How Garland Handles Permit Requirements: A Practical Guide

Garland maintains 154 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with permit requirements. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Garland falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Shed & Outbuilding Permits

Accessory structures larger than 200 sq ft generally require a building permit under Chapter 30 and must meet Development Code setback and coverage limits.

Key details: Permit Threshold: > 200 sq ft. Code Section: Chapter 30. Inspections: 972-205-2300. Setbacks: Dev Code applies.

Unpermitted sheds over the exemption threshold can be cited under Chapter 30; owners may be required to obtain an after-the-fact permit, modify, or remove the structure.

Deck & Patio Permits

Decks and covered patios require a building permit under Chapter 30 based on the IRC. Decks above 30 inches and any covered structure need plans and inspections.

Key details: Permit Triggers: > 30" high, attached, or covered. Code Section: Chapter 30. Department: Building Inspections. Ground Patios: Usually no permit.

Unpermitted decks and patio covers may trigger Code Compliance action, required after-the-fact permits, and modifications to bring work into compliance with the IRC.

Renovation Permits

Any structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work requires a building permit from Garland. Cosmetic paint, flooring, and like-for-like cabinets are typically exempt.

Key details: Code Section: Chapter 30. Covered Work: Structural, MEP, roof, HVAC. Exempt: Paint, flooring, cosmetic. Inspections: 972-205-2300.

Unpermitted work is a Chapter 30 violation subject to stop-work orders, Class C citation, and after-the-fact permit fees. Electrical and structural work without inspection may also create insurance and resale issues.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Garland actively enforces its renovation permits requirements.

Fence Permits

Garland requires fence permits for new construction, changes in height or material, corner lots, and pool fences. Apply to Building Inspections before work begins.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes (most cases). Department: Building Inspections. Max Height: 8' rear, 3.5' front. Code: Dev Code Art. X.

Installing a fence without a required permit is a Development Code violation. Fences must be corrected or removed and an after-the-fact permit obtained. Class C citation available.

The Bottom Line

Garland's permit requirements rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Garland is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Garland's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.