Greater Houston Building Permits Guide
TX has no statewide GC license — permits are issued by city; Houston/Dallas/Austin each have their own permit office. Licensing in TX is managed by TX TDLR (electrical / HVAC) + local municipal permits. Most Greater Houston homeowners should require their contractor to pull permits in the contractor's name so liability for code violations rests with them.
Key points
- Confirm whether your scope triggers a TX permit (structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, additions, demo).
- Have your licensed contractor pull the permit in their name — this shifts inspection liability to them.
- Budget 1–3% of project value plus plan-check fees (USD 200–USD 1,500 depending on scope).
- Schedule rough-in and final inspections in advance — re-inspections cost extra and delay the build.