Forms & Applications

View applications, checklists, and associated packets for the Development Services Department.

Note: Some applications may not reflect newly adopted fees. Please refer to the DSD Fees webpage to determine the correct fees.

Alarm Administration

The City of Austin has adopted laws regulating the operation of alarm systems. The City requires an alarm permit for each residence or business operating an alarm system in the Austin Police Department's jurisdiction. The City of Austin Development Services Department administers the Alarm Permit Ordinance. Alarm applications and cancellations can be submitted through their respective web forms without having to complete a PDF form. For more information, visit the Alarm Administration webpage.

• Alarm Permit Application Form  ^{(PDF - 2/11/25)}
• Alarm Permit Cancellation Form ^{(PDF - 2/10/25)}
• Appeal Request Form ^{(PDF - 4/21/22)} 

Board of Adjustment

The City of Austin Board of Adjustment (BOA) hears and decides on requests for variances (or modifications) of Zoning site development regulations, off-street parking requirements, and sign regulations, It also hears and decides appeals of administrative actions under Chapter 25-2 (Zoning) in the City of Austin Land Development Code. The BOA consists of members appointed by the Austin City Council. For more information, visit the Board of Adjustment Support webpage. 

• Application for Board of Adjustment (BOA) General/Parking Variance Request ^{(PDF - 2/9/22)}
• Application for Board of Adjustment (BOA) Sign Variance Request ^{(PDF - 7/3/23)}
• Application for Board of Adjustment (BOA) Interpretation Application/Appeal Request ^{(PDF - 6/24/20)} 

Codes

The City of Austin's Building Technical Codes (Chapter 25-12) contain Building, Electric, Fire, Property Maintenance, Mechanical, Plumbing, Residential, and Solar Energy regulations. For more information, visit the Building Technical Codes webpage. 

Energy Code

• Contractors for Energy Code Required Testing ^(PDF)
• Commissioning Summary Template ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
• Commissioning Acceptance Form ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
• Commercial Solar Ready Guidelines ^{(PDF - 8/10/20)} 

Residential Code

• Circulation Sizing Calculations - APSP 7 & 15 ^(PDF)
• Third-Party Framing Checklist ^{(PDF - 4/8/21)}
• Third-Party Residential Pool and Spa Inspection Checklist ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)} 

Commercial Building Plan Review

The Commercial Building Plan Review Division reviews and approves commercial and multi-family plans for new construction, remodels, revisions to approved permits, changes of use, and certificates of occupancy/compliance. For more information, visit the Commercial Building Plan Review webpage.

Applications

• Commercial Building Application ^{(PDF - 9/11/24)}
  • Guide:
    • Interactive Guide to the Commercial Building Application
  • Requirements and Process:
    • Commercial Remodel/Tenant Finish-Out Requirements ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
    • Commercial Swimming Pool/Spa Requirements ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
    • Change of Use Submittal Requirements ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
    • Electric Vehicle Quick Turnaround (EVQT) Submittal Requirements ^{(PDF - 11/20/23)}
    • Quick Turnaround (QT) and 7-Day Permit Process ^{(PDF - 3/27/24)}
    • QT Photovoltaic Solar Requirements ^{(PDF - 4/4/24)}
    • Portable/Prefab Buildings Submittal Requirements ^{(PDF - 7/30/20)}
    • Structural Review Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 7/28/21)}
• Demolition Permit Application ^{(PDF - 8/16/23)}
  • Requirements and Process:
    • Required Asbestos Compliance Notice Form ^{(PDF - 10/30/23)}
    • Affidavit for Residential and Commercial Total Demolition Permit Application ^{(PDF - 9/6/23)}
    • Refrigerant Disposal Acknowledgment ^{(PDF - 8/31/21)}
• Relocation Permit Application ^{(PDF - 9/16/21)}
• Temporary Building Permit Request ^{(PDF - 8/18/20)} 

