Mcallen, TX Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- City Code § 22-26
- Code adopted
- 2024 International Building Code
- Permit trigger
- Before construction, alteration, demolition
- Issuing agency
- Chief building official
- Permit fees
- Set by § 22-27
Summary
McAllen adopts the 2024 International Building Code, which requires an owner or contractor to obtain a permit from the city building official before constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, or demolishing any building or structure.
There is hereby adopted for and by the city, the International Building Code, 2024 edition, including appendices B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K and P prepared by the International Code Council, published in booklet form, which is referred to, incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes. Also, the following code section is excluded: section 1110.4 (adult changing stations). A copy of such code shall be filed in the office of the building official.
Full Breakdown
Under City Code section 22-26, McAllen adopts the International Building Code, 2024 edition, in full, excluding only IBC section 1110.4 on adult changing stations. The adopted IBC section 105.1 makes a permit mandatory before you construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish a structure. McAllen's chief building official issues the permits and inspects the work; section 22-27 sets the building and moving permit fees, and section 22-30 authorizes reinspection charges. The official can revoke or suspend a construction permit under sections 22-31 and 22-32. Permitting runs through the city's Building Permits and Inspections division at McAllen City Hall.
Violations & Fines
Starting work without the required permit is a municipal offense. The chief building official can halt the job, revoke or suspend the permit under sections 22-31 and 22-32, and impose reinspection fees under section 22-30.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build in McAllen?
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Who issues building permits in McAllen?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mcallen
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Building Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Hidalgo County handle building permits.