Harris County, TX Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- County Engineer
- Residential driveway max width
- 36 feet
- Commercial driveway max width
- 96 feet
- Driveway separation required
- 20 feet minimum
- Pre-2005 sidewalk repairs
- exempt from permit
Summary
Building a sidewalk, driveway, or culvert across Harris County right-of-way in unincorporated areas requires a permit from the County Engineer before construction begins, under the county's driveway regulations.
Construction of driveways, sidewalks, culverts whenever applicable, or the replacement of existing driveways, sidewalks or culverts on County or public easements on rights-of-way without first securing a permit is prohibited. Applications for permits for the construction of driveways, sidewalks and culverts on County or public easements or rights-of-way shall be made to the County Engineer.
Full Breakdown
Harris County's driveway regulations (Subchapter 41C) require anyone building, replacing, or repairing a driveway, sidewalk, or culvert that crosses county right-of-way or easement in unincorporated areas to get a permit from the County Engineer before construction starts. Applications must show the improvement's location and any conflicting drainage inlets or utilities; residential driveways are capped at 36 feet wide, commercial at 96 feet, and same-property driveways must sit at least 20 feet apart. Corner-lot sidewalks need an ADA-compliant wheelchair ramp. Sidewalks built before November 1, 2005 are exempt from the permit requirement for repairs.
Violations & Fines
Building without a permit lets the County Attorney sue to enjoin the work, and Commissioners Court can order the landowner to remove or repair the encroachment at their own expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a sidewalk in unincorporated Harris County?
What happens if I build in the right-of-way without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Harris County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Harris County to another location·View the Texas sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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