Do I Need a Permit for That Home Project in Lubbock?

Finally tackling some home projects you've been putting off?

I've got a couple that glare at me each time I leave the house for a BBQ...

Before you head out to Home Depot to load up on tools and start tearing things apart, you might want to check whether or not Lubbock requires a permit.

The short answer?

Sometimes.

According to the City of Lubbock's Building Safety Department, alterations, construction, installation, and repairs involving electrical, building, plumbing, mechanical, or gas systems will generally require a permit before you even get started.

Let's break down some of the most common projects that could require a permit.

• Replacing a roof - You'll need a roofing permit when you tear off and replace shingles. If you are going to change the roof's pitch or framing, that will be considered a remodeling project and will also require a remodeling permit.
• General Remodeling - Removing walls, making structural changes, relocating plumbing, adding electrical circuits, or changing any kind of mechanical system will require a permit.
• HVAC - If you are replacing your air-conditioning or heating equipment, you need a permit.
• Water Heater - Yep. You need a permit to replace it.
• Carport - Adding a carport to your driveway will require a permit, along with meeting a few of the city's requirements.
• Swimming Pool - You can't just dig a hole and fill it with water! Ha! You'll need a permit if the pool or spa is more than 24 inches deep, has a circulation system, and isn't drained daily. Some tiny ponds might not require a permit, but make sure you read the fine print!
• Sheds and Accessory Buildings - If you want to add a detached building to your property that is larger than 200 square feet with electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems, you'll need a permit. Smaller buildings without all the added luxuries don't require a permit. (Your kiddo's fort in the backyard is fine! In fact, it's awesome! Can I come over!?)

Things That Usually Don't Require A Permit

Not every single little repair trip at home requires a trip through the permitting process.

If you're just fixing your faucets, replacing a damaged outlet, or changing out a broken window, you won't need any kind of permit.

The best way to know if you need a permit is to ask yourself if you are changing the house's structure. If the answer is "no," then you're fine to keep plugging away.

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Can I Make Repairs Myself?

Lubbock homeowners can obtain plumbing, building, and mechanical permits for work they perform themselves or with an immediate family member. (Ah, that's how you got roped into helping your dad replace the water heater so many times...)

Electrical Work is a little different...

You'll need a licensed electrical contractor/master electrician for electrical work. Let the professionals handle that stuff. You don't want to fry yourself...

How Do I Get A Permit?

You can easily submit an application online through the city's Citizen Self Service (CSS) Portal. Create an account, select the correct residential application, and upload all of the required documents.

If you have questions, it's always best to ask them before you start! You can contact the City of Lubbock Building Safety Department at 806-775-2087 and speak with one of the residential plan examiners.