The Commercial One Stop Section was created to facilitate a walk-thru review of certain minor commercial projects. This guideline is to assist in identifying projects that qualify for this service. Please note that other reviews may be required prior to the building permit issuance. 

Last updated: 01-26-2024

Senate Bill 509 requires municipalities to verify that an asbestos survey has been conducted prior to issuing renovation or demolition permits for public or commercial buildings, and affects renovation and demolition permits for public or commercial buildings issued by municipalities on or after January 1, 2002.

Last updated: 06/09/2022

This guide outlines the permit and the plan review process associated with erecting scaffolding and other structures to serve as pedestrian protection during construction, repairs, and demolition projects.

Last updated: 01-01-2023

To define the minimum plan review requirements to obtain a building permit for the installation of a Modular or Prefabricated Building. Code requirements that apply to newly constructed buildings also apply to these prefabricated structures except state approved plans which are accepted without additional review. 

Last updated: February 2024

Last Updated: June 20, 2025.

This is a guide to assist in the plan review, permit, and inspection process for the installation of a solar panel system. The required components to be included in drawings to obtain permits, and the items that the city inspectors will be verifying in the field during the inspection process are included.

Last updated: 03/25/2024

The Residential One-Stop Guideline lists the various requirements for plan submittal and review of residential construction projects.

Last updated: September 8, 2025

Guidelines for applying for a residential repairs permit. Residential repairs permits are required for repairs that involve only replacement of existing structural members and other building elements.

Last updated: 12/28/2022

The following detail and specifications, issued in conjunction with the Department of Neighborhoods and Health Department, identifies requirements for the demolition of swimming pools and spas; including, but not limited to, pools determined to be in violation of the City of Houston Minimum Standards or Dangerous Building Ordinance.

Last updated: January 2026

Overview of Building Code Design Criteria

Last updated: May 22, 2025.