Montgomery County Permitting Services Podcast Spotlights New Drone Technology for Inspections and Training

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, December 10, 2025

The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is taking inspections to new heights with the launch of a new podcast episode, "DPS Drone Modernizes Inspections."

DPS is now utilizing the new drone technology in the Land Development division to document compliance, monitor construction progress, and enhance training.

Hosted by DPS Division Chief Gail Lucas, the podcast episode features Land Development Division Chief Linda Kobylski and Field Supervisor Johnny Campos, one of the department's newly certified drone pilots. Together, they discuss how the drone is transforming the way DPS inspections are conducted across Montgomery County.

Tune in to learn about:

• How the drone allows inspectors to quickly and safely access large and complex areas, such as stormwater management systems, sediment basins, and grading sites, without the need for ladders or navigating terrain with steep slopes. It can also measure volume metrically to determine the level of land disturbance at a site.

• Enhanced training and future use of the drone. DPS is using drone footage as an educational training tool to support staff development and improve inspection techniques.

• Advanced technology. Equipped with a high-resolution camera, the drone can reach up to 45 miles per hour and operates at altitudes of up to 400 feet. Each flight is preceded by a rigorous precheck process to ensure compliance with FAA regulations and safety standards.

The drone is used exclusively on active permitted sites and does not fly over private residential properties.

The Permitting Services Podcast is part of the department's ongoing effort to educate and engage the community on permitting processes, safety standards, and best practices in residential and commercial development.

This episode is available now on the DPS website and other podcast platforms.

Subscribe to the podcast by tapping the "follow" sign on your favorite podcast provider's platform. It can also be viewed on the County's YouTube channel and on County Cable Montgomery at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Previous episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, contractors, demolition, eSolar, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, and vendor licenses.

Residents can send questions and ideas for future podcast episodes to [email protected].

The Office of Broadband Programs in the County's Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Solutions provides technical support for the Permitting Services podcast.

DPS is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, 7th Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday; no appointment is necessary. Customers may also contact DPS staff by calling MC 311 or 240-777-0311. For more information, visit the DPS website.

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