Permit guides
Search the published guide library. Check the conditions, confirm the jurisdiction, then follow the official application path.
Austin ADUs require property eligibility, a new address or building number, a residential building permit, related trade permits, inspections, and a Certificate of Occupancy. Starting October 1, 2026, residential plan review also includes lighting-control checks when the project enters that review path.
Austin exempts only an uncovered deck no larger than 200 square feet, no more than 30 inches above grade, detached from the dwelling, outside required egress and outside a flood hazard area.
Austin lists an Electrical Upgrade permit path; main electric service and other exclusions require separate review.
A residential fence not over 7 feet may be exempt outside flood hazard areas; taller or flood-area fences need the applicable permit.
Qualifying residential HVAC replacement can use Austin's stand-alone Mechanical Change Out permit path without formal plan review.
Austin requires an Interior Remodel building permit when structural components change or plumbing fixtures are added or relocated; minor repair scopes use the Residential Express path.
Austin routes qualifying roof work through its Residential Express Permit process, while some nonstructural repairs and replacements remain exempt.
A solar system in Austin Energy territory starts with an Auxiliary Power electrical permit and must pass Austin Energy's final solar inspection before it is turned on.
Installed water-heater replacement is a trade scope that should be checked through Austin's plumbing and residential permit process.
Austin routes size-for-size window and exterior-door replacement through the Residential Express or minor-repair permit path; creating or enlarging openings uses broader residential review.