Shed permit in Houston, TX
We couldn't confirm this from Houston's code.
Rather than guess, here is the exact section to read and who to call. A rule appears on this site only when the ordinance states it plainly.
Nearby cities, same job
Rules stop at the city line. If your lot is near a boundary, or you work across several towns, this is where they differ.
| City | Distance | Permit? | Where the line falls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | — | Depends | Over 200 sq ft |
| Pearland | 16 mi | Depends | Over 200 sq ft |
| Pasadena | 17 mi | Depends | From 100 sq ft |
| League City | 26 mi | Depends | Over 200 sq ft |
| College Station | 77 mi | Depends | Over 200 sq ft |
| Round Rock | 145 mi | Depends | Over 200 sq ft |
Other work in Houston
Questions people ask
My shed is right at the limit. Does that count?
The exemption has to fit exactly — if the code says a size or height, being at or under it keeps you exempt, and going a single inch over doesn't. When you're close to the line, measure before you buy materials, and call the department if the number is borderline.
I already built it without a permit. What now?
Houston can issue a stop-work order and require you to apply after the fact, sometimes with an extra fee. Work that was covered up may have to be opened for inspection. Full walkthrough here.
Does unpermitted work cause problems when selling the house?
Often, yes. A buyer's inspector or the title company may flag it, and lenders can balk at financing a home with open or missing permits. What to do about it.