About Development Services
The Development Services Department supports a vibrant community through responsible development. This department ensures the safety of Austin’s built environment through review, permitting, inspection, and code compliance processes so that all structures and land uses are in compliance with local, state, and national codes and regulations.
For a full list of DSD’s services, visit our Directory of Services webpage.
Contact Us
Chat With Us
Staff from select work groups is available to chat via the web during regular business hours, 7:45 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, staff will be unavailable for online chat and phone inquiries.
Chat is available by clicking the blue chat icon on the following webpages:
- Development Services Department homepage
- Residential Intake
- Commercial Intake
- Site Plan Intake
- Subdivision Intake
- Land Use Review
- Building and Trade Contractor Services
The “Cody” chatbot is also available on the Code Compliance landing page.
Understanding the Development Process
Development in the City of Austin begins with your vision for using a piece of property. You then bring that vision to the City to confirm that your plans meet safety, sustainability, and zoning regulations. Once your plans are approved, you obtain the required permits and build the project with successful inspections along the way. Learn more about the development process.
Additional Information
- FY2023 Annual Report: New Beginnings
- Organization Chart (PDF)
- Public Information Requests
- Media Inquiries (Please dial Austin 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000. for development-related assistance.)