Do I need a permit?
A permit is required for most construction which physically changes or adds structures to a property.
Residential and commercial projects that typically require permits include but are not limited to:
- Construction of a new dwelling or structure
- Remodels and additions to existing structures
- Storage sheds, carports, garages
- Accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
- Decks/patios with or without an awning/cover, pergolas
- New driveway and improvements to existing driveway
- Swimming pools, spas, hot tubs and all swimming pool enclosures
- