Frequently Asked Questions

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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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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. 

Coronavirus is a family of viruses that range in severity from the common cold to more severe respiratory infections, which may cause illness in animals or humans. Symptoms range in severity based on your personal health factors. Symptoms include cough, fever, shortness of breath, body aches and fatigue. Keep in mind that many viruses that are currently circulating have the same list of symptoms (i.e. flu).

The most likely transmission is person-to-person through close contact with respiratory droplets (in other words a cough or sneeze). The virus can also live on surfaces for days, which means if you touch a doorknob, grocery basket, etc. and then touch your face you are infected. The incubation period from exposure to illness is 2 to 14 days.

Steps to Prevent Illness

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wear a facemask if you are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces daily.

Resources

• Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (English) (JPG)
• Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (Spanish) (JPG)

All programs that require registration can be found in our online catalog.

If a program is full, you can add yourself to the wait list for that program.

If you are on a waitlist for a program you will be contacted via email if an available spot opens up. All waitlisted participants are contacted in the order their registration was received. 

 Some general standards are comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. If a program has any suggested equipment, you will receive an email from the Programs and Operations Manager of the suggested equipment and if it will be provided.

All Parks and Recreation Programs are non-refundable. 

If a program is cancelled, all participants registered for that program will be email with an explanation why. Participants will receive a 100% refund if the Parks and Recreation Department cancels a program.

The park is located in Wimberley, Texas. 333 Blue Hole Lane Wimberley, TX 78676. 

Blue Hole Regional Park hours are 8 a.m. to Sunset. The park amenities including hiking, biking, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sport fields are open and free during those set hours. 

• The park gate closes and locks at sunset. Anyone park staff is unable to find in the park at closing time will be locked in the park and will need to call the Sheriff’s Department to be let out of the park.   

Swim hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (every day May through September 4th and weekends in September) 

• AM time slot is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
• PM time slot is 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

No – reservations must be made in advance to enter the swim area. These reservations must be made online as we do not have the ability to make reservations on-site for you. Reservations are not required to enter the park itself, just the swim area during the swim season. 

A reservation is only required to enter the swim area during the swim season. There is no admittance to the swim area without a reservation. This includes people who do not plan to swim. If you would like to view the swim area, but do not wish to make a reservation, we suggest you visit our Overlook Trail which offers a view of the swim area from above the bluff. 

Jacob’s Well is the primary spring source of water into Cypress Creek. However, Cypress Creek has many seeps and springs in the creek bed downstream from Jacob’s Well. Because of this, the Blue Hole swimming area may remain open even if Jacob’s Well is closed.

We test the water weekly on Wednesdays during swim season. Please visit this link to view our in-season test results. To see these test results for the rest of the year, please visit this site and click “Water Quality Data” in the Notes section of the webpage. Swimming access at Blue Hole is contingent on precipitation and groundwater flow. If bacteria and/or visibility conditions become unsafe, swimming will be suspended. We will monitor those conditions daily and update information on our website and social media pages. 

Blue Hole does not close for rain. If lightning comes within a 10-mile radius, the swimming area will be evacuated and closed for 30 minutes. If the swimming area is closed for 2 hours or more during your reservation, day pass holders will receive a full refund. Please be advised the entire park, including the swim area, is subject to closure during severe weather and for special events approved in advance by the City of Wimberley.

Any children 12 or under must be supervised by an adult (18 years or older) at all times. Children 13 and up may be unsupervised. All swimming is at your own risk and no lifeguards are on duty. Parents/guardians are responsible for the actions of their children. 

Yes – Wimberley residents have the ability to purchase season passes beginning March 1^st. Non-residents may purchase season passes beginning April 1^st. Wimberley residents also get a discounted price for day passes. Additionally, only Wimberley residents may participate in the Wimberley Nights program. 

Yes – the parking lot is about a 3-minute walk from the swimming area. Overflow parking is about a 5-10 minute walk from the swimming area. The City of Wimberley is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal items.

It depends on the area. The depth ranges from 1 to 18+ feet. 

No – all swimming is at your own risk. 

Yes – lifejackets are available at no extra cost. Lifejackets are available on a first come, first served basis. Please return the lifejackets when you are finished swimming. You are welcome to bring your own lifejacket. 

No – there are no watercraft (including inflatable watercraft) launch sites at Blue Hole Regional Park. Please visit this link to learn more about nearby public river access sites. 

Personal small inflatables are allowed in the swim area. Large rafts, or other extra-large inflatables are not allowed. Please be respectful to all people in the swim area. 

Yes – as long as it is smaller than 10 feet by 10 feet. No stakes are allowed to be inserted into the swim lawn. 

Yes - you are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and other picnicking equipment. 

No pets are allowed on the swim lawn. This is an ecologically sensitive area. Service animals are welcome and must remain on leash and may not enter the water. Guests are required to pick up after their service animals. 

