performing is allowed per the regulatory requirements. You should not start work until an actual permit is issued.
A U&O indicates the business identified meets local zoning and safety requirements and may legally operate at that location. A building permit is the authorization that allows construction to occur.
DPIE’s Peer Review Program, a third-party plan review program, allows owners and applicants to select DPIE certified peer reviewers at their own cost to expedite the plan review process, instead of County staff. Using peer reviewers can reduce the plan review and approval time by up to 50 percent. Peer reviewers may be retained for various types of building and site development projects. See the Third-Party Plan Review Program Manual for Buildings for additional information.
Prince George’s County mandates a Third-Party Plan Review Program for the review and approval of building plans and documents through DPIE. The program requires owners and applicants to select a DPIE authorized Third-Party Plan Review Agency (TPPRA) at their own expense to review and approve drawings of building projects in lieu of County staff. Third-party inspection may expedite your plan review and approval by up to 75 percent.
The typical review time is 4-6 weeks. Any subsequent reviews will take 2-3 weeks.
Zoning is the municipal/local laws or regulations that dictate how property can and cannot be used. Zoning is reviewed as part of the permitting process to ensure the applicant may use the property as intended.
Business Recycling Plan and Report (Environment)
No. If your business does not provide trash containers for customer use, you are not required to provide recycling containers.
No. Commingled or Single Stream Recycling is allowed if it’s not contaminated with non-recyclable waste. You may want to designate a staff person as Recycling Coordinator for your office, business or complex, to monitor collection sites and ensure compliance.
No. Containers and collection services are only provided to residents within the County’s Solid Waste Program.
No. The County offers a number of suggestions and models available electronically on our website. Visit our waste and recycling toolkit here.
An Inspector from Prince George’s County Resource Recovery Division may visit your facility to conduct a compliance investigation. A lack of signage or lack of any required recycling containers, failure to submit the required recycling plan or annual report, or other violations may result in a non-compliance citation. Local municipal enforcement officials may also visit businesses or properties within their jurisdiction to ensure compliance.
The cost for recycling collection is contingent upon the volume of recycled materials, frequency of pickup, # of containers, location and other factors. Contact your current Trash Hauler to speak with them regarding establishing a recycling collection program at your location.
You may contact the Resource Recovery Division, Recycling Section at recyclingplan@co.pg.md.us to request an appointment to assist you in setting up your program if necessary.
Alternatively, you can click here to see “10 Tips to Setting up a Successful Recycling Program.”
If you need further assistance figuring out your requirements or setting up a recycling program, email recyclingplan@co.pg.md.us to send a request for assistance to our office.
You may contact the Resource Recovery Division, Recycling Section, recyclingplan@co.pg.md.us to request an appointment to assist you in setting up your program if necessary.
Exterior recycling containers, for designated recyclable materials, are the responsibility of the Property Owner. Any enforcement issues concerning the exterior would be addressed to the Property Owner.
See Section 21-143.(a)(11) of the Municipal Code for Prince George’s County at https://library.municode.com/md/prince_george’s_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIITI17PULOLAPRGECOMA_SUBTITLE_21RE_DIV4SOWARE_SD1COPR_S21-143DE
Under Section 21-152 – Penalties: Any person or entity who violates Section 21-149 or Section 21-149.01 of this Code is deemed to have committed a civil violation and shall pay to the County a civil monetary fine… Each separate day of violation that remains uncorrected is a distinct civil violation subject to an additional citation and fine. Fines can range from $100.00 up to $1000.00 daily.
Business entities dispose of the designated Recyclable Materials into the containers provided by the Property Owner. It would be duplicative to have them submit an Annual Report since the Property Owner provides that information.
Check Wait List Status (Housing Authority)
Families must immediately report changes in:
•Contact Information
•Mailing Address
•Telephone Number
These changes must be submitted in writing; mail your changes to:
Housing Authority of Prince George's County
9200 Basil Court
Intake Unit
Largo MD, 20774
Child, Adult, and Family Services Division (Social Services)
More information is available on the Foster Care and Adoption program page.
Child Protective Service reports, please call 301-909-2450 during normal business hours. Call 301-699-8605 to make a report after hours.
Adult Protective Service reports can be made at 301-909-2228 during normal business hours.
State of Maryland law prohibits the Department of Social Services from discussing an active case. To maintain not only the integrity of the case, but the confidentiality of our client, once we receive your report our offices will follow-up and address the concern.
More information is available on the Child, Adult and Family Services page.
Citizen Complaint Process (County Executive)
You can complete an official Complaint Against Police Practices Form #1072 or prepare a written account of your complaint and submit it to the Citizen Complaint Oversight Panel or any County Police Station by mail, in person, or via email. For more information, visit the Citizen Complaint Oversight Panel page.
All reports should be filed as soon as possible. However, complaints for excessive force can only be accepted for investigation within 90 days after the incident.
If you believe that any member of the Prince George's County Police Department has engaged in the mistreatment of any citizen, including yourself, you may file a report.
Clear the Curb (Environment)
NO, white goods/large appliances or scrap tires will still need to be scheduled for curbside bulky trash collection by calling PGC311 or online www.pgc311.com. A list of white goods/large appliances items and acceptable vs. non-acceptable bulky trash items can be found here.
Yes, the County provides a Curbside Organics Composting Program that will expand countywide starting in April 2022. The Curbside Organics Composting Program allows residents to mix their food scraps with yard trim for the weekly Monday yard trim curbside collection. Food scraps must be placed inside the Organics cart. Only residents who opted in and received the appropriate program materials may put food scraps curbside for collection. Plastic bags are not accepted. For additional information about food scraps composting, visit mypgc.us/compost.
Residents residing in a townhome community must place their one (1) or two (2) standard bulky items or bags at the curb in front of their townhome (or their assigned parking space) for pickup. The hauler will not collect items in a common area or grounds.
To report a missed bulky collection, please contact PGC311: online at mypgc.us/pgc311 or by dialing 3-1-1 (if in the County) or 301-883-4748 (if out of the County).
You can only set out two (2) standard bulky items NEXT to the trash cart each week on your regularly scheduled collection day until all items are serviced. All bulky items MUST BE NEXT TO THE TRASH CART for collection.
The list of acceptable materials includes:
- Carpet and padding (Limit of carpet and padding is 324 sq. ft. - rolled and tied on ends)
- Doors and cabinets
- Furniture: such as sofas, coffee tables, bed head/footboards, dressers, tables, chairs, etc.
- Mattresses and box springs (must be covered in protective plastic encasement)
- Hot water heaters and push lawn mowers (Remove the gas tank and drain the oil from lawnmowers)
- No more than two (2) large bags of smaller household items such as knick-knacks, home décor, small kitchen appliances (i.e., toaster ovens, toasters, blenders, air fryers, crock pots) can be set out instead of two regular bulky items. The two (2) large bags count as the two (2) maximum bulky items that can be set out on trash collection day
Residents may still bring any large bulky items directly to the Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill for proper disposal. Residents driving a passenger vehicle or SUV will not be charged. Residents driving a pickup truck will incur a nominal fee of $10. Small bulky items that fit in a trash bag may be disposed of at the Convenience Drop-off Centers located on Missouri Avenue and Brown Station Road. Please consider donating your usable items in good condition to a charitable organization before placing them at the curb. To view a list of organizations that accept large bulky items and other reuse alternatives, view our Reuse/Recycling Alternatives.
Clear the Curb waste collections includes all services offered to residents receiving County-contracted collection services or who pay a fee for bulky trash removal. These services include regular trash, recycling, organics, yard trim, and the new, improved bulky trash collection program. Residents who only pay for bulky trash removal will still need to schedule collections through PGC311: online at mypgc.us/pgc311 or by dialing 3-1-1 (if in the County) or 301-883-4748 (if out of the County).
Your trash hauler will only remove/collect two (2) standard bulky items from the curb per your weekly trash collection. Any additional items placed curbside will not be collected. If other items placed at the curb are not collected, you will be expected to bring the items back into your home until the following week’s trash collection day.
Allowing residents to set out two items per week with their regular trash will allow residents to dispose of unwanted items in a timelier manner, which cuts down on wait time, the temptation to illegally dump, and the backlog in a critical service.
Commercial Building Permit (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Yes.
There are plans filing fees and final permit fees required.
Plans are reviewed in-house unless you select a Third Party Plan Reviewer. Visit DPIE’s website for information on the Third Party Plan Review Program.
The sprinkler/fire alarm drawings are submitted in a separate building permit application for approval of sprinklers/alarms.
Yes. Structural calculations are part of the application submittal package if any structural work is involved.
WSSC approval is required before issuance of the permit. Contact WSSC by email at Plumbingplansreview@wsscwater.com or by phone at 301-206-8886.
Fees may be paid on the ePayments online link. For alternate forms of payment, visit DPIE’s “Payments” page for more information. https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/4181/Payments
Yes, they may be submitted in parallel. The construction and zoning plans will be reviewed through ePlan simultaneously.
Yes, but the building permit for the building shell must be issued first.
No, the building permit has to be issued first. For more information and requirements, visit DPIE’s website page on Third Party Review Program for Fire & Life Safety.
Please contact WSSC by email at Plumbingplansreview@wsscwater.com or by phone at 301-206-8886 regarding their process.
Once the application has DPIE / Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) review approvals, the permit can be issued; then trade permits (electrical/mechanical) can be obtained online by the licensed trade contractors. Any plumbing / gas plans review / permits must be obtained from WSSC. Contact WSSC by email at Plumbingplansreview@wsscwater.com or by phone at 301-206-8886.
No, a separate submittal is not required. It is part of the building permit review; however, separate building permits will be issued for sprinklers/alarms.
No, it is part of the Tenant Fit-Out application review by Health.
The Building Permit with U&O is valid for 6 months. If an extension is needed, submit a permit renewal request to Clarence Moseley, Permit Center Manager, at cemoseley@co.pg.md.us.
Use the Permit Renewal Request Form.
Just information regarding existing/proposed fire protection systems should be included on the building permit drawing. A separate building permit needs to be obtained as per question #2.
No, include information on the Building Permit with Use & Occupancy (U&O) (CU) submission.
No; unless it is 12 feet or more, then yes.
Yes. Visit the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) website to fill out an Online Information Request Form and email it to PPD-InfoCounter@ppd.mncppc.org.
If this is a new building, then an asbestos survey may not be applicable.
The applicant or owner can be the authorized agent.
A copy of the signed lease agreement between tenant/owner or letter of authorization from owner is required. View DPIE’s Use & Occupancy Requirements website page for more information.
Yes. The application will be categorized as a Commercial with Use (CU) Tenant Fit-Out Application. Once the building permit is issued and Inspections finalizes and approves, the Certificate of Occupancy will be issued. Click to start your Permit Application.
The Sprinkler/Fire Alarm Building Permit application should be submitted to DPIE.
Additional requirements may be requested once the plans are submitted and reviewed. If there is any plumbing work, contact WSSC by email at Plumbingplansreview@wsscwater.com or by phone at 301-206-8886. Contact Planning for zoning questions online at Zoning Verification and Uses to submit an Online Request Form by email to PPD-InfoCounter@ppd.mncppc.org.
DPIE Site/Road Review may be applicable. You are required to have Third Party Inspections. More information may be found in the TPIP Manual.
No; however, a permit cannot be issued until a contractor is identified.
The 1st cycle review is approximately 4-6 weeks, or you may use Third Party Plan Review if you want an expedited process: Third-Party Plan Review Program (TPPRP).
The estimated time-frame for processing and issuing sprinkler/fire alarm building permits is approximately 5 business days.
Please contact WSSC by email at Plumbingplansreview@wsscwater.com or by phone at 301-206-8886 regarding their review and issuance time-frames.
Please see the DPIE Fee Schedule.
If so, which departments? Yes, the application process with route the application to Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Site/Road Plan Review, and Health.
Community Development Block Grant (Housing & Community Development)
An agency might be awarded a portion of the amount requested. The grant amount depends on the reasonableness of the request and the track record of the requesting agency and the amount of funds the County has available. The amount of work to be accomplished must be renegotiated if the agency is awarded less than the total requested.
Start-up operating funds for a new public service project are almost never approved. A short, start-up period for a proposed one-year "brick and mortar” project can be included.
The County funds housing development activities through the Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME) administered by this Department's Housing Development division. A HOME proposal package can be obtained by calling 301-883-5570.
An agency uses its own resources to pay project expenses, submits its request to Department Housing and Community Development for reimbursement along with proof of the expenses paid. The County processes the request and then mails a check to the agency.
No. Eligibility depends on the income of people who reside in the area. No eligible area is excluded from consideration. Eligibility determinations are based on 2000 census data provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Yes. Agencies are asked to plan the project so that the grant will be spent during the one-year period.
Yes.
Yes, although there have been a few exceptions in the past. In all cases, the agency must provide service to low and moderate-income Prince George's County residents.
Most applicants are government agencies and public entities, like municipalities. The nonprofit applicant must have 501(c)(3) status confirmed by the time funding decisions are made.
No. The Consolidated Plan presents a five-year strategy and a one-year Action Plan. Proposals are for one-year periods beginning July 1st.
There are two kinds of slums or blight: (1) spot, and (2) area wide. The slums/blight determination must be based on any of the conditions described in State/County regulation. One basis used in the County is that the condition causing the area wide deterioration results from a defect in the design of the community. In these cases, the defect was the failure to provide adequate storm water management systems.
Proposals are compiled and summarized by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), Community Planning and Development division. The summarized information is submitted to the County Executive who recommends funding approvals to the County Council for review. Proposals selected for funding are written into the Annual Action Plan for the coming year.
Projects involving rehabilitation and improvement of public facilities and infrastructure have a good chance of being funded because more money is available for them. Of course, the proposal has to describe a project with a high likelihood of success, well thought through, realistic, achievable, etc.
A new public service has a poor chance of being funded. Only 15% of the County's CDBG funds can go to public services. For a new project to be funded, an existing project has to give up funding. This is not likely to happen.
Large projects should be broken down into year-by-year phases. Community Development Block Grant funds are limited, and there are many needs throughout the County that must be addressed.
Community Partnership Grants (County Executive)
No. This is new for FY2025. We no longer accept fiscal sponsorship.
No. Only completed applications will be accepted.
No. The Executive Branch’s discretionary grant process (CPG) differs from the Legislative Branch application process with each branch of government having its own application and documentation requirements. Applicants seeking funding from the County Council (Legislative Branch) in the form of a Special Appropriation Grant (SAG) or a Non-Departmental Designated grant, should refer to the Prince George’s County Council website https://pgccouncil.us/320/Grants or email the Prince George’s County Council Grant Team at PGCcouncilgrants@co.pg.md.us.
Yes. Please note the following change: The Community Partnership Grant no longer accepts fiscal sponsorship.
No. Only one request per proposal and only one proposal per organization should be submitted.
No. Changes have been made to the overall grant application from previous years. Additionally, incorrect applications are determined to be non-responsive and will not be reviewed. You can access this year application by visiting Community Partnership Grants.
Yes, please include an address even if your main offices are located outside of Prince George’s County. Please detail if your services are in several locations around Prince George’s County, if students come to you, if you travel, or if your services are virtual, etc.
Yes. The organizational budget should include all revenues and expenses for your organization. The program/project budget should include only the Annual Budget (Expense) column.
The Community Partnership Grant (CPG) program is the main discretionary grant initiative offered by the Office of the County Executive. However, the Office of the County Executive may partner with the Greater Washington Community Foundation (formerly known as the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region) to provide additional grant funding opportunities. Additionally, County Health and Human Service agencies may offer limited grant opportunities from time to time.
Non-profit organizations interested in applying for a Community Partnership Grant should review the program guidelines and must complete an online application.
If your organization received a grant or contract from the County in the last four years, you should already have an SAP vendor number. It is a ten-digit number that begins with a “1xxxxxxxxx” or “3xxxxxxxxx”.
You must provide proof you have a SAP vendor number in the submitted application package. If you need to confirm your vendor number, send an email to PGCNonprofits@co.pg.md.us with the subject line: Verification of Vendor Number – Name of your Organization.
If you do not have a SAP vendor number, please complete and submit the Vendor Set-Up Request Form. This form is required for organizations who have never received a grant or contract from Prince George’s County.
No. The application release may vary each year, however, the application is generally released within the second quarter of the County’s fiscal year, which begins July 1st.
No, there is no limit. However, grant awards are for one-year only. An organization may reapply each year with the understanding that funding is not guaranteed.
Yes. The deadline is 5:00 p.m. Friday, November 8, 2024. No applications or supporting documentation will be accepted after the deadline.
Yes, there is a limit. We will accept one proposal per organization per fiscal year. An organization with multiple programs may only submit a grant application for one of their programs. In the event an organization submits more than one proposal, we reserve the right to select the application with the earliest date and time stamp.
No. Organizations that currently or seek to provide programming in or collaborate with Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), must provide a copy of a currently executed Memorandum of Understanding at the time of application. This will serve as acceptable documentation that the program has been reviewed and approved by the Chief Executive Officer of PGCPS. For more information, please contact the PGCPS Office of Business and Community Partnerships, or you may call 301-952-6095 for more information.
The Office of the County Executive has made approximately $1.25 million in funding available to eligible non-profits through the FY 2025 CPG Program. Maximum award amounts will not exceed $100,000.
General questions concerning the grant application and required submission documents should be sent in writing to PGCNonprofits@co.pg.md.us
NOTE: We are committed to maintaining the integrity of a fair, open and transparent process. Please do not contact any county employee to discuss (or influence) your application. All questions must be sent in writing to PGCNonprofits@co.pg.md.us and we will respond in writing as well as post the responses to our website.
Any organization, institution or association that is incorporated as a private, non-profit organization designated under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, that provides services or activities in Prince George’s County and that can supply sufficient documentation that their organization is currently in “good standing” from the State where the organization was incorporated (i.e., the State of Maryland, District of Columbia or the Commonwealth of Virginia), is eligible to apply.
Community Partnership Grants: Award (County Executive)
All applicants selected to receive grant funding will be notified via email once we have received final award decisions from the Office of the County Executive. .
The County strongly encourages the use of electronic deposits via the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. Instructions and an authorization form for Electronic Funds Transfer are provided on the County’s website. Please allow at minimum, 30 days from the time of award notification.
This is a decision your organization will have to make. We recognize that this poses a challenge for the impacted organization and will do our best to refrain from this practice, however, the decision to make full or partial awards is at the discretion of the Executive Review Panel.
Previous CPG awards have ranged from $1,000 to $125,000, however, anticipated awards issued in this funding cycle will not exceed $100,000.
The total amount of your award will be disbursed in one payment.
Funding will depend on several factors. Many aspects of your proposal are taken into consideration, including your organization's mission and goals, statement of need/problem, project description and sustainability relative to the amount requested, evidence of partnerships and collaboration and how your dollars are invested within the communities you serve.
Community Partnership Grants: Process (County Executive)
Once the Office of Management and Budget receives your application and required supporting documentation, an eligibility verification review is completed. There are two statuses: complete or incomplete. Only “complete” proposals will be forwarded to the Executive Review Panel for review and funding consideration. The Office of Management and Budget will send notification via email to all applications that are deemed incomplete.
Yes. Only organizations determined to have provided appropriate and accurate proof of eligibility documentation receive this notification. Your proposal will be forwarded to the Office of the County Executive and the members of the Executive Review Panel for full consideration.
The Executive Review Panel will convene to review and evaluate proposal submissions. Consideration for award recommendations and final decisions may include, but are not limited to, support of underserved populations, geographic diversity, the Administration’s strategic priorities and past performance. Awards are subject to funding availability.
Organizations that wish to receive feedback on their proposal may email the Grants Manager at PGNonprofits@co.pg.md.us
NOTE: We are committed to maintaining the integrity of a fair, open and transparent process. Please do not contact any county employee to discuss (or influence) your application. All questions must be sent in writing to PGNonprofits@co.pg.md.usand we will respond in writing as well as post the responses to our website.
Due to the large volume of requests we receive and limited financial resources, we do not offer an appeal process. We encourage all applicants to thoroughly review our application, eligibility guidelines and related funding priorities.
Community Partnership Grants: Proof of Eligibility / Documentation (County Executive)
No. Our application criteria indicate that you must provide a copy of your IRS Tax Determination Letter at the time of application. Please apply during next year’s application period.
No. We require current year documentation. The date on the certificate must be within six months of the application deadline and visible on the document
No, it is not. Under the Maryland Solicitations Act, a charitable organization soliciting in Maryland generally must file documents with the Office of the Secretary of State. Registration is required prior to the commencement of solicitations. The type of registration required depends upon the level of charitable contributions received by a charitable organization. For more information regarding “Registering a Charity”, please visit the website below.
Your Certificate of Status, also known as your “Certificate of Good Standing”, should be obtained from the jurisdiction where your organization was incorporated. If your organization was formed in the District of Columbia, you should provide a “Certificate of Clean Hands” from the District of Columbia’s Office of Tax and Revenue, not the State of Maryland.
To be in “Good Standing” with your State means that all documents and fees required by law to be submitted to the appropriate State department have been received, and that no other government agency has notified the department/office that your entity is delinquent in tax payments. Each state issues its own version of a “Certificate of Status” or “Good Standing”.
Most of our non-profit applicants are based in Maryland. The Internet Certificate document looks like the image below and can be printed from your computer. This is acceptable proof of your organization’s “Good Standing” with the State of Maryland. For this application, please submit the document as illustrated below
The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation issues a certificate verifying that a business entity is in “good standing”. For more information, please see Certificate of Status on the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) website. Similarly, the District of Columbia, Office of Tax and Revenue also issues a Certificate of Clean Hands formerly known as a Certificate of Good Standing. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the State Corporation Commission (SSC) Office of the Clerk issues a Certificate of Good Standing.
- State of Maryland: Select “Online Services,” then select “Certificate of Status”
- District of Columbia: Select “Business Tax,” then select “Certificate of Clean Hands”
- Commonwealth of Virginia: Select: SCC eFile
Community Partnership Grants: Reporting (County Executive)
Yes. All current and past grant recipients are required to submit a final financial expenditure report, as well as a final programmatic summary report detailing the outcomes achieved as a result of receiving grant funds.
Click link to the Community Partnership Grant Final Report Template here.
Yes. As a condition of application and award, grant recipients may be required to submit to periodic site visits and audit reviews by County staff as requested. However, advance notice will be provided.
Community Services Division (Social Services)
Learn about alternatives on the Energy Assistance page.
The Prince George’s County Department of Social Services accepts donations of new clothing, shoes and toys all-year-round. We collect donations of food baskets during our annual Holiday Sharing Campaign, which runs from October-December. To donate an item to the Department of Social Services, please contact the Office of Volunteer Services at 301-909-6330.
When you contact the agencies or organizations who administer the program, an application will be sent to you. If you prefer, you may pick up an application at any Department of Social Services branch office or apply on-line via SAIL. Learn more on the Energy Assistance page.
You are able to receive assistance once within a calendar year (July 1 to June 30). The Energy Assistance Programs provide a one-time only grant which will be based on your household income and energy usage.
You may contact our Emergency Assistance Program to see if you qualify for assistance. You may also access MD Hope for more information about foreclosure assistance. Learn more on the Emergency Assistance page.
Please visit our Housing and Homeless Services page.
Energy Assistance Staff will process your application and make sure all required information has been submitted. Please note that it can take up to 30 days to process an application. Learn more on the Energy Assistance page.
Learn about eligibility requirements on the Energy Assistance page.
Contract Administration & Procurement (Central Services)
Yes, you should read the solicitation documents thoroughly so you understand them and can comply with all the instructions and conditions. Improperly completed bids/proposals may be considered non-responsive.
Prince George’s County utilizes Procurement Cards for authorized County personnel making small purchases under a specified amount.
Formal solicitations are available for download on the County's Opportunities page, but they are no longer mailed to bidders. View opportunities on the Contract Administration and Procurement page.
Bid results may be obtained on the bulletin board in the Contract Administration and Procurement Office at
1400 McCormick Drive
Suite 200
Largo, MD 20774
Current formal solicitations are posted on Contract Administration and Procurement website and on the bulletin board in the Office of Central Services/Contract Administration and Procurement Division, 1400 McCormick Drive, Suite 300 Largo, MD 20774. Current Procurement Opportunities are also advertised every Thursday in the following three newspapers: Prince George’s Post, Enquirer Gazette, and the Sentinel. You can view solicitations on the Contract Administration and Procurement page.
Pre-Proposal Conferences, Pre-Bid conferences are held for the vendor community. During these conferences, Contract Administration and Procurement staff advises potential bidders/offers of special or technical requirements of a project and provides an opportunity for attendees to ask clarifying questions about the solicitation. Attendance at these conferences is not mandatory, unless otherwise stated. Any information disseminated at such a conference will be made available to all attendees and parties who purchased or downloaded the solicitation.
The Multi-Step bid process may be utilized as a procurement method when it is determined that factors other than price must be considered in making a contract award. These factors may include the ability of the product to meet performance or design specifications and/or the vendor’s capabilities and qualifications for providing the required services or product. Bidders whose technical submissions have been found to be acceptable under the criteria set forth in the bid shall have their prices considered. Final award is based on the lowest responsible responsive responsible bid price.
The County’s small procurement threshold is $30,000. It is the Policy of the County that competition is obtained whenever practicable when making small procurements. Items or groups of related items, services or construction estimated to cost not more than $30,000 may be competitively procured by telephone or written quotations. Bonus point’s factors for Certified Minority Business Enterprises are applicable in determining the lowest bidder.
To receive general information regarding Contract Administration and Procurement, please call the main number at 301-883-6400.
Questions regarding invoice payment must be directed to the using Agency. Find their contact information in our Staff Directory.
For information regarding current contracts, please refer to the current contracts listing provided on the County’s website. To find further information on a specific contract, please call our main number at 301-883-6400 and ask to speak with the assigned buyer as noted on the Current Contract listing.
Bids or proposals must be received in the Contract Administration and Procurement Division office or such other locations as designated not later than the scheduled time and date by bid opening, or closing date and time for receipt of proposals. Bids or proposals received after the scheduled time will be considered late and returned to the vendor unopened. Postal delays, rerouting or any other delivery delay shall not constitute a basis for acceptance for late bids or proposals.
