Public outreach is at the heart of what we do at the Maryland Department of the Environment. We want every community to know about facilities and projects near them—and to understand how the environmental review and permitting process works.

We hold hundreds of public meetings and hearings each year to share information, listen to concerns, and answer questions about proposed projects. These meetings are an important way for residents, local organizations, and businesses to participate in environmental decision-making.

• Informational meetings create an open space for discussion between community members, the department, and a company or applicant. These meetings help explain what is being proposed and answer questions early in the process.
  
• Public hearings are formal opportunities for people to share their comments on a proposed decision before it becomes final. You can speak during the hearing or send in written comments.
  
• Public comment periods allow you to share your thoughts in writing, even if you can’t attend a meeting.
  

There are many ways to get involved. To make participation easier, many of our public meetings are held virtually or in a hybrid format so that people can join from anywhere. Recordings of these meetings are posted on our YouTube page for anyone who can’t attend live. You can also search for permits by facility to learn more about projects in your area. The best way to share your input on a specific project is to use the search bar at the top of this page and enter the project’s name to find where and how to submit your comment.

The department is made up of three main administrations, each focused on a different part of our environment:

• ​Air and Radiation Administration – issues permits, licenses, and certifications related to air pollution emissions, removal of asbestos, and use of radiation machines and radioactive materials. Click here for proposed actions.
• Water and Science Administration – issues permits, licenses, and certifications related to stormwater, wastewater, wetlands, and water withdrawals. Click here for proposed actions.
• Land and Materials Administration – issues permits, licenses, and certifications related to solid waste, hazardous waste, oil storage and oil handling facilities,  and soil cleanups.​​ Click here for proposed actions.
  
  

Here are some other helpful resources:
Archived meetings
Search permits
Community calendar
Newsletter​