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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Laredo
Building permits are required for all new construction, renovation, and alteration projects within the City of Laredo.
Note: Contact the Building Development Services division to determine whether proposed work qualifies for a permit exemption.
- Completed permit application
- Construction drawings and plans
- Site plan
- Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing plans if applicable
- Proof of property ownership or authorization
- Contractor TDLR license and liability insurance
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), International Existing Building Code (IEBC), International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), International Fire Code (IFC), International Plumbing Code (IPC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), and 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC).
- Permit validity
- Permits are valid for one year from issuance; extensions require city approval.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must comply with all applicable code and may require professional engineering review depending on project scope.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a current Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) license and maintain current liability insurance throughout the project.
Source: Building Development Services ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by project type and complexity; typical plan review is 10-15 business days.
- 01 Identify the permit type: residential building, commercial construction, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, floodplain development, solar, right-of-way, business license, or certificate of occupancy.
- 02 Download the required permit application, checklist, and sample drawings from the Permit Applications & Requirements page.
- 03 Prepare construction documents and supporting materials according to city standards.
- 04 Submit the application by email to the appropriate city permitting address or through the Avolve portal with all required documents and fees.
- 05 City staff conducts plan review and issues comments or requests for revisions.
- 06 Applicant resubmits revised documents if required.
- 07 Permit is issued; applicant may begin work and schedule inspections.
- 08 Inspections are conducted and final approval is issued upon completion.
Typical processing time: Varies by project type and complexity; typical plan review is 10-15 business days.
Source: Building Development Services ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 956-794-1625 (phone)
- bldgpermits@ci.laredo.tx.us (email)
- Scheduling deadline
- Inspection requests should be submitted one business day in advance when possible.
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Time windows
- Contact Building Development Services for available inspection time windows.
Typical sequence: Typical inspection sequence includes: foundation, framing, mechanical/electrical/plumbing rough-in, insulation, drywall, final building, and specialty trade inspections as required.
Remote video inspections may be available for certain inspection types; contact the city for eligibility.
Source: Building Development Services ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Laredo permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Laredo, TX? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Laredo, TX? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Laredo, TX? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Laredo, TX? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Development Services before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.