Coronavirus (Health)
Please visit the Health Department’s dedicated coronavirus webpage (health.mypgc.us/coronavirus) for the latest case counts for Prince George’s County and Maryland.
The Division of Unemployment Insurance’s website and call centers are currently experiencing a high call volume due to COVID-19, result in longer than normal wait times.
To file for unemployment insurance via phone, contact the Claim Center at 410-949-0022. The call center telephone hours are Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
To file online, visit: https://secure-2.dllr.state.md.us/NetClaims/Welcome.aspx
If you are having difficulty placing a call or accessing the website, claimants can e-mail questions to ui.inquiry@maryland.gov. Employers can e-mail questions to dluiemployerassistance-labor@maryland.gov or contact 410-767-2412. You can also contact Employ Prince George’s at 301-618-8400 or visit their website at www.employpg.org.
.
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet)
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks
- These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs
- Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus
The CARES Act, signed into law Mar. 27, 2020, provides 120 days of eviction relief for tenants in federally-backed housing. Specifically, you may not be served with an eviction notice until July 25, 2020, and the notice must give you 30 days to leave the property (Aug. 24, 2020).
During the 120-day eviction moratorium, your landlord may not charge you late fees, penalties, or other charges for paying your rent late. It’s important to note that the eviction moratorium does not relieve you of your obligation to pay your rent. It merely forbids your landlord from evicting you during that period for late payment.
The Prince George’s County Health Department is taking the appropriate steps to keep Prince Georgians safe and healthy from the novel coronavirus or COVID-19. They are receiving regular updates and guidance from the State of Maryland Health Department, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as other state and regional public health partners. The County activated the Emergency Operations Center and Joint Information Center at an enhanced level for Prince George’s County on March 4, 2020. The level was raised from enhanced to a partial activation by County Executive Angela Alsobrooks on March 10, 2020. The County Executive declared a state of emergency on March 16, 2020. This allows us to more closely monitor the situation and quickly respond as this situation evolves, and also provides us greater access to resources to support our residents and small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
The County launched the COVID-19 Business Recovery Initiative to assist local small businesses facing economic hardship by the spread of COVID-19. This initiative was a public-private partnership of County and private resources that provided loans and grant funding of up to $20 million for area businesses. The COVID-19 Business Recovery Initiative assisted small, local, and minority-owned enterprises, who faced closures and layoffs, with retaining their pre-pandemic workforce and sustaining operations during the global pandemic.
The Legacy Fund for small business development was established with a $1 million grant from the Greater Washington Community Foundation to provide critically needed access to capital for small businesses in Prince George’s County. The fund was part of The Community Foundation in Prince George’s County’s equity and economic mobility initiative. The overall goal of the initiative is to eliminate social and economic disparities and help individuals, families, and collective groups improve their social and economic status. Small businesses that fit the eligibility requirements received grants for up to $10,000 to support operating expenses including payroll, suppliers, rent, and other business-critical costs.
Due to an appropriation of $2 million of CARES Act funding, child care providers in Prince George’s County may apply for grants to cover reopening expenses through the Child Care Provider Recovery Program. Eligible child care providers may receive a grant up to $20,000 for licensed child care centers and up to $3,000 for registered family child care homes to support reopening costs, including personal protective equipment (PPE), payroll, supplies, rent, fixed debt payments and other business operating costs. Applications will be accepted between September 9, 2020, and October 2, 2020.
For those who would like more information, please contact the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation at 301-583-4650 or visit their website at www.pgcedc.com.
While you wait for results, stay at home and self-isolate. Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Wear a face covering when you are around others; clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Monitor your symptoms. If your symptoms get worse, please call your health care provider’s office. If you are having a medical emergency, such as difficulty breathing, call 911. Tell the 911 operator that you were tested for COVID-19 and are waiting for results.
In addition to the $15 million relief fund for small businesses, the Prince George’s County Strategic Partnership Office is coordinating efforts with philanthropy, nonprofits, government, and small business leaders to collect and organize resources and funds for those providing COVID-19 relief efforts for Prince George’s County.
This innovative public-private partnership will provide an additional $900,000 in grants to support local nonprofits to help them deliver the resources and assistance needed by the community during these challenging times. Two of the organizations raising funds include the Greater Washington Community Foundation and the United Way of the National Capital Area.
The grants will be administered by The Greater Washington Community Foundation, as part of its COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. The fund was established to support emergency preparedness and response efforts to mitigate the impact on disadvantaged communities in the area. For more information on this fund and others, please visit The Greater Washington Community Foundation website at www.thecommunityfoundation.org.
All levels of government, have taken some action to prevent evictions/foreclosures during this time. In Prince George’s County, no evictions from residential or commercial properties are allowed during this time.
The County launched the Emergency Rental Assistance program through the Dept. of Social Services. That program is currently closed after receiving thousands of applications from residents.
We also seek to provide additional support to our non-profits that provide housing counseling for homeowners who are now unemployed. We will be providing more information about these resources as they become available. You may check our resources page for the latest information to assist tenants.
There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19.
If you are a homeowner, you most likely qualify for a forbearance as a result of the federal stimulus recently passed, which means you can delay your mortgage payment (for up to a year) if you’re having a financial hardship. The most important point is that you need to call your bank; you cannot simply stop paying your mortgage. If you have a federally-backed mortgage (like FHA), your bank is required to give you an option that does not raise your monthly payment once you resume payments.
Many lenders are also offering similar types of assistance for auto loans and credit cards, but again, you must call your lender.
- All Maryland residents and visitors must wear face coverings in the public spaces of all businesses, including gyms and fitness centers, on public transportation, and in outdoor public areas whenever it is not possible to maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet.
- While wearing your mask, maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others whenever you are around people who are not in your household.
- Avoid large crowds. Do not host or attend large gatherings. As outlined in the Health Officer’s July 31st Directive and Order, social, community, spiritual, religious, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events are limited to a maximum of 50 persons at all locations and venues, including but not limited to parades, festivals, conventions, and fundraisers. CDC and MDH social distancing protocols must be followed. Planned larger gatherings and events must be canceled or postponed.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
- Stay home as much as possible, except to go to work, buy groceries, and other essential actions.
Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, all evictions and foreclosures have been suspended until further notice. If you are facing an illegal eviction, you may seek free legal assistance from any the following:
Community Legal Services of Prince George’s County, Inc.
240-391-6370
info@clspgc.org
https://www.clspgc.org/
Legal Aid Bureau, Inc. of Prince George’s County
301-429-8743
District Court Self-Help Resource Centers
410-260-1392
https://mdcourts.gov/selfhelp
Maryland Legal Aid
866-635-2948
https://www.mdlab.org/
CASA
(MD, Prince George’s County Welcome Center)
240-821-5816 or 240-491-5784
https://wearecasa.org/
COVID-19 (coronavirus) is caused by a respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, China. This is a new virus that hasn’t caused illness in humans before. The first human case of the COVID-19 virus in the United States was identified on January 21st in a Washington state resident who had recently traveled to Wuhan. There is still much to learn about COVID-19.
Currently, the reported symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever or Chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Most people recover from this infection. Most people will have mild or moderate symptoms.
We encourage every resident to stay informed. The Prince George’s County Health Department has a dedicated coronavirus webpage that updates regularly: health.mypgc.us/coronavirus. The State of Maryland website is also available: Health.maryland.gov/coronavirus. If you need further assistance or have additional questions, please contact the Health Department at 301-883-6627. You can also call Maryland 2-1-1, 24 hours a day.
We encourage everybody to get tested. Residents should contact their primary care physicians and ask if they have tests to offer in a timely manner. Residents can receive COVID-19 tests at one of the Prince George’s County Health Department sites it operates or supplies.
Find a list of Health Department testing sites throughout the County, as well as sites run by the State and private groups across the region, at health.mypgc.us/COVIDtesting.
The County Health Department offers FREE COVID-19 tests for individuals with or without symptoms that have been exposed to or suspected to have been exposed to a COVID-19-positive person.
Patients do not need an appointment, a doctor’s prescription, or insurance to get tested. All County-run testing sites accommodate testing for those in a vehicle or on foot.
Call the coronavirus hotline at 301-883-6627 and PRESS 2 between the hours of 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM if you have questions about the County’s testing program.
Please regularly check our testing webpage (health.mypgc.us/COVIDtesting) for updates about our testing sites and policies. Another good source for information and updates is the Health Department’s social media channels on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram (all handles are @pgchealth).
The County is currently in Phase 2 of reopening, which means essential and non-essential businesses are allowed to open as long as they follow CDC safety guidelines by requiring customers to wear masks, physically distance and abide by in-store customer capacity limits. Some outdoor and indoor activities are also allowed to open as long as those same CDC safety guidelines are followed. Please visit our County Phased Reopening webpage for detailed information about the County’s current reopening phase.
Everyone is at risk of getting COVID-19 if they are exposed to the virus. Some people are more likely than others to become severely ill, which means that they may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe, or they may even die. We learn more about COVID-19 every day, and as more information becomes available, we will continue to update and share information about the risk for severe illness.
People at increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness:
- Older Adults
- People with Underlying Medical Conditions
Through our Stand Up & Deliver Program, we are partnering with local non-profits, and our local restaurants to provide food and/or prepared meals weekly to our seniors, families, and individual residents. We also continue to work with the County Council and our Office of Community Relations to identify all sites in the County that are still open and providing services to residents. Continue to monitor our website for information on pop-up food events.
County Roads (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
The data that Prince George’s County Government has been gathering as part of the Pavement Assessment Management System (PAMS) is now available on-line. This website is a source for determining whether a roadway is County-maintained or not.
COVID-19 Testing & Insurance FAQs
No. All COVID-19 diagnostic tests remain free in Prince George’s County. There are no out-of-pocket costs to you and your health insurance carrier cannot hold you responsible for any deductible or co-pay.
If you have additional questions, feel free to call the Health Department’s Billing Department at (301) 883-3328 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You may also submit your questions via email to: BillingCommunications@co.pg.md.us or Debra Adams, Billing Manager at (301)883-6125.
The Prince George’s County Health Department will know you were administered a diagnostic COVID-19 test based on the information you provided to us at the time of your COVID-19 test at one of our testing sites. The employee who calls you will not have access to your test results. The employee only has the demographic information that allows him/her to make the phone call.
The Prince George’s County Health Department’s phone calls are part of an effort to ensure that county residents continue to receive free COVID-19 testing. We will not use your personal information for any other activity other than contacting your health insurance company. The Health Department is HIPAA compliant. This means we follow the same HIPAA guidance as other medical practices and we meet the federal requirements for the security and privacy of your protected health information.
Your insurance company will provide you an explanation of benefits showing exactly what was charged, and what was paid to the Prince George’s County Health Department. You will not receive a bill.
The charges that will be submitted to your insurance will only be those related to the test, i.e., the assessment and swab specimen obtained by the nurse.
Don’t worry. Whether you have health insurance or not, the Health Department employee will not ask for any payment information from you. You will not be charged for your COVID-19 test, regardless of your insurance coverage.
Your account will be adjusted to reflect no charge for the services. You will not be responsible for any non-covered services.
No. We will waive any patient responsibility amount on the EOB statement. You can verify this information with your health insurance provider. You will not be held responsible for paying the amount, as mandated by the CARES Act. Insurance carriers cannot hold patients responsible for any deductible or co-pay.
The information on the front and back of your insurance card is required – ID number, relationship to the insured and the address of the insurance company; the full name of the individual who received the COVID-19 test, their address as listed with the insurance plan, phone number, and date of birth.
From the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in mid-March, the Health Department has worked very hard to get as many residents tested as possible, especially residents who did not have insurance.
Our focus has been on finding and fighting the virus to keep all residents healthy and to save as many lives as possible.
Since the virus will be with us for a while, the Health Department is fighting this pandemic for the long haul and must maintain its ability to provide free COVID-19 testing at no cost to residents. The Health Department does not get COVID-19 tests for free. By obtaining health insurance information from those who have received a test, and billing the insurance company for reimbursement, we are able to ensure that the tests remain at no cost.
You are receiving a call from a Prince George’s County Health Department employee because you were given a free COVID-19 diagnostic test at one of the County’s testing sites. The employee is calling to obtain your medical insurance information. This information will only be used to bill your health insurance company to reimburse the County for the cost of your COVID-19 test.
The federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES ACT) passed in April 2020 mandates that insurance companies pay for COVID-19 testing. The CARES ACT ensures that residents who get tested for COVID-19 are not held responsible for any out-of-pocket costs. Residents are not held responsible for any deductible or co-pay.
We need your health insurance information so we can bill your health insurance provider for the cost of your COVID-19 test.
COVID-19 Testing Guidance (Health)
Rapid tests produce results 15 minutes after you complete all the steps.
- Read the instructions before beginning.
- Follow the steps to complete your test.
- Self-report your results.
- If you have questions about the test itself, visit the manufacturer’s website. If you have questions about your test results, contact your health care provider.
iHealth Rapid Antigen COVID-19 Self-Test:
- Written instructions - iHealth (PDF)
- Video instructions - iHealth
- More about iHealth Rapid Antigen COVID-19 Tests - manufacturer website
BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test:
- Written instructions for Binax Rapid Test (PDF)
- More about BinaxNOW Antigen COVID-19 Tests - manufacturer website
- A positive test result means that the test detected the virus.
- If you test positive, isolate and inform your healthcare provider and any close contacts.
- If an at-home self-test was used, report your positive test result to the Maryland Department of Health results portal.
- Stay home for at least 5 days and wear a well-fitting mask if you could have contact with others in your home.
- If you experienced symptoms, end isolation after 5 full days if you are fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and all of your symptoms are improving.
- If you were severely ill with COVID-19, isolate for at least 10 days. Consult your doctor before ending isolation.
- If you never developed symptoms during your infection, isolation may end at least 5 full days after your positive test.
Vaccinated or not, individuals who:
- have COVID-19 symptoms;
- Testing should occur immediately
- had close contact with someone with COVID-19:
- testing should occur 5 days after the last exposure, or immediately if symptoms start
- the date of the last exposure is considered day 0
- day 1 is the first full day after the last contact with a person who has COVID-19
- plan to travel; CDC travel guidance
- plan to attend a gathering, especially indoors with others who are not in your household; this is especially important before gathering with unvaccinated children, older individuals, those who are immunocompromised, or individuals at risk of severe disease.
- work in an organization that requires COVID-19 testing; or
- have been asked or referred by a health department, school, workplace, or healthcare provider to get tested.
*Note: Rapid, at-home self-tests do not need to be taken on a daily basis (i.e. when running daily errands) unless you are feeling symptoms, directed by your employer, or your daily activities include close contact with people who are not in your household.
COVID-19 Vaccination (Health)
The protection someone gains from having an infection (called natural immunity) varies depending on the disease, and it varies from person to person. Since this virus is new, we don’t know how long natural immunity might last. Some early evidence—based on some people— seems to suggest that natural immunity may not last very long. Regarding vaccination, we won’t know how long immunity lasts until we have a vaccine and more data on how well it works. Both natural immunity and vaccine-induced immunity are important aspects of COVID-19 that experts are trying to learn more about, and the CDC will keep the public informed as new evidence becomes available.
Prince George’s County recently launched its “Proud to be Protected” campaign to encourage all Prince Georgians to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes widely available. We recognize the hesitancy and concerns that our residents have regarding this vaccine, so our goal is to ensure every Prince Georgian has the information needed to fully understand how the vaccine will protect them from COVID-19.
The U.S. vaccine safety system ensures that all vaccines are as safe as possible. Safety is a top priority while federal partners work to make a COVID-19 vaccine(s) available. Vaccines undergo a series of rigorous clinical trials using thousands of study participants to generate data and other information for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine their safety and effectiveness to approve or authorize for emergency use. Following approval or authorization, many vaccine safety monitoring systems watch for adverse events or possible side effects. Visit the CDC’s website for more information about ensuring the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S.—including information about specific vaccine monitoring systems.
Generally, it takes a week or two for immunity to develop following vaccination, but the specific timeline for any coronavirus vaccine will depend to some extent on which type of vaccine is licensed. For example, a live, weakened vaccine requires time to reproduce in the body, whereas an inactivated vaccine is given at a dose that will generate immunity. On the other hand, because the live, weakened vaccine reproduces to generate immunity, it might provide a more robust immune response than an inactivated vaccine.
The number of doses of a COVID-19 vaccine that will be needed will depend on the type of vaccine that is administered. The coronavirus vaccines being studied are evaluating one or two doses. When giving two doses, they are usually given approximately one month apart. Since several vaccines are likely to become available over time, it is possible that some vaccines will require one dose while others may require two doses. It is also possible that over time, additional doses of vaccine may be needed to provide continued protection. It will take ongoing evaluation over several months and years to understand how our immune systems respond to this virus and how vaccines that become available assist in that response.
MDH will focus this plan on three major phases of vaccine availability and distribution.
Phase 1 will begin when there is limited vaccine availability and will focus on target priority groups to receive vaccination. These groups will include those at highest risk of exposure to or developing complications from COVID-19, including:
- Healthcare workers, residents and staff of long-term care facilities, first responders
- People at significantly higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness
Phase 2 will include people in critical infrastructure roles, including essential non-healthcare and transportation workers, and people at moderately higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness.
Phase 3 will be a wide-scale distribution of the vaccine associated with broad availability to the general population of the state.
The move to advanced phases will be based on the availability of COVID vaccine, achievement of targeted metrics for vaccination of higher priority groups or notification by CDC and state authorities that the general public phase can begin.
Yes. While experts learn more about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide under real-life conditions, it will be important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to us to help stop this pandemic, like covering your mouth and nose with a mask, washing hands often and staying at least 6 feet away from others. Together, COVID-19 vaccination and following the CDC’s recommendations for how to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from getting and spreading COVID-19. Experts need to understand more about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide before deciding to change recommendations on steps everyone should take to slow the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Other factors, including how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading in communities, will also affect this decision.
We do not know how long antibodies last after infection or whether they will protect against reinfection. So, while vaccine trials are being completed, it will be important for scientists to continue learning about COVID-19, particularly whether people who got sick with COVID-19 can be re-infected. The current vaccine trials will include immunizing people who have never been infected with COVID-19 as well as those who have been previously infected. We will soon know whether vaccination of those who have been previously infected affords more complete or longer lasting protection than those who were previously infected but haven’t been vaccinated.
COVID-19 infections can be a minor hindrance or lead to severe disease or even death. There are many reasons to get vaccinated.
- Based on what we know about vaccines for other diseases, experts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19.
- Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, particularly people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
- Getting COVID-19 may offer some natural protection, known as immunity. But experts don’t know how long this protection lasts, and the risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 far outweighs any benefits of natural immunity. COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you by creating an antibody response without having to experience sickness.
- Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough. Vaccines will work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed.
You should cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds and wash your hands often. Get more information about these and other steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Marylanders are encouraged to visit covidlink.maryland.gov to learn more.
A COVID-vaccine is one way to prevent serious illness due to COVID-19. Vaccination causes your body to create antibodies without getting sick with the COVID-19 disease. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and other experts will provide recommendations on priority groups and when groups should be vaccinated. Guidance on determining and providing the vaccine to priority groups will be based on the principles included in the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Interim Updated Planning Guidance on Allocating and Targeting Pandemic Influenza Vaccine During an Influenza Pandemic.
Viruses constantly change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time. Multiple variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the United States and globally during this pandemic. Information about the characteristics of these variants is rapidly emerging. At this time, there is no evidence that these variants can evade the recently developed vaccines or cause more severe illness or increased risk of death.
For more information, see the CDC Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants.
In certain types of emergencies, the FDA can issue an EUA to provide more timely access to critical medical products that may help during the emergency when there are no adequate, approved, and available alternative options. The EUA process is different from full FDA approval, clearance or licensing because the EUA standard requires significantly less data than otherwise would be required for approval, clearance or licensing by the FDA. This enables the FDA to authorize the emergency use of medical products that meet the criteria for issuance within weeks rather than months to years. It must be determined that the vaccines are safe and effective in diminishing the severity of COVID-19 symptoms to gain an FDA emergency use authorization or full licensing.
Maryland is working with partners at the federal, state, local and community level to work through the logistics of delivering, storing and administering the COVID-19 vaccine once it is
available. Maryland is also making sure that people have the information they need to be confident in deciding to get vaccinated. Key priorities include:
- Developing and regularly sharing clear and accurate information with people to make sure they understand the risks and benefits of getting vaccinated and can make informed decisions.
- Helping healthcare providers answer their patients’ questions about the vaccine.
- Engaging communities and individuals in an equitable and inclusive way to ensure that people have opportunities to ask questions and get clear, accurate information about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Easy access to COVID-19 vaccines is equally critical. Maryland is working with public health professionals, healthcare providers, and other partners to make sure people can easily get a COVID-19 vaccine and that cost is not a barrier.
Operation Warp Speed is a partnership among components of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Defense to help develop, make and distribute millions of vaccine doses for COVID-19 as quickly as possible while ensuring that the vaccines are safe and effective. Operation Warp Speed has been working since the pandemic started to develop COVID-19 vaccine candidates.
Experts do not know what percentage of people would need to get vaccinated to achieve herd immunity to COVID-19. Herd immunity is a term used to describe when enough people have protection—either from previous infection or vaccination—that it is unlikely a virus or bacteria can spread and cause disease. As a result, everyone within the community is protected even if some
people don’t have any protection themselves. The percentage of people who need to have protection in order to achieve herd immunity varies by disease.
Prince George’s County entered Phase 1B on January 18, 2021 and enters Phase 1C for pre-registration on January 25, 2021. Individuals in prior phases are still eligible to sign up to receive vaccines as we move to additional phases. Vaccines are currently being administered at the Health Department’s Cheverly Health Center and the Wayne K. Curry Sports and Learning Complex. At this time, these locations require an appointment in order to receive a vaccine. Additional vaccination sites are scheduled to be operational soon.
Individuals who live or work in the County that wish to receive a vaccine should complete the County Health Department’s pre-registration form. Those who are eligible for a vaccine will receive a link with instructions on how to schedule an appointment, as appointments become available. Current appointments are limited due to a limited supply of vaccines in the County and State. At this time, it may take several weeks or longer to receive an appointment, especially for individuals in Phase 1C.
Vaccination distribution is an ongoing process. It will take several weeks to months to get through each phase. We will continue to keep you updated on our progress in each phase and when we are ready to move into the next phase. Below is a tentative timeline for our vaccination distribution plan, which is subject to change based on a number of factors.
- Phase 1A: January 2021
- Phase 1B: Began January 18, 2021 (majority of appointments will start going out in early to mid-February)
- Phase 1C: Pre-registration begins January 25, 2021 (majority of appointments will start going out in early to mid-March)
- Phase 2: April – May
- Phase 3: May – June
All individuals who live or work in Prince George’s County are required to fill out the County Health Department’s pre-registration form if they wish to schedule a vaccine appointment. When you are eligible to receive a vaccine based on the County’s phased distribution plan AND as vaccine appointments become available based on supply, the Health Department will follow up via email with a link and instructions on how to schedule your appointment. Based on the current supply of vaccines, it may take several weeks or longer for the Health Department to follow up with available appointments.
Efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19, such as stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders, have led to decreased use of routine preventive medical services, including immunization services. Ensuring that you continue or start getting routine vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic is essential for protecting yourself and others from vaccine-preventable diseases and outbreaks, including flu. Routine vaccination prevents illnesses that lead to unnecessary medical visits and hospitalizations, which further strain the healthcare system.
For the upcoming flu season, flu vaccination will be very important to reduce flu because it can help reduce the overall impact of respiratory illnesses on the population and lessen the resulting burden on the healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. A flu vaccine may also provide several individual health benefits, including keeping you from getting sick with flu, reducing the severity of your illness if you do get the flu and reducing your risk of a flu-associated hospitalization. For more information about seasonal influenza in Maryland, visit https://phpa.health.maryland.gov/influenza/Pages/home.aspx.
Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps, like covering your mouth and nose with a mask and staying at least 6 feet away from others, help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. Together, COVID-19 vaccination and following CDC’s recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID-19.
When a vaccine is authorized, we will only have information about the length of immunity for as long as people were vaccinated during the trials. For example, if the first people in the study were vaccinated in July 2020 and the vaccine is licensed in December 2020, we will only have information about the immune response up to 5 months after vaccination. The vaccine manufacturer will continue to monitor vaccine recipients for several months or more, so that over time, we will continue to get a better picture of the durability of immunity. With this information, we will be better able to understand whether vaccines against COVID-19 will require annual dosing like influenza.
Getting a flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19. However, flu vaccination has many other important benefits. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. Getting a flu vaccine this fall will be more important than ever, not only to reduce your risk from flu but also to help conserve potentially scarce health care resources.
According to the CDC, vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to the American people at no cost. However, vaccination providers will be able to charge an administration fee for giving the shot to someone. Vaccine providers can get this fee reimbursed by the patient’s public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund.
When the FDA first authorizes or approves the use of one or more COVID-19 vaccines in the United States, there will be a limited supply, and not everyone will be able to be vaccinated right away. It is understandable how concerning this would be for people, especially for those who are at increased risk for serious illness from this virus and for their loved ones. That is why, early in the response, the federal government began investing in select vaccine manufacturers to help them increase their ability to quickly make and distribute a large amount of COVID-19 vaccine. This will allow the United States to start with as much vaccine as possible and continually increase the supply in the weeks and months to follow. The goal is for everyone to be able to easily get a
COVID-19 vaccine as soon as large quantities are available. Several thousand vaccination providers will be available, including doctors’ offices, retail pharmacies, hospitals, and federally qualified health centers.
Critical Area (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
A Critical Area Bond is required to cover the required plantings. A cost estimate from a landscaping company is generally used to determine the amount of the bond. Once a copy of the cost estimate is received from the applicant, the bond amount is entered into the permit system under the related building or grading permit. The bond must be posted prior to the permit being issued.
Before removing the tree, please contact the DPIE Inspections Division at 301-755-9000 to schedule an inspection. Once the inspector determines that the tree can be removed, they will write a report giving you permission. The inspector will also instruct you to plant a new tree to replace the dead tree. If this is an emergency situation, the tree can be removed prior to the inspector investigation. Please take a picture of the tree before removing.
