FAQs • La Porte, TX • CivicEngage

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I want to open a business in an existing building. Do I need a permit?: As a minimum, a Zoning Permit is required. The type of business determines other required permits. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

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Inspections Division

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1. How do I arrange for building inspections?: Please call our 24 hour Inspection Line at 281-470-5130. In your message please include your name, phone number, the permit application number, the inspection address and what type of inspection you need.

2. I want to put a vending machine in my place of business. Do I need a permit?: There is no Arcade License in La Porte However, Chapter 10 (Amusements), Sect. 10-31 thru 10-83 does regulate "Coin-Operated Machines." Machines must be registered annually with the city and a decal is issued for each machine. Registration and decals are handled by Inspections Services.
Inspections Services Division.

3. Do I need a permit to reroof my own home?: Yes, a permit is needed and the correct type of shingles is critical. Please submit a Roofing permit application to permits@laportetx.gov
Inspections Services Division page.

4. What size building requires a building permit?: All buildings require a building permit.

5. Where do I go to get a building permit?: Inspection Services Division is located at 604 W. Fairmont Parkway. Permit application and required documents can be e-mailed to: permits@laportetx.gov
Inspections Services Division page.

6. How much does a permit cost?: Methods for calculating construction permit fees vary with the different types of permits. Please refer to our permit fee schedule on our website.

7. Can a homeowner get his / her own construction permit?: A homeowner may obtain a permit for remodeling, repairs, and additions to his / her home.

8. Is a permit required if I want to clear my land?: Clearing permit application and guidelines are available on our website. You may also contact Planning & Development Department at 281-470-5065 for information and guidelines on Clearing permits.

9. Where does a contractor register to work in La Porte?

The City has no requirement for the registration of contractors, however, to obtain a permit, contractors are required to file an insurance certificate with the City.

Certificate of Insurance can be e-mailed to permits@laportetx.gov

10. Who do I call to get a permit for certain construction work?: The Inspection Division issues construction permits and can be reached at 281-470-5073. The Inspection Division handles new construction, additions and remodels of building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical. It also handles driveways, accessory building, roofing and roofing replacements as well as demolition, signs and fences.

11. Who reviews construction plans in La Porte?: The City’s Inspection Division does construction plan review for the City.

12. Where can I get a copy of the deed to my property?: An individual can contact the Harris County Courthouse Real Property Records Division at 713-755-6439.

13. I want to tear down an old detached garage that is behind my house. Do I need a permit?: Yes, a demolition permit is required.

14. I want to build a fence that is 8 feet high. Who do I contact about regulations?: The City's Zoning regulations address fence heights. Contact the Inspection Division at 281-470-5073.

15. I have opened a new business and would like to have a grand opening. Will I need permission from the City to do this?: The City does not have a Grand Opening Permit.

16. I want to have a business in my home. What do I need to do?: The City's Zoning regulations address home occupations. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

17. I want to move a small storage building onto my property. Do I need a permit?: Yes, a permit is needed. The City's Zoning regulations address placement of structures. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

18. I want to open a business in an existing building. Do I need a permit?: As a minimum, a Zoning Permit is required. The type of business determines other required permits. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

19. Do I need a permit to put a swimming pool in my backyard?: Yes, a permit is needed for installing a swimming pool. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

20. Do I need to put a fence around my swimming pool?: Yes, a fence is required. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-47-5073.

21. I want to put a sign on my business. Do I need a permit?: Yes, a permit is needed. The City's Zoning regulations address sign issues. Contact Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.