Supplementary Forms

• Acknowledgment of Expired Permits​ ^{(PDF - 8/7/20)}
• Austin Public Health Food Enterprise Plan Review Application ^(PDF)
• Austin Public Health Swimming Pool, Spa, & Public Interactive Water Feature Plan Review Application ^(PDF)
• Austin Water Utility Water & Wastewater Service Plan Verification
• Commercial Plan Review Consultation ^{(PDF - 3/10/22)}
• Commercial Plan Review Revision ^{(PDF - 4/1/25)}
• Concurrent Reviews Request Form ^{(PDF - 3/10/22)}
• Commercial Plan Review Deferred Submittal Request Form ^{(PDF - 12/3/24)}
• Commercial Plan Review Deferred Electrical ESPA Submittal Request Form ^{(PDF - 7/30/20)}
• Commercial Plan Review Overtime Plan Review Request Form ^{(PDF - 12/5/24)}
• Commercial Plan Review Preliminary Plan Review Meeting Request Form ^{(PDF -12/13/24)}
• Preliminary Plan Review Agenda and Meeting Minutes Form - ^{(Word - 1/22/25)}
• Request for Extension, Withdrawal, or Reactivation ^{(PDF -11/15/24)}
• Request for Modification or Alternate Method of Compliance Form ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
• Request for Subchapter E: Alternative Equivalent Compliance Form ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
• Structural Observation Report ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Statement of Special Inspections ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Third-Party Medical Gas Verification Form ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)} 

Review Aids

• Building Design Calculation Worksheet ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
• Commercial Solar Ready Guidelines ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)} 

Commercial Plan Review Checklists (for reference purposes)

• Architectural Plan Review ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Electrical Locking System Review ^{(PDF - 11/12/24)}  Effective Sept. 1, 2024.
• Electrical Plan Review ^{(PDF - 2/27/24)}
• Mechanical Plan Review ^{(PDF - 7/14/25)}
• Plumbing Plan Review ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Structural Plan Review ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)} 

Easement and Restrictive Covenant Templates

During the subdivision and site plan review phase, your reviewer may ask you to file an Easement or Restrictive Covenant document related to your application. If requested, the reviewer will inform you which Easement or Restrictive Covenant must be completed and returned to your reviewer before execution and recording. If you have questions about completing the form, please contact your City reviewer for assistance. If you have questions about the templates, please contact Annette Bogusch, Legal Program Specialist, at 512-974-6483.

General Instructions:

1. Please prepare each requested City of Austin standard Easement or Restrictive Covenant in Word format.
2. Please provide the following required documents in addition to your Easement or Restrictive Covenant:

• Appropriately labeled metes and bounds and a sketch of the Easement Tract.
• An Ownership and Lien search that is current within 30 days from a third-party title company.
• Either an Affidavit of No Liens or a Lienholder’s Consent form.
• An "After Recording Return To" page with name and address.

Drainage Easements

• Detention and Water Quality Controls Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Drainage Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Drainage Easement with Permitted Obstructions ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Drainage Easement with Permitted Obstructions and Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Drainage Easement with Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Drainage Lines Subterranean Tunnel Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Residential Floodplain Variance Drainage Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Easements

• Drainage Easement in the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction with Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Lateral Support and Slope Easements in the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction with Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Permanent Access Easement in the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction with Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

General Documents Needed for All Easements and Restrictive Covenants

• Affidavit of No Liens (entity) ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Affidavit of No Liens (individual) ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• After Recording Return To ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Consent by Tenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Lien Holder Consent ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Legal Transmittal Sheet

• Legal Transmittal Sheet Template ^(DOC) 

Mobility Easements

• Joint Use Access Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Memorandum of Parking Agreement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23}
• Permanent Access Easement ^{(DOC - 5/30/23)}
• Sidewalk Easement ^{(DOC - 5/30/23)}
• Sidewalk Easement with Obstructions and Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 5/30/23)}
• Sidewalk Easement with Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 5/30/23)}
• Street Deed ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Trail and Recreational Easement ^{(DOC - 5/30/23)}
• Trail and Recreational Easement with Required Maintenance ^{(DOC - 5/30/23)} 