The easiest way to determine if your property is in the Critical Area is to view the M-NCPPC PGAtlas website. Once on the site, go to Advance Mapping, select the binocular icon and enter your street address. Once your address information displays, select the magnifying glass to zoom in on the map to your property. Once your property displays, go to the icons on the right side and select the map layer icon. Once the layer list displays, select the drop down button next to zoning. Under the zoning layer, check off the box for Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Overlay (2015). If you do not have access to the internet, you can review detailed maps at the Planning Information Services counter in the Lower Level of the County Administration Building, 14741 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
The Critical Area includes all land within 1,000 feet of Maryland’s tidal waters and tidal wetlands. It also includes the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Coastal Bays, their tidal tributaries and the lands underneath these tidal areas. In Prince George’s County this includes areas along the Patuxent, the Potomac and the Anacostia Rivers. See PGATLAS.com for location of Chesapeake Bay Critical Areas.
The Critical Area Conservation and Planting Agreement must be recorded prior to the Conservation Plan being signed. Typically, applicants fill out the template for the Agreement and submit it to the DPIE Site/Road Plan Review Division to confirm the information provided is correct. Upon confirmation, the document is signed by the County and returned to the applicant/owner to be recorded at the County Land Records Office in Upper Marlboro.
A Critical Area Staff Level Review of your project can be done if it meets the following conditions: disturbance of 500 square feet or less will occur; there is no existing Conservation Plan for the lot; the project will not be located in the Critical Area Buffer; and the site is in conformance with the requirements of the Critical Area Overlay Zone. If your site does not meet these requirements, contact M-NCPPC Environmental Planning Section at 301-952-3650 for further guidance. If your site meets these requirements, contact DPIE Site/Road Plan Review Division, Critical Area Planner, at 301-636-2060.
The Critical Area Conservation Plan is reviewed and approved by M-NCPPC Planning Board or by the Planning Director. The Development Review Division at 301-952-3530 can provide more information.
Current State of Tantallon Infrastructure (DPW&T/CEX)
There is not a County rating (see state): https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Maryland-ASCE-Report-Card-2020-Full-Sections.pdf
DoE operates and monitors rainfall (precipitation) gauges in the Anacostia River and Western Branch Watersheds which fall in the north and central County. The nearest County operated gauge to Ft. Washington is at Water Street in Upper Marlboro. Private entities like Weather Underground and Weather Bug collect rainfall data in the Ft. Washington area.
EPA establishes national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for six common air pollutants - carbon monoxide, lead, ground-level ozone, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. (Awaiting MWCOG confirmation of the status of (non)attainment status for Washington metropolitan region).
The infrastructure is built with the communities. It ranges in ages from approximately 70 years old to as recent as a few years old. There is not a set schedule (i.e., bridges or SWM facilities) but the County inspects approximately every 5-10 years. Developers are required to inspect all systems that they tie into.
The County is under a consent agreement from MDE/EPA to provide a designated number of acres of treatment for impervious surfaces not controlled by BMPs.
To the extent that we know, there are no specific State/Federal non-compliance issues identified for Swan Creek/Tantallon.
There is not an individual breakdown per County.
Click the link to access the map that identifies existing BMPs in the Swan Creek/Tantallon watershed demonstrating WQ and volume controls. https://www.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=dc168a43d3554905b4e4d6e61799025f
The County is not required to provide water quality tests at the creek level. It is tested at the watershed level (i.e.: Potomac River)
The County is not required to provide water quality tests at the creek level. It is tested at the watershed level (i.e.: Potomac River)
The County’s geographical area is approximately 490 square miles; Impervious is 48 Sq. Mi. = 9.8%
Approximately 512 acres of ~ 1,188 acres = 43%.
The standard depends on when it was developed. Portions of the community were developed prior to many of the stormwater regulations that exist today. The current County Standards can be found in the Drainage Design Manual. https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4782/Stormwater-Management-Design-Manual-PDF?bidId=
Click the link to view the map identifying existing BMPs in the Swan Creek/Tantallon watershed demonstrating WQ and volume control. BMP’s (referring to Stormwater Management BMP’s) can be found on the following map through the Department of the Environment. https://www.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=dc168a43d3554905b4e4d6e61799025f
The Noon Property is near Avalon ES (7302 Webster Ln, Fort Washington, MD 20744). It is owned by PGCPS and used for off-site tree preservation credits. (When we take down trees on one site, we have the option of preserving, in perpetuity, trees on another site that would otherwise have been developed.)
See response to Question 9. There are many different sources of rain gauge data. Here are several options:
Drainage (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
If you are having a drainage problem in the County public road right-of-way, such as a clogged storm drain or ponding water in the road, contact 311. The call and complaint will be routed to DPW&T, and they will contact you directly.
If the roadway is maintained by a municipality, you should contact the municipality for assistance.
If the roadway is maintained by the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA), you should contact SHA and submit a service request.
If the drainage problem is on your private property, contact 311. The call and complaint will be routed to the Department of the Environment (DOE).
If you are having a drainage problem with your NEW HOME, please submit a NEW HOME Drainage Complaint Form to DPIEDrainage@co.pg.md.us.
Driveways (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Yes, if work is proposed in the County public road right-of-way. Yes, if work on private property exceeds 5,000 square feet of land disturbance. A residential driveway permit is required for homeowners and a street construction permit is required for commercial properties.
Driveways must be constructed at least 3.5 feet inside the residential property line, and not closer than 18 feet to driveways on other properties. Residential driveway widths are 10 foot minimum and 20 foot maximum. Residential driveways shall not be constructed in front of the house; instead the driveway must be offset to the side of the house, in accordance with County Code Subtitle 27. The slopes shall be constructed no flatter than 1.5% and no steeper than 12.5% in accordance with County Code Subtitle 27-560. See attached link to the Prince George’s County Department of Public Works and Transportation’s (DPW&T) driveway standards (STD 200.01-200.09): http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/Home/View/4789
The driveway apron is the portion of the driveway starting at the curb and ending at the County road right-of-way limit.
Ebola (Health)
Ebola signs and symptoms may appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure, though 8 to 10 days is most common. Usually the first sign of Ebola is a high fever (higher than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit).
Although the risk of the Ebola virus spreading in the U.S. is low, it is possible that additional cases might be identified in persons who had close contact with the first patient diagnosed in the U.S. or in other travelers. In response, the CDC issued a Health Advisory Alert on October 2, 2014 to highlight the recommendations for healthcare personnel and health officials when evaluating patients for Ebola infection.
To date, the only case of Ebola diagnosed in the United States is in Texas. No cases have been identified in Maryland. Local and state health departments will continue to respond to inquiries from medical providers.
Visit our How to Protect Myself From Ebola page to read the steps you can take in order to protect yourself from Ebola. How to Protect Myself From Ebola
The virus is spread by contact with an infected patient’s blood or bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, sweat, feces, vomit or semen. View the How Ebola Spreads From Person to Person page for more details. How Ebola Spreads From Person to Person
Please visit out Signs and Symptoms of Ebola page to read through the list of sign and symptoms for Ebola. Signs and Symptoms of Ebola
If you have traveled to Ebola affected countries: Guinea, Liberia, or Sierra Leone please view our Traveled From an Ebola Affected Country page to find instructions on self-monitoring your health. Traveled From an Ebola Affected Country
At this time, there is no approved drug or vaccine for Ebola. Supportive therapy includes maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure; balancing the patient’s fluids and electrolytes; and treating them for any complicating infections.
Ebola only spreads when a person is sick. He/she must have symptoms to spread the disease to others. After 21 days, if an exposed person does not develop symptoms, he/she will not become sick with Ebola.
If you would like to learn more about Ebola by viewing the resources on our Learn More About Ebola page. Learn More About Ebola
EDI Fund (County Executive)
The County Executive and County Council have set aside $50 million as a multi-year commitment for the EDI Fund.
Approximately $7 million to $11 million will be available each fiscal year. This will ensure that the Council has an opportunity to review the status of the program before additional funds can be spent.
All awardees will be expected to provide appropriate collateral or other security to Prince George’s County to protect the public investment.
Audits of businesses receiving aid will ensure that we have the necessary information to make changes to the terms of an agreement or to penalize a non performing recipient.
Prince George’s County has adopted formal policies for this program. This will include: an application form, a fee structure for applications, additional financial and other information that may be requested from applicants. A step-by-step process for accepting and processing all applications fairly and efficiently is available on this website.
The priorities for funding are projects that grow the County’s commercial tax base, add County jobs, and meet other specified goals. Any business or development project that meets those priorities can apply for funds from the program. Non-profits are eligible for funding of projects that result in growth in the County’s commercial tax base and in new jobs, but not for funding operations.
Most of the awards will be made as loans to small and medium sized businesses located in the County. On occasion, in particular and extraordinary circumstances involving large numbers of jobs, grants may be considered.
Absolutely. Award information will be posted on the County’s website and regular reports will be made available. Information such as the applicant’s personal and very sensitive financial data will be kept confidential.
In addition, awards will be subject to audits, compliance review, and numerous other levels of oversight to assure accountability.
Elections
No, registration books are closed 21 days before the Primary and General Elections.
No, the Board of Elections assigns you a very specific location to vote based on the address on your registration record. We cannot stress enough how important it is to keep your address up-to-date with the Election Office.
No, your voter's card is an information card only. You are not required to have it on election day although it is very helpful to the election judges working at the polls.
If you make a change of address within Prince George's County, the MVA will share this information with the Election Office and you will get a new voter's card. If you move to or from another county or state you must reregister.
Call the Board of Elections at 301-341-7300 and request a duplicate card.
To receive an absentee ballot, you can write to the Prince George's County Board of Elections at:
1100 Mercantile Lane
Suite 115A
Largo, Maryland 20774
You may also call 301-341-7300.
Yes, a vote in one election is not a requirement for another.
The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) in the Office of the Secretary of Defense is responsible for administering the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. This law provides that members of the U.S. Uniformed Services and merchant marine and their family members may vote absentee while away from their place of voting residence, wherever stationed, within or outside the United States. For detailed information on registering and obtaining an absentee ballot, call 1-800-438-VOTE or visit the FVAP website.
No, Maryland has continuous registration. Just send a change of address note to the proper Election Board.
Yes, you can premark your sample ballot and take it with you into the voting booth as a voting aid. This will actually help to speed up the voting process.
Yes, even if your plans change, once you submit an application and a ballot has been mailed to you, that is how you must vote in that particular election.
At the time of registration, a citizen may choose to join a political party. Only the Democratic and Republican parties hold primaries. Whether a citizen belongs to a party or not has no bearing on a citizen's vote in General Elections.
Send your change of address in writing to the Board of Elections.
Electrical (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Electrical work must be inspected, and the inspection must be requested at least 24 hours in advance by calling the County’s Interactive Voice Response system (IVR) at 301-755-9000, between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., Monday through Friday, or applying online.
Yes, if the work is limited and he or she meets the Prince George’s County Electrical Code requirement, Subtitle 9 Section 9-117. Follow the link www.muicode.com www.muicode.com
No
Yes, all Electrical Permit Applications must be completed online by a Master Electrician, who has permission to apply online using his/her license number. Click the Online Electrical Permit Application here. www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/1582/online-electric
All electrical permit applications must be applied online after permission is granted to company’s Master Electrician licensed in Prince George’s County. The contractor must follow this Online Electrical Permit Application link, to obtain access to the DPIE online electrical application process. Online Electrical Permit Application
The fee will be tabulated based on the scope of work selected on the application, plus a $15 processing and a 5% technology fee shall be assessed to the total. Follow this Online Electrical Permit link to get started. Online Electrical Permit link
An electrical permit is required for work that involves installation, relocation, repairing, or maintaining any wiring or device designed for conducting, consuming or converting electrical current.
Employee Services & Labor Relations (Human Resources Management)
To obtain information, contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services at 800-375-5283 or on their website.
Annual W-2 forms are available for employees to access by January 31st each year. Employees can elect to receive their annual W-2 forms electronically in their Employee Self Service (ESS) portal. Guidance on how to elect to receive your W-2 form electronically in ESS and access your W-2 in ESS is available online here.
Requests for W-2 forms that cannot be accessed in Employee Self Service must be submitted to the Office of Finance, Payroll Section. Please complete the Payroll Request Form and submit it via email to payrolldepartment@co.pg.md.us or fax to 301-952-5329.
As a result of COVID-19 pandemic, the Maryland Department of Labor (DLLR) has seen a dramatic increase in fraudulent unemployment insurance benefit claims. Some County Government employees have been impacted by fraudulent unemployment claims filed using the employee’s social security number.
OHRM continually reviews and verifies unemployment claims as they are received from DLLR and notifies impacted employees it becomes aware of through their Agency Human Resource Liaisons. Additional information regarding Unemployment Insurance fraud can be found on the DLLR website.
If you become a victim of identity theft, the Prince George’s County Office of Human Resources Management and the Police Department Financial Crimes Unit recommend taking the following steps:
- NOTIFY your Agency Human Resources Liaison of the fraud if they are not already aware.
- MAKE A REPORT
- DLLR: Submit a report with Maryland Department of Labor to report the fraud. Download the form online here or call the Claimant Benefit Fraud hotline at 1-800-492-6804. On the form you will need to select "Other" and indicate that you were notified of a fraudulent claim, as well as provide your contact information on the bottom of the form. Once the form is completed, please e-mail it to ui.fraud@maryland.gov. Please note that is it not recommended that you call DLLR for assistance, as they typically do not have enough staff to handle the volume of calls, so filing your report online is the best approach.
- Police Report: Call the non-emergency number for your local police station, as well as to the police station where the fraud took place to file a report. The non-emergency number for the Prince George’s County Police Department is 301-352-1200. The most effective way to file a report is to request that an officer come to your home to take your report when you call the non-emergency phone number. Please be sure to have the following information available when you file your report:
- A copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report
- A government-issued photo ID
- Proof of your address, such as a mortgage statement or utility bill
- Any proof you have of the theft.
- US Department of Labor: File a report online with US Department of Labor Office of Inspector General’s OIG Hotline.
- DLLR: Submit a report with Maryland Department of Labor to report the fraud. Download the form online here or call the Claimant Benefit Fraud hotline at 1-800-492-6804. On the form you will need to select "Other" and indicate that you were notified of a fraudulent claim, as well as provide your contact information on the bottom of the form. Once the form is completed, please e-mail it to ui.fraud@maryland.gov. Please note that is it not recommended that you call DLLR for assistance, as they typically do not have enough staff to handle the volume of calls, so filing your report online is the best approach.
- MONITOR YOUR CREDIT, as well as your families’ credit. At a minimum create a fraud alert, (which is good for 1 year), for free. If you get a credit freeze (which is recommended) this is free.
- Please refer to the credit bureau information on page 5 of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identify Theft Recovery Plan booklet available online here.
- Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at www.identitytheft.gov.
- Request your free credit reports via www.annualcreditreport.com and review them for other fraudulent activities.
- CREATE AN ACCOUNT through the Social Security Administration online at https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount. Creation of an account will ensure that you are aware of any use of your social security number. The Prince George’s County Police Department Financial Crimes Unit and Federal Agencies have found through past investigations that your personal information/social security number can be used to create an account and apply for benefits if it is not already being monitored.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please contact the Sgt. Andrea Sheehan with the Prince George’s County Police Department’s OIC, Financial Crimes, Cyber Crime, and Pawn Unit via email at ajsheehan@co.pg.md.us.
Contact the Worker's Compensation Commission in Baltimore at 800-492-0479 or through their website.
Contact the Department of Labor in the State in which you were employed. If you believe you were terminated unfairly, contact the Human Relations Commission in your jurisdiction.
Contact the Department of Economic and Employment Development in Baltimore at 800-827-4839, 877-293-4125 for Prince George's County, or visit their website.
Contact the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor or the Department of Labor located in the state in which you are/were employed.
Contact the Maryland Commission on Human Relations at 800-637-6247, the Office of Human Rights at 301-883-6170 in Prince George's County, or
Contact the Office of Human Rights at 301-883-6170 in Prince George's County.
To apply for and obtain a work permit, contact your local middle or high school guidance office. Contact the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations with all other inquiries on their website.
EMS Transport Billing (Fire/EMS)
Prince George’s County has contracted with a company to handle EMS transport fee billing. After patient services are provided, insurance information will be obtained routinely, most often at the hospital. Residents may receive an initial statement or a request for verification of insurance information from the billing company. For County resident who are uninsured, Prince George’s County has adopted alternative billing policies.
Charges for ambulance transport include: $500 for Basic Life Support transport, $650 for Advanced Life-1 Support transport and $750 for Advanced Life Support-2 transport. There is also a $12 per loaded transport mile - from pick-up point to the hospital for ground transport. There will be no charge if there is no transport.
All Department members have been trained on patient privacy and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). These requirements will be strictly enforced and adhered to.
Patients transported that do not have health insurance will have the option of payment at a reduced rate or no payment based on a lack of ability to pay the bill.
There will be no additional charges for County resident with health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid. Patients who reside outside of the County will be billed for charges not covered by insurance.
Procedures and policies are the same regardless of the location of the emergency. County medical responders’ responsibility is to take care of the patient. Billing for transport services will be handled routinely after the patient’s needs are addressed.
The billing company will attempt to obtain information to show the medical necessity of your medical care. However, if the claim is ultimately rejected, the billing company will offer alternative payment options.
The program is scheduled for implementation on July 1, 2008.
Medicare will pay 80% of medically necessary transport fees. This payment will be considered as a payment in full.
Enterovirus D68 (Health)
You can help prevent yourself from getting and spreading EV-D68 and other respiratory illnesses by following the steps on the How to Protect Yourself From Enterovirus-D68. How to Protect Yourself From Enterovirus-D68
Since EV-D68 causes respiratory illness, the virus can be found in an infected person’s saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum. EV-D68 likely spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches a surface that is then touched by others.
In the United States, people are more likely to get infected with Enteroviruses in the summer and fall.
Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) can only be diagnosed by doing specific lab tests on specimens from a person’s nose and throat.
The Center for Disease Control recommends that clinicians only consider EV-D68 testing for patients with severe respiratory illness and when the cause is unclear. Clinicians should contact their local health department for guidance.
To find a list of Enterovirus D68 symptoms please view our Symptoms of Enterovirus D68 page. Symptoms of Enterovirus D68
There is no specific treatment for people with respiratory illness caused by Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68). For mild respiratory illness, consult your physician if you are unclear of what over-the-counter medications for pain and fever.
Some people with severe respiratory illness may need to be hospitalized.
In general, infants, children, and teenagers are most likely to get infected with Enteroviruses and become ill. That's because they do not yet have immunity (protection) from previous exposures to these viruses. Adults can get infected with Enteroviruses, but they are more likely to have no symptoms or mild symptoms.
Children with asthma may have a higher risk for severe respiratory illness caused by Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) infection.
Environment
The Budget and Procurement staff monitors the acquisition of materials, equipment and supplies the Department uses to implement our community services and programs. The services we provide, such as solid waste, stormwater management, tree preservation, stream clean-ups, property and construction inspections, vehicle impounds, and animal control programs, make up a large percentage of our budget. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Our Communications Section staff can help you identify issues that may be of concern to your community or group, and schedule representatives from our department to provide you with the pertinent information. Additionally, they are available to assist you with public events and meetings by arranging to have the department display a booth or information table on your topic of interest. For more information, please call the Communications Section at 301-883-5952.
The Abandoned Vehicle Section removes wrecked, dismantled, unlicensed or inoperable motor vehicles from public space. To report violations contact PGC311: online at mypgc.us/pgc311 or by dialing 3-1-1 (if in the County) or 301-883-4748 (if out of the County).
Family Investment (Social Services)
There are three ways you can apply for services: online, in person, and by mail. Learn more on the Family Investment page.
Normal processing time for an application is 30 days. Please note, if you have missing forms and/or information your application could be delayed. Learn what forms are required on the Family Investment page.
Contact your case manager as soon as possible. You may also download the form to a report a change on the Onine Forms page.
Any county resident may apply for benefits through any of the financial assistance programs administered by the Prince George's County Department of Social Services regardless of marital status. Please note, when processing your application we will require information about the members of your household and their income. Learn more on the Family Investment page.
If you are applying for Medical Assistance, you can apply for the Primary Adult Care (PAC) program at PAC. For more information please visit the Primary Adult Care (PAC) Program on Maryland's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
You may also contact your local Health Department at 888-561-4049 for additional community resources.
If you are waiting on a Food Stamp decision, you may call 301-909-6343 for information about local pantries. You may also contact Capital Area Food Bank or SHARE Food Network.
If you are waiting on Emergency or Energy Assistance, please begin or continue with any payment arrangements until we are able to make a decision.
Learn more about these individual programs on the Family Investment page.
If you feel we have made an error in processing your case or don’t agree with our decision, you can speak with your case manager about a review of your case or you may file an appeal to have your case reviewed.
You can visit the office where you applied, Office Locations to receive and submit an application or you can download the Appeal Form and submit it to your local office. Access the necessary forms on the Online Forms page.
Fire & Life Safety (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Yes, you do need to obtain a permit; however, you do not need to provide plans for review. Plans are not required for automatic sprinkler system modifications or installations in commercial buildings involving 10 sprinkler heads or less, and not involving the shifting of any cross mains or risers, in accordance with Section 4-157, Subtitle 4.
If the change is only for the fire alarm panel with no changes to associated field devices, then fire alarm plans need not be submitted. However, an electrical permit is still required for the fire alarm panel changes.
Yes, fire alarm shop drawings are required to be submitted for automatic sprinkler monitoring systems. Four sets of plans and booklets are required.
Yes, the Fire System shop drawings are required to be reviewed and approved by a DPIE-certified, third party plan review agency. View a current list of Third Party Reviewers for Fire Protection Systems.
No, all plumbing requirements are handled by the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC). Plumbing drawings can be provided for reference. Learn more about the Commission.
The best way to check the review status of a case is through the ePlan (ProjectDox) system by using the “project reports tab.” If you don’t have access to ePlan, you can ask the person who uploaded the plans to provide you with the report. Reports can be downloaded in PDF and other formats. Please check the report date in the upper left corner to ensure it is up to date. The completed status doesn’t mean it was approved; it only shows the task was completed.
This is handled by the Fire/EMS Department. To schedule an appointment with them, please contact the Office of the Fire Marshal at 301-583-1830.
All water supplies should be adjusted to Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC)’s low hydraulic gradient. An additional 5 psi below the water curve is required per Subtitle 4 Section 4-158(j). Learn more on the Commission.
Refer to Subtitle 11 and CR-42-2010 which can be found on the County Legislative/Zoning Information System. The following are current editions of our most frequently used NFPA standards:
- 2015 NFPA 1 Fire Code
- 2015 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
- 2013 NFPA 13/13R/13D Sprinkler Systems
- 2013 NFPA 14 Standpipe and Hose Systems
- 2013 NFPA 20 Fire Pumps
- 2015 NFPA 30/30A Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
- 2013 NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
- 2012 NFPA 1142 Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting
Learn more on the County Legislative/Zoning Information System page.
Refer to CB-041-2015 which can be found on the County Legislative Information System. Find out more on the Current Fees page.
A fire hydrant is required within 200 feet of any required fire department connection, in accordance with Section 4-164, Subtitle 4.
DPIE has a new permitting system called Momentum and is transitioning from ePermits, the previous permitting system. If the related building (construction/use) permit was processed in ePermits, applicants have the option to apply for the FIR case through ePermits instead of Momentum. The ePermits process is different, and the case is not automatically directed to a third-party plan reviewer; therefore, the applicant must upload the third-party approved plans and documents. If the permit was applied for through Momentum, the third-party plan reviewers will review the case online, so there is no need to have the plans and documents approved ahead of time by the third-party reviewer and separately uploaded by the applicant.
All plans that require hydraulic calculations must verify all water supplies. All new buildings and additions require that the water test be provided from Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC). Learn more information on the Automatic Sprinkler System page.
For momentum cases, all permits and job cards will be uploaded in Momentum. Please go to the case-related records option, then click the permit number starting with P (that is the permit number, not the case number). Once you’re on the P number, please go to "attachments" (second option from the bottom). The permit/job card should be there. If it is not, please contact DPIEcustomer2@co.pg.md.us.
After checking the case status from the ePlan report, you can follow the steps below:
- If the case is with the plan screening coordinator, fire distribution fire coordinator, contact the ePlan team at eplan@co.pg.md.us
- If the case is with the pre-screening or issuance, contact the Permitting Division at eplan@co.pg.md.us.
- If the case is with the third-party reviewer, contact the selected third-party plan reviewer directly.
- If the case is in the fire completeness stage, check "fire," and contact the Fire & Life Safety Section engineer listed on the report.
- If you have an issue with the Momentum system, contact DPIEcustomer2@co.pg.md.us.
Fire Transport Billing (Fire/EMS)
The program is scheduled for implementation on July 1, 2008.
Flood Management (Environment)
FEMA publishes Flood Insurance Rate Maps, which show the flood hazard areas in communities. The Flood Insurance Rate Map for the county is on file with the Department of the Environment (DoE) and many insurance companies. In addition to the Flood Insurance Rate Map, DoE has done a number of watershed studies covering most of Prince George's County. The Flood Insurance Rate Map and local floodplain maps can be viewed by the public at the DoE offices in Largo. In addition, local residents and business owners can call the Department of the Environment at (301) 883-5810 to request floodplain information about their particular property.
The Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is what is commonly referred to as the "100-year" floodplain. This is somewhat of a misnomer because it often leads people to believe that this is a flood that occurs only once in 100 years when in fact there might be two "100-year" floods within a month. The "100-year flood" is the name given to a flood that has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. In fact, over a 30-year mortgage, there is a 26% chance that a flood will occur to a home and only a 4% chance of a fire. For more information please visit our Flood Insurance page.
Property owners may not contest the requirement if the lending institution has established the requirement as part of its own standard lending practices. However, if a lending institution is requiring the insurance to meet mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the property owner and lender may jointly request that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) review the lending institution's determination. The FEMA review merely looks to see if the determination is accurate based upon a review of the NFIP maps and the location of the property in relation to the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
If a property owner is not satisfied with the results of this review, they may apply for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA), which is a more detailed look at the elevation of the structure on the property and the elevation of the floodplain as shown on the NFIP map. Please contact the Sustainability Division at (301) 883-5810 or ltennekoon@co.pg.md.us for additional information on the LOMA process.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) coverage is available to all owners of insurable property (a building and/or its contents) in a community participating in the NFIP. Owners and renters may insure their personal property against flood loss with "contents coverage."
