Building a custom home in Austin requires many steps, and one of them is obtaining permits to ensure your project meets local codes, environmental standards, and safety requirements. Each permit serves a specific purpose and protects both your investment and the community.
Main Building Permit
The foundation of your project is the residential building permit, which is required for all new construction in Austin. This permit confirms that your plans comply with the 2024 Technical Codes (effective July 10, 2025) and local zoning regulations. According to the City of Austin’s Residential Plan Review guidelines, new construction applications must include detailed floor plans, site plans showing setbacks and tree locations, exterior elevations, and structural drawings sealed by a Texas-registered architect or certified building designer.
The building permit application process requires submission through the Austin Build + Connect (AB+C) Portal. Your architect or design professional will prepare the necessary exhibits that demonstrate compliance with Austin’s Land Development Code and the current building standards.
Trade Permits (Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC)
Beyond the main building permit, you’ll need separate trade permits for specialized work. According to Austin’s permit structure, trade permits typically include:
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Electrical permits for wiring, panels, and power systems
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Plumbing permits for water supply, drainage, and fixtures
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Mechanical (HVAC) permits for heating, cooling, and ventilation systems
Each trade permit is submitted separately and reviewed by specialists in that field. Trade permit costs generally range from $50 to $500 per permit, depending on the scope of work.
Specialty Permits That Matter in Austin
Austin’s unique environment and regulations create additional permitting requirements that many builders overlook.
Tree Preservation Permits
Austin takes tree protection seriously. If your property contains protected trees—those 19 inches or greater in diameter—you’ll need tree review approval alongside your building permit. According to the City Arborist Program, heritage trees (24 inches or larger of certain species like oaks, elms, and pecans) cannot be removed except under specific circumstances. The Environmental Criteria Manual limits canopy removal to 25% per tree and requires at least 50% of the critical root zone to remain at natural grade. Violating tree ordinances can delay your project significantly and result in substantial fines.
Floodplain Permits
If your property is located within or near Austin’s 100-year floodplain, additional requirements apply. The City of Austin’s floodplain regulations prohibit building encroachment within the 25-year floodplain and restrict it in the 100-year floodplain unless specific conditions are met. Foundation floor slabs must be at minimum two feet above the 100-year floodplain elevation, and you must provide hydraulic analysis demonstrating no adverse impact on neighboring properties. Floodplain development can add 4–8 weeks to your timeline.
Energy Code & Building Service Planning
The Austin Energy Building Service Planning Application (BSPA) review is required for new structures. Austin Energy verifies clearances from your home and pools to utility easements and facilities. Additionally, Austin’s 2024 Technical Codes now include enhanced energy efficiency standards and require electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure readiness in new residential construction.
