How Richardson Handles Permit Requirements: A Practical Guide

Richardson maintains 144 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 Richardson falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Deck & Patio Permits

Richardson requires building permits for decks and patios that are attached to the home or raised above ground. Construction must comply with the adopted International Building Code (2021 Edition) and setback requirements.

Key details: Permit: Required for attached/elevated decks. Code: IBC 2021 Edition. Setbacks: Must comply with CZO. Contact: 972-744-4174.

Unpermitted deck construction may result in stop-work orders, fines, and required removal or modification.

Renovation Permits

Richardson requires building permits for most home renovations under the adopted International Building Code (2021 Edition). The Building Inspection Department at 972-744-4174 handles all residential permit applications.

Key details: Code: IBC 2021 Edition (Sec. 6-27). Permit Office: Building Inspection. Phone: 972-744-4174. Trades: Separate permits for electrical, plumbing, HVAC.

Renovating without required permits may result in stop-work orders, fines up to $2,000, and required removal of unpermitted work.

Shed & Outbuilding Permits

Building permits are required for all accessory structures over 40 sq ft. Structures 150 sq ft or less require an application with location sketch. Larger structures require scaled drawings. Contact Building Inspection at 972-744-4174.

Key details: Permit Needed: Over 40 sq ft. Small (≤150 sq ft): Application + sketch. Large (>150 sq ft): Scaled drawings. Contact: 972-744-4174.

Building without a permit results in citations, stop-work orders, and fines. Non-compliant structures may need to be removed.

Fence Permits

Richardson requires fence permits for any fence over 2.5 feet per Sec. 6-201. Application requires plans and specifications. Post-construction inspection is mandatory. Contact Building Inspection at 972-744-4174.

Key details: Threshold: Over 2.5 ft height. Application: Plans + specifications. Inspection: Required post-construction. Contact: 972-744-4174.

Building a fence without a permit is a code violation. The fence must be inspected and approved or it may need to be removed.

The Bottom Line

Richardson'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 Richardson is broadly strict or permissive.

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