The main tutorial included in the state is the Texas Building Code which sets the standards for quality safe construction. To be safe, and meet structural guidelines, these rules must be followed by builders. Before starting any construction, the local regulations must be checked first to confirm that the project conforms to them, so you need a permit.
Texas Building Code, Permit & Licensing Information
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023
In addition, contractors must be licensed to carry out construction work. Builders and property owners can build safe and reliable structures for their communities if they follow the Texas Building Code.
What are the Current Adopted Texas Building Codes and Editions:
All industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes:
- 2015 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC)
- 2015 Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)
- 2015 International Zoning Code (IZC)
- 2015 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
- 2015 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
- 2015 International Green Construction Code (IGCC)
- 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
- 2015 International Residential Code (IRC)
- 2015 International Fire Code (IFC)
- 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
- 2015 International Building Code (IBC)
- 2015 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
- 2015 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- 2020 National Electric Code (NEC) – 2020 NEC effective November 1, 2020
- State Energy Code 2015 IECC and 90.1-2013
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101 Life Safety Code 2018
Applicability (statewide, local, limited): LIMITED
Codes are primarily adopted and enforced locally. All local jurisdictions can make any amendments they deem necessary in their jurisdictions.
Additional Building Codes by State
| State Website | https://www.texas.gov/ |
| State Licensing | Specialty contractor licensing may be essential but general contractor licensing is not mandatory by the State of Texas. Local jurisdictions may also require licensing. |
| State Licensing Division | https://www.texas.gov/occupational-professional-licenses-in-texas/ |
| State Fire Marshall | https://www.tdi.texas.gov/fire/ |
| State Environmental Permit | https://www.tceq.texas.gov/ |
Additional Building Codes by State
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming