A building permit is generally necessary for any work unless explicitly exempted by the Building Code. Detached ancillary buildings, such as sheds and playhouses, that are less than 100 square feet are normally exempt from permission requirements. However, if these structures are located within 25 feet of a property line or visible roofline, they must be approved by the building department.
The building official will determine if your project requires a permit based on its size, location, and type. For example, if you plan to build a garage/workshop on your property, you will need to obtain a building permit. If you want to add a room to your house without first getting a permit, you might be able to get an exception from the zoning administrator. The building official can grant exceptions under certain conditions; for example, if another structure on the site received approval without a permit then one more similar in size would not require one itself.
Building permits cost between $150 and $200, depending on the size of the project. Fees include processing fees ($10-15) for telephone calls to verify information about your project (such as floor plans), inspections during construction (usually free but sometimes with a charge), and post-construction visits by the inspector (usually free).
In most cases, building permits are required before you can start work.
The following list of building or renovation projects does not normally need a permit. One-story detached ancillary structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and other similar purposes, as long as the floor space does not exceed 300 sq. Ft. and the structure is built of wood or metal materials - which will be visible from a public road - you do not need a permit for this type of project:
A frame building with no more than four rooms, used for storage or as a residence - if it doesn't have a floor, more than 300 square feet, or multiple units, it can be done without a permit as well.
If you are making major structural changes to your property (such as adding floors or changing room sizes) or if you are demolishing part of the structure and replacing it with new material, you will need to get a permit from the city. Also, be sure to check with your local government before you start construction; some cities may have specific requirements for sheds. For example, San Antonio requires you to register your address with the city when you move into a new home, so make sure to do this if you change your address while building a shed.
Sheds can be a great way to add value to your house and create a safe place for tools and outdoor furniture when you aren't using them.
A building permit is necessary for any detached garage, auxiliary structure, or storage building, unless the accessory building is less than 12 feet by 18 feet in size and is not linked to the land with a permanent footing and foundation system. The only exception is if the garage is used solely for storage purposes. If you meet these requirements, a building permit is not required.
Garages can be any length but must be set back at least 15 feet from the property line and cannot block exit or entrance ways. Auxiliary structures include carports, breezeways, garages, sunrooms, greenhouse, tool sheds, and water tanks. The only requirement for these structures is that they must be completely separated from the main house by a wall or fence. Storage buildings are also considered an accessory structure and must be separated by a wall or fence from the main house. These structures can be any length but must be at least 12 feet wide and 6 feet high.
The location of the garage is also important because it can have a big impact on the cost of construction. A garage should be located so that it does not interfere with the use of any part of the yard, including parking spaces. It should be away from walkways, driveway entrances, and other areas where damage could occur due to foot traffic. In general, the further back from the house you locate it, the cheaper it will be.
One-story detached tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses that are less than fourteen feet tall and one hundred twenty square feet in floor space are free from building permit requirements. Freestanding outside walls and fences no taller than six feet; accessory buildings such as carports, breezeways, and garages attached to a dwelling; and swimming pools less than five feet deep do not require a permit. Nonconforming structures may be restored or modified over time without further approval from the city. For example, an existing one-story shed that is fourteen feet by one hundred twenty feet can be enlarged to fifteen feet by one hundred twenty feet without requiring a new permit.
The city's code administrator has the power to grant exceptions from building permit requirements. The code administrator may also deny or revoke any permit he/she finds was issued in violation of applicable laws or ordinances or otherwise contrary to good public policy. A notice of intention to appeal a decision of the code administrator must be filed within ten days of receipt of the decision. The city council can override the code administrator's decision by a vote of four out of seven members.
Building permits cost between $150 and $200. The amount depends on the size of the project. Larger projects typically require more than one permit, with separate fees charged for each one.
A building permit is necessary for new construction, additions, modifications, change of occupation, renovations, relocations, and building or structure repairs or rehabilitation. Electrical, plumbing, as well as A/C and heating, may be necessary. Your licensed contractor will be aware of the appropriate regulations. You should also check with your local government to determine if a permit is required.
Building permits can be downloaded from the Planning & Development website. The process varies depending on the type of project. For example, for repairing or replacing existing windows, doors, or siding, a building permit is not required. However, if you plan to replace those items and add any other features such as interior walls or a deck, then you will need to file for a building permit too. Contact your local Building Inspection Department for more information.
Building permits are mandatory in all cities across Texas. If you fail to obtain a permit before starting work, you could be fined heavily. Even if your city does not require a permit, it is recommended that you get one just to be on the safe side.
If you are looking to build a home in Texas, make sure you know about the building requirements first. Otherwise, you might find yourself facing some problems later when trying to sell your house or upgrade to a bigger one. A building permit is necessary for any type of construction project.
Copyright © 2020 - 2023 BindleyHardware & Co Inc.
