Anne Arundel County reports significant reductions in permit review times following improvements to its digital permitting system, with online applications now
accounting for nearly 94% of submissions.
Anne Arundel County has reduced permit review times by 34% to 50% across standard project categories over the past several years, according to an October 15 announcement from County Executive Steuart Pittman and the Department of Inspections and Permits. The improvements come as the County continues to modernize its permitting process and expand online services for residents, contractors, and businesses.
Since launching its upgraded digital permitting portal, online applications have increased from 70% to nearly 94%, while overall application volumes have remained consistent.
The County reported improvements across several common permit categories:
- Roof-mounted solar installations: Average review times decreased from 2.4 business days in 2024 to approximately 1.2 days.
- Decks, fences, sheds, and small interior renovations: Review times fell from 4.7 to approximately 2.4 business days.
- Tenant improvements: Review times decreased from seven to approximately 3.8 business days.
- New single-family homes and attached homes in subdivisions: Review times dropped from 6.2 to approximately 4.1 business days.
“Moving nearly 94% of our applications online has allowed us to increase transparency, eliminate unnecessary bottlenecks, and deliver a faster, more predictable process for contractors and homeowners alike,” said Mark Wedemeyer, Director of Inspections and Permits.
During a demonstration at the Anne Arundel County Permit Center, officials highlighted the portal’s capabilities and ongoing customer service improvements. The County plans to continue refining its digital permitting services to improve accessibility, transparency, and processing efficiency.
The improvements offer an example of how counties can use digital services and process modernization to streamline routine government operations while maintaining consistent application volumes.
For more information, visit the Anne Arundel County Department of Inspections and Permits or watch the County’s permitting efficiency showcase.