Park Easements

• Exclusive Park Recreational Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Easement Granting Permanent Public Access to Recreation Facilities (Private Park) ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Trail and Recreational Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Parkland Improvement and Maintenance Agreement

• Parkland Improvement and Maintenance Agreement ^{(DOC - 4/12/23)} 

Public Utilities Easements

• Public Utility and Private Drainage Easement with Required Maintenance of Private Drainage Lines ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Public Utility Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Residential Documents

• Residential Joint Use Access Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Residential Unified Development Agreement Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Restrictive Covenants

• Declaration of Drainage Easement and Restrictive Covenant regarding the Maintenance of Drainage Facilities with Association ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Declaration of Drainage Easements and Restrictive Covenant for Maintenance of Drainage Facilities with Benefitted Owner ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Declaration of Easement and Unified Development Agreement with Maintenance of Drainage Facilities Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Declaration of Easement and Unified Development Agreement with Maintenance of Subsurface Pond Drainage Facilities Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Downtown Density Bonus Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 4/12/23)}
• First Amendment ^{(DOC - 4/12/23)}
• Floodplain Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Integrated Pest Management for School Districts Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Integrated Pest Management Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Limiting Impervious Cover Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Parking Obligation Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Receiving Tract Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Source Control Plan Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Subsurface Pond Maintenance Plan Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Termination of Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Transferring Tract Receiving Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Turf and Landscaping Regulations Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Unified Development Agreement Restrictive Covenant ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Water Line Easements

• Exclusive Automated Meter Infrastructure Water Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Reclaimed Water Lines Access Shaft Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Reclaimed Water Lines Subterranean Tunnel Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Reclaimed Water Line Vault Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Water Line Access Shaft Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Water Lines Subterranean Tunnel Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Water Line Vault Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Reclaimed Water Line Easement ^{(DOC - 4/12/23)}
• Water Line Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Wastewater Lines Easements

• Exclusive Wastewater Access Shaft Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Wastewater Line Subterranean Tunnel Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Wastewater Lines Odor Control Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Wastewater Pump Structures Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Exclusive Water Line Vault Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Wastewater Lines Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Water Lines and Wastewater Lines Easements

• Exclusive Water Lines and Wastewater Lines Subterranean Tunnel Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Water and Wastewater Lines Easement ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)}
• Water and Wastewater Lines Easement with Private Drainage Lines Easement with Required Maintenance of the Private Drainage Lines ^{(DOC - 1/9/23)} 

Entertainment Services (Sound, Alcohol, Temporary Use)

• Alcohol Beverage Waiver ^{(PDF - 1/14/21)}
• Applicant Prepared Notice Agreement ^{(PDF - 12/30/22)}
• BYOB Venue Permit Application ^{(PDF - 7/2/20)}   
• Mobile Retail Application Form ^{(PDF - 6/8/21)}
• Mobile Retail Vendor Log ^{(PDF - 7/2/20)}
• Mobile Retail Restroom Agreement ^{(PDF - 7/2/20)}
• Non-Peak Hours Concrete Installation Permit ^{(PDF - 8/4/21)}  - Central Business District only
• Outdoor Music Venue Application ^{(PDF - 7/2/20)}
• Parking Lot Patio Permit Application ^{(PDF - 8/4/21)}
• Temporary Outdoor Sound Permit Application ^{(PDF - 4/6/23)}
• Temporary Use Permit Application ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)} 

Fiscal Surety

The Fiscal Surety Office accepts, monitors, and releases fiscal surety payments for improvements to environmental, health, safety controls, and public infrastructure. The amount of fiscal surety posted shall equal the estimated cost for the City to do the work for which the fiscal was required. For more information visit the Fiscal Surety webpage.

• Fiscal Surety required format for Letters of Credit ^{(PDF - 9/2019)}
• Fiscal Surety required format for Site Plan Bonds ^{(PDF - 10/2019)}
• Fiscal Surety required format for Subdivision Bonds ^{(PDF - 9/2019)}
• Subdivision Construction Agreement (SCA) ^{(PDF - 7/2018)}
• Assignment & Assumptions (Full-Escrow Only) ^{(PDF - 8/2018)}
• Assignment & Assumptions (Partial) ^{(PDF - 8/2018)}
• Amendment to Subdivision Construction Agreement ^{(PDF - 8/2018)}

General Permit

 A program was established to expedite the development review, permitting, and construction of administrative site plans for City Departments and City of Austin Franchised Utilities located on city properties, city easements, and/or public right-of-way. For more information visit the General Permit webpage.