For the answers to additional questions on flood insurance purchase requirements and flood zone determinations, visit the FEMA website.
For nearly every mortgage transaction in the United States that involves a structure, the lender reviews current National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) maps for the community in which the property is located. The NFIP map review is made to determine the location of the property in relation to the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). If the lender determines that the structure is indeed located within the SFHA and the community is participating in the NFIP, the borrower is notified that flood insurance will be required as a condition of receiving a loan.
These lender requirements are set forth in the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994. Stipulations of these legislative acts require the purchase of flood insurance by property owners who are being assisted by federal programs or by federally regulated institutions in the acquisition or improvement of land, or facilities, or structures located or to be located within an SFHA. For more information please visit our Flood Insurance page.
Floodplain (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Contact DPIE Site/Road Plan Review Division at 301-636-2060 and ask to speak with the floodplain engineer. Submit the "Floodplain Information Request Form" and the required fee.
Flue/Influenza (Health)
Influenza virus is spread when a person coughs or sneezes and the airborne droplets are inhaled by another person. However, the virus can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces, and then touching one's face. The best way to prevent the spread of the influenza virus is by practicing good personal hygiene and getting vaccinated yearly. Personal Hygiene Tips.
Influenza symptoms include: fever, headache, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and tiredness. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are more commonly seen in children.
A pandemic is a worldwide disease outbreak and can cause large numbers of fatalities. It can happen when a new virus strain emerges and humans have no immunity to it, meaning our bodies have no defense to the new germ. To date, there have been no cases of the Avian (bird flu) H5N1 virus in the United States, nor has there been a human transmission of the disease in a form that could fuel a pandemic.
Avian flu - commonly called the bird flu - is an infection and causes varied symptoms in birds. The H5N1 has killed birds in Europe, Asia and Africa.
Influenza, or flu, is a respiratory illness caused by a virus.
Food Scraps Composting (Environment)
No; cooking grease, fats, and oils are not accepted for composting. These items can be recycled at the County’s Household Hazardous Waste Acceptance Site at the Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill, Thursday through Saturday.
Eligible residents who currently receive curbside County trash AND recycling collection services will receive a composting starter kit with a 2-gallon kitchen pail, an exterior 32-gallon wheeled green cart, and educational materials.
Collect food scraps in the pail; empty the kitchen pail into the green cart for collection by 6 a.m. on Monday.
Do NOT place your pail at the curb. For detailed instructions, see the How to Compost Guide at mypgc.us/compost.
- Clean the green cart and pail regularly to reduce odors and avoid pests.
- Sprinkle baking soda in the cart and layer yard trim or uncoated paper loosely in the bottom to absorb excess moisture.
- Put compostable materials in the refrigerator or freezer before placing them in the green cart.
To report a missed Prince George’s County-provided compost collection, contact PGC311 (out of County: 301-883-4748). If your collection is completed by a municipality or directly between you and a hauling company, or arranged by your homeowners’ association or municipality, contact them directly.
The County’s program accepts additional types of food waste unsuitable for backyard composting. However, residents who currently compost at home are encouraged to continue.
Collecting compost at the curb will:
- Offer an additional weekly curbside collection service.
- Keep valuable materials out of our landfill.
- Reduce methane greenhouse gas emissions.
- Protect our environment.
- Help Prince George’s County reach our zero waste goals.
Acceptable items include:
- Non-food items like yard trim, uncoated paper products, and compostable cutlery.
- Food items like produce, cooked meats, bones, shells, dairy (no liquids), baked goods, tea, coffee grounds, and other food scraps.
Unacceptable items include:
- ANY plastic (including bags).
- Pet or human waste (including used facial tissues, baby wipes, kitty litter, or diapers).
For a complete list of acceptable and unacceptable materials, visit mypgc.us/compost.
- Compostable bags are available at stores and must be labeled as either “home compostable” or “commercially/industrially compostable.”
- Bags labeled biodegradable but not compostable are not accepted.
- View the list of acceptable compostable bags online at mypgc.us/compost.
All materials are transported to the Prince George’s County Organics Composting Facility for processing. Materials are placed in a bunker composting system where they decompose and are transformed into a nutrient-rich soil amendment marketed and sold in bulk as Leafgro GOLD®.
All organic materials are transported to the Prince George’s County Organics Composting Facility for processing. Materials are placed in a large pile where they decompose and are transformed into a rich soil amendment, marketed and sold in bulk as Leafgro GOLD®.
Grading (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Yes, a grading permit is required if you are grading more than 5,000 square feet of land or moving more than 100 cubic yards of soil. If you are grading in the public road rights-of-way, a street construction permit is required even if less than 5,000 square feet.
It takes approximately 3 months. Expedited processing is available if permittee hires peer reviewers. Visit DPIE's website for more information regarding the Peer Review Program.
Depending on the size of the project, the response time to County comments and status of approvals from other agencies (M-NCPPC, PGSCD) is approximately 5 months. Expedited processing is available if permittee hires peer reviewers. Visit DPIE's website for more information regarding the Peer Review Program.
This table identifies key approvals needed.
Phase | Prince George’s County DPIE | Prince George’s County SCD | Prince George’s County M-NCPPC | WSSC |
CONCEPTUAL |
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PERMITTING |
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|
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You may apply for a Building or Grading Permit at the ePermits Online Portal.
Health (Permitting, Inspections & Enforcement)
In most cases, zoning constraints and food regulations do not allow residential property to be used for the preparation and service of food for public consumption. However, there are a couple of exceptions:
• Preparation of “cottage foods” & their sale at farmers' markets and temporary events.
• Bed & Breakfast operation: defined as eight rooms or fewer for rent, is not required to have a food service permit if food is limited to only “continental breakfast.” Refer to COMAR 10.15.03.02(16)(a),(b),(c).
Note: This also will require a single-family rental license for your home, which can be obtained from our website.
Prior to any raze or demolition activity, a site inspection must be scheduled with the Health Department representative to determine the structure/property is free of asbestos-containing material (ACM) or other hazardous materials. The property will also be inspected for the presence of abandoned wells, septic tanks, and underground storage. Contact our field inspector at 301-636-2070 for additional information.
Complete the Plan Review Application and upload the drawings for Food Facilities, Remodels, Equipment Evaluations, Raze, and Septic Applications using the ePermits Online Portal.
Our staff strives to complete an initial review with written comments sent out to the applicant within ten business days and a resubmittal review within five business days.
Our commitment is to schedule inspections to meet the needs of our clients and within the constraints of our workload within five business days. The plan reviewer who reviewed/approved your food, swimming pool/spa, well or onsite sewage disposal plans will be your on-site inspector.
Refer to our plan design guides for food, public swimming pools/spas, and for sewage disposal systems at Health Forms.
Health Plan Review (Health)
In most cases, zoning constraints and food regulations do not allow a residential property to be used for the preparation and service of food for public consumption. Learn more on our Home Food Service page.
After receiving a property raze inspection by contacting our field inspector at 301-883-7624, bring your utility cut-off confirmation statements (gas, electric, water) to the Permits section of DPIE and complete a raze permit application. The permit will be issued during your visit. For more information, contact our Field Inspector.
Our staff strives to complete an initial review with written comments sent out to the applicant within 10 business days and a resubmittal review within five business days.
Our commitment is to schedule inspections to meet the needs of our clients and within the constraints of our work load. Normally, that would be within five business days. The plan reviewer who reviewed/approved your food or swimming pool plans will be your on-site inspector. Sewage disposal system installation inspections are made by our field inspector who can be reached at 301-883-7624.
Refer to our plan design guides for food and for sewage disposal systems online.
Inspections (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
The County investigates new home claims (homes one year old or less) of sub-standard construction. Please enter a service request under Property Damage Inspection and include specific concerns regarding the homeowner's claim, as well as the builder's name and contact information if known.
Construction noise is permitted daily from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Noise that can be heard within fifty (50) feet, or in a residence outside of these hours should be reported to the Police Department. Call the non-emergency number at (301) 352-1200. This will allow for an immediate response and investigation.
If the area is an active construction site, please report the issue to the Police Department. Call the non-emergency number at 301-352-1200 for an immediate response. If the area is not an active construction site, please enter a service request under Construction Issues.
Building permits expire after six (6) months of construction inactivity and/or no scheduled inspections. To report an abandoned construction project, enter a service request under Construction Issues.
Mud, dust or run-off from construction sites, due to truck traffic or other means, should be reported to the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement's Inspections Division. Please enter a service request under Construction Issues and include the name of the development as well as the intersecting streets.
You can schedule an inspection by calling the Automated Inspection Request and Information System (AIRIS) Line at 301-755-9000, between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Job Opportunities (Police)
To obtain information on all County positions for which applications are currently being accepted, including the position of Police Officer, visit the Prince George's County Employment page . Employment Page
The starting salary for an entry level police officer is $47,076. Experienced police officers, with up to 8 years of service, may be paid at a slightly higher rate.
Jobs First (Central Services)
No, all projects in Prince Georges County will have to abide by the new law, including development procurements.
OIT will be analyzing the GEAC System.
51% or greater of the company’s assets or revenue have to be generated within Prince Georges County.
The marketing will be increased and spread via posters and announcements throughout the library system, schools and town halls meetings.
The Purchasing Agent (or designee) will determine whether or not the business has met its “best efforts” pending a review of a written submission from the business. The written submission should explain how the business tried to meet the requirements of the new law and reasons why the requirements were not met.
The new law that has been created for the purpose of enhancing the County’s economic development. CB-17-2011 “Jobs First Act” creates bidding preferences and participation requirements for County-based businesses and County-based small businesses on certain procurement contracts for goods and services with the County.
All certifications must be renewed annually; SD3 will conduct site visits and interviews; reviewing financial documents will be a routine process; other procedures are to be determined.
The overall goal of CB-17-2011 “Jobs First Act” is to help all local business to be able to stimulate economic growth within Prince Georges County.
CB-17-2011 “Jobs First Act” is effective as of July 1, 2013.
The CB-17-2011 “Jobs First Act” is going to benefit both businesses and residents in Prince George’s County. County-based, County-based small, local MBE’s and out-of-county MBE’s will benefit mainly from increased bonus factors. Residents will benefit mainly from the increase in jobs via the First Source Registry to be maintained by the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s Workforce Services Division.
Land Acquisition & Real Property (Central Services)
County property is not sold for assessed value. The process for setting a minimum sale price is as follows:
- When no purchaser is specifically identified, the County Executive may sell the property to the highest bidder at a public sale
- Prior to the public sale the County Executive and the County Council must agree on a minimum sale price for any County property being sold
- Customarily the minimum sale price is set at fair market value
- Fair market value is determined by appraisal and
- The price set must comply with Subsections 2-111.01(b) and (c) of the Prince George’s County Code.
The County Executive may propose a plan to dispose of County property through sale, lease, or other conveyance to public or private parties to promote a specific public purpose. The public purposes for which County property may be transferred are limited to the following:
- Elderly housing
- Affordable family housing
- Transportation
- Not-for-profit sport and recreational uses
- Day care centers for children or adults
The County Council must approve the plan by resolution before the property can be transferred.??
No, All land to be disposed via public sale has no structures or improvements and is being offered and shall be sold “as-is”, “where is” and “with all faults” and Prince George’s County nor the Office of Central Services shall make no warranties or representations, expressed or implied.
The success of any development project hinges on the inclusion and support of the local community. Respondent is strongly encouraged to work with stakeholder and local community groups and area residents to understand how the community’s goals can be met in their Expression of Interest.
Submissions should consider and incorporate stakeholder and community preferences, to the extent feasible and practical.
To obtain a copy of a deed, you must contact Land Records for Prince George’s County. The help desk phone number is 301-780-2253.
County-owned property is surplussed via executive order or surplus resolution. Certain factors such as lot size, whether the lot can be built upon and specific use will determine whether an executive order or surplus resolution will be used to surplus the property. Please refer to Section 2-111.01 of the Prince George’s County Code for more information.
The County is required to conduct surplus property sales at least once per year. There are instances where more than one sale is conducted.
Include in Expression of Interest BID:
- Review Fair Market Value Appraisal which can be found on the OCS website
- Populate the Short or Long Form which can be found on the OCS website
- Any additional project documents or addendums
- Include a ten percent (10%) earnest money deposit in the form of cashier’s check, wire transfer or bank issued certified check payable to Prince George’s County, Maryland (Earnest money of all unsuccessful bidders shall be returned immediately upon the completion of the bid evaluation and acceptance by the County)
Appendices
Affidavit of Non conflict Form
PDF Electronic Signature Agreement
Editable Corporate Acknowledgement Form
The County conducts tax sales the second Monday of May each year. This year’s tax sale will be held on May 12, 2008. For more information, contact the Office of Finance/Treasury Division at 301-952-4030 or 301-952-4252.
To get a County-owned property cleaned, please complete the Request for Clean Lot Services form and fax it to the Office of Central Services at 301-883-6464. Download the form online (PDF).
Landlord Portal (Housing Authority)
The Housing Authority sent emails and letters to all current landlords on 7/24/2020 informing them of their registration codes. If you did not receive one, please email us at harentcafe@co.pg.md.us.
Before a Landlord can register for the Portal, they need to have a Registration Code. If you already have a Registration Code, follow these steps to register:
- Go to https://www.hapgcmd.org
- Click on Landlord Login
- Click on Click here to register
- Enter your Registration Code and click Go
- Complete all fields on the Registration Page and click the Register button
- If successful, a Registration Successful message appears.
No, please wait until you’ve signed a HAP contract with the Housing Authority to register for the Landlord Portal.
The Landlord Portal is a website dedicated to providing our current Landlords with up to date information.
Landlords can use the Portal to:
- Review and update contact information
- View payment transactions
- View unit information
- View inspection results
- View the caseworker’s information
- View holds and abatements
- Review and update Direct Deposit information
Landlords (Housing Authority)
Rental Licenses are issued by Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE)
To list a property to rent, submit this online form.
Contact your Rental Specialist in the Rental Assistance Office at 301- 883-5501 and verify that a check was issued to you for the month in question. If, after 10 business days from the 1st of the month you have not received your check, notify Accounts payable, in writing, that your check was not received. Your correspondence must be signed and dated. Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable office can then issue a stop payment on the check and reissue the check, once confirmation from the bank is received.
Submit the change of address in writing to Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable Office. The notification must be signed by the payee(s) indicated on the check.
Contact your Rental Specialist in the Rental Assistance Office at 301-883-5501 to determine if a change of income or an adjustment for your tenant is the reason for the changed amount. If the Rental Assistance Office cannot determine a reason for the change, contact Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable Office at 301-883-5546.
FAS is a division within the Housing Authority of Prince George’s County and stands for "Financial and Administrative Services”. FAS is located at:
Housing Authority of Prince George’s County
Attn: FAS
9200 Basil Court
Largo, MD 20774
Phone: 301-883-5546
Fax: 301-883-5427
As required by the IRS, all landlords will receive their 1099's by January 31st for the previous calendar year. If the 31st falls on a weekend, you should receive it no later than the first business day in February. The 1099 indicates all amounts paid to you during the calendar year. Questions should be referred to Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable.
Monthly Housing Assistance checks are mailed on the first business day of the month.
The W-9 is a tax information form used by the Housing Authority to report to the IRS all monies paid to the landlords using your tax ID number.
Licensing Center (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Prince George’s County Licensing Center does not issue licenses for Commercial Contractors. Please contact the State of Maryland, Clerk of the Circuit Court at 301-952-3331.
Limited Master Electrician licenses are applied for online in Momentum Licensing. Go down the list to the "Master Electrician - Limited" entry to create a profile to start your application. Please email dpiebusinesslicenses@co.pg.md.us for step-by-step instructions on how to submit your application.
Applications for food truck permits are submitted online in Momentum. Go down the list and click on the "Special Food Service Facility – Mobile Food Truck," where you will start a profile as part of your application. Please contact the Health Department, Food Protection Program at 301-883-7690 or via email at foodprotectionprogram@co.pg.md.us for assistance.
Prince George’s County Business Licenses are applied for online in Momentum. To view the types of Business Licenses issued by our office, click Business Licenses. Please email dpiebusinesslicenses@co.pg.md.us if you have additional questions.
Rental licenses are applied for online in Momentum. Please contact the Enforcement Division at 301-883-6168 or email at dpierentallicenses@co.pg.md.us for additional assistance.
Prince George’s County Licensing Center does not issue Traders Licenses. Please contact the State of Maryland, Clerk of the Circuit Court at 301-952-3331 for assistance.
To obtain information on applying for a U&O Permit, access DPIE's Use and Occupancy Permit page.
Only a Master Electrician licensed by the State of Maryland can apply for Electrical Permits. Please visit DPIE's website and follow the steps to obtain access to apply for online Electrical Permits here.
Please click on the following link and follow the process to obtain access to apply for online Mechanical Permits.
To register your business, please contact the State of Maryland, Department of Assessments & Taxation.
Prince George’s County Licensing Center only issues licenses for certain types of businesses. To view the types of Business Licenses issued by our office, click Business Licenses. If the type of license you need is not on the list, we recommend that you contact the State of Maryland, Clerk of the Circuit Court to determine if you would be required to obtain a business license from their agency. Their telephone number is 301-952-3331 or you can click to access the State of Maryland Business Licenses website.
If you have recently renewed your State of Maryland Master HVACR license, please send a copy of the current license to onlinemechanicalpermits@co.pg.md.us so that we can update your profile.
If you have recently renewed your State of Maryland Master Electrician’s license, please send a copy of the current license to onlineelectricalpermits@co.pg.md.us so that we can update your profile.
Maintenance of Tantallon Infrastructure (DPW&T/CEX)
The State operates three (3) air monitoring stations in the County. The nearest monitoring station (to the Ft. Washington) area is at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro.
DPW&T has Pavement Assessment Management System (PAMS) to evaluate asphalt condition. PAMS is based on a pavement condition index (PCI) rating, which is measured from 0 to 100 (worst to excellent).
Beyond standard pavement mill and overlay treatments, DPW&T utilizes pavement preservation techniques to extend the life of pavement, such as crack sealing, base pavement repair and a variety of slurry seal coat and micro surfacing applications.
Currently, DPW&T plans and programs stormwater infrastructure projects based upon the severity of localized flooding issues.
The County has not calculated the annual rate of change of impervious increase in the County. The County has not compared the impervious rate change from other counties. Impervious rates of change amongst counties would be dependent on the new and redevelopment projects conducted annually. This information is not readily available.
The remaining service life on roadway pavements varies significantly. Please see the PAMS web-map for the entire County. This application provides the assessed pavement condition on each section of County-maintained roadway in the Tantallon neighborhood. Click on this link to access: https://princegeorges.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b94b91ba595148edac49ae294926d61c
Measles (Health)
Yes, a first dose of Measles (MMR) vaccine should be given at 12-15 months of age with a second dose at school entry (4-6 years). Please visit the Measles Prevention page for information about going abroad or high risk adults. Measles Prevention
Contact the Prince George’s County Health Department Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 301- 583-3750 or 240-508-5774 (after hours, holidays, and weekends) or your physician. Keep away from others. A person can spread measles from 4 days before to up to 4 days after the rash develops. If you must seek medical care, call ahead and let them know you think you may have measles.
Find a list of people who are considered immune. Who Is Immune to Measles
There is no specific treatment for Measles. Contact your medical provider. Fluids and good nutrition should be consumed. Antibiotics may be prescribed for treating eye or ear infections related to the illness.?
The symptoms of measles generally appear about 7 to 14 days after a person is ????infected. View the Signs of Measles page to find a list of things to look for. Signs of Measles
Mechanical Section (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
No. Only a State Licensed Professional Engineer (Mechanical) can seal and sign mechanical drawings.
No, all boiler permits must be handled by the State of Maryland by calling 410-767-2330.
Yes, you will need both permit types.
Yes, you will need a mechanical permit.
Yes, you will need a mechanical permit.
If the air distribution system is greater than 2,000 CFM then yes, you need smoke detectors on both supply and return air ducts.
No, only original stamped and sealed drawings with the Principal Engineer's professional certification statement will be accepted.
The current Mechanical Code -- IMC-2015, and Energy Code -- IECC-2015 OR ASHRAE 90.1.
Please refer to the 2015 IMC.
The fee is 1% of the cost of mechanical work (labor and materials) or $65, whichever is higher, plus a 5% technology fee.
A mechanical permit is required to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace a mechanical heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning system, the installation of which is regulated by the International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), or the International Residential Code (IRC), as appropriate. These pieces of equipment include, but are not limited to furnaces, heat pumps, air-conditioning units, range hoods, cooling towers, chillers, fuel-oil tanks and piping systems, and boilers.
You can view your permit status
Anyone applying for a mechanical permit will need a HVAC contractor’s license.
Mentor Protege (Central Services)
Yes, following notification of application approval and engagement of the mentor protégé relationship, the Mentor and Protégé must enter into the Mentor Protégé Team Agreement and Business Plan
(Agreement) to formalize the relationship and agree to form a team for the duration of the Protégé’s participation in the Program. The Agreement template is available on the Office of Central Services
Business Highway website @ pgcbusinesshighway.com.
The Mentor Protégé Committee will review applications seeking to participate in the Mentor Protégé Program. After the review, approved Mentors and approved Protégés will be notified and the firm’s information with NAICS Code(s) will be listed on the Business Highway website to encourage development of a Mentor Protégé relationship. The Mentor or the Protégé will communicate their interest in forming the Mentor Protégé relationship that will benefit both firms. Vendors (mentors and protégés) may also form a relationship then submit their applications to the County for approval and enrollment in the program.
At this time, the program’s efforts are focused on the businesses that are certified with the Prince George’s County Office of Central Services Supplier Development and Diversity Division. Apply for certification
While there is no training available for this program, the program serves as a training opportunity for both the Mentor and Protégé. The Program’s objective is to improve the Protégé’s ability over time to successfully compete for contracting opportunities at the prime level.
Yes. The agreement between the Mentor and Protégé may be terminated before the expiration of the two-year agreement. However, if the Mentor is awarded a contract under the Mentor-Protégé Program, the Protégé must complete the subcontracting obligation under the contract. The Mentor Protégé Program Procedures provide additional information regarding the program and may be found on the OCS Business Highway website.
The Mentor Protégé Committee will conduct the application review process within 14 business days from receiving an application.
No.
County solicitation having a potential Mentor Protégé Program requirement are posted online at The Business Highway on the Mentor Protégé tab under "Opportunities" at pgcbusinesshighway.com.
Monkeypox (Health)
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
- Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
- Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
- Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used.
- Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.
- Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close contact or skin-to-contact.
- Through direct contact with monkeypox rash, sores, or scabs
- Transmission can happen if you touch objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox.
- Through saliva or droplets from the nose or mouth from a person with monkeypox.
- Transmission can happen during sexual contact. That includes oral, anal, and vaginal sex, or touching the genitals or anus of a person with monkeypox.
- Transmission may also happen during prolonged hugging, massaging, kissing, and talking closely.
No, CDC does not recommend widespread vaccination against monkeypox at this time. During this outbreak, sexually active people are not considered to be at risk for monkeypox unless their sexual partners have monkeypox or they have had multiple sexual partners within the past 14 days.
People can get monkeypox if they have close, skin-to-skin contact with someone who has monkeypox. Early indications are that events with activities in which people engage in close, sustained skin-to-skin contact have resulted in cases of monkeypox. If you plan to attend an event, consider how much close, personal, skin-to-skin contact is likely to occur there.
Symptoms of monkeypox can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches and backache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
- A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appear on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus.
- The rash goes through different stages before healing completely. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash.
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. The monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as the variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal.
There are no treatments specifically for Monkeypox virus infections.
Visit the Health Department’s Monkeypox dedicated webpage at: Health.mypgc.us/monkeypox
CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who may be more likely to get monkeypox, including:
- People who have been identified by public health officials as in contact with someone with monkeypox
- People who know one of their sexual partners in the past 2 weeks have been diagnosed with monkeypox
- People who had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known monkeypox cases
MPIA (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
The custodian may charge reasonable fees for the search and preparation of records
for inspection and copying. The first two hours of search time is free, however, any additional time is subject to fees.
DPIE will provide an estimate the costs associated with the request. However, the department is not bound by the estimate and may charge fees which exceed the estimate. The estimate is a rough calculation of the cost; it is meant to give the requestor guidance on what fees to anticipate. The actual cost may be higher or lower than the estimate. The requester will be provided with justification for the fees.
Not at this time. Generally, DPIE's files are site-specific, and a complete street address is needed to process requests for records.
Copies of records will be provided in the form or format requested, only if the records are readily reproducible in that form or format. However, there are charges associated with obtaining copies of records. Currently, the first two hours of search and preparation for requested records are free. Duplication fees are charged according to DPIE's fee schedule.
Note: the fees contained in the link do not include fees associated with search and review time
Please view DPIE's Fee Schedule.
The MPIA provides for access to most agency records. There are certain records that may fall within one of the exemptions in State law that allows the agency to withhold documents and redact information from documents.
If you are denied access to any DPIE records, you will be notified as to the specific statutory provisions for each exemption and for challenging the denial procedures.
Municipalities (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Municipalities are shown on PGATLAS. Once you are on the page, select "Map Layers" (the last icon on the right). View the list of choices, then click on the drop-down menu by "Administrative" Layer; next, move the slider down on the right to view and click on the "Municipal Boundary" layer.
There is a matrix posted on the DPIE website that identifies what types of permits you need from Prince George’s County and various municipalities for projects located in municipalities.
National Capital Region Wireless Emergency Alert Testing (Homeland Security)
According to the FCC, consumers with prepaid
phones can receive WEAs as long as their provider has decided to participate in
WEA and the customer has a WEA-enabled device. These consumers receive the alerts
just as customers with paid, monthly service do.
No, if a
person’s WEA-enabled cell phone or mobile device is located in the target
location, an alert will be received. A person does not sign up to receive a WEA
alert.
No. A WEA
message is broadcast from area carrier towers to mobile devices in the area.
Every WEA-capable phone within range receives the message, just like emergency
weather alerts you see on local TV. WEA, like the TV station, doesn't know who
is tuned in.
