City of Houston

Building permits are required for covered construction work inside the City of Houston.

Note: Work may be exempt from permitting if it meets specific criteria defined by City of Houston code. Confirm with Houston Permitting Center before assuming work is exempt.

Building code

City of Houston adopts current building codes; verify current adopted code series with Permitting Center.

Permit validity

Permit validity and expiration periods vary by permit type; verify with Houston Permitting Center.

Owner-builder

Owner-builder requirements not specified in reviewed materials; contact Houston Permitting Center.

Contractor requirements

Contractors must be properly licensed and in compliance with applicable city requirements.

Source: Houston Permitting Center ↗

1. 01
   Identify permit requirements for your project type and scope.
2. 02
   Prepare application materials including plans, specifications, and required documentation.
3. 03
   Submit application through Houston Permitting Center online portal.
4. 04
   City staff reviews application for completeness and code compliance.
5. 05
   Pay application and plan-check fees as required.
6. 06
   Respond to any plan review comments and resubmit revised plans if necessary.
7. 07
   Obtain permit issuance and schedule inspections through the portal.
8. 08
   Complete required inspections during construction.
9. 09
   Obtain final approval and certificate of completion.

Typical processing time: Timeframe varies by permit type; refer to Houston Permitting Center for specific project type.

Source: Houston Permitting Center ↗

Payment processing available through Houston Permitting Center online portal.

• Houston Permitting Center Portal (online)

Typical sequence: Inspection types and sequences vary by project type. Refer to Permitting Center or your building official for details.

Policy on remote inspections not specified in reviewed materials.

Source: Houston Permitting Center ↗