If you’re planning a construction project in Fort Worth, Texas, you’ll most likely need a local building permit, no matter what type of project it is (e.g., a new commercial development or a home renovation). A building permit is important as it shows that all structures comply with safety standards, zoning laws, and local regulations.
Before kicking off your project, you’ll want to understand the permitting process. This guide is a great starting point to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of permitting in Fort Worth. Let’s dive in!
What requires a building permit in Fort Worth?
In Fort Worth, most major construction projects require a building permit.
Some common projects that require a permit:
- Any new construction
- Structural alterations or room additions
- Garage or accessory structure builds
- HVAC, electrical, or plumbing system installations or replacements
- Pool installations
- Roof replacements
- Solid fences exceeding 7 feet in height
- Open-design fences exceeding 8 feet in height
- Any fence construction or replacement within historic districts
Do you need a permit for a shed, fence, or driveway?
If you’re installing a shed that is larger than 120 square feet or a fence that is over 7 feet, you’ll need a permit. Permits are also required for driveways or curb cuts as they help to ensure safe access and proper drainage.
How big of a structure can I build without a permit in Texas?
In Texas, the largest structure you can build without a permit is around 200 sq ft, as long as it is non-habitable and meets zoning requirements. However, if you’re planning to install plumbing or electricity, you’ll have to get a required permit.
What is the penalty for building without a permit in Texas?
Building without a permit in Fort Worth can lead to:
- Stop work orders: The city issues an immediate halt to ongoing work until you get proper permits.
- Fines and re-inspection fees: General fines include $500 per day, but those related to fire safety or public health can reach up to $2,000 per day.
- Removal of unauthorized work: You might have to deconstruct any already-completed work.
Fort Worth building permit fees
Fort Worth building permit fees vary based on project type, size, and valuation.
- Residential remodels: Start at $112 and increase depending on the number of trades involved.
- New residential construction: Start at $96.84 for the first 30 square feet, with an incremental fee for every additional square foot.
- New commercial construction: Start at $96.84 for the first $2,000 of value, with an incremental fee for every additional $1,000 of value.
Access the full City of Fort Worth permit fee schedule on their website.
How long do building permits last in Fort Worth?
Building permits in Fort Worth typically expire:
- 180 days after issuance if no work has started
- 180 days after the last inspection if work stops
You may request an extension before the permit expires, but approval is at the discretion of the Development Services Department.
How to get a building permit in Fort Worth
Use this step-by-step guide to get a feel for what the process involves. Always connect with the city’s Building Services Department with any clarifying questions before diving in to set yourself up for success.
Pro tip: Avoid navigating the permitting process on your own by using permit software like PermitFlow. PermitFlow automates the permitting process from start to finish so you can focus on more important work.
Step 1: Prepare your plans
Before applying, make sure you have the following materials ready:
- Site plan: Property lines, existing structures, and the proposed work
- Architectural drawings: Floor plans, elevations, and construction details
- Structural engineering plans: For load-bearing or foundation work
- Energy code compliance documentation: For residential and commercial new construction or major renovations
- MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) plans
Commercial projects may also require fire suppression layouts, accessibility compliance, and landscape plans depending on the scope.
Step 2: Submit the Fort Worth building permit application
Submit your application through the Fort Worth permit portal. Attach your prepared documents and select the appropriate permit type from the portal's dropdown options.
Step 3: Plan review & fee payment
Once submitted, your application enters a multi-department review process.
City reviewers will check:
- Zoning compliance (e.g., setbacks, height, use restrictions)
- Building code requirements (based on IBC, IRC, IECC, etc.)
- Historic or overlay district rules
Expect comments or requests for corrections before approval. Once your plans are approved, you’ll receive a bill (your permit fee) that you must pay online to receive your permit.
Step 4: Schedule inspections
After your permit is issued and work begins, the city will want to inspect the project at various stages to ensure you’re adhering to all requirements.
You’ll have to schedule inspections at critical milestones such as:
- Pre-slab/foundation inspection
- Framing inspection
- Rough-in inspections for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
- Final inspection for certificate of occupancy or project close-out
Use the inspection scheduling portal or call the automated line at (817) 392-6370 to schedule your inspection(s).
Fort Worth permitting resources
- Address: 200 Texas Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102
- Phone: (817) 392-2222
- Email: devcustomerservice@fortworthtexas.gov
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Permit portal: aca-prod.accela.com/CFW
- Inspection line: (817) 392-6370
- Other useful links:
Streamline Fort Worth permitting with PermitFlow
Getting a building permit in Fort Worth can be a pretty time-consuming process, especially if you’re doing everything by yourself or tackling a particularly large or multi-phase project. With all the plan reviews, document submissions, and inspections, it’s easy to hit snags like delays and application mistakes — which will cost a lot in the end.
Instead of navigating all this on your own, partner with PermitFlow. PermitFlow is comprehensive permit management and tracking software backed by a team of permitting experts that will help you prepare and submit error-free applications to save you time. We work with builders, contractors, developers, home service providers, and other construction businesses to make permitting transparent and keep projects on track.
PermitFlow simplifies the permitting process by:
- Determining which permit(s) you need and what each application requires
- Completing and submitting Fort Worth building permit applications
- Coordinating with building department officials on your behalf
- Tracking progress of your permit application
Let our team handle the back-and-forth so you can focus on the build. Contact us to streamline your next project in Fort Worth.