Authorized
officials select the coverage area(s) which best match the location of an
emergency. All WEA-enabled mobile devices in the target location can receive
the alert, even if they are roaming or visiting from another state. In other
words, a customer visiting from Richmond or Detroit would receive alerts in Washington,
D.C., as long as he/she has a WEA-enabled mobile device in the alert zone.
The public
does not sign up to receive a WEA message; it is automatically deployed through
the jurisdiction’s WEA system.
Authorized
national, state or local government authorities may send alerts regarding
public safety emergencies – such as evacuation orders or shelter-in-place
orders due to severe weather, a terrorist threat or chemical spill – using WEA.
The alerts from authenticated public safety officials are sent through FEMA's
Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to participating wireless
carriers, which then push the alerts to cell phones and enabled mobile devices
in the affected area.
When the WEA program
launched, participating wireless providers were generally required to send the
alerts to a geographic area no larger than the county or counties affected by
the emergency situation. As of November 2017, all participating wireless
providers are required to transmit alerts to a geographic area that best
approximates the area affected by the emergency situation, even if it is
smaller than a county. Beginning November 30, 2019, participating wireless
providers must improve geo-targeting of alerts even further.
WEA includes
a special tone (some describe it as quite loud) and a vibration, both repeated
twice. A text message also appears on the mobile device.
WEA is one of the many ways emergency officials
will communicate with you during an emergency. Other sources include NOAA
Weather Radio, news broadcasts, the Emergency Alert System on radio and TV.
Local government
emergency managers need to hear from the public about the test. At the
conclusion of the test, a survey link will be distributed within participating
jurisdictions. Individuals will be asked to complete a web based survey to
share experiences regarding the WEA test. The survey will close on Friday,
April 13.
There are
numerous reasons a person may not receive the WEA test:
1)
Some
participating carriers may offer WEA on some, but not all, of their mobile
devices. Consumers should check with their wireless carriers to find out if
their cell phone is WEA-capable.
2)
When
the test is deployed, a person is taking a call on their cell phone.
3)
If apps are running, you may not receive the audible alert.
4)
Participation
in WEA by wireless carriers is widespread but voluntary. Some carriers may
offer WEA over all or parts of their service areas or over all or only some of
their wireless devices. Other carriers may not offer WEA at all. Even if you
have WEA-enabled device, you would not receive WEAs in a service area where the
provider is not offering WEA or if your device is roaming on a provider network
that does not support the WEA service. Consumers should check with their
wireless carriers to determine the extent to which they are offering WEA.
5)
It’s
possible you may have turned off the WEA notification on your cell phone. To
determine if the alert is on or off, you could try (based on the version of
your phone):
iPhone* |
Android* |
· Launch the Settings app on your iPhone. Tap on Notification Center and scroll all the way to the bottom. Under the Government Alerts section, toggle the AMBER Alerts or Government Alerts option on or off to enable or disable them. · |
To review status, go to Settings, click on the More option under the Wireless & Networks section, and scroll down to the Cell Broadcasts settings. Once opened, you will be able to see if disable extreme threats, severe threats, and Amber Alerts are selected. |
*This depends on the version of a
person’s phone. Older versions of phones will have different paths to settings.
Cell phones
from major manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung and LF receive WEA regardless
of where the device was purchased. This is possible because WEA are broadcast
from area carrier towers to mobile devices in the area.
In the event widespread severe weather or other
significant event occurs on April 5, the back-up date for the test is Monday,
April 9, between 10-11 a.m., the WEA subcommittee
chair, is hosting a call on Thursday, April 5, at 9 a.m. for the jurisdiction
administrators of the WEA system to give the green light for the test –
Public Information Officers/Communication officials should connect with your WEA administrator to
learn the outcome of this April 5 conference call.
WEA is a short
text message designed to capture your attention – emergency officials currently
only have 90 characters for the message. Messages sent (via telephone call,
text message, or email) through Alert Prince George's often include more
in-depth details about a critical event.
“This is a
test of the Prince George's County Emergency Alert System. No action required.”
WEA (Wireless Emergency Alerts) is a
public safety system allowing people who use cell phones and other mobile
devices to receive geographically-targeted, text-like messages about threats to
safety in their area.
There are
three types of messages sent through WEA: extreme weather and other threatening
emergencies in an area, AMBER alerts, and Presidential alerts during a national
emergency.
The National
Capital Region’s Emergency Managers Council of Governments is conducting the
country’s first live, geo-targeting exercise of WEA of this magnitude -
approximately 5.2 million residents and visitors will be in the test area. Each
jurisdiction is notifying public safety, law enforcement, private/public
sectors partners, public transit officials and the public.
Twenty jurisdictions in the National Capital Region are conducting a simultaneous regional Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system test on Thursday, April 5, 2018, between 10 – 11 a.m. Jurisdictions participating in the WEA test include: City of Alexandria, City of Bowie, City of College Park, City of Fairfax, City of Falls Church, City of Gaithersburg, City of Greenbelt, City of Takoma Park, City of Manassas, City of Manassas Park, City of Rockville, District of Columbia, Arlington County, Charles County, Fairfax County, Frederick County, Loudoun County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County and Prince William County.
Each
jurisdiction participating in the exercise will draw their geo-targeted map. We
are 100 percent certain cell phone or enabled mobile devices located outside,
but near, our jurisdiction will receive the WEA alert because this technology
uses carrier towers. Closer to rural areas, bleed over may be significant (up
to five miles) and in densely populated areas, it’s less (up to one mile). Officials
take issuing a WEA seriously – so if you receive a WEA, follow the protective
actions and immediately turn to local news for more details. During an actual
emergency officials are committed to providing critical life-saving
information; therefore, there is no exclusivity to this responsibility. We want
to ensure the safety of the public which means we will communicate as much as
possible in as many ways as possible.
No. Towards the end of 2017, emergency management officials determined exercising the coordination and deployment of a coordinated, regional WEA was needed to ensure the public receives the right information, at the right time, to make the right decisions during an actual emergency.
Periodic
testing of public alert and warning systems assesses the system and identifies
any needed improvements. Public safety officials
need to be sure in times of an emergency or disaster, they have reliable
methods and systems that will deliver urgent alerts and warnings to the public.
Conducting a regional test supports the continued use, training, and
improvement of the WEA system.
It is very
likely based on a person’s location between 10-11 a.m. on Thursday, April 5,
that he/she will receive multiple WEA messages. For example, a person attends a
coffee meeting at 10:00 a.m. in Alexandria, at 10:30 a.m. drives to Arlington
and 11:00 a.m. heads to D.C. for another meeting. As a person navigates around
the NCR during 10-11 a.m., they will receive multiple messages.
No. This
service is offered for free.
Once-a-Week Collection (Environment)
Prince George’s County joins the City of Baltimore, the District of Columbia, Anne Arundel, Howard, Fairfax and Montgomery County, as well as several municipalities in making the switch to once-a-week trash collection.
In 2007, the County made a significant commitment to increasing recycling. After implementation, the County found that many residents do not use the second pickup collection service as they once had. As a result, the County’s household recycling rate has risen to nearly 60 percent, the highest in Maryland, dramatically reducing the amount of trash diverted to the landfill. Some of the benefits of this change include:
Residents receiving County-contracted trash collection get a free cart and may use existing receptacles to handle all household trash;
Promotes higher service efficiencies to increase customer service satisfaction;
Stops wasting taxpayer money for pickups that don’t get used;
Saves the County $6 million every year;
Expands opportunity for new and existing County-based, small and minority-owned businesses;
Stabilizes future solid waste rates; and diverts landfill waste.
Participating in PreventionLink (Health)
You are eligible if you:
- Are 18 years or older.
- Are a Maryland resident living in Prince George's, St. Mary's, Charles, or Calvert counties.
- Have a diagnosis of diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension (high blood pressure) or have prediabetes or are at risk for heart disease.
- Have received a referral from your primary care physician.
PreventionLink services are generally free for residents of Southern Maryland.
The Cardiac Rehabilitation and Telehealth Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support programs may require a small copay, depending on your insurance Contact us for more details.
Speak with your primary care physician or call us at 301-883-7220, or email PreventionLink@co.pg.md.us
If you qualify for PreventionLink, you may be able to work with a community health worker, who can link you to resources for transportation assistance to access the PreventionLink services. You may also have the option to participate in online classes to manage your diabetes, prediabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
The PreventionLink program can act as a useful addition to your existing care, working directly with your primary care physician to help you get better control of your health.
PreventionLink can help link you to the resources you need to improve your health.
Whether your goal is to improve your blood sugar level or blood pressure, lose weight, eat better, or be more active, PreventionLink can bring you one step closer to your personal health objectives.
To ensure that you derive all benefits from our programs, we ask…
- that you are willing to work with your primary care physician and attend PreventionLink classes to get better control of your health,
- agree to participate in PreventionLink services for one year,
- follow through on referrals to community resources, and
- answer questions to help improve PreventionLink services.
Pensions & Investments (Human Resources Management)
Currently all the pension plans offered by the County require five years of actual and continuous service as a participant to be eligible for vested benefits. A vested benefit will begin at what would have been the employee's normal retirement date.
No, this is viewed as a pension fund, not a savings account by the IRS. You cannot withdraw any portion of your contributions unless there is an extreme hardship that you could not have foreseen, could not have planned for, and is not covered by insurance.
Yes, if you have your previous employer complete a transfer authorization and elect a County provider.
The maximum that can be deferred yearly is $15,000 for calendar year 2006 or 100% of salary, whichever is lower. The minimum amount which can be deferred biweekly is $10.
All employees enrolled in the County pension plans are required to make biweekly contributions (based on a percentage of salary) to the Plans in accordance with their designated salary plans. Employees enrolled in the Maryland State Pension Plan contribute only once their salary exceeds the Social Security Wage Base ($94,000 in 2006).
The plan offered by the County is administered under the Section 457 of the Internal Revenue Code which is provided exclusively for State and Government employees. Unlike a 401K plan the County does not match the employee contributions. Although the 457 plans are without loan provisions, there are no imposed penalties for money withdrawn by employees prior to age 59½ upon separation of employment.
Yes, the County offers a 457 Deferred Compensation Plan to all permanent employees. This allows employees to save money voluntarily on a tax-deferred basis. Over 60% of eligible County employees participate in this Program.
There are several different types of defined benefit retirement programs offered depending on the position the employee holds. Public safety employees have pension plans that are administered solely by the County. Police officers and firefighters have a defined benefit plan that allows them to retire after 20 years of service; correctional officers can retire after 20 years of service and deputy sheriffs can retire after 20 years of service. Other County employees are enrolled in the State of Maryland's Non-contributory Pension System as well as the Prince George's County Supplemental Pension Plans and may retire after 30 years of service or age 62 with at least 5 years of service. For more detailed information, please refer to the specific Pension Plan document and Summary Plan Description.
Permit Inspection (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Call 301-755-9000 to schedule an inspection. To reach the Inspections Division, call 301-636-2080.
Permitting, Inspections & Enforcement
Operating an auto repair business from a residential property is illegal under the County's Zoning Ordinance. Once illegal repair activity has been verified, a violation notice will be issued to the responsible party ordering the activity to cease within 30 days or be subject to legal action and/or fines. To report such activity, contact PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Use ePermits online portal and enter all requested information into the system. Once all the information is entered, including the case name/type and all other applicable information is filled out, the case will be sent to processing. Once processed, you will receive an email from a supervisor in the Permit Center stating that you are ready to proceed with your case.
A rental license is required to rent a single-family dwelling. Visit DPIE's Code Enforcement page on rental licenses for more information or send an email to dpierentallicenses@co.pg.md.us for questions. Apply for a rental license on DPIE's Momentum online services.
Visit DPIE's Permit page on our website for information, including documentation to include with your permit application. The telephone number for the Permit Information Line is 301-883-5776. Permit fees are determined upon approval.
For walk-through permits, the process can take up to an entire day depending upon the number of applications received and how busy the Permit staff is. Permits are processed electronically in the order they are received.
Only one wrecked, dismantled, inoperable or unlicensed vehicle may be kept on private property, and it must be stored in a wholly enclosed garage. To report a violation of this nature contact PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Yes, you may build your own house. Visit DPIE's Permit page on our website for information to help you get started. The telephone number to the Permit Information Line is 301-883-5776.
If the grass is higher than 12 inches, this Code violation should be reported to PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
If problems occur on existing roadways or on subdivision roadways under construction, DPIE has the responsibility to maintain the existing roadways and also has the authority to require a developer to remedy the problem in subdivision roadways that are under construction. Please call our dispatcher at 301-324-2710 with a good description of the location.
Fees associated with each type of permit vary and can be found on DPIE's Fee Schedule located on our website's Permitting Bonds and Fees page.
Depending on the type of permit, you are required to have site plans and building plans to upload into the online system. For a U&O and cases that do not need building plans, you still are required to have site plans. For more information visit DPIE's website Permits page. Here, you will find descriptions and requirements for each type of permit.
You can schedule an inspection by calling the County’s Interactive Voice Response system (IVR) at 301-755-9000, between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Site/Road issues many permits including the following:
- Site Development Concept Plan
- Street Grade Establishment Plan
- Site Development Rough Grading Permit
- Site Development Fine Grading Permit
- Street Construction Permit
- Residential Driveway Permit
- Haul Road/Timber Harvesting Permit
- Oversized Overweight Vehicle Permit
- Special Permit
- Special Drain Permit
- 100-Year Floodplain Study
- Special Utility Permit
- Small Wireless Antennas and Facilities in the Right-of-Way
For more information, Site/Road Permits on DPIE's website.
All building permit applications are processed through the ePermits Online Portal. For questions, contact the Permit Information Line at (301) 883-5776.
You should contact Property Maintenance via PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County. Once a violation notice is issued, the property owner has 10 days to clean the property before the County takes action to have the lot cleaned at the owner's expense.
Apartment repair requests should be directed to the owner or manager of the property. If repairs are not completed within a reasonable period of time, contact PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Any person(s) planning to develop a property, or perform work within the public right-of-way (limits of the roadway area) or on-site (private property) that may have an impact on the public right-of-way. A permit is needed to ensure that adequate and safe roads are constructed and/or maintained in connection with the development of properties.
PG311 (Community Relations)
- All Public Safety Emergencies are handled by 911.
- Police Non-Emergencies call 301-352-1200 or see their website.
You may still call a department directly. However, numerous government numbers that were called in the past may be re-routed to the 311 Call Center.
The Call Center Representative will either provide you with the information you requested, or send a service request to the appropriate department on your behalf.
• You will be given a service case request number and you may track the progress of your request online or through a follow-up phone call.
• Call Center Representatives may also check the status of a service request, but the task of ensuring that a service request is resolved will be the responsibility of the department handling your request.
The Call Center Representative will either provide you with the information you requested, or send a service request to the appropriate department on your behalf. You will be given a service case request number and you may track the progress of your request online or through a follow-up phone call. Call Center Representatives may also check the status of a service request, but the task of ensuring that a service request is resolved will be the responsibility of the department handling your request
You will still be able to call 311. However, you may be directed to call your local municipal government office if your request for service falls under their jurisdiction.
- PGC311 is a one-stop call center that residents may call to get answers to questions and receive assistance with resolving non-emergency issues. This system makes it easier to reach county departments/services and greatly expands information available online. 311 allows citizens to have a quick, easy-to-remember, single point of access for non-emergency government information and services.
- PGC311 Call Center is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.Online access is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.PGC311.com.
- If you are calling outside of Prince George’s County, call (301) 883-4748 from 7am to 7pm
- We also support all county emergency response efforts including severe weather, public health and public safety events.
Yes, the 311 Call Center supports all county emergency response efforts including severe weather, public health and public safety events.
Yes, we have bilingual Call Center Representatives available for callers who speak Spanish. We also subscribe to a language interpretation service with over 100 languages.
No, you may provide comments or request information and services anonymously. The 311 Call Center Representative will collect only the information you provide.
Plans to Improve Tantallon Infrastructure (DPW&T/CEX)
Neither DoE nor PGCPS has readily available contractor and technical support for installation and monitoring services.
As part of the M-NCPPC Mandatory Review process (which occurs for all school projects), a traffic study was conducted and approved with recommendations set forth in the approval letter, including having a cross guard and possibly adding a signal light (to be determined by DPW&T) at each entrance of the school.
All communities that pre-date SWM regulations will benefit from any additional BMP’s.
Prince George’s County’s vision for stormwater management is multi-faceted and involves a long-term coordinated effort by County agencies, residents, the development community, and external government stakeholders.
Prince George’s County strives to mitigate immediate stormwater issues while holding public and private institutions accountable for meeting standards and specifications to which they have agreed to pursue development activities. Specifically, we envision a stronger effort to work with the development community prior to, during, and following construction activities to set achievable expectations and objectives.
DPW&T has met with contractors onsite to complete maintenance and upgrades of the existing systems.
The requirement is to replace the acres of trees/woodland removed with the same or more acres of trees/woodland. There is no open land at the Tantallon site to plant acres of new trees/woodland. Instead, we are preserving the equivalent acres of trees/woodland on the Noon property that would otherwise have been removed for development.
Police
No, reports are not written for all automobile accidents, and the police do not have to be called for all auto accidents. Under Maryland law accidents that involve non-disabling damage to the vehicles, and where there are no injuries, only require that the operators exchange insurance, driver's license, and auto registration information. The drivers of both vehicles then contact their personal insurance companies.
The Prince George's County Police does not have a "mailing list" to receive this information. Official Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics are compiled on a quarterly basis as the data becomes available. These are forwarded to the Maryland State Police, which is the central repository for this information. You can contact the Maryland State Police at 410-298-3883.
Contact the Community Services Division to request speakers. They can be reached by phone by calling 301-909-7126 or by email at Police_CSD@co.pg.md.us.
An accident reconstruction is completed for all fatal collisions investigated by the Prince George's County Police Department, and takes about six (6) weeks to complete. The fee for this report is $20.00. Payment is by money order or business check only.
Contact the Police Records Center Automated Request Line at (301) 985-3660. Copies of police reports can be obtained at a cost of $10.00 payable by business check or money order. No cash or personal checks are accepted. You can also mail requests with a self addressed, stamped envelope to the Police Records Center, 4923 43rd Avenue Hyattsville, Maryland 20781-2020. Please allow 2-4 weeks for the report to be delivered. Please provide names of persons involved, date, time, and the location of the incident. Also, if available, please provide the case number. Police reports cannot be obtained from the Police Records Center on a walk-in basis, only through the mail.
You must call the Police District Station that handles the area that you are interested in and ask to speak to someone in the Commander's Office. They will be able to provide you with Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics for the area in which you are interested. You can also ask to speak to a Community Oriented Policing Service (COPS) Officer who will be more familiar with the area. The COPS officer is supplied monthly with a listing of all calls for service. They are responsible for assisting you.
You can either telephone Communications at 301-352-1200, or call the Narcotics Enforcement Division at 301-883-6800. You can also call the District Station for the area in which the activity is occurring. Detailed information about the activities, the persons involved, vehicle descriptions (tag numbers, make, and model of car), hours when activity occurs, etc. will assist investigators. Results may not be seen immediately. Cases involving conspiracy or high level drug trafficking can be complicated and time consuming. Rest assured the department will work toward a resolution.
Call the Police Records Center at (301) 985-3662. There is a nominal charge for crime statistics for commercial interests. Fee information will be available when you call.
The program is called Community Oriented Policing Service (COPS), and it is a community based program that dedicates police officers to reducing crime and enhancing the quality of life in our neighborhoods. Contact the COPS program coordinator in the Community Services Division at 301-909-7126 for further information.
A vehicle release can be obtained at any Prince George's County Police Station. The information you will need is the title or registration for the vehicle, and a photo ID of yourself showing that you are the owner of the vehicle. If you are the owner of a vehicle involved in an accident, and are on the scene of the accident, with the proper identification (photo ID and the vehicle registration) you can obtain a vehicle release from the officer on the scene. If you are not the registered owner, you must present an original signed and notarized authorization from the owner granting you permission to obtain the release.
Prince George's County Police District Stations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Calls are dispatched on a priority basis - from the most serious to the least serious. Due to manpower fluctuations of the volume of calls, there are times when all of the patrol officers in service are busy handling other calls.
Post-Trial Rights of the Defendant (State's Attorney)
Once a defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty by way of a judge or jury trial, certain rights are guaranteed. These rights include an appeal, a motion to reconsider the sentence, and a review of sentence by a 3-judge panel.
In certain types of criminal cases, a defendant has ninety days from the date of sentencing to file a motion asking for a 3-judge panel to review the sentence that was imposed by the sentencing judge. The sentencing judge cannot be part of the panel but may be consulted by the panel. If the panel grants a hearing, it may deny the request, keep the original sentence the same, reduce the sentence, or increase it to the statutory maximum that the law provides for each individual crime for which the defendant was convicted.
In a criminal case, once a finding of guilt has been made, the defendant has 90 days from the date of sentencing to ask the judge to reconsider the sentence given. Under Maryland law, the judge then has 5 years from the date of the request to rule on the motion. The judge may deny the motion without a hearing. Alternatively, the judge may decide to hold a hearing and then may deny the motion thereafter, or he or she may grant the motion and modify the defendant’s sentence, typically a reduction in the amount of jail time originally imposed.
In general, every defendant who is found guilty of a crime has certain appeal rights. If the defendant is found guilty by way of a guilty plea in District Court, the defendant can appeal the verdict and sentence to the Circuit Court and have his or her entire case heard again. If a defendant is found guilty by way of a guilty plea in Circuit Court, the defendant only can ask the Court of Special Appeals to review the propriety of the plea colloquy, that is, whether the defendant understood the trial rights that he or she gave up by pleading guilty, whether the defendant understood the crime to which he or she was pleading guilty, and whether the defendant voluntarily entered into the guilty plea. The defendant may also ask the Court of Appeals to review whether the sentence imposed by the trial judge was a legal sentence. The Court of Special Appeals is not required to agree to hear the defendant’s request for an appeal following a guilty plea but instead has discretion to do so.
If a defendant is found guilty in the Circuit Court by way of a judge or jury trial, he or she has an automatic right to appeal the case to the Court of Special Appeals. The defendant may ask the court to review the entire record of the case to determine whether any legal errors occurred, including those made by the trial judge, which likely affected the outcome of the case.
PreventionLink Impact (Health)
Yes. The diabetes prevention program is a covered health benefit by most health insurance programs. The Prince George’s County Health Department is an enrolled DPP supplier with many health insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. To have your participation covered by your health insurance, you must provide the Prince George’s Health Department with a copy of your current health insurance card.
The diabetes prevention program is not offered for free. The program is covered by most health insurance programs. If you are uninsured, you will incur a fee to participate. However, if you are low income, we have a sliding scale policy for persons that are at or below Federal Poverty Limits. If you qualify based on low-income status, you may have a reduction in your fee to participate. The low-income sliding scale is based on where your total household income falls on the Federal Poverty Limit guidelines. You can complete a sliding scale program questionnaire to see if you are eligible for a fee reduction based on your household income. If you are not eligible for a fee reduction based on your household income, you will be billed for the full cost of your participation in the Diabetes Prevention Program.
The Prince George’s County Health Department is a local government agency in the State of Maryland. If you fail to pay your bill, it could be referred to the State of Maryland Office of the Comptroller for collections. Once your balance is referred to the State of Maryland Office of the Comptroller, for collections, all collections activity must be handled directly with the State of Maryland Office of the Comptroller.
The Prince George’s County Health Department is a recognized Umbrella Hub for the Diabetes Prevention Program by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As a CDC-Recognized Umbrella Hub, the Prince George’s County Health Department can enroll subsidiary suppliers to deliver the diabetes prevention program. The subsidiary suppliers do not have to be located in Prince George’s County. However, all services rendered by a subsidiary supplier in the Prince George’s County Health Department Umbrella Hub are billed through the tax ID of the Prince George’s County Health Department.
The Prince George’s County Health Department is a local government agency in the State of Maryland. If you fail to pay your bill, it could be referred to the State of Maryland Office of the Comptroller, for collections. If your bill is referred to the State of Maryland Office of the Comptroller for collections, you will receive notices from the State of Maryland Office of the Comptroller requesting payment for outstanding balances owed.
Yes. You should contact the Prince George’s County Health Department for any questions regarding your bill. The contact information for the billing department for the Prince George’s County Health Department is located on the bill that you received.
The Diabetes Prevention Program was previously a grant funded program that was offered free to community participants. The program is no longer offered as a free program since the services are not fully funded by a grant. However, the program is now covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. There is a fee to participate which may be covered by applicable health insurance.
The Prince George’s County Health Department is a recognized Umbrella Hub for the Diabetes Prevention Program by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As a CDC-Recognized Umbrella Hub, the Prince George’s County Health Department can enroll subsidiary suppliers to deliver the diabetes prevention program. There are several organizations that have joined the Prince George’s County Health Department Umbrella Hub, which allows those organizations to deliver the diabetes prevention program with the support and approval of the Prince George’s County Health Department.
The diabetes prevention program is not a free program. However, it is covered by most health insurances plans. If your health insurance plan does not cover the cost of your participation in the Diabetes Prevention Program, you are responsible to pay the full fee for your participation. However, some persons that are low income may be eligible for a reduction in the fee for participating, based on their household income. You can apply for a reduction in your fee, based on our sliding scale policy. A fee reduction is not guaranteed because any fee reduction is dependent on your household income in comparison to the current Federal Poverty Limits. If you do not qualify for a reduction in your fee to participate, based on your household income, you will be billed for the full cost of your participation.
The Prince George’s County Health Department is a CDC-Recognized Umbrella Hub for the Diabetes Prevention Program. As such, it can enroll subsidiary suppliers to deliver the program. These suppliers, approved to render diabetes prevention programs on behalf of the Health Department, do not need to be located in Prince George’s County or part of its government. However, all services are billed under the Prince George’s County Government. Additionally, each subsidiary supplier has a current contract agreement with the Health Department to deliver services with its support.
PreventionLink formed PreventionLink IMPACT’s umbrella hub to serve community-based organizations to improve health outcomes in local communities. The continuous rise of diabetes cases in the United States poses a significant threat to public health, hence the need for a collaborative effort to this health crisis.
