On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Big Spring
Any owner, authorized agent, or contractor who wants to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or install, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems must apply to the Building Official and obtain the required permit. The city also publicly confirms permits are required for carports, siding / covering eaves, reroofing, and water-heater replacement.
Note: Minor repairs may be made without a permit only with approval of the Building Official, provided the repairs do not violate the technical codes.
- Permit application
- Applicable residential or commercial construction checklist
- Plans and supporting documents required by the checklist package
- Floodplain elevation certificate if the property is in the floodplain
- Asbestos survey for commercial additions, renovations, and demolitions
- Contractor registration materials for each contractor
- Building code
- 2012 International Building Code, 2012 International Existing Building Code, 2021 International Fire Code, 2012 International Gas Code, 2012 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Property Maintenance Code, 2012 International Plumbing Code, 2012 International Residential Code, and 2023 National Electrical Code
- Permit validity
- A permit is null and void if work is not commenced within 180 days, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after commencement.
- Owner-builder
- Residential plans may be prepared by a homeowner, architect, or other approved designer.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must be licensed if applicable and currently registered with the City of Big Spring. Registration requires a completed registration form, state-issued current master or equivalent license, driver's license, and proof of general liability coverage or bond. No registration fee.
Application process
Typical processing: Not publicly documented.
- 01 Confirm permit scope with Permits / Inspections and review the city FAQ and checklists before starting work.
- 02 Complete the city permit application and the applicable checklist package.
- 03 Submit the required plans and supporting documents. Residential checklists require a completed permit application, checklist, and 3 hard-copy plan sets; commercial checklists require a permit application, checklist, 3 hard-copy sets, and 1 digital PDF set.
- 04 Register all contractors with the city before permit issuance. The contractor registration form indicates there is no fee to register and that registrations may be filed by mail, email, or in person.
- 05 Pay permit and plan review fees.
- 06 Request required inspections during construction.
- 07 Obtain finals and, where applicable, a Certificate of Occupancy before occupancy.
Typical processing time: Not publicly documented.
Fee schedule
Big Spring building permit fees
No separate public permit-payment instruction sheet was found.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- SmartGov portal - View applications and inspection results through My Portal (online)
- (432) 264-2504 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: ground works / steel reinforcement or formwork / foundation / underfloor plumbing; framing and MEP close-in; insulation; exterior and weather protection including roof or decking waterproofing and lath inspections; final electrical, final low voltage, final plumbing, final mechanical, and final occupancy inspection.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Big Spring permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Big Spring, TX? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Big Spring, TX? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Big Spring, TX? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Big Spring, TX? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Big Spring, TX? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Permits / Inspections, City of Big Spring before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.