Plano, Texas is one of the fastest-growing hubs in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Construction here is nonstop — and so is the demand for Plano building permits.
To keep projects moving, you need to understand the city’s permitting process. Whether you’re managing a multi-million-dollar development or a backyard improvement, Plano has specific requirements, applications, and fee schedules that must be followed.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Plano permitting, from which projects require approval to how fees are calculated and how to navigate the city’s online permitting system.
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What requires a building permit in Plano?
The City of Plano requires permits for most structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work.
You’ll need a permit for:
- Constructing any building (main or accessory), such as sheds, gazebos, carports, or patio covers
- Foundation repairs
- Additions or remodels that involve changes to walls or windows
- Building or replacing a deck that is more than 30″ above grade
- Electrical work (beyond basic repairs)
- Plumbing work, including replacement of water or sewer lines
- Installing or replacing water heaters or water softeners
- Irrigation systems (e.g., lawn sprinklers)
- Installing or replacing furnaces or air conditioning systems
- Building or replacing fences (with limits on exempt repairs)
- Building retaining walls over four feet tall
- Replacing a roof
- Installing or replacing driveways or circular driveways
- Installing satellite dishes over 39″ in diameter
Note: General fencing projects require a permit, but repairs that do not exceed 25% of the fence area in a 12-month period are exempt.
What doesn’t require a permit?
Not all projects require formal approval.
You typically don’t need a Plano building permit for:
- Painting, wallpapering, carpeting, cabinet, or trim work
- Replacing fixtures on existing wiring or plumbing (e.g,. switches, plugs, washers, faucets)
- One-story detached accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet (provided they meet zoning rules)
For more information, refer to the city’s When is a permit required? page.
Plano building permit cost
Permit fees in Plano are based on project scope, type, and valuation. Here’s a breakdown based on the latest fee schedule.
Value-based fees
Residential fees
Commercial fees
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Plano trade permits
Plumbing permits
Required for all plumbing system installs, repairs, reroutes, or replacements.
Residential fees (additions, alterations, backyard cottages)
Commercial fees (commercial inspections)
Electrical permits
Covers any wiring, panel, or service upgrades as well as new installations.
Residential fees (additions, alterations, backyard cottages)
Commercial fees
HVAC permits
Permits are required for installing, replacing, or altering mechanical systems and ductwork.
Residential fees (additions, alterations, backyard cottages)
Commercial fees
Specialty permits
Projects like roofing, fencing, sheds, and pools often require additional approvals.
How to get a building permit in Plano, TX
Step 1: Prepare required documents
Complete the City application packet. Then gather scaled, labeled construction plans. Include two sets (three for food-related businesses) and ensure they're sealed/signed by a licensed architect or engineer when needed.
Include supporting documents:
- A completed Plano building permit application:
- Asbestos survey (for alterations)
- TDLR project registration (commercial projects >$50K)
- Energy compliance reports (e.g., COMcheck or REScheck), signed by the responsible design professional
Step 2: Apply online via eTRAKiT
At this stage, you have to log in or create an eTRAKiT account and submit your packet. Pay 65% of the commercial permit fee (or analogous plan check deposit for residential) at submission.
Step 3: Plan review
The plan is routed for review across relevant departments (e.g., building codes, health, fire). You will receive revision requests via email (with clouded “delta” revisions for corrections).
Note: For commercial projects, a Full Civil Release from Planning and Engineering is required before the permit can be issued.
Step 4: Pay final fees and print your permit
Once approved and a civil release is granted, pay the remaining fees. Register your general contractor with the City. Submit subcontractor validation sheet, if applicable. Finally, print and display the permit at the construction site.
Step 5: Begin construction and schedule inspections
Start construction within 180 days (6 months) or the permit may expire. Schedule inspections via eTRAKiT, via phone (972-941-7140), or text (buildingpermits@plano.gov). Complete all required inspections to receive final approvals or a Certificate of Occupancy.
Plano permitting resources
- Building Permits & Inspections: plano.gov/350/Building-Permits
- Permit Portal (eTRAKiT): City of Plano eTRAKiT
- Permitting guide: Permits Overview
- Phone: (972) 941-7140
- Email: buildinginspections@plano.gov
- Office Address: 1520 K Ave., Plano, TX 75074
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Applications:
- Building inspections fee schedule
- Plano building permit search page
- When is a permit required?
- Inspection services
- Building permits
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Teams choose PermitFlow because we deliver:
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