Permit Requirements in Irving, TX: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Irving or are thinking about moving there, permit requirements are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Irving has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of permit requirements, and some of them might surprise you.

Fence Permits

Irving requires a $125 fence permit for new construction or replacement. Contractors must register. Apply through MGO portal. Approximately 3 business day processing for residential.

Key details: Fee: $125. Contractor: Must register with city. Application: MGO online portal. Processing: ~3 business days. Contact: Inspections (972) 721-2371.

Building without a permit: fines. Non-compliant fences: required modification or removal.

Shed & Outbuilding Permits

Irving requires building permits for sheds. Max size on lots under 1/2 acre is 10% of lot or 2,500 sq ft. Cannot be on easements. Apply through MGO portal, ~3 business day processing.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes. Max Size (< 1/2 acre): 10% of lot or 2,500 sq ft. Easements: Cannot build on easements. Processing: ~3 business days. Apply: MGO online portal.

Building without a permit: fines, required removal, or retroactive permit with additional fees.

Renovation Permits

Irving requires a building alterations permit for general remodels and finish-outs. Apply through MGO portal. Plans required. ~3 business day processing for residential. Inspections required at each stage.

Key details: Permit Type: Building alterations permit. Processing: ~3 business days. Application: MGO online portal. Inspection Cutoff: 6 AM for same-day. Contact: Inspections (972) 721-2600.

Renovating without permits: fines, stop-work orders, and potential requirement to open walls for inspection.

Deck & Patio Permits

Irving requires a deck permit for deck construction and a patio cover permit for attached patio covers. Apply through MGO portal. Cannot build on easements. ~3 business day processing.

Key details: Deck Permit: Required. Patio Cover: Separate permit required. Easements: Cannot build on easements. Processing: ~3 business days. Contact: Inspections (972) 721-2600.

Building without a permit: stop-work orders, fines, and required remediation.

The Bottom Line

Irving'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 Irving is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Irving can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.