Property Maintenance & Code Enforcement (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Please report the property by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
No. It is a violation of the County's Zoning Ordinance. Any such repair activity must cease immediately if this is being done on your property. If you notice this illegal activity on a property, please report it by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Please include the address of the property in question and a brief description of the complaint. To file a complaint, please call PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County. Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. except Federal and County holidays.
Only one vehicle, whether wrecked, dismantled or unlicensed, may be kept on private property; and, it must be in an enclosed garage, not on exterior property.
No. It is a violation of the County Code to store rubbish and debris on the external premises. Please contact Bulky Trash at 301-952-7600 to schedule a pick up. If you notice debris stored on a property, please report it by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
A rental license is required. Visit DPIE's Enforcement Division page for Rental License information. All rental license applications are submitted through Momentum. Email dpierentallicenses@co.pg.md.us for questions.
If you have reported the problems to the management office and the problems have not
been repaired or resolved in a reasonable length of time, an investigation will be conducted and appropriate follow up taken, if applicable. Report the problems by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Once an approved application is submitted, a temporary license is issued for 30-90 days so the area inspector can perform an inspection. The inspector will visit the property, either in person and/or virtually, to conduct an exterior inspection and place a hang tag on the front door. If there are no violations and the tenant does not have any concerns within their rental unit, then a license will be issued after 48 hours of the visit.
(Please note: If there are concerns from the tenant, an inspection will be scheduled to view any violations. The owner will be notified of the violations and given (10) days to come into compliance. If he/she does not, then this will start a process of denying the license application and possibly issuing a citation.) Email dpierentallicenses@co.pg.md.us for questions.
Yes. Pools containing stagnant water or pools in disrepair are in violation of the Housing Code. Please report the problem by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Grass in excess of 12 inches tall is a violation of the County Code. Complaints about tall grass may be reported by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
A vacant, unimproved lot (no house/structure) would be investigated by the Enforcement Division. When reporting, please be sure to advise that there is no structure on the lot. Please report the property by calling PGC311 at 3-1-1 if you are inside the County. Dial 301-883-4748 if you are outside of the County.
Public Housing Sites (Housing Authority)
No, only money orders and checks.
No, your monthly rent payment can be mailed without the monthly statement to:
Resident Billing
P.O. Box 73052,
Baltimore, MD 21273
Contact Accounts Receivable at 301-883-5555, you can either fax or mail the form but note there will be a two-day turn around for this process.
Rent is late on the 11th of each month. A 5% late fee will be assessed on your monthly rental amount. Legal proceedings for non-payment of rent can be legally filed as early as the 11th of the month.
Payments should be mailed to:
Resident Billing
P.O. Box 73052,
Baltimore, MD 21273
For all rental adjustments and re-certification changes, contact the Housing Assistance Division at 301-883-5489.
All payments should be made payable to the Housing Authority of Prince George's County (HAPGC).
Contact your Site Manager or contact the Housing Assistance Division for assistance at 301-883-5489.
When a tenant is in the legal process only a certified check or money order will be accepted.
The Housing Authority will only accept certified checks or money orders to replace a returned item and the current fee is $10.
Public Relations & Community Outreach (Social Services)
Submit your request by filling out an Event Request Form.
Please visit the calendar of events for more information. Interpretation Services are available for Non-English Speaking customers. Please contact one of the local offices for assistance. Learn more on the Public Information page.
Rain Check Rebate Program (Environment)
Yes, however you may be eligible to reduce your fee by implementing best management practices that treat impervious areas on your property. Practices eligible under the Rain Check Rebate Program will help reduce the amount of impervious cover on a particular property, which in turn may keep your Clean Water Act Fee lower. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
The Rain Check Rebate Program allows property owners to receive rebates for installing stormwater management practices to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff. Eligible applicants can recoup some of the costs for installing approved practices covered by the program. This rebate program was established in 2012 through County Bill (CB-40-2012), and revised in 2014 (CB-86-2014) to clarify the procedures for establishing and implementing the program and subsequent rebates to property owners. The program is administered by the Department of the Environment (DoE).
Learn more about the Rain Check Rebate Program.
Practices eligible for a rebate from Prince George’s County include:
- Cisterns
- Green Roofs
- Pavement Removal
- Permeable Pavement
- Rain Barrels
- Rain Gardens
- Urban Tree Canopy
All practices except for rain barrels must be approved by the county prior to installation, and must follow county installation and design guidelines. The projects listed above are the only types of stormwater retrofits that are eligible for rebates under the Rain Check Rebate Program.
Applicants will not be eligible for a rebate if the project is part of the permit approval requirements for new building construction or renovations, or if the property is located within a municipality that has a similar rebate program for stormwater management projects. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
An applicant is eligible for a rebate as long as:
1). The project is implemented on property located in Prince George’s County*
2). The application for the project was approved within 12 months of the completion date
3). DoE inspected the completed project and found it to be in compliance with its original approved application
4). The project follows DoE best practice guidelines and criteria for that type of project
Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
*The City of Bowie manages its stormwater program independently of the County. Therefore, properties within the City of Bowie are not eligible. The Town of Cheverly, Town of University Park, and the City of College Park offer their own tree rebate programs and therefore properties within these Towns and the City are eligible for all projects except for urban tree canopy projects.
Recruitment Examinations & Classification (Human Resources Management)
Yes. Although the majority of the positions are filled on a full-time basis, the County does offer a limited number of part-time positions. Applicants interested in part-time employment should carefully review the job announcement for part-time opportunities. The County also offers a limited number of temporary/seasonal positions for a period not to exceed 1,000 hours in a 12 month period.
Access the Employment section of this website or call the Job Hotline on 301-883-6200. Both provide information on job openings within County Government. View our current job openings online.
The Office of Human Resources Management accepts online applications for announced positions only. Be sure to read and follow all of the instructions outlined in the announcement and application, which is available on our website under Employment. Be sure to provide all required information requested. Submit your completed application by the prescribed closing date and time. Prince George’s County is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. View our jobs listing online.
Notices are sent to applicants via the email address provided on their online application. Candidates offered employment will be notified by the hiring agency.
The County has a wide variety of employment opportunities ranging from custodians to executive management and in the fields such as health, public safety, skilled craft, administration, management, engineering and information technology. You can view the County's Classification Plan to see that there are over 200 class series. View the plan
Red Light Enforcement (Police)
No. Driving is a privilege, not a right granted and controlled by state and local laws. By obtaining a drivers license and operating a motor vehicle, a motorist agrees to abide by state and local laws. There is no law that suggests drivers should not be observed on the road or have their violations documented. Red light cameras in the state of Maryland are designed to photograph only a vehicles rear license plate, not the occupants. Only vehicles driven by motorists who violate the law are photographed.
Yes. Police officers review every picture to verify the vehicle information and ensure the vehicle is in violation. Citations are then mailed to the vehicle owner only in cases where it is clear beyond a reasonable doubt the vehicle ran a red light.
The citation is $75.00. Red Light citations do not double or accumulate any interest. Payment is an admission of guilt/liability; however, this Citation will not be a part of your driving record and no points will be assessed.
No. The objective of photo enforcement is to deter violators, not to generate revenue. Of course as with any law broken a fine is issued and revenue is concomitantly generated. Red light citations do not double or accumulate interest. All a motorist has to do to avoid this fine is follow the law.
Cameras have been shown to reduce the number of red light violations. In addition to reducing red light running at camera locations, violation reduction also carried over to intersections not equipped with red light cameras.
Prince George’s County has a video camera system. Conduent, Incorporated is contracted to provide the red light camera enforcement program and provides all the video camera citations. This company will maintain all equipment related to this program and process all violations captured by the equipment.
A vehicle must come to a complete stop at the stop line or, if there is no stop line, prior to the crosswalk and before entering the intersection, and remain stopped as long as the signal is red. Unless a sign prohibits turning on red, after coming to a complete stop, you may turn right or you may turn left from a one way street to another one-way street. When turning on a red signal, you must yield the right of way to pedestrians and all other traffic. If a vehicle proceeds into the intersection after the signals have turned red, pictures and/or video are then taken. A motorist in the intersection when the signal changes to red (waiting to turn left, for example) is not a red light runner.
Please see the
You may go to http://www.public.cite-web.com to pay citations that Start With PGR.
Redevelopment Authority
No. Only single family, town homes, and condominiums are eligible.
In order to co-sign, a parent or relative must be a first-time home-buyer or cannot have owned a home anywhere during the previous 3 years and parent or relative must maintain the home to be purchased as a primary residence for a 10-year period.
No. The Down Payment on Your Dream Program is for income qualified first-time home-buyers only or individuals who have not owned a home anywhere during the previous 3 years.
No. The Down Payment on Your Dream program can only be used to purchase a vacant foreclosed property in one of the 33 eligible zip codes.
No. The Down Payment on Your Dream Program is for purchases of vacant and foreclosed property only.
No. The Down Payment on Your Dream Program cannot be used for closing costs to refinance an existing home.
You are eligible for the Down Payment on Your Dream Program if you have not owned a home anywhere during the previous 3 years. If your home was foreclosed upon more than 3 years ago and you can qualify for a first mortgage you are eligible to apply for Down Payment on Your Dream assistance.
Yes. The Section 8 Home-Ownership Voucher may be used with the Down Payment on Your Dream Program. Contact a Participating Lender.
You cannot use the program with ADDI or House Keys 4 Less. Note that no extra cash will be given back at settlement. Excess funds will be used for curtailment or reduction of the first mortgage. Seek advice from your Participating Lender concerning the necessity of using another down payment and closing costs assistance program.
Contact your neighborhood real estate agent or Association of Realtors Online Resource
Refer to the Income Limit Chart. Remember that in addition to the applicant and co-applicant’s annual income, the income of all members of the household over 18 must be counted in the household income calculation.
Take a housing counseling course and contact a Participating Lender to get pre-approved. For a list of Participating Lenders and Housing Counseling Agencies contact See the First Time Home Buyers Resource.
Attend a Participating Lender briefing and complete Participating Lender Agreement and FDIC Certification on Subprime Lending located at the Lenders Only Resource.
No. The vacant foreclosed property must be located within one of the eligible zip and within 3 miles of place of employment.??
You can use the certificate if the course you took was a minimum of 8-hours and course was completed within the last 6 months and if the course was provided by a HUD approved housing counseling agency. Online courses are ineligible.
No. Only first time home-buyers or individuals who have not owned a home anywhere are eligible.
No. There is a minimum required cash contribution of up to $2,000, depending on applicant (s) income. See Program Guidelines. Minimum cash contribution includes earnest money deposit and payments for application, appraisals and other fees necessary for the transaction.
No. Short sales are not eligible. Property must have been foreclosed upon.
Applications for the program must be submitted through a Participating Lender listed. You must have a sale contract on a vacant foreclosure before you can complete an application with a Participating Lender. You must also complete a minimum 8-hour housing counseling course provided by a HUD certified housing counseling agency. Do not contact the Department of Housing and Community Development for an application. Participating Lenders
Retiree Connection (Human Resources Management)
The Comprehensive and Supplemental Pension Plans have no limitations on a retiree working after retirement with the exception of disability retirements. Disabled retirees should speak to a retirement counselor in the Pensions and Investments Division before accepting a new position.
Maryland State retirees should contact the Maryland State Retirement Agency regarding re-employment rights.
You can have up to four bank allotments.
Complete the Life Insurance Verification Form from this site and send it to the Health Benefits Administration Division. Access the form online (PDF).
You can request a direct deposit form from the Pensions and Investments Division, download a copy from the forms section on this site, or you can mail/fax in a new direct deposit form from your new bank.
If you are opening a new account, there will be a one month processing period. During this time, you will receive your check in the mail at the address on file. Your check will be deposited into the new account the following month.
If you are only changing account numbers, but remaining with the same bank, there is no waiting/processing period; your deposit will take effect the following month.
We recommend that you keep your old account open until you have seen the new direct deposit take effect.
Mail or fax a letter to us with the new address, effective date and new telephone number, or download the Address Change form from this site. We will notify the Health Benefits Administration Division of your address update. You should notify the Maryland State Retirement Agency of your address change.
All address updates with out-of-state addresses will automatically have their Maryland state taxes stopped by the effective date.
Send your letter to the Office of Human Resources Management.
You may change your personal information at any time by contacting the service provider by telephone or internet or by completing the appropriate change form.
You may drop a plan or a dependent at any time during the year by completing an Enrollment/Change Form. You may also make changes during the plan year (outside of open enrollment) if you have a qualified family status change. You may add a dependent (birth/marriage) within 30 days of a qualifying event.
You will need to contact either your service provider or the Pensions and Investments Division for the appropriate forms. Send the completed forms to the Pensions and Investments Division for signature and processing. The signed forms will be forwarded to the appropriate provider. For more information, call 301-883-6390.
Complete the Life Insurance Verification Form from this site and send it to the Health Benefits Administration Division. Access the form online (PDF).
Download the Retirement Income Verification form and mail/fax/email it to the Pensions and Investments Division. The lender may also request this information with your written authorization. Please allow 24-hours turnaround time. Download the form online (PDF).
No. We can only deduct Maryland state taxes. You must make your own tax arrangements with any other state. You must contact Maryland State Retirement directly to make any tax changes with them.
Family status changes include: birth, death, divorce, legal separation, adoption, marriage, termination or commencement of employment, change of employment status from part-time to full-time, covered dependent ceases to be an eligible dependent, loss of health benefits coverage.
All retiree payments are made payable on the first of each month. Payroll submits the file to the ACH clearinghouse two days prior to the pay date. The individual financial institutions establish when funds are posted to the individual's account. When the 1st falls on a holiday or weekend, some banks post early or on the established pay date and some post on the next business day.
SafeTrack (Public Works & Transportation)
DPW&T will update our site as new information becomes available.
Travelers can expect certain inconveniences throughout the SafeTrack Plan. However, Prince George’s residents should make special note of the following surge projects: June 18 - July 3 (16 Days): Line Segment Shutdown for Orange, Blue & Silver Lines Affecting Eastern Market to Minnesota Ave & Benning Road (293,000 peak trips will be impacted) November 12 - December 6 (25 Days): Continuous Single Track for Yellow & Green Lines Affecting Greenbelt to College Park The June 18 surge is a line segment shutdown between Eastern Market to Minnesota Avenue/Benning Road Metro Stations. WMATA will be providing Free Bus Shuttle service between Eastern Market and Minnesota/Benning Road with stops at Stadium-Armory and Potomac Avenue. Since the June 18 surge project will impact approximately 293,000 peak trips, we encourage residents to avoid using MetroRail and seek travel alternatives, including local bus, regional commuter service, and carpools and take advantage of flex time, alternative work schedules and teleworking, if available. If you must use the MetroRail system, then plan ahead to account for reduced train service and traveling on WMATA’s shuttles between the shutdown areas. WMATA is providing parallel local bus service enhancements on the 97, T18, X9 Routes during the line segment shutdown and advising patrons to consider existing Metrobus alternatives which bypass the shutdown area, such as the 96, X2, 30N, 30S, 32, 34, and 36. Residents have an option to board a MARC train from the Bowie State and New Carrollton stops on the Penn Line or Laurel, Muirkirk, Greenbelt, College Park and Riverdale stops on the Camden Line, which provide direct commuter service to Union Station in Washington, D.C. Visit information about passenger fares and schedules. https://mta.maryland.gov/marc-train Also, residents should consider using the Green Line Stations for travel into downtown Washington, D.C. Parking is available at Greenbelt and Branch Avenue Metrorail Stations. Visit the WMATA website for more information about parking capacity and rates at each respective station. http://www.wmata.com/rail/parking/ The November surge is a continuous single tracking phase from Greenbelt to College Park. During this phase rail service will be available but the wait times will be significantly longer. We suggest visiting our Rideshare website at http://www.ridesmartsolutions.com/ for alternate travel options during the June 18th surge and single tracking projects.
No, residents can expect "TheBus" to continue to operate as normal. View TheBus maps & schedules
Selling Homemade Goods / Cottage Food Industry (Health)
In 2014, Maryland regulations changed to allow individuals to prepare some food items at home. These foods may only be sold at a farmer’s market or a temporary event such as a fair, festival or similar public event. Cottage foods cannot be sold at a retail store, restaurant or convenience store. Individuals selling cottage foods must follow packaging and labeling rules. Labeling Requirements
Please view our Labeling Requirements page to find a list of items that must be included on the package before it is sold at the market. Labeling Requirements
If samples are given they must be prepackaged at home and labeled according to the labeling rules. Opening packages to give customers samples is not allowed. Labeling Requirements
If the labeling requirements are met, individuals may prepare baked goods that do not require refrigeration such as most cookies, brownies, fruit pies and hard candies. Fruit jams, jellies and butters may also be prepared under this regulation. If you wish to prepare these items you must refer to the cottage industry regulations (COMAR 10.15.03) for a detailed list of acceptable fruits and preparations.
The Health Department cannot issue a permit for cottage foods. However, if the County Health Department receives a complaint about a cottage food vendor they must investigate and take appropriate action.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Health)
You are at risk for an STD if ?you have ever engaged in unprotected sex, even oral sex, or you have more than one sexual partner. The only way to know for sure if you have an STD is to get tested.
Anyone can get an STD. Many STDs have no symptoms, so you may not know you have one. And you can’t always tell if your partner has one, either. A common sign for some STDs is a sore or rash on the sex organs that may drip. But again, many STDs have no outward signs.
STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, are passed from person to person through unprotected sex (sex without a condom) with an infected partner. They are caused by viruses or bacteria and include syphilis, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, genital warts, herpes, HIV/AIDS, and others.
People with STDs can spread them to their sex partners. STDs are serious. If left untreated, different STDs can ?cause blindness, cause infertility, give you painful and embarrassing sores, make it easier for you to get more serious diseases like HIV/AIDS, or can even cause death.
And they hurt more than just you and your partner. A woman can pass an STD on to her baby during childbirth.
Site/Road Permits (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Site Development Rough Grading Permit – Enables rough grading in County public rights-of-way and on-site, including construction of storm drain and stormwater management ponds.
Site Development Fine Grading Permit – Enables fine grading in County public rights-of-way and on-site, and includes construction of public and private roads, paving, storm drains, stormwater management facilities, stream restorations, culverts, bridges, sidewalks, driveways, trails, recreation facilities and other development activities outside of the actual building structure. This permit is a prerequisite for a building permit.
Street Construction Permit – This type of permit enables roadway and drainage construction within the County public rights-of-way, including paving, sidewalks, driveways, streetscape, street lights, street trees, traffic signals and bridges.
Residential Driveway Permit – Enables construction of residential driveway entrances for access to and from the County public rights-of-way.
Haul Road Permit (hauling to or from a site) – Enables a commercial/industrial hauling operation to travel across County roads to and from filling and mining facilities. This type of permit enables logging contractors to haul commercial/industrial loads across County roads.
Oversize Overweight Vehicle Permit – Enables oversized and overweight vehicles to travel over specifically identified County roads and bridges.
Special Permit – Enables miscellaneous minor work to be done on-site and within County public rights-of-way.
Special Drain Permit – Enables minor on-site and public rights-of-way drainage.
Special Utility Permit – Enables utility installation/repair within the County public road right-of-way.
Application for the above types of permits may be made at the ePermits Online Portal.
Any person(s) planning to develop or grade a property, or perform work within the County public right-of-way (limits of the roadway area) or on-site (private property) needs a permit. A permit is needed to ensure that adequate and safe roads, grades, drainage, and stormwater management are constructed with the development of properties. See County Code Subtitle 32 for limited exemptions.
Site/Road Related Bonds (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Bonds are typically required by the County for:
- Most activities in the County rights-of-way
- Grading
- Public drainage and stormwater management
- Reforestation
- Critical Area disturbance
A bond is typically required when an applicant proposes to construct or impact the public rights-of-way. Any construction within the public rights-of-way has the potential to cause damage to existing infrastructure within the public rights-of-way. Bonds are required for new roadway construction such as sidewalk, curb and gutter, roadway pavement, etc. The bond is money or surety held by the County until the proposed construction is finished. If there is no damage done to existing infrastructure at the end of the project and all work is completed satisfactorily, the bond is returned to the applicant. If there is damage done to existing infrastructure, the applicant will be required to repair those damages. After repairing those damages to the satisfaction of the County, the bond money will be returned to the applicant. If the applicant refuses to repair the damages or complete all work, the County will use the bond money to repair the damages or complete the work. The bond amount varies depending on the scope of the proposed construction.
Site/Road Related Utility Permits (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
1. A Special Utility Permit is required for the following types of utility work within County road rights-of-way or easements:
- Construction of new utility facilities. Note: Underground utility construction within publicly dedicated future roadways of new subdivisions does not require this type of permit.
- Material upgrades to existing utility facilities.
- Material relocation or realignment of existing utility facilities, except for relocation required by the County.
- Material extensions of existing utility facilities.
- Service connections that require the placement or relocation of any utility pole or that require any open cut of the roadway pavement on arterial roadways, collector roadways, industrial/commercial roadways, transit routes, or any other roadway that has average daily traffic (ADT) volume of six thousand (6,000) vehicles per day or greater.
- Service connections that require two (2) or more open cuts of the roadway pavement by the same utility company within two hundred (200) feet of each other within a 6-month period.
- Relining and/or cleaning underground utility systems.
- Any utility work that requires the cutting of any pavement within the moratorium period.
2. A Maintenance Utility Permit is required for each utility company to cover the following work within County road rights-of-way or easements:
- Routine maintenance of existing utility facilities.
- Repairs to existing utility facility infrastructure that do not constitute a material upgrade or betterment of the utility facility.
- Underground utility facility construction within publicly dedicated future roadways of new subdivisions.
- Modifications to utility facilities that are required for Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects, except for any such modification to WSSC utility facilities required to be made by a party under direct contract with the Department for a CIP project.
- Service connections that do not require the placement or relocation of any utility pole and do not require any open cut of the roadway pavement on arterial roadways, collector roadways, industrial/commercial roadways, transit routes, or any other roadway that has ADT volume of six thousand (6,000) vehicles per day or greater.
- Service connections that do not require two (2) or more open cuts of the roadway pavement by the same utility company within two hundred (200) feet of each other within a 6-month period.
Small Cell (DPIE)
Yes; a person/provider may install, construct or operate a small wireless facility on private property with the following:
- Obtained written consent of the property owner and, if applicable, easement holder;
- Obtained required approval from any applicable regulatory agency or utility, and
- Obtained any permits required by this Code, after obtaining a recommendation by the TTFCC.
- Small Wireless Facility placed on private property must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including the zoning requirements of Subtitle 27 of this Code, and the Design Manual.
Residents may request additional information from the following cellular providers:
Cellular Provider | Contact Name and Title | Phone Number | |
---|---|---|---|
AT&T | Genelle Newhard Jennifer Van Riper Area Manager, Construction & Engineering |
443-875-3794 410-818-6459 |
Gn452n@att.com JV6392@att.com |
Verizon | Verizon Mario Acosta-Velez Director, State Government Affairs |
202-515-2580 | mario.acosta-velez@verizon.com |
Crown Castle | Nathan Campbell Manager, Network Real Estate |
667-207-7964 703-201-7709 |
Nathan.Campbell@Crowncastle.com |
Cellular providers will be required to submit the location of the SWF for review and recommendation by the Telecommunications Transmission Facility Coordinating Committee (TTFCC). If the TTFCC recommends that the SWF be approved, the provider must then apply for a permit. The type of permit varies depending on where the SWF will be located. Under the terms of the permit, providers must install a complete SWF that is capable of actually providing service at the time the permit is closed. They must begin work within 60 days of permit issuance and the permit will have a 6-month life span. Additionally, if the SWF is to be located in the County right-of-way, a Master License Agreement will be required.
- Legislation
- County Code
- Zoning Ordinance (private property)
- Design Manual
The legislation proposes that no person may construct or operate a Small Wireless Facility within the public right-of-way, or on any structure or support structure in the public right-of-way, without first entering into a fully executed Master License Agreement with the County as required by this Division (Sec. 5A-159.) and complying with all requirements listed in this Code. This uniform Master License Agreement shall include all provisions necessary to ensure the overall interests of public health, safety, and welfare.
A Small Wireless Facility, also known as Small Cell Technology, is the infrastructure and equipment that cellular providers will install to meet the growing demand for cell phone, tablet and other connected devices people will use as part of their everyday lives.
Prince George’s County will be the "regulator" of the program. The County legislation establishes the regulatory framework that will allow Small Wireless Facilities to be installed in the County. Many of the specific details related to the aesthetics will be set out in a Design Manual that will be issued administratively by the County Executive, consistent with her authority under Section 5A of the County Code.
The growing use of smart phones and wireless devices have driven the need for technological advances in the telecommunication infrastructure as the demand places strains the existing infrastructure. To address this growing demand for wireless technology, cellular providers propose to increase the capacity of their networks by installing Small Wireless Facilities to reduce data traffic load on the larger cell towers.
The legislation proposes at least thirty (30) calendar days prior to acceptance by the Telecommunications Transmission Facility, every applicant shall send an informational mailing to all adjoining property owners, including owners whose property lies directly and diagonally across the street, alley, or stream and to every municipality located within one mile of the new facility, to the Council Member of the District where the new facility is proposed and all at-large Council member and to all civic associations registered with The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission located within one mile of the new proposed Telecommunications Transmission Facility. If an application proposes the siting of a Telecommunications Transmission Facility in the Public Right-of-Way, an informational mailing shall also be sent to the owner of the property underlying the portion of the right-of-way on which the proposed facility would be located.
Snow & Ice Control (Public Works & Transportation)
The Department of Public Works and Transportation cannot prioritize roadways by medical needs of the residents. For medical emergencies, residents should call 911 immediately. Department of Public Works and Transportation works directly with the Fire and Police Departments on emergencies. For assistance with transportation to medical appointments, residents should call the Office of Emergency Preparedness at 301-583-1899. The Office of Emergency Preparedness will assist in providing transportation with 4 wheel drive vehicles.
Call CountyClick 311 (311 or 301-883-4748). Inform the call taker that you live in a new development and they can determine if your roadway has been accepted into the County maintenance system. If it hasn't, you will need to contact your developer or citizens' association as it is their responsibility until the road has been accepted by the County.
You are responsible for clearing the snow from your driveway. It is best to shovel your driveway after the road has been plowed to avoid having driveways blocked by snow plowing operations. DPW&T does not have the resources available to unblock driveways.
