Permit Requirements in Austin, TX (2026)
4 verified permit requirements rules for Austin, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Shed & Outbuilding Permits
Austin exempts tool and storage sheds up to 120 square feet from building permits, provided they are not in a flood hazard area and have no plumbing or electrical. Larger sheds require a building permit. All sheds must meet zoning setbacks.
Shed Permit Requirements in Austin
Few RestrictionsWork Exempt from Building Permits - Residential Building / Commercial Building (Accessory Structures); Title 25 - Land Development Code, Chapter 25-12 Technical Codes
Residential - Building - A one-story detached accessory structure that is no more than 200 square feet (18.58 m2 ) of floor area, no more than 15 feet (4,572 mm) in height, does not create a dwelling, contains no plumbing, and is not located within a flood hazard area. [...] Commercial - Building - One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar u...
Fence Permits
Austin does not require permits for fences up to 7 feet that are not in a flood hazard area. Fences in flood zones always require a permit regardless of height. Pool barrier fences must meet IRC standards.
Fence Permit Requirements in Austin
Few RestrictionsWork Exempt From Building Permits - Residential Building (Fences) & Commercial Building (Fences); Title 25 - Land Development Code, Chapter 25-12 Technical Codes
A building permit is not required for the work described below; however, work exempt from a permit must still comply with applicable Building Codes, City Codes, and all other applicable ordinances. [...] Residential: [...] Unless located within a flood hazard area, a fence that is not over 7 feet (2,133.6 mm) high. Check the "When you need a permit" section of the Fencing Regulations webpage to...
Deck & Patio Permits
Austin exempts decks up to 200 sq ft, no more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to the dwelling, and not in a flood zone. Larger or higher decks require a building permit. Uncovered patios at grade do not need permits.
Deck and Patio Permit Requirements in Austin
Few RestrictionsWork Exempt From Building Permits - Residential Building (Decks); Title 25 - Land Development Code, Chapter 25-12 Technical Codes, Article 11 Residential Code
Residential - Building - A deck that is no more than 200 square feet (18.58 m2 ) in area, is no more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, is not attached to a dwelling or townhouse, does not provide egress from the dwelling, and is not located within a flood hazard area. [...] A non-structural exterior deck repair that is limited to the existing deck boards and does not include gua...
Renovation Permits
Austin requires building permits for renovations involving structural changes, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work. Cosmetic work is exempt. Permits can be obtained online or at the Permit Center. Small projects cost $100-$300; major renovations cost $1,000+.
Renovation Permit Requirements in Austin
Some RestrictionsAustin Development Services - Types of Permits (Building Permit, Interior Remodel, Minor Repairs, Emergency Repair)
Building Permit - Required to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, improve, or convert any building or structure within the City's zoning jurisdiction or in a Municipal Utility District (MUD) if the consent agreement between the MUD and the City requires insurance of a permit prior to construction. [...] Interior Remodel Building Permit - Required if changes to structural components and/or...
Looking for Travis County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Austin city rules.
Permit Requirements in Travis County →