Texas Building Permits

Written By Oliver Garrett

Texas Building Permits, Codes, and Licensing

Introduction

From the desert landscapes of West Texas to the bustling cities of North and East Texas, and from the Gulf Coast to the Panhandle, Texas is a large and diverse state. While the urban areas are growing rapidly, much of the state remains rural, and the climate varies greatly from region to region. When it comes to building codes and licensing, Texas has a unique set of requirements that design professionals must follow to obtain building permits.

In Texas, submitting plans is not just a routine step in the permit process, it is an essential step towards getting a building permit. Texas does not have a statewide building code, but many cities and counties adopt and modify international building codes to fit their specific needs. In addition to state and international requirements, many areas of Texas have additional local ordinances that address specific concerns, such as windstorm construction and roof requirements along the coast, and water conservation measures in the dry western part of the state. The following sections outline the key requirements, procedures, and resources that design professionals should be aware of when planning a construction project in Texas.

Statewide Building Code Adoption

Unlike many states, Texas does not have a statewide building code. Instead, cities and counties are responsible for adopting and enforcing building codes. Most major cities in Texas adopt and modify various International Code Council (ICC) codes, and many add amendments:

Some coastal or high-wind areas may require additional engineering for windstorm compliance, while drought-prone regions might demand stricter water-efficiency measures. Always confirm with city or county building departments to identify which code editions and local amendments apply.

Architects

Hiring a licensed architect is often necessary for larger and more complex projects in Texas, and may be required by clients who need detailed, customized designs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Licensing and Credentialing: Architects practicing in Texas must be licensed by the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE), which is administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

  • Sealed Drawings: Architects' seals are required on plans for most commercial projects, as well as multifamily residences and many specialized one-family homes. This includes new homes, as well as renovations and additions. Architects' seals are also required for demolition permits, which are needed to comply with environmental regulations regarding asbestos abatement. In coastal areas, specially designed wind load plans and detailed structural information may be necessary to comply with local building codes and wind-borne debris and roofing requirements.

  • Code Compliance and Design Scope: In addition to the usual considerations, Texas architects must keep in mind the state's unique concerns, such as wind-borne debris, flooding, and energy efficiency. In coastal areas, architects should consider wind and flood zones from the beginning of the design process. All structures must meet minimum energy efficiency standards, and some areas have additional requirements for water efficiency. In parts of Texas, seismic activity is a concern, and structures must be designed to accommodate this risk.

  • Local Plan Review: Knowing what to expect from local plan reviewers can help architects move through the plan-check process more quickly and efficiently. The Texas Building Code (TBC) is based on the International Building Code (IBC), but there are significant differences and additions. Many local jurisdictions in Texas have their own amendments to the TBC, so it's important to find out what these are and follow their lead when designing a project. Early consultation with local building officials and their plan reviewers can help ensure that a project meets local requirements and complies with safety standards and environmental regulations.

Contractors

General Contractors

Texas does not have a universal, state-level general contractor license. Instead, many municipalities require local registration or bonding for builders:

  • Municipal Registration Requirements: Cities such as Austin, Houston, or Dallas often maintain their own GC registration or licensing processes.

  • Local Competency Tests: Some jurisdictions implement exams to verify basic construction knowledge before issuing permits.

Specialty Trades

  • Electricians: Licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Electricians can hold different license classes, such as Journeyman or Master Electrician, depending on experience and exam results. When undertaking new construction or remodeling projects, one may require a temporary electrical permit related to the main electrical service along with other necessary permits.

  • Plumbers: Plumbers are licensed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Licenses are issued for a five-year term and require passing a certification exam; some plumbers also need to obtain additional endorsements, such as a medical gas license.

  • HVAC and Mechanical Contractors: HVAC and mechanical contractors are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Some cities, such as Austin and El Paso, have their own registration requirements for HVAC contractors. Large mechanical systems, such as commercial HVAC or boiler plants, may be required to be inspected by the city.

Electrical and Plumbing Regulations

Main Electrical Service Codes

Most cities in Texas adopt the National Electrical Code (NEC), typically the latest edition. However, the time frame in which the code is enforced varies widely from one city to another. Larger cities such as Houston and Dallas update their code references quickly, while smaller rural areas may be behind several code cycles. In addition to city ordinances, some investor-owned utilities such as CenterPoint Energy and Oncor have their own set of guidelines for interconnecting generators and meters.