• General Permit Program Permit Application ^{(PDF - 12/19/22)}
  • General Permit Application Submittal Requirements Checklist ^{(PDF - 11/19/24)}
• General Permit Program Project Exemption Submittal ^(Smartsheet)
• General Permit Correction Request Form ^(Smartsheet)
  • General Permit Correction Acknowledgement Form ^{(PDF - 5/6/21)} 

Inspections

Building Inspection

The Building Inspection Division (BID) performs inspections on new construction, remodels, and trades (electrical, mechanical, plumbing) to ensure compliance with applicable building codes. For more information, visit the Building Inspections webpage.

Commercial Inspection Checklists

• Building Final ^{(PDF - 7/9/25)}
• Building Framing ^{(PDF - 7/9/25)}
• Building Insulation ^{(PDF - 8/8/22)}
• Building Interior Wallboard ^{(PDF - 8/8/22)}
• Building Layout/Foundation ^{(PDF - 8/8/22)}
• Building Pre-Construction ^{(PDF - 10/18/24)}
• Building TCO ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Electrical Final ^{(PDF - 1/10/24)}
• Electrical Grounding ^{(PDF - 1/10/24)}
• Electrical Rough ^{(PDF - 1/10/24)}
• Electrical Slab ^{(PDF - 1/24/24)}
• Electrical TCO ^{(PDF - 1/24/24)}
• Electrical Temporary ^{(PDF -1/24/24)}
• Mechanical Cooler/Freezer Rough ^{(PDF -5/30/25)}
• Mechanical Final ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Mechanical Rough ^{(PDF - 6/6/25)}
• Mechanical Stove Hood Rough ^{(PDF - 5/23/25)}
• Mechanical TCO ^{(PDF - 7/8/25)}
• Mechanical Temporary Gas ^{(PDF - 6/2/25)}
• Mechanical Vent ^{(PDF - 7/8/25)}
• Plumbing Final ^{(PDF - 8/11/22)}
• Plumbing Fire Line Rough ^{(PDF - 8/11/22)}
• Plumbing Gas Rough ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Plumbing Gas Yard Line ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Plumbing Interior Water Lines ^{(PDF - 8/12/22)}
• Plumbing Pre-Pour ^{(PDF - 8/12/22)}
• Plumbing Rough ^{(PDF - 8/15/22)}
• Plumbing Sewer Yard Line ^{(PDF - 8/15/22)}
• Plumbing TCO ^{(PDF - 8/15/22)}
• Plumbing Temporary Gas ^{(PDF - /15/22)}
• Plumbing Top-Out ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Plumbing Water Yard Line ^{(PDF - 8/16/22)} 

Residential Inspection Checklists

• Building Final ^{(PDF - 8/1/22)}
• Building Foundation ^{(PDF - 7/14/25)}
• Building Framing ^{(PDF - 8/1/22)}
• Building Insulation ^{(PDF - 7/10/25)}
• Building Layout ^{(PDF - 8/2/22)}
• Building TCO ^{(PDF - 8/3/22)}
• Building Wallboard ^{(PDF - 8/2/22)}
• Electrical Final ^{(PDF - 10/25/24)}
• Electrical Ground ^{(PDF - 10/25/24)}
• Electrical Rough ^{(PDF - 10/25/24)}
• Electrical Slab ^{(PDF - 10/25/24)}
• Electrical Temporary ^{(PDF - 10/25/24)}
• Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction ^{(PDF - 8/4/22)}
• Foam Plastics Checklist ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
• Mechanical Final ^{(PDF - 8/3/22)}
• Mechanical Rough ^{(PDF - 8/3/22)}
• Plumbing Final ^{(PDF - 8/1/22)}
• Plumbing Rough ^{(PDF - 8/3/22)}
• Plumbing Sewer Yard Line ^{(PDF - 8/3/22)}
• Plumbing Top-Out ^{(PDF - 8/4/22)}
• Swimming Pool and Spa ^{(PDF - 10/1/20)} 