Yes, however, all music must be kept at a low volume. You are sharing a contained space with over 200 other people. If staff receives a complaint about loud music, you will be asked to turn it down. 

No alcohol. No glass. No personal grills. Permeant grills are available first come-first serve outside of the swim area. All other food and drinks are welcome. Small coolers are welcome. Please dispose of all trash appropriately. 

Yes – this merchandise (shirts, hats, towels, etc.) is available for purchase at the check-in window. Cards only – no cash. 

Absolutely not. The trees that line the swimming area are hundreds of years old and we want to respect them as best as we can. Anyone seen climbing trees will be removed from the swim area, with no refund for day passes or season passes. No exceptions. 

Cypress Creek is full of wonderful wildlife! This includes various species of fish, turtles, and yes – snakes. Snakes are cautious of people and do not like to be in areas with people nearby. Because the Blue Hole swim area is a busy place, it is very rare a snake is seen in this area. Do not deliberately touch any wildlife. 

No fishing is allowed in Blue Hole Regional Park– for information about where to fish nearby please visit this link. 

There are restrooms and changing facilities near the swim lawn. There are no showers available in the park. 

No – we recommend leaving all valuables at home. The City of Wimberley is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal items.

Yes – the picnic tables are available to rent during the check out process when purchasing a day pass. For season pass holders, picnic tables are available to rent depending on availability at the time of your visit. Ask the attendant on duty for additional information. 

To view current and future weather for Blue Hole Regional Park please visit this website.  

No – you will be asked to leave if you are smoking or vaping in the park, this includes the parking lot. 

Yes – as long as you are still wearing your wristband re-entry is allowed during your allocated time slot. 

March 1^st for Wimberley Residents and Non-Residents.

If you would like to swim all day, you need to reserve both the AM and the PM time slots. 

• AM time slot is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
• PM time slot is 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 
• The swim area is closed to day pass holders from 1-2 p.m.

Visit this website. We are unable to accept walk ups. A reservation must be made online in advance. We are unable to make your reservation for you. 

Due to system limitations, reservations cannot be edited once created. You will need to cancel your reservation and book another reservation for the correct day. 

There is a link located in your email that will allow you to cancel your reservation. Reservations cannot be canceled less than a week before the date and time that the reservation is scheduled.

Day pass reservations can be canceled for a 75% refund up to a week before the date and time of the reservation. Reservations cannot be canceled less than a week before the date and time that the reservation is scheduled. 

Yes – if the swim area is closed by the City of Wimberley for any reason all day passes will be refunded. 

March 1^st for Wimberley Residents 

April 1^st for Non-Residents

Visit this website. We are unable to accept in person or over the phone payment for season passes.

Yes – the physical season pass card must be shown for entry each time you come to swim. We do not mail out season pass cards. You must pick up the season pass card in person. 

At the time you pick up your season pass card your ID will be verified to match the name on the season pass. Your picture will be taken and attached to your profile in our system. 

Not always – when your season pass is scanned your picture will show up in our system. If the picture that shows up does not match the person presenting the pass you will be asked to present ID. 

Yes - Season Pass cards will be available to pick up beginning May 1^st. 

A replacement card can be issued to you. The fee is $10 for a replacement card. 

Yes – season pass holders can swim all open swim hours (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) Please be advised the Blue Hole Nature Camp uses the shallow end of the swim area from 1 to 2 p.m. and season pass holders will be asked to move to the deeper end of the swim area during this time only. 

No – due to system limitations, we are unable to refund season passes. No exceptions.

No – there are no refunds for season passes – no exceptions. Swimming access at Blue Hole is contingent on precipitation and groundwater flow. If bacteria and/or visibility conditions become unsafe, swimming will be suspended. Those purchasing a season pass understand that the swim area may be closed earlier in the season than anticipated. 

No – season passes are non-transferable and are only to be used by the person whose name is on the pass. Season passes will be revoked if the name and/or picture do not match the person presenting the pass. 

Due to system limitations, there are no refunds for season passes. Season passes cannot be transferred to another year either. 

This special program is for Wimberley residents only and you must show an ID with the 78676 zip code in order to swim. 

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 

May 1^st through September 4^th 

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 

No – this program is first come first serve. 

$2 per person. No cash accepted. 

3 years and under free. 

The simplest way is to show a current ID with a 78676 zip code (drivers license, concealed carry license, voter ID, etc.) You may also bring a utility bill or other piece of mail that shows a 78676 zip code and matches the name on your current ID. School IDs will not be accepted.  

Each Wimberley Resident is allowed to bring 10 guests that are not Wimberley Residents with them. These guests will not need to show ID. The price is $2 per person. 

The limit is 250 people in the swim area at a time. 

No – there is no extra charge for Wimberley Residents who are season pass holders. If a Wimberley Resident season pass holder is bringing guests that do not have a season pass, the guests will need to pay for entry.