Unincorporated Harris County does not require building permits for most residential renovations, as the county has not adopted a comprehensive building code. Within Houston, permits are required for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Cosmetic work does not require permits in either jurisdiction.
Texas law limits county authority to adopt building codes, and unincorporated Harris County does not have a residential building permit requirement for renovations. Property owners can perform most renovation work without government permits, though electrical and plumbing work should comply with state licensing requirements. Within the City of Houston, permits are required for: structural alterations, electrical work (new circuits, panel upgrades), plumbing modifications, HVAC installation or replacement, roofing replacement, window/door changes affecting structure, and additions. Houston's Chapter 52 outlines administrative procedures for construction codes. Cosmetic work (painting, flooring, cosmetic updates) does not require permits. In unincorporated areas, while no permits are required, property owners should consider: flood zone compliance for additions, proper electrical work by licensed electricians per Texas state law, and HOA architectural review requirements.
In unincorporated Harris County, no building permit violations for renovations. Within Houston, unpermitted work can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required after-the-fact permits with additional fees.
Humble, TX
Humble Code §8.03.011 prohibits construction, demolition, and power lawn mower operation between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Heavy equipment (§8.03.008) also prohi...
Humble, TX
Keeping any animal or bird that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the vicinity is a violation of Humble's noise ordinance (Art. 8.03).
Humble, TX
Aircraft noise is federally preempted. Humble has no local aircraft noise ordinance. The city is near Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
Humble, TX
Humble does not have a standalone ordinance regulating leaf blower use. Gas-powered and electric leaf blowers are permitted for residential and commercial la...
Humble, TX
Humble Code of Ordinances Chapter 38 (Nuisances) prohibits unreasonably loud or disturbing sounds including amplified music. Sound from loudspeakers, PA syst...
Humble, TX
Humble regulates driveway construction and parking on residential property. Vehicles must be parked on improved surfaces — parking on grass, dirt, or unpaved...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how Humble's renovation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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