Environmental Inspection

The Austin Environmental Inspection Division performs inspections on permitted sites to ensure temporary and permanent erosion controls, stormwater controls, critical environmental features, trees and natural areas protection, landscape installation, and other relevant features to comply with approved site plan requirements. For more information visit the Environmental Inspections webpage. 

• Underground Storage Tank (UST) System Construction Permit Application ^{(PDF - 10/8/20)}
• Hazardous Materials Storage Permit Application ^{(PDF - 2/6/25)}
  • Interactive Guide to the Hazardous Materials Storage Permit Application
• Emergency Leak-Response Procedures ^(PDF)
• 30-Day UST Visual Inspection Report ^{(PDF - 2/4/25)}
• Transfer of Hazardous Materials Storage Permit Application ^{(PDF - 2/25/25)} 

Site and Subdivision Inspection 

The Site and Subdivision Inspection Division perform inspections of site work for commercial development in the right-of-way before building construction begins. For more information visit the Commercial Site and Subdivision Inspections webpage.

• Project Submittal Process ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
• Project Construction Summary ^{(PDF - 9/12/24)}
• Final Cost and Quantities ^{(XLS - 11/10/21)}
• Standard Construction Procedures ^(PDF)
• Special Inspections Process ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
• Engineer's Concurrence Letter ^(PDF)
• Maintenance Bond - Example ^(PDF)  

Special Event Temporary Structure Inspection

For more information on tent permits visit the Austin Center for Events tent webpage.

• Special Events Application for Temporary Structures ^(PDF)  

Land Development Information Services

The Land Development Information Services (LDIS) team provides land use consultations and related services for the community while also providing technical support for various disciplines in the review process. For more information visit the Land Development Information Services webpage.

• Development Compliance Letter ^{(PDF - 9/10/20)}
• Land Status Determination Application ^{(PDF - 10/17/22)}
• Request for Refund Address Verification Form ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
• Site Development Exemption for Remodel Floodplain Review ^{(PDF - 7/11/22)}
• Site Plan Correction Form ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
• Site Plan Exemption Request Form ^{(PDF - 6/22/23)} 

Land Management

Land Management is now part of the Transportation and Public Works Department. The Land Management team assists customers with obtaining rights for the use of City right-of-way and easements (streets, sidewalks, alleys, public utilities) through a variety of means depending on the project. For more information, visit the Land Management webpage. 

Licenses and Registration

Boat Docks

Boat Dock Registration ^{(PDF - 6/24/25)} 

Private Hauler

• Private Hauler License Application - English ^{(PDF - 10/7/24)}
  • Private Hauler License Application - Spanish ^{(PDF - 10/7/24)}
• Private Hauler License Application Addendum - English ^{(PDF - 10/8/24)}
  • Private Hauler License Application Addendum - Spanish ^{(PDF - 10/8/24)} 

Repeat Offender Program

Repeat Offender Rental Registration Form ^{(PDF - 1/7/25)} 

Regulation Determination/Land Use Review

The Regulatory Policy and Administration division reviews vested rights petitions submitted under Land Development Code Chapter 25-1, Article 12, and Chapter 245 of the Texas Local Government Code. For more information visit the Land Use Review webpage. 

• Project Review Form - Statement of Applicable Codes ^{(PDF - 6/21/21)}
• Project Consent Agreement ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
• Vested Rights Petition ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
• DP-01 Development Plan Application (Site Plan) ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
• DP-02 Development Plan Application (Subdivision) ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
• Fair Notice Application ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)} 

Residential Building Plan Review

The Residential Building Plan Review Division reviews new construction, additions, interior remodeling, and demolition of single-family, duplex, or two-family houses and/or accessory buildings on one lot. For more information, visit the Residential Building Plan Review webpage.

