It’s true that every building project requires the correct building permits before work can officially begin. The same goes for the City of Houston. The permitting process can be tricky, especially if you’re new to the game. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of all the steps needed to obtain building permits in Houston. Plus we will also provide you with some useful tips to make the process go smoothly. Let’s get started!

Steps contractors need to know to obtain a building permit in Houston:

1. Get familiar with building codes: Houston has some specific building codes and regulations that each contractor must be aware of before even attempting to apply for a building permit. Make sure you read up on building code requirements in the City of Houston to ensure your project meets all standards.
2. Talk to experts: Reach out to building officials and contractors who are familiar with building permit requirements in Houston. They can provide valuable insights into the process and help you prepare all the necessary paperwork.
3. Gather documents: You’ll need to have all your building plans, including blueprints, drawings, and engineering reports, ready before submitting an application for a building permit.
4. Submit your building permit application: Now that you’ve done your homework and gathered all the required documents, it’s time to submit an application for a building permit. You can apply online or visit the building department at City Hall to file your building permit application.
5. Pay building permit fee: It’s important to note that you will need to pay a building permit fee before your application can be processed and approved. The amount is based on your building project size and scope, so make sure you are prepared to pay the amount listed in the building permit application form.
6. Approval: Once your building permit application is submitted, building officials will review it and decide if they can approve it or not. If the building permit is approved, you’ll be given a copy of the building permit to start work on your project.

Additional tips to make the process smoother:

• Get organized: Make sure you have all the building documents in order before submitting an application for a building permit.
• Research building codes: Familiarize yourself with building codes and regulations in Houston to ensure your project meets building code requirements.
• Check fees: Before submitting an application, make sure you know how much the building permit fee will be.
• Connect with permit experts: Connect with permit expediting companies or building officials who are knowledgeable about building permits in Houston. They can help you through the process and answer any questions you might have.
• Have patience: The building permit process can take some time, so make sure you plan accordingly and give yourself enough time to get the job done.

Following these steps and tips should help ensure a smooth building permit application process in the City of Houston. Good luck!

You can call PermitUsNow at 1.844.PERMIT.4, we are committed to pulling permits for our Architect, Contractor, and Project Owner clients without delay, eliminating their frustrations with the permitting process. Plus, we make it easy for you to work with us. Simply: 1) Email us your plans, 2) Follow up on our feedback for any missing items, and 3) Let us get your permitting done for you. So, send us your plans today and we’ll free you up to focus on doing what you love – building your customers’ dreams. #BuildSafe