El Paso regulates building height through Title 20 (Zoning Code) and Title 21 (SmartCode). Height limits vary by zoning district: single-family residential is typically limited to 30-35 feet, multi-family to 45-60 feet, and commercial/industrial districts allow greater heights. The SmartCode establishes height ranges by transect zone, with T3 suburban zones limited to 2 stories and T6 urban core zones allowing up to 12 or more stories. Fort Bliss airfield height restrictions may also apply near the base.
Building height is measured from average finished grade to the highest point of the roof. Chimneys, antennas, and mechanical equipment may be exempt from height calculations with limitations. The Airport Overlay Zone imposes additional height restrictions near El Paso International Airport and Biggs Army Airfield at Fort Bliss. Height variances require Board of Adjustment approval.
Exceeding height limits results in permit denial. Structures built over the height limit may require removal of upper portions. Airport overlay violations may trigger FAA involvement.
El Paso, TX
The City of El Paso does not regulate yard ornaments on private property. Statuary, religious displays, and decorative landscape elements are generally allow...
El Paso, TX
El Paso has no ordinance setting size, height, or hours limits for inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Wind is the primary practical...
El Paso, TX
El Paso does not impose specific install-by or take-down-by dates for holiday lights on private property. Holiday-light regulation in El Paso is overwhelming...
El Paso, TX
Built-in outdoor kitchens in El Paso require permits from Planning and Inspections for gas-line installation, electrical work, plumbing, and any structural e...
El Paso, TX
El Paso has no smoker-specific ordinance for single-family use, but backyard smokers fall under Title 9.04 nuisance code if smoke or odor unreasonably affect...
El Paso, TX
El Paso adopts the International Fire Code through Title 18 with local amendments, including IFC Section 308 prohibiting open-flame cooking devices on combus...
See how El Paso's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.