Arlington, Texas, sits at the center of the booming Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, where residential growth and large-scale commercial projects are always underway. From stadiums and retail centers to new housing developments, construction here never stops — and neither does the demand for Arlington building permits.
To keep projects moving, you’ll need to navigate the city’s permitting process. This guide breaks down the essentials of Arlington permitting, including what requires a permit, how much you can expect to pay, and how to use the city’s online portal.
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What requires a building permit in Arlington, TX?
The City of Arlington requires permits for most construction, remodeling, or trade work that impacts structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems.
Here are examples of work that typically requires a permit:
- Structural changes or erecting new structures, such as patio covers, carports, and decks
- Foundation repairs, regardless of being residential or commercial
- Fences more than 24 inches tall
- Roof replacements exceeding minor repair thresholds
- Interior systems work, such as HVAC, plumbing, or electrical, that involve structural changes
What doesn’t require a building permit?
Arlington permits are not required for certain minor projects such as:
- Small accessory structures: One-story detached sheds (like tool or storage sheds) that are 100 sq ft or less
- Low-height retaining walls: Up to 4 feet tall, where not supporting surcharge or impounding hazardous materials, and outside FEMA flood zones
- Minor finish work: Including painting, wallpaper, tiling, carpeting, or installing cabinets and countertops
- Playground equipment such as swings
- Inflatable prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep
- Window awnings attached to exterior walls that project no more than 54 inches and don't require support posts
- Siding replacement, only when using the same or similar materials (permitting applies to new stucco or more complex siding systems)
- Non-fixed partitions or display fixtures under 5 feet 9 inches in height (like movable racks, cases, or counters)
For full details, consult the city’s Building and Permitting FAQ or call 817-459-6502.
Arlington building permit cost
Permit fees in Arlington vary depending on the project’s size, scope, and valuation. Here’s a breakdown of typical fees:
Residential fees
Commercial fees
Pro tip: You can use the residential permit fee calculator and the commercial permit fee calculator to determine your potential fees beforehand.
Additional fees
For more details, refer to the planning and development services fee schedule page.
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Arlington permit search and application process
All building permits in Arlington are handled through the city’s Accela portal. Use it to apply, upload documents, schedule inspections, and check the status of your permit.
- Online Portal: Arlington Permitting Portal
- Permit Search Tool: Look up by address, permit number, or contractor ID
- Account Setup: Required for both homeowners and contractors
- Payment Options: Pay fees via card or eCheck directly in the portal
Arlington trade permits
Plumbing permits
A plumbing permit is required for any installation, replacement, or alteration of piping systems, water heaters, backflow preventers, or sewer connections.
Electrical permits
Electrical permits cover panel upgrades, circuits, EV chargers, service changes, and all new wiring.
HVAC permits
Mechanical (HVAC) permits are required for new installations, system replacements, ductwork changes, and venting modifications.
Specialty permits
Projects like fencing, pools, decks, and sheds may require special permits depending on size and utility hookups.
How to get a building permit in Arlington, TX
Step 1: Determine if you need a permit
Confirm whether your project requires a permit. Call (817)-459-6502 or (817)-459-6504, or visit the Building Permits/Inspections FAQs page.
Step 2: Prepare your plans and documents
At this stage, collect the following documents:
- Site Plan or Survey, showing placement and property setbacks
- Scaled Construction Drawings
- Energy Compliance Forms for applicable work (e.g. appliances, HVAC)
- Contractor License Info and proof of insurance
- Owner-Builder Affidavit if the property owner is self-permitting
Step 3: Submit your application online
Use the Arlington Permit Portal to:
- Create or log into your account
- Select the appropriate permit type
- Upload required documents
- Pay the initial plan review fee, if applicable
Step 4: Plan review and corrections
After submission, city staff from relevant departments (building, zoning, fire, public works) will review your documents. You’ll be notified via the portal if revisions are necessary, which must be submitted to clear comments.
Step 5: Pay final fees and permit issuance
Once approved, pay all remaining permit fees via the portal. After that, download or print your permit card. It must be posted on-site before construction begins.
Step 6: Begin work & schedule inspections
Construction can begin only after the permit is posted on the site. Schedule inspections through the portal for stages like foundation, rough-ins, and final review. Use the Arlington Permit Portal to do that.
Note: Inspections must be requested before 7 a.m. on the day you want them scheduled, otherwise they’ll be carried to the next business day.
Arlington permitting resources
- Planning & Development Services: Official website
- Arlington Permit Portal
- Phone: (817)-459-6502
- Email: planningdevelopment@arlingtontx.gov
- Location: 101 W. Abram St., Arlington, TX 76010
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Mailing address for Planning & Development Services:
- P.O. Box 90231
- MS 01-0241
- Arlington, TX 76004-3231
- Planning and development services fee schedule
- Building permits/Inspections FAQs
- Residential permit fee calculator
- Commercial permit fee calculator
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