City Government > City Departments > Code Enforcement > When to Obtain a Building Permit

Code Enforcement
When to Obtain a Building Permit

A permit allows us to visit your building site and inspect the safe construction of structures and the proper use of materials. Permits are required for new construction, remodels, repairs, additions, and demolitions. In addition, permits are required for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trades. Permits will be issued only after a site plan and construction plans have been submitted, reviewed, and approved by the planning, building, utility, fire, and engineering departments. Certain plans may need to be designed by an engineer or architect.

A building permit will be issued once the following minimal requirements have been submitted:
(Please note other requirements could be requested by Building Inspection pending project type)

Residential

  1. Complete building permit application (available in Code Enforcement Department)
  2. Plot Plan/Site Plan indicating:
    • address of property
    • legal description of the property
    • building setback lines
  3. Foundation Plan to include wood, steel or engineered post tension w/details
  4. Floor Plan with dimensionally load out, with electrical and plumbing information
  5. Typical wall section
  6. Exterior elevations (all four sides).
  7. Roof section with joist and rafter layout, or engineered roof truss layout and dimensions.
  8. RES Check Compliance Report
  9. Windstorm load of 120 miles an hour (submit inspection reports and compliance
    • certificates from an approved agency certified to do structural
    • design and inspections and approved by the building official
    • based on qualifications and reliability)
  10. Verification of builder registration with Texas Residential Construction Commission
  11. All plumbers and electricians must be certified
  12. Two full sets of plans
    • Builder must register with the City of San Benito as a general contractor (sub-contractors to register in their specialized field).

Commercial Projects

  1. All requirements listed above
  2. Submit Plot Plan/Site Plan showing:
    • address of property
    • legal description of the property
    • building setback lines
  3. Drainage Plan
  4. Electrical load calculations and panel diagrams
  5. Plumbing details to include a backflow prevention device
  6. HVAC Layout and load calculations
  7. Comp Check
  8. Certified Plans (2 full sets)