The Development Services Department, along with our partner departments, leads the development process in the City of Austin. We provide consultations, reviews, inspections, and support for all applicants. There are three main phases of the development process: Create Your Project, Review and Revise, and Build and Inspect. While each project is unique, our Understanding the Development Process webpage and video series provide an overview of each phase.

Visit the Understanding the Development Process webpage to learn more. 


What you will find on this page:


Work Exempt From Permits

Visit the Work Exempt From Building Permits webpage for a list of work that does not require a permit. Work exempt from a permit must still comply with applicable Building Codes, City Codes, and other applicable ordinances. 


Development Services

We offer a variety of permits, inspections, and support throughout the development process. Depending on your project, you may want to use one of the following permit types or consultations:

We offer virtual and in-person appointments for these groups. Visit our PDC Appointments webpage to schedule your appointment. 


How to Apply

This section includes basic information on applying for permits through Development Services. 
 

1   Determine the type of permit you need

New Construction, Remodel, Pool and Uncovered Deck, Homeowner's (Homestead) Permit, Standalone, and Building and Trade Contractor Services are some of the permit types that you might need for your home project. Visit the Residential Building and Trade Permits section on the Types of Permits webpage to learn more about each, including how to apply.

Types of Permits webpage
 

2   Download the application and gather the required documents

All applications and supplemental forms are available on the Forms & Applications webpage in the Residential Building Plan Review section. Interactive guides are available for specific applications, providing more detailed information.

The Residential Plan Review webpage explains the steps and requirements for these applications. 

The following permit types have their own webpages with more specific details:

3   Set up your AB+C Portal account

An AB+C Portal account is required to manage your permit application, pay fees, and schedule some inspections. Visit the AB+C Portal Manual to view the section on Registration for First-Time Users.  
 

4   Submit your application

Visit the appropriate webpage and follow the instructions. You can apply for many permits through a web form, but they still require a PDF application to be submitted as part of the required documents. If you are unsure which page to visit, the Types of Permits webpage has information on where to submit.
 

5   Optional Contractor Registration 

Homeowner's Permit and Registration

As a homeowner, you can register as a contractor and be responsible for requesting/activating permits and scheduling/passing inspections for your property. Visit the Homeowner's Permit and Registration webpage to learn more.

Registering a Contractor

Before beginning any construction associated with a building or trade permit, trade contractors, general contractors, and homeowners acting as contractors must register as a Contractor with Building and Trade Contractor Services. Visit the Contractor Registration & Licenses webpage to learn more.


Resources