Snow emergency routes and primary roads are treated first, followed by secondary streets and finally residential streets including dead-ends and cul-de-sacs.
Call CountyClick 311 (311 or 301-883-4748), 24 hours after the precipitation has stopped, if your road has not been treated.
If you have a driveway, use it. A parked car in the driveway means less area to shovel later. If on-street parking must be used, cars must be parked on the even-numbered side of the street during snow operations. Failure to do so could result in a fine and/or towing.
State's Attorney
If you have received a witness summons or subpoena notifying you of the scheduled court date, the law requires you to appear on that date unless you have been excused by a representative of the State's Attorney's Office.
You cannot drop charges. Only the State's Attorney can determine what action will be taken in a criminal case.
Send request to:
State's Attorney for Prince George's County
Administrative Division
Room M3403, Court House
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
In Maryland, the State's Attorney of the County in which a body is interred must give authorization for a disinterment. Disinterment requests are made for various reasons, some of which include: the family has moved to another state or location; new family lots have been purchased; the family wants to move to a location where headstones are allowed or the family wants to lower to double depth so that two persons may be buried in the same site.
This form may be obtained by calling 301-952-3500 to have one mailed to you. When filling out the form, be sure to include all information regarding both the current and proposed places of internment, including lot, site, section, crypt, etc., numbers, name and address of the cemetery. If the lot owner of the site where the deceased is currently interred is different than the person signing the form, please include a short explanation of the lot owner's relationship to the deceased, and whether that person concurs with the request for disinterment.
One easy way to tell is to look at the case number. Cases beginning with the letters "CT" are handled by the Circuit Court Division. "CA" and "CJ" cases are handled by the District Court Division. "JA" cases are handled by the Juvenile Division. If you do not know the case number, contact our main receptionist at 301-952-3500 for assistance. Please view the Contact Us section to reach the Victim/Witness Coordinator assigned to the Unit handling your case. Contact Us / Directory
The case number is most important. The Assistant State's Attorney's name, Victim/Witness Coordinator's name and defendant's name can also be helpful in directing your call.
If known, contact your Victim/Witness Coordinator from our Contact Us Resource. Otherwise, contact the receptionist for the State's Attorney's Office Division handling your case for assistance.
- Circuit Court Division: 301-952-3500
- District Court Division: 301-952-3555
- Juvenile Court Division: 301-952-3516 Contact Us / Directory
For details and information on parking, access the Directions to the Courthouse resource.
Storm Drainage Maintenance (Environment)
The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) can determine if there are sewer or water lines in the vicinity of the sinkholes. If a public storm drain is located in the area, the County can determine if the sinkholes are caused by the storm drain. If the sinkholes are unrelated to WSSC or County lines, it is the property owner's responsibility to find out the cause and make corrections. If an abandoned well or septic system is suspected or discovered, please contact the Prince George's County Health Department.
The County allows this opening to be no more than 7 inches in height. The Department of Public Works and Transportation Office of Highway Maintenance (OHM) can determine if the opening is too large and take any corrective action needed. You may contact the OHM's Customer Service Office at 301-499-8523 to arrange for an inspection of the storm drain.
This is an areaway drain and is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain it. The resident should check to see if the small grate on top of the drain is clogged and clear it if necessary. If the grate is clear, a plumber should be contacted to ensure that the pipe leading from the areaway drain is clear and free of obstructions.
Stormwater Management (Environment)
Yes. According to the legislation, the following are exempt from the Clean Water Act Fee. Exemptions: The following shall not be assessed a Clean Water Act Fee:
- Property located within the municipal limits of the City of Bowie*
- Property owned by the state, a unit of state government, the county, a municipality, or a regularly organized Volunteer Fire Department that is used for public purposes.
*The City of Bowie manages its stormwater program independently of the County. Therefore, properties within the City of Bowie are not eligible.
The Town of Cheverly, Town of University Park, and the City of College Park offer their own tree rebate programs, and therefore properties within these Towns and the City are eligible for all projects except for urban tree canopy projects.
Prince George’s County is dedicated to meeting our federal requirements while keeping the fees as low as possible. Our fee structure is equitable and lower than most Maryland counties. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Learn about the modifications and reductions available.
Yes, but the fee is based only on the impervious area of the principal residential property, and not the land in agriculture. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Yes, you will be charged a minimal administration fee for each property to help cover the costs of the Clean Water Program, unless you meet the eligibility criteria for financial hardship (see question above), in which case the fee will be waived. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Yes, because that property contains impervious area. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Yes. The Clean Water Act Fee relates to the stormwater drainage and conveyance system, which is completely separate from the water and sanitary sewer system. The Clean Water Act Fee is based upon how much stormwater runoff your property can generate based on impervious cover thereby contributing to the county’s water quality problems. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Yes. The Clean Water Act Fee is an impact fee, not a property tax, since it is based on a properties’ relative contribution to stormwater runoff which requires costly remediation. Property taxes are based on the assessed value of the property. The Clean Water Act fee is paid by all residential property owners and associated non-residential property owners that have impervious surface regardless of ownership or tax status. The Clean Water Act fee is assessed based on the impervious cover of a property, which contributes to the amount of stormwater runoff from that the property. All impervious surfaces contribute to pollution and flooding problems and, therefore, all property owners are subject to the fee. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Yes, but that program is designated for flood control, not clean water. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Yes, the County has had storm drains for a long time; they provide conveyance for stormwater away from urbanized areas. However, recent federal and state regulations requiring reductions in pollutant loading and stormwater management necessitate that the County enhance their stormwater management program. The Clean Water Act Fee enables the county to work toward those goals and meet its responsibilities to reduce stormwater runoff pollution from impervious areas. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
To deal with the ever-present impacts of stormwater runoff to which your property contributes, the County has relied on the Stormwater Management District Fund, which is governed by Section 10-264 of the County Code, for major reconstruction and flood control type projects. The fund is not a dedicated stormwater funding source to address water quality mandates.
The Clean Water Act Fee will provide a dedicated revenue source for addressing stormwater runoff and improving water quality. The charge is based on a property’s assessed impervious area coverage providing a mechanism to equitably allocate the fee based on a property's stormwater contribution. Thus, each property contributes a fair and equitable share toward the overall cost of improving water quality and mitigating the impact of stormwater runoff. It will provide a stable and adequate level of funding for regulatory mandates such as the Watershed Implementation Plan and the NPDES MS4 Permit independent of the Ad Valorem and General Fund. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
The Clean Water Act Fee will be a separate line item on your annual property tax bill. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Although the effects may not be directly apparent, stormwater from the impervious areas on your property contributes to a cumulative downstream effect that includes:
- Increases in the runoff quantity
- A reduction in the quality of stormwater leaving your property due to contaminants that are picked up from impervious areas.
Everyone benefits from the clean water found in our rivers and streams that is supported by the County's stormwater control and maintenance programs. The benefits associated with clean water also translates into monetary benefits such as healthier communities, and reduced public monies spent on emergencies related to flooding and other water damage. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
No. The Clean Water Act Fee may not be deducted from federal or state income taxes. The Internal Revenue Service does not consider the Clean Water Act Fee to be tax deductible for homeowners. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
The Clean Water Act Fee must be paid in full at the same time as the rest of your property tax bill. If you choose not to pay, the interest on the overdue payment will accrue according to county laws and regulations. You will be charged the same rate in place for delinquent real property taxes until you remit the outstanding payment and interest. An unpaid Clean Water Act Fee is subject to all penalties and remedies that apply to unpaid real property taxes. If the unpaid charge becomes a lien against the property, the lien has the same priority as a lien imposed for nonpayment of real property taxes. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
Any property owner with multiple property tax accounts, assigned to adjoining properties, who wishes to investigate combining them into a single account with one Administrative Fee, can contact the Prince George’s County Assessment Office by either facsimile or mail. Your request must be in writing and include all property tax account numbers and addresses. The County Assessment Office will investigate and consider your request:
Prince George's County Assessment Office
14735 Main Street
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Phone: 301-952-2500
Fax: 301-952-2955
Every day, trash, oil, sediment, chemicals, bacteria, and other pollutants collect on our rooftops, roads, parking lots, and driveways. When it rains, the pollutants travel over these surfaces, flow into the storm drain system, and in great volume end up in our creeks, rivers, lakes, and streams. Learn about some common sources and concerns for each type of pollutant.
In 2010, the federal government required states to meet new standards under the Clean Water Act to address stormwater runoff pollution from impervious areas such as rooftops, driveways, roadways, and parking lots. To meet this mandate, Maryland’s governor signed into law House Bill 987 (the Clean Water Program) requiring 9 Maryland counties and the City of Baltimore to collect a fee from property owners to implement a program to help clean up stormwater runoff pollution from impervious areas. The program required the enactment of a Clean Water Act Fee. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
The Clean Water Act Fee was established and went into effect on July 1, 2013. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
The Clean Water Act Fee is an additional impact fee, separate from the fees charged for potable (drinking) water and wastewater. The drinking water and wastewater services on your property are part of distribution and collection networks that are completely separate from the Clean Water Program.
The Clean Water Act Fee is being charged for the service the county provides to control, store, and/or treat stormwater leaving your property. Unlike wastewater, stormwater that leaves your property and enters the storm drain system receives no treatment prior to its discharge into downstream waterways. Please call 301-883-5810 for more information.
If you are a residential property owner who can demonstrate substantial financial hardship as a result of the Clean Water Act Fee (CWAF) you may be eligible for financial hardship status. To qualify you must have received the Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit from the Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation during the tax year for which the CWAF is billed. To continue receiving the tax credit, you will need to apply annually to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation. Upon determination of homeowner eligibility, the county’s Office of Finance shall provide a suspension of the fee in its entirety for the eligible tax year.
For more information, contact the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation Homeowners' Property Tax Credit Program at 800-944-7403 (toll free), or see their website.
Strategic Partnership Division (County Executive)
Award must be spent by December 31st 2021.
Yes. The application deadline is July 30, 2021.
No. Only completed applications will be accepted.
Yes, but those who have not received NORI funds with be prioritized first.
Yes, you must have a physical address within Prince George’s County.
Yes. The organizational budget should include all revenues and expenses for your organization. The program/project budget is optional.
Yes.
Non-profit organizations interested in applying for The Strategic Partnerships Nonprofit Relief Fund should complete an application. How to submit an application: Fill out the form on our website in its entirety by July 30, 2021 deadline.
You will receive an email from the processing team notifying you of your award. Upon notification, you will need to sign a Grant Agreement and submit the required document. The terms of the Grant Agreement are non-negotiable. The funds will be electronically deposited through an ACH bank payment.
Yes, there is a limit. We will accept one proposal per organization per fiscal year. An organization with multiple programs may only submit a grant application for one of their programs.
The Office of the County Executive has made approximately $3million in funding available to eligible non-profits through the FY 2021 DHCD Program. Maximum award amounts will not exceed $100,000.
Certificate of good standing or screenshot
W9 Copy of voided check
Tax determination letter
IRS Exempt Select Check search results https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations
Form 990 OR Audited Financial Statements (990N will not be accepted)
General questions concerning the grant application and required submission documents should be sent in writing to PGCNonprofits@co.pg.md.us NOTE: We are committed to maintaining the integrity of a fair, open and transparent process. Please do not contact any county employee to discuss (or influence) your application. All questions must be sent in writing to PGCNonprofits@co.pg.md.us and we will respond in writing as well as post the responses to our website.
Structural Section (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
A permit under which no work has commenced within 180 days after issuance shall expire and become null and void. Please refer to Subtitle 4. Section 4-112 for more information.
The process is as follows:
- You need to complete the Application Form.
- You need to provide a site plan showing the location/dimensions of the deck.
- You need to provide a copy of complete structural plans for the deck. Please refer to our “Minimum Plan Submission Requirements For Residential Projects.” You can also refer to Prince George's County’s standard deck drawings for more information.
- In addition to the complete structural plans, an International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) Evaluation Report or Architectural Testing – Code Compliance Research Report (ATI-CCRR) is required if composite decking/composite railing is utilized in lieu of traditional pressure treated wood.
The process is:
- You need to complete the Application Form.
- You need to provide a copy of the basement floor plans. Please refer to Prince George's County “Finished Basement General Code Requirement” for more information.
The requirements are:
- A permit is not required if your shed is less than 150 square feet.
- You need to complete the Application Form.
- You need to provide a copy of the site plan showing the location/sizes of the shed.
- You need to provide a copy of complete structural plans for the shed. Please refer to our “Minimum Plan Submission Requirements for Residential Projects.”
The State of Maryland and Prince George’s County adopts the codes published by the International Code Council (ICC). For more information, please visit the Building Codes and Bulletins page.
The minimum requirements are:
- Provide a copy of complete architectural/structural plans for all residential construction projects.
- Plans must be drawn to scale and be of sufficient quality to explain the proposed construction clearly and completely.
- For more information, please refer to the “Minimum Plan Submission Requirements for Residential Projects.”
The ground snow load (PG) is 35 pounds per square foot (PSF) per the Maryland Code Administration. Design snow loads shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 7 of the ASCE 7-10 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures. However the minimum design roof snow load shall not be less than 30 PSF plus the drift per the county Subtitle 4 code amendment.
The frost depth is 2 feet 6 inches from finished grade to the bottom of the footing.
The following are exempt:
- A one-story detached accessory structure on one- and two-family dwelling properties with less than 150 square feet of floor space not designed or intended for occupation or habitation and limited to 1 accessory structure only per property.
- All forms of paving less than 500 square feet except for parking surfaces.
- A retaining wall not greater than 2 feet in height unless supporting a structure.
- Fence not greater than 4 feet in height.
- Please refer to Subtitle 4. Section 4-111., IBC Section 105 for more information.
Please call Park and Planning (301-952-3208) for information.
Sustainable Energy Program (Central Services)
During your initial energy audit, the Building Performance Institute (BPI) certified building professional performs many tests using diagnostic equipment to perform a whole-house energy assessment (or “audit”). This includes a complete inspection and diagnostic tests of your home such as the blower door test to depressurize your home and to identify current potential health and safety measures. These issues must be remedied before any work can be done. The Energy Efficiency Grant can cover up to 15% of the energy improvements cost for applicable health and safety measures.
Yes, you have the power to choose your solar contractor completely! We recommend that you receive quotes from at least 2 solar companies, and we encourage local economic development by selecting contractors from your local community. A great resource for finding qualified solar installation contractors can be found by visiting www.energysage.com.
Homeowners have the power to choose their energy efficiency contractor! In the best interest of County residents, in order to analyze your home and provide recommended energy efficiency improvements, there is a vetted and pre-approved list or network of certified contractors who have agreed to the program terms and conditions. The first step in participating in both EmPOWER Maryland and the Clean Energy Program is to select a contractor from the list to perform your energy audit. Currently there are 30+ included on the list. Local economic development is encouraged by selecting contractors from your local community.
This list can be found here: https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/home-performance-with-energy-star-program/overview/participating-contractors.
“DoE Sustainable Energy does not endorse, sponsor, or otherwise make any representation or warranty with respect to any contractor or the work, materials, or services provided by any contractor.”
Let’s break this down by stages in the application process. For energy-efficiency projects, low-income homeowners receive their energy audits at a discounted rate. Depending on the selected contractor, Market rate residents may have to pay $100 upfront for audits and reports (discounted from $400). Either way, this audit cost to homeowners will be reimbursed as a part of the grant. The Clean Energy Program, Energy Efficiency grant award provides up to $7,500 in funds for residential energy efficiency measures, in addition to Pepco and Washington Gas incentives. The maximum grant award amount is $7,500 (for gas and electric incentives), of which $5,000 can be allocated towards electric incentives and $2,500 toward natural gas incentives, and up to 50% of total grant award amount ($3,750) can be allocated towards air sealing and insulation (does not include ancillary equipment like baffles/ventilation).
Yes, the system must be a rooftop solar photovoltaics (PV) system as ordered by the language in the merger agreement that released funds to support this grant between Pepco and Exelon.
There are 9 neighborhoods distinguished as being an ERC: Bladensburg - East Riverdale; Forestville; Hillcrest Heights - Marlow Heights; Kentland - Palmer Park; Oxon Hill – Glassmanor; Silver Hill; Suitland - Coral Hills; and Woodlawn – Lanham.
Applicants for a grant in the Clean Energy Program can satisfy this condition with the address on record as shown on the recent copy of the electric utility bill. To confirm you are in one of the ERC communities, you must look up your address by using the ERC Address Locator: Energy Resiliency Communities (ERC) Address Locator. Please note the ERC Address Locator is the definitive tool for determining the eligibility of an application. You must drill in to ensure your address is in the ERC boundary.
lf you are looking for assistance with your utilities, please use the following resources to assist you. Here is the listing of energy assistance programs in Prince George’s County.
Right now, condos can partake in a Quick Home Energy Check-up (QHEC). The free service is provided by utility companies as a part of EmPOWER Maryland. Condos nor apartments can participate in the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program at this time. In effort to minimize household energy consumption, condos can participate in the Appliance Rebate Program offered through Pepco.
The solar grant is both a reimbursement of upfront costs and is paid before panel installation. The grant is paid upon receipt of invoice after your grant prequalification.
The minimum system size to qualify for a grant is 2.0 kW, but there is no maximum sized solar system that can be added to the roof.
No, virtually every homeowner in the state of Maryland can participate in EmPOWER Maryland and we encourage them to do so! Only members within an ERC community and that have Pepco or Washington Gas as their utility provider (described in Q#1) can receive the additional $5,000 and solar incentive up to $10,000. To participate in Empower Maryland, there are two routes residents can take:
1. Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program (HPwES)
Receive up to $7,500 in rebates/discounts: https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/home-performance-with-energy-star-program
2. *Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP) administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD): Receive up to $11,000 in rebates/discounts: https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/income-eligible-energy-efficiency-program; https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/lieep/default.aspx
*must meet low-income qualification in chart below to be considered for LIEEP; if not, then you are considered a market-rated resident and would participate in HPwES.
The Energy Efficiency Grant was designed to enhance the already established state-wide EmPOWER Maryland Program for County residents by providing supplemental grant funds to Pepco residents within an ERC.
There are many improvements that can be made in the home to save you electricity, water, money and stress. These typical improvements can be found here: (https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/home-performance-with-energy-star-program/overview/whole-house-approach/typical-improvements-whole-house-approach). Air sealing and insulation alone saves on average 12% on your energy bills.
There are 3 basic requirements for grant eligibility:
- Be a utility customer of Pepco or Washington Gas;
- Live within an Energy Resiliency Community (ERC) area; and
- It is also required that Prince George’s County residents have, or will, apply to the applicable EmPOWER Maryland incentive programs as a Pepco customer:
- Home Performance With ENERGY STAR Program (HPwES): https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/home-performance-with-energy-star-program
- *Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP): https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/income-eligible-energy-efficiency-program; https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/lieep/default.aspx
*must meet low-income qualification in chart below to be considered for LIEEP; if not, then you are considered a market-rate resident and would participate in HPwES.
The first step is selecting your contractor to schedule to perform the energy audit (and potentially the actual work) on your home as part of the EmPOWER Maryland participation requirement.
Pepco customers: refer to a list of 30+ pre-approved contractors. The list can be viewed here: https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/home-performance-with-energy-star-program/overview/participating-contractors
Low-income residents: visit the Maryland DHCD website to pre-apply to schedule your energy audit to be performed.
2. Perform energy audit & receive audit report with prioritized list of measures (PLOM) for improvement recommendations from your selected contractor. This breaks down the recommended improvements and available rebates/discounts to make your home more energy-efficient, comfortable, healthy and safe. This will also provide you with a detailed report on the potential energy savings (kWh and $) you can enjoy by making the recommended improvements.
Homeowners elect the measures they want installed/upgraded to receive funding for and sign a proposal for the contractor to begin work.
3. Selected contractor completes proposed work on your home, install/implement recommended changes and should begin your application for a grant in the Clean Energy Program for you to sign, date and possibly request supporting documents. View our application to view all required documents.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANT
Funds can be used to offset the costs of various energy efficiency and retrofitting measures, and for professional services needed to address barriers and transform to higher efficiency and of renewable energy adoption (solar PV and solar water heater) for the respective property.
Participants of the Clean Energy Program are required to apply to the applicable EmPOWER Maryland incentive program: for market rate applicants, Pepco’s Home performance with ENERGY STAR Program, or for income-qualified applicants, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP).
Grants will be available to offset the costs of measures as recommended by a home energy assessment, to facilitate implementation of efficiency measures - funds may also be used to address challenges that would prevent the adoption of recommended efficiency measures. Upon completion of energy efficiency upgrades, residents in ERC designated communities may apply for solar PV and/or solar water heater grants.
The Clean Energy Program, Energy Efficiency grant award provides up to $7,500 in funds for residential energy efficiency measures, in addition to Pepco and Washington Gas incentives. The maximum grant award amount is $7,500 (for gas and electric incentives), of which $5,000 can be allocated towards electric incentives and $2,500 toward natural gas incentives, and up to 50% of total grant award amount ($3,750) can be allocated towards air sealing and insulation (does not include ancillary equipment like baffles/ventilation).
SOLAR PV GRANT
This grant award, coupled with state energy incentives, aids residents to access the benefits of solar photovoltaic (PV) and/or solar water heater upon the successful implementation of energy-efficiency (electricity and natural gas) measures. It also builds on Maryland and Prince George’s County’s energy-efficiency and carbon reduction goals and will help in making our County more energy resilient, using a holistic approach to break energy and cost barriers.
The incentive amount depends on whether the system is owned by the homeowner or a third-party:
A. If system is owned by the homeowner:
- Grant awards up to $10,000 to cover eligible costs associated with installing a solar photovoltaic system.
- Grant awards up to $2,000 to purchase and install a solar power outlet in case of grid failure.
B. For third-party owned systems:
- Grant awards up to $2,000 to cover eligible costs associated with installing a solar photovoltaic system.
- Grant awards up to $2,000 to purchase and install a solar power outlet in case of grid failure.
Eligible costs include any parts, component, or accessory equipment necessary to operate and/or install the device. A maximum of 15% of the grant award can be spent on reasonable measures to facilitate the installation of the system on a home (for example, tree trimming). DoE Sustainable Energy staff should be contacted to ensure the measure(s) qualifies.
SOLAR WATER HEATER GRANT
This grant award, coupled with state energy incentives, aids residents to access the benefits of solar photovoltaic (PV) and/or solar water heater upon the successful implementation of energy-efficiency (electricity and natural gas) measures. It also builds on Maryland and Prince George’s County’s energy-efficiency and carbon reduction goals and will help in making our County more energy resilient, using a holistic approach to break energy and cost barriers.
The incentive amount depends on whether the solar water heating system is owned by the homeowner or a third-party.
A. If system is owned by the homeowner:
- Grant awards up to $7,500 to cover eligible costs associated with installing a solar water heater.
B. For third-party owned systems:
- Grant awards up to $2,000 to cover eligible costs associated with installing a solar water heater.
Eligible costs include any parts, component, or accessory equipment necessary to operate and/or install the device. A maximum of 15% of the grant award can be spent on reasonable measures to facilitate the installation of the system on a home. DoE Sustainable Energy staff should be contacted to ensure the measure(s) qualifies.
ENERGY STAR CERTIFICATION & GREEN LEASING GRANT
ENERGY STAR certified buildings save energy, save money, and help protect the environment by generating fewer greenhouse gas emissions than comparable buildings. Further, a building’s energy usage and efficiency are increasingly becoming factors to attract new, and to retain existing, tenants. ENERGY STAR certification can help to increase a building’s value and generate more income when compared to similar buildings.
The ENERGY STAR Certification and Green Leasing (ESGL) grant award seeks to increase the number of ENERGY STAR certified buildings and encourage the adoption of green-leasing practices within Prince George’s County. This effort will help support the County’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and attract and retain high-valued tenants in the county.
Maximum award available per application: $150,000
The following incentives are available to qualified applicants:
- Of the $150,000, if required, up to $50,000 will cover the ASHRAE Level 2 Audit and shall not exceed this amount.
- Grant awards to cover up to $100,000 for Electric and or Natural Gas measures.
- Grant awards to cover up to $150,000 for Electric and or Natural Gas measures, if ASHRAE Level 2 Audit is not required.
- Grant awards to offset 100% of the cost of the Licensed Professional’s sign off to verify and stamp the ENERGY STAR certification application.
Absolutely! Regardless of your utility provider, any homeowner in the County can partake in EmPOWER Maryland. In most instances, through your utility provider, you can receive incentives such as rebates/discounts on measures to be installed after receiving an energy audit, rebates to upgrade appliances and HVAC equipment such as your clothes washers/dryers, heat pumps, air conditioner units, pool pumps, smart thermostats and even refrigerators. There are also incentives to save energy on peak demand days, decreasing the amount you are charged on the days that people use the most energy. See below for linkage:
- BG&E: www.bge.com/WaysToSave/ForYourHome
- SMECO: www.smeco.coop/save-energy-and-money
- Delmarva: www.delmarva.com/WaysToSave/ForYourHome
- Potomac Edison: www.firstenergycorp.com/save_energy/save_energy_maryland.html
- Washington Gas
- Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit allows for taxpayers to claim a credit of 26% of qualified expenditures for a system that serves a dwelling unit located in the United States that is owned and used as a residence by the taxpayer. Basically, you get 26% of what you paid for your solar system back in the form of a tax credit. For more information, visit: https://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/md/solar
- The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) offers the Residential Clean Energy Grant Program to eligible Maryland homeowners who have installed qualified clean energy [solar] systems at their homes to receive an award of $1,000. Other system types can receive incentives too! For more information, visit: https://energy.maryland.gov/residential/Pages/incentives/CleanEnergyGrants.aspx/
The Quick Home Energy Check-Up is free of charge to utility customers and is less thorough than the Home Performance audit. During the QHEC, the Energy Analyst assesses your home’s energy use by accompanying homeowners on a visual walk-through of their home identifying energy-saving opportunities. He or she also will help customers to begin saving right away by installing energy-saving products such as LED light bulbs, pipe wraps for your electric hot water heater for simple insulation, a showerhead adapter, efficient-flow showerheads, faucet aerators to reduce the amount of water consumed and power strips. Please note, there is no formal energy audit report included with the QHEC so you cannot use this form of an audit that is required to participate in grants in the Clean Energy Program. To learn more about QHEC visit: https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/quick-home-energy-check-up-program
In order to be considered for grants in the Clean Energy Program, you must receive a comprehensive energy assessment by a certified professional that uses the whole-house approach. This is performed as a part of the Home Performance audit as the program requires a whole-house audit that deeply analyzes all areas of your home in detail (this includes the mentioned blower door test).
