Built-in outdoor kitchens in Killeen require multiple permits through Killeen Building Inspections: a building permit for the structure under Code Ch. 8 (2024 IRC/IBC), a gas-line permit for natural gas or stationary propane under Ch. 11 (2024 IFC), an electrical permit (2023 NEC), and a plumbing permit if connected to water/sewer. Structures must comply with UDC setback requirements (typically 5 ft side, 10 ft rear in SF districts). Atmos Energy gas connections require separate utility coordination.
Outdoor kitchens in Killeen are reviewed by Killeen Building Inspections through the city's permit process. A building permit is required under Killeen Code Ch. 8 (which adopts the 2024 IRC, 2024 IBC, and supporting I-Codes effective Jan. 1, 2026) for the masonry counter, structure, and any roof or pergola. Separate trade permits cover gas piping (Atmos Energy provides natural gas in Killeen; LP-gas appliances fall under the 2024 IFGC adopted in Ch. 8 and IFC Ch. 61 in Ch. 11), electrical wiring under the 2023 NEC (also adopted in Ch. 8), and plumbing under the 2024 IPC. Built-in gas grills, side burners, and stationary propane tanks larger than 10 gallons trigger Killeen Fire Department review under IFC Ch. 61 (LP-Gas). Outdoor kitchens must comply with the Killeen UDC accessory-structure setback requirements — typically 5 feet from side property lines and 10 feet from rear in most SF residential districts (verify the specific zoning district before designing). Covered outdoor kitchens count toward lot coverage maximums set by the UDC. Properties in newer master-planned subdivisions south of US-190 may face additional HOA architectural review. Properties in established neighborhoods near downtown Killeen, around the Killeen Civic and Conference Center, and in established post-housing-adjacent neighborhoods follow standard residential review. Plan review typically takes 2-4 weeks. Self-contained portable gas grills (not built into a counter) do not require permits.
Building an outdoor kitchen without required permits is a Killeen Code Ch. 8 violation enforceable through municipal court. Texas Local Government Code § 54.001 authorizes civil penalties up to $2,000 per day for building/fire violations affecting health and safety and $500 per day for general zoning violations. Gas-line work without a permit is particularly serious — Killeen Fire Department can order immediate shutdown of the line.
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