At Design Builders, we believe in doing things the right way—and that starts with permitting. Whether you’re planning a new deck, screened porch, or outdoor kitchen, understanding the local permitting process is essential. In Northern Virginia, permitting isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each county—and sometimes even individual communities or HOAs—has its own rules, timelines, and approval processes.

A guide to navigating permits in Montgomery, Frederick, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, and Howard Counties

If you’re planning to add a deck or screened porch to your Maryland home, there’s one step you can’t skip: the permit process. Whether you’re expanding an existing space or building something brand new, local counties require permits to ensure the work meets safety and zoning standards.

A well-designed outdoor space does more than look good—it works hard behind the scenes to make hosting easy and memorable. Whether you’re throwing a casual family cookout, a neighborhood game night, or a wine-and-cheese soirée under the stars, your layout plays a huge role in how the space feels and functions.

A freshly coated epoxy floor can completely transform a space, turning dull concrete into a clean, polished surface. Maybe you're dreaming of a sleeker garage or just want your outdoor space to match the vibe of your outdoor kitchen.

When you think about outdoor living, you probably picture grilling on the deck, relaxing on a screened porch, or hosting friends around the firepit. You’ve put time and care into creating a space that feels safe, welcoming, and entirely your own. But there’s one part of your property that often gets overlooked. Installing an electric driveway gate can be a simple way to protect everything behind that first entry point. Before you plan your next outdoor upgrade, it’s worth asking if your front access matches the rest of your home.