What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Silver Spring, Montgomery County, Maryland?

By Ray Duke, Founder of Bulletproof Handyman · Last reviewed July 2026

Silver Spring is an unincorporated community in Montgomery County, Maryland with no separate city licensing. Handymen in Silver Spring must comply with Maryland state licensing requirements: any home improvement work exceeding $500 requires a Maryland Home Improvement Contractor (MHIC) license ($281.25 application fee, $500,000 liability insurance minimum). Maryland has no traditional dollar-based handyman exemption—only specific activity carve-outs (landscaping, demolition). Trade work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) requires separate state licenses. All contractors must register with the state and obtain a construction license through Montgomery County Circuit Court.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

• Light landscaping: grass cutting, fertilizer application, seeding (does NOT include hardscape work like stone, pavers, or masonry)
• Demolition work (does not require MHIC license)
• Work as a subcontractor under a licensed MHIC contractor (not directly contracting with homeowner)
• Minor painting (interior and exterior)
• Basic carpentry repairs and trim work (non-structural)
• Fixture replacement: light fixtures, faucets, door hardware (not plumbing system changes)
• Drywall patching and repair (minor, non-structural)
• Caulking and weatherstripping

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Silver Spring

Based on the MD threshold, handymen in Silver Spring commonly take on:

• Minor painting (interior and exterior)
• Basic carpentry repairs and trim work (non-structural)
• Fixture replacement: light fixtures, faucets, door hardware (not plumbing system changes)
• Drywall patching and repair (minor, non-structural)
• Caulking and weatherstripping

⚠️ What Requires a License

• Any home improvement work on a residential dwelling (1–3 units) exceeding $500 in total cost (labor + materials) when contracting directly with homeowner—requires MHIC license
• Electrical work beyond simple fixture changes—requires State Board of Electricians license
• Plumbing work beyond simple fixture replacement (any work affecting water supply, drain lines, or gas lines)—requires Board of Plumbing license
• HVAC system installation, repair, or replacement—requires Board of HVACR Contractors license
• Structural modifications, additions, or alterations to buildings
• Window or door replacement affecting building structure or weatherproofing
• Water heater installation or replacement
• Any work affecting electrical panels or main service
• Hardscape work: stone, pavers, masonry, retaining walls
• Work on condominium units (requires MHIC license even if under $500)

Business License — Silver Spring

Not required at the city level.

Setting Up Your Business in MD

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in MD: $100 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Silver Spring

1. Step 1: Verify your experience qualifications (minimum 2 years in home improvement, construction, or related field) and net worth ($20,000 minimum or $20,000 surety bond).
2. Step 2: Register your business entity. Form an LLC with Maryland SDAT ($100 filing fee) or operate as a sole proprietor. File state registration and tax accounts with SDAT and Comptroller (no fee; call 800-MDTAXES).
3. Step 3: Obtain a construction license through Montgomery County Circuit Court (contact (240) 777-9400 for current fee and application process).
4. Step 4: Secure general liability insurance of at least $500,000 from a licensed insurance provider.
5. Step 5: Study for and pass the PSI MHIC licensing exam ($63 fee). Register at PSI's website or through the MHIC office.
6. Step 6: Submit your MHIC license application to the Maryland Home Improvement Commission with proof of experience, exam passage, net worth/bond, and insurance. Application fee: $281.25.
7. Step 7: If operating from a home address in Silver Spring, check whether you need a Home Occupation Permit from Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (240-777-6300).
8. Step 8: If offering electrical, plumbing, or HVAC services, obtain the relevant state trade licenses from the Maryland Department of Labor.
9. Step 9: Post your MHIC license number on all advertising, contracts, business cards, and commercial vehicles.
10. Step 10: Verify permit requirements for each project with Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (240-777-6300). Historic district work requires additional architectural permits.

Licensing rules and fees change over time, so this information may be out of date. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.