Get a permit, license or certification

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) helps businesses grow while keeping our air clean, water safe, and communities healthy. We manage over 70,000 permits for everything from neighborhood dry cleaners to large power plants.

Get Started at the Environmental Service Center

The easiest way to find and apply for a permit is through our new Environmental Service Center. Here you can learn more about environmental permits and apply online for many of them, with more being added soon.

Search: Find the specific permit you need.
Apply: Submit applications and pay fees online (for many permits).
Track: Check the status of your application when you apply online.

Visit the Service Center

Tips for Applying for Permits

Identify Your Needs: Determine which permits apply to your project. Are you building near water? Operating a boiler? Discharging waste? Use our permit search or contact our staff to help figure out which permits you need.
Check Requirements: Gather any required documents. Be aware that many permits require proof of workers’ compensation insurance or a Tax Identification Number to check for state liabilities.
Apply Early: Some permits take a few weeks; others take several months or longer, especially if public input is required. Start your application as soon as possible.
Submit Online: We can now accept online applications for many of our permits through our Service Center. Other forms can be submitted by email or mail.
Stay in Touch: Our team will contact you if we need more information. Once you have your permit, follow all rules for monitoring, reporting, and renewals to stay in compliance.

Find Permits by Topic

If you aren't sure where to start, browse by the type of environment your project affects:

Air Quality: For equipment that releases emissions (e.g., generators, boilers, paint booths).
Water & Wetlands: For building near streams, managing wastewater, or drilling wells.
Land & Waste Management: For handling hazardous waste, mining, or oil storage.

Need Help?

Call us: You can contact our central office at 410-537-3000 or find the relevant program office in our directory.
Email us: General emails can be sent to [email protected].
Search for existing permits: Look up existing permits by project name or location here.