Building in Corpus Christi, Texas comes with unique challenges, like hurricane-resistant codes, floodplain rules, and saltwater corrosion. These all factor into the Corpus Christi building permit process.
Whether you’re tackling a commercial project, new home, or trade job, understanding the city’s permitting requirements is key to avoiding delays and staying compliant.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Corpus Christi permitting, from costs and applications to requirements and online permitting details.
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What requires a building permit in Corpus Christi?
A permit is required for most work that involves changes to a building's structure, systems, or footprint.
Projects that typically require a building permit in Corpus Christi include:
- New residential or commercial construction
- Additions or major renovations
- Structural changes (removing or modifying walls, headers, etc.)
- Roofing (new or replacement)
- Electrical panel upgrades or new circuits
- Plumbing modifications (e.g., new lines, reroutes)
- HVAC system replacements
- Decks, patios, carports, sheds over 200 sq. ft.
- Fences over 7 feet in height
- Swimming pools or spas
- Driveway replacements or expansions
What doesn’t require a building permit?
Some minor repairs or non-structural upgrades may not need a permit.
These include:
- Cosmetic interior work: painting, flooring, trim
- Kitchen cabinet or countertop replacement (without plumbing/electrical changes)
- Fencing under 7 feet (unless enclosing a pool)
- Sheds under 200 sq. ft. with no utilities
- Re-roofing with the same material if under a certain threshold (check local guidelines)
Still unsure? Contact Development Services at (361) 826-3240 or use the Corpus Christi Permit Portal to verify your project's requirements.
Corpus Christi building permit cost
Permit fees are based on the valuation of the project and the type of work. Here's a general overview of Corpus Christi permit fees:
Residential fees
Commercial fees
Additional fees
For more information, refer to the FY 2025 development fee schedule page.
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Corpus Christi trade permits
Plumbing permits
Plumbing permits are needed for any new installations, system changes, water heaters, or sewer connections.
Electrical permits
Any change to the electrical system requires a permit, including service upgrades and new circuits.
Mechanical) permits
HVAC permits are needed for installations, change-outs, and duct modifications.
Specialty permits
Special permits cover projects like fencing, sheds, driveways, and pools.
Note: All fees denoted with * will be assessed a 4.5% surcharge.
How to get a building permit in Corpus Christi
Step 1: Prepare your plans & documents
Gather the following documents:
- Completed Corpus Christi permit application:
- Site plan or property survey (confirm the property is platted. Permits can’t be issued otherwise)
- Scaled construction drawings
- REScheck/COMcheck for energy code compliance (recommended)
- Contractor registration and professional licenses (if applicable)
- Floodplain documentation, if the property is in a flood zone
Note: Fence projects are included in the building permit application (look for the "Fence" checkbox)
Step 2: Register & submit via the dynamic permit portal
Next, you have to:
- Create an account in the online permitting portal
- Select the appropriate permit type
- Upload all required documents and applications
- Pay the initial plan review fees
Optional: Review the “Dynamic Portal Training Guide” for helpful instructions.
Step 3: Plan review & revision requests
City staff will review your submission and will communicate corrections or additional requirements through the portal if needed.
Step 4: Final approval, fee payment, & permit issuance
After revisions are approved, pay required permit fees. Download or print your permit card from the portal and display it at your job site.
Step 5: Construction & inspections
Begin construction, following the approved plans. Additionally, schedule required inspections, such as slab, framing, rough-ins, and final, through the portal, and monitor inspection results there.
Corpus Christi permitting resources
- Development Services Dept.: Building Permits Page
- Permit Portal: Dynamic Forms Portal
- Phone: (361) 826-3240
- Email: devservices@cctexas.com
- Office Address: 2406 Leopard St., Corpus Christi, TX 78408
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Guide:
- Applications:
- Documents & forms online
- Fee schedules:
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Construction professionals choose PermitFlow because we deliver:
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