Guide to Residential Plan Review Applications

• Residential Zoning Application Guidelines ^{(PDF - 7/11/24)} 
  This guide gives step-by-step instructions on how to fill out the New Construction & Addition Permit Application.  The information can also be used to fill out all other Residential Permit Applications.  Please review this document when filling out the permit application.   

Applications for Residential Plan Review

• Amnesty Certificate of Occupancy ^{(PDF - 7/29/21)}
• Demolition Permit Application ^{(PDF - 1/2/25)}
  • Requirements and Process:
    • Demolition Notification Instructions ^{(PDF - 10/1/21)}
    • Affidavit for Residential and Commercial Total Demolition Permit Application ^{(PDF - 9/6/23)}
    • Refrigerant Disposal Acknowledgment ^{(PDF - 8/31/21)}
• Garage Conversion and Carport/Porch Enclosure ^{(PDF - 2/12/24)}
• Relocation Permit Application ^{(PDF - 1/2/25)}
• Express ^{(PDF - 1/3/22)}
  • Guides:
    • Interactive Guide to the Residential Express Permit Application
• Fence ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
• Interior Remodel ^{(PDF - 8/27/21)}
• New Condominium ^{(PDF - 2/20/24)}
• New Construction and Addition ^{(PDF - 6/17/25)}
  • Guides:
    • Interactive Guide to the Residential New Construction and Addition Application
  • Checklists:
    • Intake Checklist for Residential Building Permit ^(PDF-6/6/23)
  • Building and Impervious Cover Calculation Aid ^(XLS)
• New Townhouse ^{(PDF - 2/16/24)}
• Pool and/or Uncovered Deck Permit Application ^{(PDF - 4/5/23)}
  • Guides:
    • Interactive Guide to the Pool and/or Uncovered Deck Application

Supplementary Forms for Residential Plan Review 

• AE Building Service Planning Application (BSPA)
• Austin Water - Water & Wastewater Service Plan Verification ^{(PDF-2/7/2023)}
• Acknowledgment of Expired Permits ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
• Certificate of Compliance - Interior Remodel ^{(PDF - 4/7/25)}
• ​​Certificate of Compliance - New Construction or Addition ^{(PDF - 4/11/25)}
• Owner's Authorization Letter ^{(PDF - 9/1/23)}
• Preliminary Plan Review Request Form ^{(PDF - 11/5/24)}
• Preliminary Plan Review Agenda and Meeting Minutes Form - ^{(Word - 1/22/25)}
• Plan Review Revision Form ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
• Request for Extension, Withdrawal, or Reactivation ^{(PDF - 12/30/21)}
• Request for Modification or Alternate Method of Compliance Form ^{(PDF - 7/27/23)}
• Structural Verification Report ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
• Tiny House Request for Modification or Alternate Method of Compliance ^{(PDF - 3/20/24)} 

Aids for Residential Plan Review

• Braced Wall Plan Calculation Template ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
• Lake Austin Zoning and Overlay Impervious Cover Chart ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
• Solar Ready Guidelines ^{(PDF - 7/30/20)}
• Tree Review ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)} 

Residential Plan Review Checklists (for reference purposes)

• Residential Zoning ^{(PDF - 8/13/24)}
• Technical Review Checklist ^{(PDF - 2/13/25)}
  • Technical Review Handout ^{(PDF - 5/26/21)} 

Stand-Alone Building and Trade Permits

The Building and Trade Contractor Services registers contractors and homeowners for permit assignment, links registrations with the AB+C Portal, activates approved permits, issues standalone trade permits, processes requests for permit modifications, issues Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, and manages related billing and escrow accounts. For more information, visit the Building and Trade Contractor Services Webpage.

