Before You Build in New Braunfels, TX: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in New Braunfels. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in New Braunfels. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsUnder Sec. 144-5.3-2, fences and walls in New Braunfels may be up to 8 feet tall in residential, multifamily, non-residential, and park areas. In a required front yard, a fence may be no taller than 36 inches, or 4.5 feet if it is at least 50 percent open. Height is measured from the lowest adjacent ground level.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsAll fences and walls in New Braunfels require a building permit under Sec. 144-5.3-2, and must meet all permit and plan-review submittal requirements, including an engineered foundation when necessary. Fences in public easements need a gate or removable panel for access, and fences are prohibited in drainage easements.
Swimming Pools
Pool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
No specific swimming pools rules found for New Braunfels. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Accessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
No specific adus & granny flats rules found for New Braunfels. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Shed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
No specific sheds & outbuildings rules found for New Braunfels. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOpen burning is not allowed inside the New Braunfels city limits. The Fire Marshal may issue a burn permit only when all requirements of the adopted International Fire Code (2021 IFC Section 307) and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) rules are met. Backyard recreational fires are treated separately and are allowed under conditions.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsBackyard recreational fires are allowed in New Braunfels under the Fire Department's published conditions: the fire cannot exceed 36 inches in diameter or 24 inches in height, must stay at least 25 feet from a structure (15 feet for chimineas), must be constantly attended with a way to extinguish it, and may burn only dry natural material.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Tree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
No specific landscaping & tree removal rules found for New Braunfels. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for New Braunfels.