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New Construction (Residential/Commercial)

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1. Do I need a permit for an addition, alteration, or remodel?

In most cases a permit is required. Below is a checklist of documents to provided for this project type. 

ADDITIONS, ALTERATIONS & REMODELS

•  Demolition Plan
•  As applicable: Architectural Existing Floor Plan and Proposed Floor Plan, Elevation drawings and Wall Section details
•  Engineered Foundation Plans and Details where applicable.
•  Special Inspections Sheet.
•  Framing Plans for Floor, Ceiling and Roof.
•  Code Matrix/ Means of Egress/ Life Safety Plan.
•  Finish Schedule.
•  Fire Rated construction details where applicable.
•  MEP Plans, Schedules, and Details.
•  REScheck reports where applicable.
•  Heating and Cooling Load calculations where applicable.

2. What are permits and why do I need one?

Building permits are the way the City of Wimberley regulates construction. Permits help ensure that all construction in the City is safe. The safety of the building occupants is the primary reason for having construction codes. The City of Wimberley has adopted certain editions of the International Residential and Commercial Building Codes and augmenting codes. In addition, there are federal, state, and local laws that govern construction, such as regulations covering energy conservation.

There are several different types of permits, based on the type of construction: structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and combination (used for single family home construction and other small projects). Most home owners' projects require a combination permit. In addition, the complete demolition and relocation of buildings also requires permits.

Obtaining the permit is just the first step in the process. In this step, you may need to create plans to submit to the City, make a plot plan for your property showing the improvements, and show the type of construction you'll be using. The City has handouts to help you through this process. Once plans are approved, you are required to build the project according to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans, they must be made with the City's approval.

The second half of the process is the inspection of the work.

3. When do I need a building permit?

A building permit is needed for all new construction. In many cases, a permit is needed for repair or replacement of existing fixtures, such as replacing windows. A plumbing, electrical or mechanical permit may be needed for any additions or changes to a building's existing system; for example, moving or adding a wall or an electrical outlet requires a permit.

4. When don’t I need a building permit?

A building permit is not needed for items such as wallpapering; painting, or similar finish work; and fences four feet high or lower.

5. Where do I get a building permit?

Building permits are issued by the City's Permitting Department located at Wimberley City Hall, 221 Stillwater Drive. Permit applications can be obtained at City Hall or by visiting the New Construction page.

6. What is the cost of a building permit?

The cost of a building permit depends on the work being done. Individuals obtaining a permit must pay a fixed processing fee for the permit application, a permit fee based on the stated value of the construction to be done, along with a fee for the building inspections associated with the permit. View the Fee Schedule (PDF).

7. How long does it take to get a permit?

Permit issuance periods vary. Some projects can be fully permitted over-the-counter, meaning a return trip won't be needed. However, some projects require that plans be left for additional review. Typically, a residential building permit takes approximately seven days to be issued, while commercial building permits typically take ten to fourteen days.

8. What about other approvals or permits that may be needed from other government agencies?

Other government agencies may need to review and approve your project. The City will inform you of these reviews and approvals at the time your plans are submitted.

9. What if I don’t get a permit?

When a permit (if needed) is not obtained before construction, you have violated the City of Wimberley regulations and will be subject to penalties. You will be required to obtain permits for the work and such work must pass inspection, or you will have to return the structure or site to its original condition.

10. Who should obtain the permit?

The home/business owner or the project's contractor can obtain the necessary permits.

11. Can I do the work myself or do I have to hire a contractor?

You can do the work yourself, but you must follow certain regulations, including:

• Workers Compensation - If you will be hiring anyone, you may have to purchase worker's compensation insurance, which is available from a variety of agencies. If you won't be hiring anyone, we will ask you to sign and "Owner-Builder Statement" to this effect. We can't issue you a permit without the either proof of insurance or the completed "Owner-Builder Statement".
• Build to the Plans - Be sure to follow your approved plans, whether they are drawn by an architect or designer, or are standard construction requirements given to you by the City. If you change the plans while building the structure, this will cause problems when the project is inspected. If you do decide to make changes, check with the City's plan review staff or your field inspector.

12. Who draws up the plans?

Plans for projects such as room additions can usually be drawn up by a qualified individual such as a draftsman. Other projects may require plans prepared and signed by an architect or engineer licensed by the State of Texas.

In addition, some kit-type projects come with construction plans. Before you buy such kits, call 512-847-0025 to make sure your kit is accepted; then, just submit the instruction sheet or other documentation when you apply for your permit, as it serves as a project plan.

13. What about a contractor?

The City recommends that you check references of contractors that you plan to use. All electrical and plumbing contractors must be licensed by the State of Texas.

14. What about inspections?

It is your responsibility to call us for inspections at specific times during construction. You may have your contractor make the call, but as the property owner, it is still your responsibility to make sure that inspections are made. Inspections are made during certain points in the project, depending on the work that's being performed. For example, retaining walls require inspections of the footing, after the block is laid and steel placed (but before grouting), after backfill has been placed, and when all work is finished. Remember, the project is not complete for legal purposes until it has passed the final inspection

15. What if I have a permit, but never called for an inspection?

Generally, permits expire after one-hundred eighty (180) days, if no inspections have been made. In order for the project to be complete, it must pass final inspection. If a permit expires before final inspection, the project is in violation of City Code. If this is the case with your project, call 512-847-0025. We will help you to reactivate the permit or apply for another with as little inconvenience as possible. Our interest is in seeing your project completed - including the final inspection. Should you have any other questions or need further clarification, please call us at 512-847-0025.

16. What do I need for a pool permit?

Please note not all Zoning districts permitting use allow for a pool.

Below is a checklist of required documents for all pool submittals.

POOLS

• Site Plan* showing all existing structures and proposed Pool location.
• Swimming pool, spa, and hot tub construction plan and specifications shall include dimensioned plans for all decks, mechanical equipment, and fencing.
• Structural Plan must include:

o Type of construction (granite, poured concrete, etc.)

o Dimensions of pool, including depth and adequate cross-sections drawn to scale.

o Pool edge details.

• Mechanical Plans must indicate:

o The volume, system flow rate in gallons per minute, and turnover in hours.

o The type and size of filtration.

o The type and size of pool/spa heater.

o The pool/spa layout with all sizes shown and types of materials to be used, location of main outlet, surface skimmers, and inlets.

o The size and length from source to heater and routing of gas line, if applicable.

• Pool Barrier details.

17. What do I need for a Backup Generator permit?

The following is a checklist of required documents when submitting for a generator permit

• Site Plan* showing all existing structures and proposed Generator location. 
• Engineered Foundation Plan and Details. 
• Electrical Plans including ATS, Grounding, Riser Diagram and Panel Schedule. 
• Gas Piping Demand Calculations and Gas Plan where applicable.