Shenandoah, TX Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 14-31(a) adopts the International Residential Code, 2021 Edition, as the city's residential building code, controlling construction, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, use and occupancy of one- and two-family dwellings and reserving the city's right to require permits beyond what the IRC itself calls for. Section 14-32(a) broadens this citywide, adopting the International Building Code, International Fire Code, International Mechanical Code, International Plumbing Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, International Energy Conservation Code, ICC Performance Code, International Property Maintenance Code, and the 2023 National Electrical Code, all 2021 editions unless otherwise noted, as the regulations governing construction, additions and alterations.

That same subsection makes it unlawful to erect, modify, or construct a building, or change its occupancy or use, without complying with these adopted codes. Section 14-2 extends Chapter 14's reach to new construction in the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction, not just inside the corporate limits. Local amendments layered on top of the adopted codes include a citywide fire sprinkler requirement (Section 14-33), a 110 mph wind-design standard for residential structures, foundation elevation and driveway thickness rules, and specific wiring and chimney add-ons at Section 14-34.

Permit fees for development, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roofing, signs, and inspections are kept on file in the office of the city secretary per Section 14-36, and density is separately capped at 12 residential units per acre under Section 14-37.