Projects that usually need a permit
| Project | Permit? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel with new layout | Yes | Plumbing, electrical and often structural changes |
| Bathroom remodel | Yes | Fixtures replaced or moved; new circuits |
| Room addition | Yes | New structure, grading and impervious cover review |
| Attached patio cover | Yes | New structure attached to the house |
| Window replacement | Yes | Covered by the residential repairs permit |
| Painting, wallpaper | No | Cosmetic work is exempt |
What the City of Houston asks for
The residential remodel permit requires a building permit application, a signed declaration in support of the application, and a complete set of uploaded plans. The city lists processing at 1 to 15 business days, and the permit must stay on site until final approval.
Additions add a grading worksheet for excavation and fill and a calculation of impervious cover, with about 10 business days of processing listed. Plan review and inspections are required for both.
Who can pull which permit
- Building permits can be purchased by the owner, an agent or the contractor. Texas does not license general contractors.
- Plumbing permits require a master plumber licensed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners and registered with the City of Houston.
- Electrical and air-conditioning work require Texas-licensed contractors registered with the city.
Cities around Houston with their own permits
If your address is in Bellaire, West University Place, Piney Point, Bunker Hill, Hunters Creek, Hedwig, Hilshire Village, Spring Valley, Sugar Land, Pearland or Katy, your city issues the permit. Unincorporated areas fall under the county, and many have HOA rules on top.
Common questions
How long does a remodeling permit take in Houston?
The City of Houston lists 1 to 15 business days of processing for a residential remodel permit and about 10 business days for an addition, after a complete submittal. Corrections add time.
Can a homeowner pull their own permit in Houston?
For the building permit, yes; the owner, an agent or a contractor may buy it. Plumbing, electrical and HVAC permits must be pulled by licensed, city-registered trades, with limited homeowner exceptions.
What happens if I remodel without a permit?
Unpermitted work can lead to stop-work orders, fines, problems selling the house and insurance claim disputes. It is cheaper to permit it at the start.
Sources
- Houston Permitting Center: Residential plan review
- Houston Permitting Center: Residential remodel permit
- Houston Permitting Center: Residential addition permit
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; confirm details with the agency named in the sources or a licensed professional.