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Public Works and Engineering > Planning and Development Services Division

Code Enforcement
Gary Bridges, Senior Assistant Director

Building Permits - Q & A
  • See an IMPORTANT NOTE ON DEED RESTRICTIONS
  • What type of work requires a building permit?
  • Where can I purchase a permit?
  • What type of work is exempt from a building permit?
  • What are some examples of building permit fees?
  • When can I purchase a permit?
  • How can I contact an Inspector?
  • When/How do I schedule an inspection?
  • What are your office hours?
  • Sample of Building Permit Applications

NEW!

Important: Read the new permit procedure for Deed Restriction Compliance
(As of 6/11/04)

A Note on Deed Restrictions:
Before you begin new home construction or home improvement project, please consult your civic association regarding possible deed restrictions. You may not purchase a building permit without signing a sworn deed restriction affidavit stating that you are aware of and agree to abide by deed restrictions pertaining to your project. If you knowingly or unknowingly sign the deed restriction affidavit under false pretenses, you could be subject to municipal court citations, fines, and the removal of the structure or violating portion thereof.

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What type of work requires a building permit?

Projects that require a permit include (but are not limited to):

  • New construction of buildings or structures
  • Alterations, repairs or additions to existing buildings or structures
  • Changes in the use or occupancy of an existing building or structure
  • Interior tenant lease build-outs, remodeling and repairs
  • Exterior remodels, alterations or repairs
  • Moving/relocating existing buildings
  • Demolition (interior and complete buildings)
  • Fences over 8' high or fences constructed of concrete or masonry
  • Driveways and sidewalks (in city R.O.W.)
  • Parking lot paving and repairs

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Where can I purchase a permit?

    To apply for a permit please visit our main office located at 3300 Main St., Houston, TX 77002.

    If you are applying for trade permits and/or submitting plans you may visit one of our satellite offices located at:

    • 3915 Rustic Woods Dr. Kingwood, TX 77345
    • 3825 Dacoma St. Houston, TX 77092

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    What type of work is exempt from a building permit?

    Cosmetic alterations to existing buildings such as paint, wallpaper and carpeting, as well as exterior storage buildings less than 120 square feet are exempt from building permits. However, you are encouraged to contact the Structural Inspection Section at
    (713) 535-7800 before beginning any project to determine whether or not permits are required.

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    What are some examples of building permit fees:

    • Administrative fee: $ 10.00
    • Minimum permit fee: $ 45.00 (including $10.00 administrative fee)
    • New construction: based on valuation click here
    • Renovations/repairs based on valuation click here

    If you need further clarification concerning fees or have questions concerning building permits, please call (713) 535-7500.

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    What are your office hours?

    Our office hours are from 8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday-Friday.

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    When can I purchase a permit?

    Permits may be purchased between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm.

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    How can I contact an inspector?

    Inspectors can be reached by phone between 7:00am and 8:00am.

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    When/How do I schedule an inspection?

    If you need to schedule an inspection:
    To schedule an inspection, call between 8:00am to 4:00pm.

    The Structural Section fax number is:
    (713) 535-7921.

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    Sample of Building Permit Applications

    • Sample of Deed Restrictions Affidavit and acknowledgement: Click here
    • Sample of Commercial Building Permit Application:Click Here
    • Sample of Residential Building Permit Application: Click here

     


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