• Annual Permit Application ^{(PDF - 5/6/25)}
• Annual Permit Report Form ^{(PDF - 3/9/22)}
• Contractors for Energy Code Required Testing ^(PDF)
• Electric Permit Request ^{(PDF - 5/14/21)}
• Electric Special Inspections Program ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
• General Contractor Permit Request ^{(PDF - 3/15/22)}
• Inspection Agent Letter of Authorization and Request for Interactive Voice Recognition (IVR) Personal Identification Number (PIN) Form ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
• Letter of Authorization ^{(PDF - 2/3/25)}
• Mechanical Permit Request ^{(PDF - 5/14/21)}
• Plumbing Permit Request ^{(PDF - 5/14/21)}
• Plumbing Service Line Permit Request  ^{(PDF - 8/31/23)}
• Refund Request - Address Verification  ^{(PDF - 8/7/20)}
• Remove Contractor Letter ^{(PDF - 9/16/20)}
• Residential Change-Out Permit Application ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
• Standalone Building Permit Application ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
• Transfer Contractor Letter ^{(PDF - 9/16/20)} 

Signs

The City of Austin requires a Sign Permit for outdoor signage as stated in the Land Development Code. Visit the Sign Permit webpage to assist you with determining your sign district, what the submission requirements are, how to apply for Austin sign permits, and how to request more information.

• Advertising Searchlight Permit Application ^{(PDF 6/24/20)}
• Outdoor Advertising Registration Form ^{(PDF - 8/4/21)}
• Sign Permit Application ^{(PDF - 8/8/22)} 

Site Plan

Site plan applications are reviewed for compliance with Austin's development regulations as provided in the Land Development Code. For more information, visit the Site Plans, Exemptions, and Corrections webpage.

New checklist and application for Consolidated Site Plan Completeness Check now required

• Completeness Check Application: As of May 16, 2024, the new Consolidated Site Plan Completeness Check Application is required. This application replaces the Consolidated Site Plan Application previously in use.
• Completeness Check Checklist: As of May 16, 2024, the new Consolidated Site Plan Completeness Check Checklist is required.

These changes were made as part of the Transforming Site Plan Review initiative. Learn more in the May 1 update on Transforming Site Plan Review.

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Site Plan Completeness Check Applications:

• Barton Springs Zone Initial Operating Permit Application ^(PDF)  (Watershed Protection)​
   
• Boat Docks Shoreline Modifications for Single-Family Lots Application ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Boat Dock and Shoreline Modification for Single-Family Lots Requirements ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
    • Boat Docks Completeness Check ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)}
       
• Capitol View Corridor Elevation Determination Application ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)} 
   
• Concept Site Plan Application ^{(PDF - 7/28/21)} 
   
• NEW Consolidated Site Plan Completeness Check Application ^{(PDF - 10/21/24)} (includes Consolidated Site Plan Revision)
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • NEW Consolidated Site Plan Completeness Check Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 5/6/24)} 
       
• Development Assessment & Alternative Equivalent Compliance Application ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}  
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Development Assessment & Alternative Equivalent Compliance Overview and Application ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Land Use Commission Site Plan Application (Non-Consolidated Land Use Element) ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Land Use Commission Site Plan Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
       
• Major Drainage/Regional Detention (Construction Element) Application – Electronic Submittal Requirement ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Major Drainage/Regional Detention Projects Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 7/9/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^(PDF)
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
       
• Non-Consolidated Site Plan Application (Construction Element) ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Non-Consolidated Site Plan Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • Construction Plan B & D Site Plans Completeness Check ^{(PDF - 11/30/21)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Off-Site/Shared Parking Application ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Off-Site/Shared Parking Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)} 
       
• Project Review Form - Statement of Applicable Codes ^{(PDF - 6/21/21)} 
   
• Site Plan Correction Request Form ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)} 
   
• Site Plan Exemption Request Form ^{(PDF - 6/22/23)} 
   
• Site Plan Revision Application (Consolidated/Non-Consolidated) ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Site Plan Revision Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • Site Plan Revision Completeness Check ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Small Project - Fill Application ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Small Project - Fill Overview and Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Small Project - Retaining Wall Application ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Small Project - Retaining Wall Overview and Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Small Project - Telecommunication Tower Application ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Small Project - Telecommunication Tower Overview and Application Instructions (Consolidated) ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • Telecom Tower Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • Telecom Tower Completeness Check ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Small Project - Transportation Application ^{(PDF - 10/6/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Small Project - Transportation Overview and Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Streets & Drainage Site Plan Application - Electronic Submittal Requirement ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Streets & Drainage Site Plan Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/13/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 
       
