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§ TX Fort Bend County
County building permits

Unincorporated Fort Bend County

How to apply for a building permit in unincorporated Fort Bend County, Texas. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Last verified
April 2026
On this page 3
§ 01

Permit authority

Fort Bend County Engineering Department

Street address
301 Jackson Street, Suite 401, Richmond, TX 77469
Phone
281-633-7500
Coverage
All properties in unincorporated Fort Bend County. Properties within incorporated city limits are handled by the respective city permit department.
Website
Department website
§ 02

When a permit is required

Permit triggers and exempt work for Fort Bend County

A residential development permit is required for construction of any new structure, or an addition to an existing residential structure, that meets or exceeds 400 square feet. A commercial development permit is required for all commercial development.

Building code
Fort Bend County has not adopted zoning ordinances or building codes for single-family residential developments.
§ 03

Frequently asked

Common questions about unincorporated Fort Bend County permits

01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Fort Bend County, TX? ▸
A residential development permit is required for construction of any new structure, or an addition to an existing residential structure, that meets or exceeds 400 square feet. A commercial development permit is required for all commercial development.
last verified April 2026 source Fort Bend County Engineering Department ↗ entry id permits/texas/fort-bend/unincorporated
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Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Fort Bend County Engineering Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.

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