When working as an architect, it is vitally important to learn the rules and regulations in your particular state when it comes to utilizing your Maryland architect stamp. Architects in Maryland with architect stamps will be able to use their stamp in certain situations, as discussed in the article that follows. Adherence to the rules is always required.
Requirements for Use of a Maryland State Seal Stamp
Architects working in the state of Maryland are only allowed to sign and seal reports, drawings, plans, and documents if they meet a set of requirements set forth in the Business Occupations and Profession Article §3-501, Annotated Code of Maryland. This requires that the licensee has the education and or experience, as well as the competence, needed to use the Maryland architect stamp to seal and sign the particular documents in question. In addition, the licensee needs to have been the one to personally prepare the documents or be the one to approve the documents according to the laws in the state.
Approval of Seal Stamp Usage in Maryland
In Maryland, the term "approval" in this case means to have direct knowledge and responsibility over the content of the technical submissions during their preparation, and that they've completely reviewed the documents and have the authority to make changes and revisions in them. Only then can they use their Maryland architect stamp on the documents.
After an inspection, the licensee can sign or seal parts of the professional work including those that are not required under the Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 3,
Annotated Code of Maryland in cases where the architect has reviewed and integrated those particular portions into their project. It is also possible to use the Maryland architect stamp on the documents if the drawings were to come from an out of state architect so long as the design is connected to a commercial establishment. This is because most commercial outlets will follow the same basis type of design and structure, so the plans should be sound regardless of where the project is actually built.It is important to note that whenever using the Maryland architect stamps on the document or project, the licensee will become the architect of record when it comes to those documents.
The stamp or seal will be one of two different sizes - 2" or 1-5/8". The latter size is the one that you will most often see in production. Two elements will always be present on the stamp - the word "architect" and "State of Maryland".
Learn More About Using Your Maryland State Architect Seal Stamp
It will typically contain the name of the architect as well. It is permissible to use a Maryland architect stamp that is an embossing seal, as well as one that is simply a rubber stamp. When choosing a Maryland architect stamp, the user will have a number of different options available when it comes to the particular style.
Those who want to learn more about the Maryland architect stamp and about the other regulations regarding architects in the state should get in touch with the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a Maryland architect stamp required in Maryland?
A Maryland architect stamp should be used when an architect is signing and sealing reports, drawings, plans, or other documents that fall under Maryland’s licensing rules. The architect must have the education, experience, and competence for the work, and must either personally prepare the documents or have direct responsibility and approval over them.
What are the Maryland architect stamp requirements for signing and sealing documents?
To legally sign and seal documents in Maryland, the architect must meet the requirements in the Business Occupations and Professions Article §3-501. That generally means the architect must have the proper qualifications, direct knowledge of the work, and authority to review, revise, and approve the final technical submissions before sealing them.
Can an architect seal documents they did not personally prepare?
Yes, but only if they have direct knowledge, responsibility, and full authority over the documents during preparation. The architect must thoroughly review the work and be able to make changes or revisions. If those conditions are not met, the Maryland architect seal should not be used.
Can a Maryland architect stamp be used on drawings from an out-of-state architect?
In some cases, yes. The blog notes that a Maryland architect may seal documents that incorporate work from an out-of-state architect, especially when the project is connected to a commercial establishment. The Maryland architect must still review and take responsibility for the portions being sealed.
What information must appear on a Maryland architect seal stamp?
A Maryland architect seal typically includes the words “architect” and “State of Maryland,” and it often includes the architect’s name as well. The stamp is commonly available in 2" or 1-5/8" sizes, with the smaller size being used most often in production.
Can I use an embossing seal instead of a rubber Maryland architect stamp?
Yes, Maryland allows both embossing seals and rubber stamps. The choice usually depends on the architect’s preference and workflow, as long as the seal meets Maryland’s required format and is used in compliance with state regulations.