Plumbing Codes

Texas plumbing codes are typically based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC). However, local ordinances can add to the complexity of a project:

  • Water Conservation: Certain urban and drought-prone areas (e.g., El Paso) might enforce stricter fixture standards or reclaimed water usage.

  • Flood Considerations: Developments near rivers or coastal flood zones may need elevated equipment and specialized drainage strategies.

It's important to meet with local building officials and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) consultants early in the design process to learn about various jurisdictions' requirements and nuances.

Local Permitting and Review Processes

Since code enforcement is typically handled at the municipal level, the permitting process and timelines vary widely from one area to another. Here is a general overview of what to expect:

  1. Plan Submittal: Take full construction sets, including architect's seals when required, site plans, geotechnical reports, and any city-mandated forms to your local builder's office. House Bill 3699 allows construction plans to be separated from the platting process, so public access route permits are no longer required for privately intended developments. However, additional city-specific permits may be necessary.

  2. Plan Review: Building and development staff review plans for compliance with adopted codes, zoning ordinances, and local amendments. Smaller projects are typically reviewed in 1–2 weeks, while larger or more complex developments may take 4–8 weeks—or longer. Some areas, such as Austin, have a separate plan review process for large commercial or multi-family projects.

  3. Permit Pickup: Once plans are approved, pay permit fees, which are usually based on valuation (e.g., $50 to $1,000 per $100,000) or building area (e.g., Houston's $3.36 per square foot). Some high-growth areas also assess additional impact fees.

  4. Scheduling Inspections: After permits are issued, owners or contractors must schedule inspections (foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, etc.) with the local jurisdiction. A certificate of occupancy is not issued until all necessary inspections are completed.

Tip: Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin offer online permitting and inspection scheduling systems that allow you to submit plans, track the progress of your application, and schedule inspections. This can save time and reduce paperwork.

Texas State Agency Contacts

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE)

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE)

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)

  • Role: Manages environmental permits, water quality, and air emissions for certain large projects.

  • Website: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/

  • Phone: (512) 239-1000

Texas State Fire Marshal

  • Part of the Texas Department of Insurance – oversees fire safety regulations and inspections for state-owned buildings and certain private facilities.

  • Website: https://www.tdi.texas.gov/fire/

  • Phone: (512) 676-6800

Permit Velocity: Expert Permitting Support in Texas

From environmentally sensitive coastal areas to rapidly growing metropolitan regions, much of Texas is experiencing unprecedented development pressure. With so many municipalities and special districts, the permitting process can be complex and time-consuming. That's where Permit Velocity comes in. We use local knowledge, established relationships, and proven processes to help architects, contractors, and development teams obtain building permits in Texas:

  • In-Depth Local Knowledge: Our team possesses a comprehensive understanding of Texas’s major cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, as well as smaller jurisdictions. We stay updated on local code amendments, windstorm standards, floodplain regulations, and other regional factors that can influence your project.

  • Strong Local Relationships: We cultivate and maintain robust relationships with key building officials, inspectors, and municipal authorities across Texas. These connections enable us to navigate the permitting process efficiently, anticipate potential challenges, and facilitate smoother interactions between your project team and local agencies.

  • Specialized Permitting Expertise: Whether addressing complex wind load calculations, flood zone compliance, or energy-efficient building standards, our experts ensure that your permit submissions meet all necessary Texas-specific requirements. We provide tailored support to handle the unique challenges of your project, helping to prevent delays and reduce the need for rework. Understanding the estimated cost associated with permits is crucial to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

  • Comprehensive Project Coordination: From initial permit applications to final submittal, we coordinate all aspects of the permitting process. Our proactive approach includes managing communications with local authorities, handling documentation requirements, and ensuring that your project adheres to all relevant regulations and standards. Knowing the permits required for various projects is essential to ensure compliance and avoid project delays.

With Permit Velocity’s blend of local expertise and strategic permitting processes, your Texas project can progress seamlessly—from initial planning to final submittal—whether you’re building in a large metro area or a rural county.

Oliver Garrett
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