• Utility Line Projects Application ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
  • Related Supporting Documents:
    • Utility Line Projects Application Instructions ^{(PDF - 8/17/20)}
    • Site Plan Intake Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 9/24/20)}
    • Utility Lines Completeness Check ^{(PDF - 8/14/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)} 

Site Plan Formal Application:

• Site Plan Formal Application ^{(PDF - 4/4/24)}

Subdivision

Subdivision applications are reviewed for compliance with Austin's development regulations as provided in the Land Development Code. For more information, visit the Subdivision Review webpage.

• Guidelines for Naming Streets within Subdivision Plats and Site Plans ^(PDF)
• Land Status Determination Application ^{(PDF - 9/14/23)}
  • Land Status Determination Tool - Determine if a land status can be granted for a property
  • Utility records that show the date the tract was first connected to water, wastewater or electric utility service, if applicable. Not all land status applications require utility records.
• Plat Vacation Application ^(PDF)
  • Vacation Templates:
    • Vacation Acknowledgment, Partial Vacation, Administrative Approval ^(PDF)
    • Vacation Acknowledgment, Partial Vacation, Commission Approval ^(PDF)
    • Vacation Acknowledgment, Total Vacation, Administrative Approval ^(PDF)
    • Vacation Acknowledgment, Total Vacation, Commission Approval ^(PDF)
• Project Review Form - Statement of Applicable Codes ^{(PDF - 6/21/21)}  
• Subdivision Completeness Check Application ^{(PDF - 12/6/23)}
  • Subdivision Completeness Check Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 12/21/23)}
• Subdivision Formal Application ^{(PDF - 12/4/23)}
• Subdivision Project Assessment Completeness Check Application ^{(PDF - 12/6/23)}
  • Subdivision Completeness Check Submittal Checklist ^{(PDF - 12/21/23)}
• Subdivision Project Assessment Formal Application ^{(PDF - 12/18/23)} 

Volume Builder

The Volume Builder Program is an optional expedited review process that enables volume builders to receive a faster turnaround on residential permit applications for new construction. For more information, visit the Volume Builder webpage.

• Billing Information Form ^{(PDF - 6/13/22)}
• Home Builder Certification Affidavit ^{(PDF - 12/17/21)}
• Volume Builder Master Review Application ^{(PDF - 9/25/24)}
• Volume Builder Permit Application ^{(PDF - 9/21/23)}
• Volume Builder Condominium Application ^{(PDF - 7/30/20)}
• Volume Builder New Townhouse Application ^{(PDF - 7/30/20)} 

Zoning

Zoning establishes the types of land uses permitted on a parcel of land within the City of Austin's full or limited purpose jurisdiction. Zoning also sets the development standards for a site, such as building height, setbacks, floor-to-area ratio, neighborhood compatibility, screening, landscaping, and impervious cover limitations. For more information, visit the Zoning Resources & Site Regulations webpage.

•  Determination of Planning Commission or Zoning & Platting Commission Assignment ^{(PDF - 6/20/24)}
  • Related Checklists:
    • Development Assessment And Alternative Equivalent Compliance Application ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
    • Development Assessment & Alternative Equivalent Compliance Overview ^{(PDF - 8/11/20)}
    • City Arborist Review Addendum ^{(PDF 5/15/20)}
• Neighborhood Conservation Combining District ^(PDF)
• Zoning Amendments ^(PDF)
  • Related Checklists:
    • Ordinance Amendments Intake Submittal Checklist ^(PDF)
• Zoning Application ^(PDF)
  • Related Checklists:
    • Zoning Intake Submittal Checklist ^(PDF)
• Zoning Verification Letter Application  ^{(PDF - 10/1/20)}