Construction Inspection Division

Tom Butler, Chief
9250 Bendix Road
Columbia, MD 21045
410-313-1880

The Construction Inspection Division (CID) consists of both field inspectors and administrative staff. The Construction Inspection Division is comprised of inspection staff divided regionally into three inspection teams: East, Central, and West.

CID inspection teams ensure that capital and developer projects are constructed in accordance with County written agreements, approved plans and specifications. All team members endeavor to assure contractor and developer compliance to County standards as established in the Howard County Design Manual, Volume IV. CID performs inspections on a number of construction improvements: capital projects, developer projects, all grading permits, certain plumbing permits, and inter-agency county projects.

CID is responsible for inspection of construction improvements to roads, bridges, utilities, and grass areas; all of which are outside of residential or commercial buildings. Please see The Department of Inspections, License, and Permits for inspection of the residential or commercial buildings.

Capital Projects are managed by the Howard County Government to improve transportation and park projects, water and wastewater capital projects. These projects include: bridges, parks, roads, sidewalks, and storm drain systems, water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, elevated water tanks and pumping facilities.

Developer Projects are managed by private entities to construct housing or businesses. These projects include residential neighborhoods, commercial areas for retail or business use, and industrial areas for manufacturing or processing. Construction on these projects often includes roads and utility systems that are dedicated to public use as well as site grading and storm water management facilities.

Grading Permits involve enforcement of Erosion and Sediment Control for all projects.

For more information on the Developer's Process please click here.