The cost for the whole-house audit is $100 which is a discounted price for current Pepco and Washington Gas customers (normally $400). To learn more about HPwES, visit https://homeenergysavings.pepco.com/home-performance-with-energy-star-program.
- For income-qualified applicants (total household gross incomes that are less than 60% of the median income for Prince George’s County as specified by Maryland Department Housing and Community Development), the maximum grant for homeowner owned systems is 100% of the cost up to $10,000.
- Grants for leased systems or power purchase agreements are up to $2,000.
- For market rate applicants, the maximum grant award for homeowner owned systems is up to $5,000.
Sustainable Initiatives (Environment)
One of the first things to check is if the areaway drain outside your basement door is clogged. If drainage and waterproofing measures are in place and you are still having a significant problem, contact the Department of the Environment (DoE) at 301-883-5810. Staff from our office will inspect your property to evaluate and determine the extent of the problem and if a drainage study is necessary.
A rain barrel captures water from your downspout and stores it. You can use it to water plants in your garden or simply let the water soak slowly into the ground during dry weather. There are many styles and types of rain barrels available. You can even build your own from a cleaned and recycled 55-gallon plastic drum. Explore some sources for purchasing rain barrels.
A rain garden captures stormwater runoff and allows it to slowly soak into the ground. The water that washes off your roof, driveway and your lawn, called stormwater runoff, becomes contaminated by the everyday substances found around your home. In a rain garden, layers of soil and water-loving plants naturally filter and remove pollutants before they flow through the storm drain pipes and into our local streams. These gardens can absorb several times more rainwater than a lawn, while replenishing the groundwater supply and filtering pollutants. They are easy to maintain and, after the plants are well-established, rarely need watering. They also provide a habitat for birds and butterflies.
BayScaping is conservation landscaping that helps protect local streams that lead to the Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping saves money, takes less work, benefits the environment, and gives your yard year-round beauty. Get more BayScaping and Conservation information.
There are many ways you can slow stormwater runoff down and let it soak into the soil. What works best for you will depend upon the size and layout of your home and property, the type of soil you have, how much you want to spend, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. The Rain Check Rebate program will help you choose between infiltration practices such as rain gardens, rain barrels, trees, permeable pavement, and more! For more information, visit the Rain Check Rebate page.
There are many ways you can slow stormwater runoff down and let it soak into the soil. What works best for you will depend upon the size and layout of your home and property, the type of soil you have, how much you want to spend, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Rainscapes will help you choose between infiltration practices such as rain gardens, rain barrels and BayScaping. For more information, visit the rainscapes page.
The Department of the Environment (DoE) administers and manages flood awareness and protection programs in the county, as an active participant in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Community Rating System. For more information, please call DoE at 301-883-5810.
Tantallon Workgroup (DPW&T/CEX)
County Property Owners pay Ad Valorem and Clean Water Act Fees as follows:
Ad Valorem fees:
5.4 cents per $100 of assessed property value.
Clean Water Act (CWA) fees are applied as follows:
Administrative Fees:
All property parcels (flat fee $20.58 per parcel)
Impact Fees:
Tier One (0.6 *ESU) = $20.90/ESU [RT, R20, R35, RU]
Tier Two (1.0 ESU) = $20.90/ESU [R55, RS, R80, RR, RM]
Tier Three (2.0 ESU) = $20.90/ESU [RE, ROS, RA, RL]
*ESU = Environmental Service Unit
Fees support the following services throughout the County:
SWM public infrastructure operation and maintenance
Water Quality restoration & rehabilitation projects (CIP & CWP programs)
Drainage Relief and flood mitigation projects
Provides funding for Rain Check Rebate and Stormwater Stewardship Grant programs.
Public/Private BMP inspections and compliance
Public BMP maintenance
New Development & Redevelopment project Inspection and Enforcement programs
NPDES Permit Water Quality Monitoring & Reporting requirements
NPDES Illicit Discharge Detection Elimination (IDDE) inspections
Administration of Funds
Tenant Fit-Out Sprinklers and Fire Alarms (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
The sprinkler/fire alarm drawings are submitted in a separate building permit application for approval of sprinklers/alarms.
No, the building permit has to be issued first. For more information and requirements, visit DPIE’s website page on Third Party Review Program for Fire & Life Safety.
No, a separate submittal is not required. It is part of the building permit review; however, separate building permits will be issued for sprinklers/alarms.
Just information regarding existing/proposed fire protection systems should be included on the building permit drawing. A separate building permit needs to be obtained as per question #2.
The Sprinkler/Fire Alarm Building Permit application should be submitted to DPIE.
The estimated timeframe for processing and issuing sprinkler/fire alarm building permits is approximately 5 business days.
Tenants (Housing Authority)
The checks must be mailed each month. We cannot allow you to pick up your check on a continuous basis. A suggestion would be to contact the Post Office who services your area to correct the mail delivery problem you are experiencing.
Contact your Rental Specialist in the Rental Assistance Office at 301-883-5501 and verify that a check was issued to you for the month in question. If after 10 business days from the 1st of the month, if you have not received the check, notify Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable, in writing, that your check was not received. Your correspondence must be signed and dated. FAS, Accounts Payable can then issue a stop payment on the check and reissue the check once confirmation from the bank is received.
Notify Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable, in writing, that your check was not received. Your correspondence must be signed and dated. FAS, Accounts Payable can then issue a stop payment on the check and reissue the check once confirmation from the bank is received.
Contact your Rental Specialist in the Rental Assistance Office at 301-883-5501 to determine if a change of income or an adjustment for you is the reason for the changed amount. If the Rental Assistance Office cannot determine a reason for the change, contact Financial and Administrative Services (FAS), Accounts Payable Office at 301-883-5546.
Monthly utility assistance checks are mailed on the first business day of the month.
The Grand Jury (State's Attorney)
The grand jury can vote in favor of an indictment, direct the filing of a prosecutor's information (which contains non-felony charges) or issue a report. For the first 2 actions, the grand jury must determine that the evidence is legally sufficient and that it provides probable cause to believe that the defendant has committed the crime. Otherwise, the grand jury issues a “no-bill” which in effect dismisses the matter. If the grand jury votes in favor of an indictment, the case is forwarded to the Circuit Court for further action.
A grand jury is a group of citizens who are empowered to hear certain evidence presented by prosecutors, and to take various actions regarding the evidence and legal charges they are to consider. See additional details.
The Trial (State's Attorney)
See an explanation of the various steps of a trial proceeding.
A criminal trial is a formal presentation of evidence before the presiding judge. See the trial process explained further.
Traffic (Public Works & Transportation)
When lighting improvements are requested because of nighttime criminal activity, we will request the Prince George's County Police Department to review their records. If their records indicate a significant problem occurring during the hours of darkness and if they believe it could be reduced or eliminated with improved lighting, then lighting improvements will be considered. There is no cost to the homeowners when lighting is installed to correct a criminal problem.
The utility companies can sometimes provide lighting for security purposes. This is called dusk-to-dawn or private area lighting. Normally, they are installed only in areas with an above ground electrical distribution system. The fixture is similar to a street light; it is mounted on a wooden utility pole and directed over the homeowner's property. The monthly rental cost is included in the owner's electric bill. Requests for dusk-to-dawn or private area lighting must be made directly to the utility company. The telephone numbers can be found on the Street Lights page.
Requests for street lighting in developed areas of the County are investigated. Depending on the size of the area, it generally takes 30 to 60 days to perform a lighting needs study. If improvements are warranted due to documented safety problems (traffic accidents, pedestrian activity, etc.), the County bears the cost of such installations. Where there is no documented safety problem but street lighting improvements are warranted, the homeowners will be requested to pay the installation or conversion cost; the annual electrical energy and maintenance costs will be borne by the County. Once a lighting project is implemented it generally takes one to two years to complete.
Children should not be encouraged to play in or near the roadway. It is much more appropriate to educate children to respect a moving vehicle and how to be a safe pedestrian. The use of "Children at Play" sign does not provide an added degree of protection as it is originally intended.
This Department's longstanding policy is not to install "Children at Play" signs on County-maintained roadways as they tend to create a false sense of security for both parents and children. Studies have revealed that these signs when posted in residential areas show no evidence of having reduced pedestrian accidents or vehicle speeds. These signs failed to achieve the desired safety benefits.
On the contrary, the use of such signs could be interpreted as an endorsement by the County of the use of streets as play areas, thus creating an even more hazardous condition. Also, Federal and State signing regulations do not allow us to use the "Children at Play" signs since they are not considered as accepted and standard traffic control devices. We are allowed to post signs for schools, playgrounds, parks and other recreational facilities.
Once street lights are installed, they are maintained by the utility companies. As a result, burned-out or damaged street lights should be reported to the utility company serving the area. This is usually the same company serving your home with electricity.
Be prepared to provide specific information: (e.g. in front of ___________; across the street from ____________; wood or metal pole, overhead or below ground service, etc.). The utility companies prefer that residents report street light problems directly to their offices since residents are in a better position to provide necessary information. Most repairs are performed within 72 hours of notifying the utility company. View more information on the Street Lights page.
In order to provide a sound basis for engineering judgment with respect to the need for installing stop signs on all approaches of the roadway, the Department conforms to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). This manual, prepared by a national joint committee on municipal, county, and state officials, contains the following conditions or warrants, which should be present before a traffic control device such as a multi-way stop control is warranted.
In new developments, lighting is one of the last features to be installed. Utilities companies wait until the streets and homes are nearly complete before they install the lights. They do this to minimize the possibility of damage to the light fixtures and cables by the heavy construction equipment. Consequently, the actual installation of lights in a new development depends primarily on the utility company's schedule.
Normally streets within townhouse developments are private and maintained by the homeowners association. This responsibility extends to the street lights. Consequently, concerns regarding street lights within townhouse developments should be reported to the homeowners association.
When lighting is requested because of nighttime traffic accidents, we will study the location to see if the area has a history of nighttime collisions; and, if additional traffic controls such as warning signs, reflectors, or street lights appear to be justified, they will be considered. We appreciate such problem locations being reported. There is no cost to the homeowners when lighting is installed to correct a traffic-related problem.
A light directly in front of a home (i.e., on the same side of the street) can usually be shaded. The utility company darkens the house side of the refractor or globe to black out the annoying light. Generally, there is no cost for this service. If the annoying light fixture is across the street it cannot be shaded, as this would prevent the light from illuminating the roadway. Homeowners desiring a shade should call our Roadway Lighting Section at 301-883-5650.
Such problems can be reported to our Roadway Lighting Section at 301-883-5650. The area will be investigated and any branches blocking the light from illuminating the roadway will be trimmed.
Crosswalks are generally installed only at those locations where a significant number of pedestrians cross the street and where there is a potential for conflicts between vehicle and pedestrian movements. We do not and cannot install crosswalks at random locations.
Crosswalks are installed at a point where sight distances to the approaching vehicles can be maximized. As motorists typically do not expect pedestrians to be crossing at non-intersection locations, crosswalks are generally installed at intersections and not at mid-block locations.
It should be noted that crosswalks are intended to indicate to both pedestrians and motorists where pedestrians should cross the roadway, and they are intended to heighten motorists' awareness of a pedestrian crosspoint. Unwarranted and random installation of crosswalks can lead to pedestrians and motorists ignoring them, thus undermining the purpose of installing crosswalks which can lead to a disastrous situation. Also, recent national studies have found that a significant number of people that use a marked crosswalk do so rather blindly. Some pedestrians tend not to pay much attention being on a crosswalk, thinking that the crosswalk should give them the ultimate protection. That is why crosswalks are only installed at locations where they are clearly needed.
Transit (Public Works & Transportation)
Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance by calling 301-499-8603 between 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding major holidays). Hours of operations are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Same day requests are accepted but are subject to availability of resources.
When reserving a trip, please be sure to indicate if you will need special assistance, such as a wheelchair lift or escort.
After your trip is scheduled, you will be required to call back the day before your trip to confirm your reservation, otherwise, your reservation may be cancelled. Please be ready for pick-up 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time and be waiting at a location where you are visible to the driver. Due to traffic congestion, please wait 15 minutes before calling to verify if your trip is late.
To apply or receive information for the Call-A-Cab program please view Call-A-Cab page.
Senior and/or disabled residents may purchase up to fourteen $20 coupon books in a six-month period at $10 per book. Call 301-883-5656 for more information.
Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance by calling 301-499-8603 between 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding major holidays). Hours of operations are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Same day requests are accepted but are subject to availability of resources.
When reserving a trip, please be sure to indicate if you will need special assistance, such as a wheelchair lift or escort.
After your trip is scheduled, you will be required to call back the day before your trip to confirm your reservation, otherwise, your reservation may be cancelled. Please be ready for pick-up 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time and be waiting at a location where you are visible to the driver. Due to traffic congestion, please wait 15 minutes before calling to verify if your trip is late.
Call-A-Bus is a demand response curb-to-curb service. Service is available to all residents of Prince George's County who are not served by or cannot use existing bus or rail services.
Call-A-Cab is a transportation assistance program that provides mobility at a reduced cost for senior (age 60 and over) and/or disabled County residents. This program allows eligible residents to purchase coupon books that can be used to pay for rides with participating cab companies when Metro and/or Call-A-Bus are not available.
Call 301-883-5656 for more information.
Senior Transportation Services (STS) provides regularly scheduled transportation throughout Prince George's County to senior and disabled County residents. Service is provided Monday through Friday, except County holidays. Participants must provide their own escorts, if needed. Transportation is only provided curb-to-curb.
Fares are based on one-way trips and are payable upon boarding. Escorts ride free. Please remember to have exact change. Drivers cannot make change or handle the fare.
- Regular Fare - $1
- Senior Citizens - FREE
- Persons with Disabilities - FREE
Senior Transportation Services provides transportation for a number of programs for Senior Citizens. The Department of Family Services, Aging Division, offers a variety of programs designed to assist older adults throughout the County. The transportation programs are described on the Senior Transportation Services page.
Call-A-Bus service is available to all Prince George's County residents. However, priority is given to senior and disabled persons. Disabled persons must provide their own escort if needed. Service animals are allowed for the visually impaired.
Trees (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
Yes, you need a permit and permission from the County. However, you first need to call CountyClick 311. If the tree is in the County road right-of-way, you also need a Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) roadside tree permit. No tree in the public right-of-way can be removed without DPW&T approval, since the trees in the public right-of-way are maintained by DPW&T. Once CountyClick 311 receives your request, a person from DPW&T’s Office of Highway Maintenance will contact you. The County public right-of-way trees are governed by The Maryland Roadside Tree Law, administered by the DNR – Forest Service. It is unlawful for private property owners to cut down public County trees within the right-of-way, unless the person removing a tree has obtained a Roadside Tree Removal Permit from DNR – Forest Service. If the tree is in the public road right-of-way in a municipality or a state highway, you need to contact the municipality or the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) to determine their requirements regarding tree removal.
If the tree is on your property, it depends on how many trees you are removing. Generally, removing one tree does not require a permit. However, contact the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) Environmental Planning Section, at 301-952-3650 for guidance regarding tree removal and tree conservation approvals. For detailed guidance on this topic, please go to the following M-NCPPC website for more information. If you live in a municipality, you also need to contact the municipality to determine the municipality’s requirements regarding tree removal.
If you are clearing more than 5,000 square feet of trees, you need a grading permit. Contact DPIE Site/Road Plan Review Division at 301-636-2060 for the District Engineer for a specific area regarding the process for a grading permit.
Tuberculosis Control (Health)
Yes. Tuberculosis (TB) can be cured with medications provided free of charge.
The Tuberculosis (TB) Control Program is responsible for the management of TB care in Prince George’s County.
The TB clinic is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday excluding holidays; with evening hours on Tuesdays, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. All TB Control Program services are provided by appointment only. An appointment can be made by calling 301-583-3110 (TTY/STS Dial 711 for Maryland Relay).
A positive skin test reaction usually means that the person has been infected with Tuberculosis (TB). It does not necessarily mean that the person has TB disease. Other tests, such as an x-ray, blood test or sputum sample, are needed to see if the person has TB disease.?
There is no charge for any Tuberculosis (TB) related service at this time.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by germs spread from person to person through the air. To read more about TB please view our About Tuberculosis page.
Find out who is eligible for the Tuberculosis services by viewing our Tuberculosis Services Eligibility page. Tuberculosis Services Eligibility
Unlicensed Businesses (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)
There are a variety of processes for licensing. The applicant can find that out by researching the business they wish to operate. Much of the information related to licensing can be found online. Aspiring entrepreneurs should also be aware that a license may not be issued until a Use & Occupancy has been approved.
There are a variety of processes for licensing. The applicant can find that out by researching the business they wish to operate. Much of the information related to licensing can be found online. Aspiring entrepreneurs should also be aware that a license may not be issued until a Use & Occupancy has been approved.
The cost and time that it takes to secure a license depends on the type of license.
The cost and time that it takes to secure a license depends on the type of license.
With a valid Use & Occupancy Permit, the following businesses may operate out of residences: two-chair hair salons; some types of consulting and training businesses; some exercise classes; a licensed daycare; and a licensed senior care facility. For additional businesses, contact Prince George’s Department of Parks and Planning.
With a valid Use & Occupancy Permit, the following businesses may operate out of residences: two-chair hair salons; some types of consulting and training businesses; some exercise classes; a licensed daycare; and a licensed senior care facility. For additional businesses, contact Prince George’s Department of Parks and Planning.
The reasons are many. It may be that people who are unemployed or want to become entrepreneurs operate businesses out of their homes. During COVID, when many people lost their jobs because of social distancing mandates or stalled businesses, they may have turned to operating illegal businesses at home to feed their families. Some may do it for extra money. Some may want to avoid paying rent and other expenses related to an appropriate commercial space.
The reasons are many. It may be that people who are unemployed or want to become entrepreneurs operate businesses out of their homes. During COVID, when many people lost their jobs because of social distancing mandates or stalled businesses, they may have turned to operating illegal businesses at home to feed their families. Some may do it for extra money. Some may want to avoid paying rent and other expenses related to an appropriate commercial space.
Any business that does not have a valid Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O). Those businesses may include operating a lawn maintenance or tree-trimming business out of your home. Preparing and serving food for sale, repairing and painting vehicles in a driveway or garage, operating a nail salon, and running an unlicensed daycare or adult care facility are also violations of County code. Some businesses require State or business licenses. If you operate a business without a State or business license, you are also in violation.
Any business that does not have a valid Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O). Those businesses may include operating a lawn maintenance or tree-trimming business out of your home. Preparing and serving food for sale, repairing and painting vehicles in a driveway or garage, operating a nail salon, and running an unlicensed daycare or adult care facility are also violations of County code. Some businesses require State or business licenses. If you operate a business without a State or business license, you are also in violation.
The home-based business first must be approved by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (Park and Planning). Once the use has been approved, a life safety inspection is conducted. If the use is found to be code-compliant, a Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O) can be issued by the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE).
In many cases, however, the property owner will not be able to operate the business legally. Auto repair shops, nail salons and eateries, among many others, are prohibited and violate the code because of zoning restrictions and life safety concerns. Anyone interested in running a business at home should reach out to the Zoning Office at Park and Planning for information about the property’s zoning and permitted uses. DPIE’s Business Development Section (BDS) is a great resource for helping aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners navigate the permitting process.
The home-based business first must be approved by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (Park and Planning). Once the use has been approved, a life safety inspection is conducted. If the use is found to be code-compliant, a Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O) can be issued by the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE).
In many cases, however, the property owner will not be able to operate the business legally. Auto repair shops, nail salons and eateries, among many others, are prohibited and violate the code because of zoning restrictions and life safety concerns. Anyone interested in running a business at home should reach out to the Zoning Office at Park and Planning for information about the property’s zoning and permitted uses. DPIE’s Business Development Section (BDS) is a great resource for helping aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners navigate the permitting process.
DPIE only issues licenses for a few businesses. Once a Use & Occupancy Permit has been received, the aspiring business owner should research the required license and apply to the appropriate agency. It is the applicant’s responsibility to secure the appropriate license before operating. For more information about businesses licensed by DPIE, visit the DPIE website’s Business Licensing page.
DPIE only issues licenses for a few businesses. Once a Use & Occupancy Permit has been received, the aspiring business owner should research the required license and apply to the appropriate agency. It is the applicant’s responsibility to secure the appropriate license before operating. For more information about businesses licensed by DPIE, visit the DPIE website’s Business Licensing page.
Victims’ Rights (State's Attorney)
Maryland law provides for the rights of victims in criminal cases. Some of these rights include the following.
The SAO provides direct assistance and information regarding court proceedings. See how the unit assists victims and witnesses.
Wait List (Housing Authority)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program Wait List is currently closed. You must apply when the waiting list is open.
You must apply online when the waiting list is open and be selected from the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Waiting List and be determined eligible.
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is a Federally funded, subsidized- rental program that allows recipients of a voucher to rent safe and sanitary housing in the private sector. The voucher holder pays part of the rent, which is determined by the household's monthly adjusted gross income, the rent payment standard for the area, and the apartment's rent. The tenant is not allowed to pay more than 40% of the household's adjusted gross income towards the rent and utilities on an initial lease-up, but must pay at least 30% of the household's adjusted gross income.
The Housing Authority of Prince George’s County administers the voucher and, with funds received from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), pays the remainder of the rent amount directly to the landlord. The HCV recipient may use the voucher to find a unit in any part of the United States and Puerto Rico.
Waste Management (Environment)
Residents can now place UP TO 2 standard bulky items, directly next to your trash toter, for curbside pickup on your regular trash collection day. Learn about the faster and improved curbside bulky trash collection, how to prepare items to ensure pickup, what is accepted, and more at mypgc.us/clearthecurb.
Appointments are still required for spare tires and white goods/appliances (washing machines, dryers, furniture, hot water heaters, etc.). To schedule an appointment for white goods/appliances and tires, contact PGC311: online at mypgc.us/pgc311 or by dialing 3-1-1 (if in the County) or 301-883-4748 (if out of the County).
Bulky items should be placed at the curb no earlier than the night before your scheduled collection day or by 6 a.m. the morning of your appointment date.
Household items that are flammable, caustic or toxic are considered to be hazardous. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) includes:
- Acids
- Antifreeze
- Car Batteries
- Cleaners
- Insecticides
- Oil-Based Paints
- Poisons
- Solvents
- Swimming Pool Chemicals
- Used Motor Oil
Citizens and residents can take their household hazardous waste to the Household Hazardous Waste Acceptance Site located at the Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill, 11611 White House Road in Upper Marlboro on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. For more information concerning household hazardous waste, please call 301-883-5810.
Learn more with this video on HHW and Electronics Recycling:
To view a full list of the waste collection holiday schedule, visit Holiday Waste Collection Schedule for more information or contact PGC311.
Clippings that are left on the lawn will return to the earth and restore natural ingredients to the soil. Additionally, these clippings help to retain moisture, reduce wear and facilitate growth. By not bagging our grass clippings, the cost of waste removal is reduced by 24%. Find more information about Yard Trim Collection.
Once collected, recyclables are taken to the County’s Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) where the materials are sorted and are either crushed (glass) or baled (newspaper, plastic, aluminum and steel) for shipment to markets. For more information, please watch visit our Residential Recycling program page or watch the video below.
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No plastic bags are allowed in the curbside recycling program including translucent clear plastic bags. These bags can only be used for shredded paper. For more information about the policy, please contact PGC311 or visit Residential Recycling - Unacceptable Items.
For information about your trash collection service, please contact PGC311 or visit us at Residential Collections.
All trash must be tied and bagged securely.
To learn the trash and recycling days for your community, use our online address tool or contact PGC311 to determine your collection day.
Waste Management System Benefit Change (Environment)
Yes. The SBC is applied to buildings that can "generate waste" in the county. Therefore, you must pay your SBC even if your waste is disposed of outside of the county. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
Any property owner or authorized agent filing for reconsideration will receive a written confirmation of its receipt with a reconsideration number. Your 7-digit account number can be used to track the status of the reconsideration by calling the Customer Service left at 301-952-7635.
You should receive a refund after a 6 - 8 week period following the reconsideration determination. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
Interest is charged at the rate of about 20% per annum. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
Yes. Your reconsideration request will be processed, and should it be successful, you will receive a refund of any overpayment. Please be aware that should you not pay the SBC, interest will accrue beginning October 1. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
No. You are still responsible for contracting for private waste service if your account is non-residential. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
Your request must be received on or before August 31. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
The reconsideration period for new Tax Bills closes on August 31st. Use the Reconsideration Form provided by the Department of the Environment (DoE). You may also request a copy of the Reconsideration Form by calling the Customer Service left at 301-952-7635. Alternatively, you can pick one up at the DoE Office:
1801 McCormick Drive
Suite 500
Largo, MD 20774
Please note that once reconsideration is requested, it cannot be withdrawn. To get started, download a Reconsideration Form (PDF).
The SBC has been established to fund the costs of providing a solid waste disposal system, which is required by Maryland law. The SBC does not cover the cost of actual disposal of waste. SBC revenues are used to make disposal facilities available. The county has conducted studies of actual waste generation from non-residential properties, and has classified them according to their potential for waste generation.
Although your business or activity may not currently generate as much waste as other may, it has the potential to do so. It is the most equitable method of distributing the costs of providing the solid waste system. Please call 301-952-7635 for more information.
There are exceptions but residences should be charged the residential solid waste charges rather than the SBC. To initiate an investigation, please either contact Customer Service at 301-952-7635, or submit a Reconsideration Form (PDF).
If you are an owner of a non-residential property and you believe that the Enclosed Area assigned by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation or the Building Type is incorrect, reconsideration can be requested.
There are 3 categories for determining which costs are covered by the SBC.
Questions about other parts of the County Tax Bill should be directed to the list of telephone numbers on the back of the County Tax Bill (PDF).
The SBC can be suspended for properties that cannot be occupied because of a governmental order. Please submit a copy of the order, along with a Reconsideration Form (PDF).
In November 2000, the voters of Prince George's County approved County Council Bill 61-2000 authorizing the S