When you apply for a permit with us, you probably want to know how long the process will take. Each application is unique, but we set standard processing times to give you a general idea of what to expect.
The time it takes to review and decide on a permit application depends on many factors, including the type of permit, the complexity of the request, and whether public input is required. Each year, we calibrate estimated processing times to recent data.
For most types of permits, 90% of applications are processed within the standard time frame. Some may take less time, while others may take longer if they involve special circumstances.
While we strive to process applications as quickly as possible, certain factors may delay the process. These include:
Missing or incomplete information in the application
Required public review periods
Environmental or legal complexities that need additional evaluation
Roles and Responsibilities
The permit applicant-typically the owner or operator of a facility-is responsible for ensuring that all permit conditions are met. This includes compliance with environmental regulations, reporting requirements, and any special conditions outlined in the final permit.
A consultant may be hired to assist with completing the permit application and ensuring all technical requirements are met. However, the applicant remains accountable for the overall permit process, from submission to compliance with final permit conditions.
Key Milestones to Monitor
Applicants should closely track important steps in the permit process, including:
Submission and approval of a complete application
Providing supplemental information if requested, within the given timeline
Participation in public meetings, where applicable, to review the draft permit and provide information to the community
Review of public comments, which may influence final permit conditions
Understanding special conditions that may be included in the permit
Final permit issuance and renewal requirements, ensuring continued compliance and timely renewal when necessary
We encourage applicants to review the estimated processing times before applying. If you have questions or need assistance with your application, our staff is available to help guide you through the process.
*Available to submit application and pay fees online
Land and Materials Administration |
Refuse Disposal Permit
* |
85 days (2.8 months) for transfer stations |
110 days (3.7 months) for processing facilities |
180 days (6 months) for processing facilities & transfer stations |
360 days (12 months) for incinerators |
360 days (12 months) for land-clearing debris landfills |
312 days (10.4 months) for industrial landfills |
430 days (14.3 months) for rubble landfills |
190 days (6.3 months) for municipal landfills |
Groundwater Discharge Permit for Rubble Landfill
* |
90 days |
Sewage Sludge Utilization Permit
* |
100 days (3.3 months) – research project |
75 days (2.5 months) – transportation |
120 days (4 months) – utilization or disposal at a sanitary landfill, energy generation, or incineration |
175 days (5.8 months) – marketing |
210 days (7 months) – land application |
530 days (18 months) – treatment, composting, distribution facility, or storage |
125 days (4.2 months) – sewage sludge landfill |
500 days (16.6 months) – innovative projects |
General Discharge Permit for Animal Feeding Operations |
120 days (4 months) for new construction |
810 days 27 months for renewal |
Natural Wood Waste Recycling Individual Facility Permit
* |
9 months |
Natural Wood Waste Recycling Facility General Permit
* |
54 days |
Individual Composting Facility Permit |
220 days (7.3 months) |
General Composting Facility Permit |
120 days (4 months) |
Scrap Tire Hauler |
81 days (2.7 months) |
Scrap Tire Collection Facilities (General and Secondary) |
68 days (2.3 months) |
Scrap Tire Solid Waste Acceptance Facility |
104 days (3.5 months) |
Scrap Tire TDF/Substitute Fuel Facility |
270 days (9 months) |
Scrap Tire Primary Collection Facility |
360 days (12 months) |
Scrap Tire Recyclers |
360 days (12 months) |
Oil Operations Permit – Storage, Delivery, Transfer in Maryland (OPT) |
720 days (24 months) |
Oil Operations Permit – Delivery Only (OPV) |
270 days (9 months) |
Oil Operations Permit – Solidification of Oil Sludge, Refuse, and/or Oil Mixed with Other Wastes (OPX) |
270 days (9 months) |
Oil Operations Permit – Oil Contaminated Soil Storage and Treatment (OPS) |
405 days (13.5 months) |
Oil Transfer License |
6 days |
General Permits for Discharge of Treated Groundwater from Oil Contaminated Groundwater Sources to Surface or Groundwaters of the State (OGR)
* |
30 days |
General Permits for Discharge of Stormwater and Hydrostatic Test Water from Oil Terminals to Surface or Groundwaters of the State (OGT)* |
270 days (9 months) |
Surface Water Discharge Permit for Oil Terminals (ODS)
* |
360 days (12 months) |
Groundwater Discharge Permit for Oil Terminals (ODG) |
360 days (12 months) |
Underground Storage Tank (UST) Technician, Remover, and Inspector Certifications |
79 days (2.6 months) |
Controlled Hazardous Substances Facility Permit |
686 days (23 months) |
Hazardous Waste; EPA Identification Number |
30 days |
Controlled Hazardous Substances Hauler and Vehicle Certifications |
45 days |
Special Medical Waste (SMW) Hauler and Vehicle Certifications |
45 days |
Coal Mining Permit |
270 days (9 months) |
Surface Coal Mining Blaster Certification |
Immediately on passing exam |
Coal Mining Operator License |
23 days |
Non-Coal Mining Permit |
90 days (3 months) |
Non-Coal Mining License |
11 days |
Oil and Gas Exploration and Production |
90 days (3 months) |
Lead Paint Accreditations |
35 days |
Lead Paint Training Course Approvals |
15 days |
Lead Paint Instructor Approvals |
15 days |
Voluntary Cleanup Program |
49 days to determine if application is accepted |
66 days to review action plan |
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