Arlington, TX Building Permits Guide
Arlington, TX building permit timeline: Plan review takes 3 to 5 days depending on project type. Expedited review is not currently offered.
Building permit review in Arlington, TX typically takes between 3 and 5 days depending on project type and complexity. The city does not currently offer expedited plan review. Here is what you need to know about permit timelines, costs, and the review process in Arlington.
Arlington Plan Review Timeline
- For initial permit applications, the review team in Arlington takes an estimated 5 days to evaluate and either approve or provide feedback on your submission.
- Should there be feedback or required corrections from the city's plan checkers, additional rounds of review will typically be completed in 3 days.
Arlington does not offer an expedited review option.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Arlington Building Department
Need it faster? Permit Place can expedite your Arlington permits
What Building Permits Do You Need in Arlington?
Arlington requires permits for most construction activity. The type of permit depends on your project scope.
Commercial Permits
- New commercial construction: full plan review with the longest timeline
- Tenant improvements and interior buildouts: plan review for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes
- Change of use: required when converting building use (for example, retail to restaurant)
- Shell and core: separate from tenant improvement permits
Residential Permits
- New home construction: full plan review including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Additions and remodels: required when modifying structure or adding square footage
- Decks, pools, fences: separate permits with typically faster review
Trade Permits
Individual trade permits are typically required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), and fire sprinkler work.
How the Arlington Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Arlington building department. Applications are reviewed for completeness before being assigned to a plan reviewer.
Step 2: Plan Review
The city reviews your submitted plans for building code compliance, structural integrity, fire safety, energy code, and ADA accessibility. Commercial projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the same time.
Step 3: Corrections and Resubmittal
If the city issues correction comments, you will need to revise your plans and resubmit. Each correction cycle adds another review period. Most commercial projects go through 2 to 3 correction cycles.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Once all review departments approve your plans, the building permit is issued. Schedule inspections as work progresses.
Note: These timelines reflect general review periods. Large or complex projects may take longer. Request a quote from Permit Place for a project-specific estimate, or get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Arlington Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Arlington vary based on project type and valuation.
Commercial
- Tenant improvements: $500 to $5,000+
- New commercial construction: $2,000 to $25,000+ (based on valuation)
- Plan review fee: typically 50-65% of the building permit fee
Residential
- Small projects (decks, pools, fences): $50 to $300
- Home additions and remodels: $200 to $2,000+
- New home construction: $1,000 to $10,000+ (based on valuation)
For a detailed permit cost breakdown specific to your project, get a free due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Trade Permits
- Electrical: $50 to $500
- Plumbing: $50 to $500
- Mechanical: $50 to $500
Fee ranges are estimates. Actual fees depend on project valuation and scope. Contact the Arlington building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Arlington Building Department
Arlington Building Department
- Website: www.arlingtontx.gov/city_hall/departments/planning_development_services
- City Website: www.arlingtontx.gov
Frequently Asked Questions About Arlington Building Permits
How do I get a building permit in Arlington TX?
Apply for a building permit through the City of Arlington Building Inspections Division, located at 101 W Abram Street, Arlington, TX 76010. Commercial applications are submitted through Arlington’s ePermit online portal. Required documents include construction plans sealed by a Texas-licensed architect or engineer, site plan with parking calculations, energy code compliance, MEP plans, and Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) documentation. The city uses the 2021 International Building Code with Arlington amendments.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Arlington TX?
Arlington commercial building permit review typically takes 15-30 business days for initial plan review. The city offers an expedited review option for qualifying commercial projects that can reduce initial review to 7-10 business days for an additional fee. Simple tenant improvements without structural changes may receive comments faster. PermitPlace manages commercial permits across the DFW metroplex and coordinates with Arlington plan reviewers to minimize comment rounds.
How much does a building permit cost in Arlington TX?
Arlington TX building permit fees are based on project valuation. Commercial permits typically cost $0.20-$0.40 per square foot, with a standard tenant improvement running $1,500-$5,000 in city fees. Plan review fees are 65% of the permit fee. Additional fees apply for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical sub-permits. Impact fees for new commercial construction in Arlington can add $3,000-$15,000+ depending on project scope and utility requirements.
What building codes does Arlington TX use?
Arlington follows the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments, the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC), the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC), and the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC). Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) apply in addition to federal ADA requirements. Arlington also enforces the 2021 International Fire Code for commercial properties.
Do I need a permit for a commercial remodel in Arlington?
Yes, virtually all commercial remodel and tenant improvement (TI) projects in Arlington require a building permit. This includes interior renovations involving electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or structural work. Changes in occupancy type (e.g., retail to restaurant) trigger additional code compliance reviews for fire suppression, grease traps, and ventilation. Minor cosmetic work like painting and carpet replacement does not require a permit, but anything involving building systems does.
Need Help with Arlington Building Permits?
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