Houston Residential Permit Guide

Houston uses the Houston Permitting Center and permit portal for building permits, inspections, permit status, and related residential construction review.

Permit takeaway

Houston Building Code Enforcement handles residential and commercial construction code enforcement and permit review through the Houston Permitting Center.

Zoning and placement

Houston does not have zoning, but development is still governed by ordinances, subdivision rules, building lines, parking, trees, setbacks, and access requirements.

Building and trade review

Construction work that requires a permit must remain accessible and exposed for inspection until approved by the building official.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if your project affects building lines, setbacks, driveway access, trees, subdivision rules, historic status, or includes trade work.

Documents to prepare

• Permit application
• Project scope
• Site plan if requested
• Construction drawings if requested
• Contractor or owner information

Inspection planning

• Schedule required inspections through Houston systems
• Keep permitted work accessible until approved
• Track permit status and inspection history online

Official sources

• Houston Permits and Inspections
• Houston Permit Portal
• Houston Development Regulations

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.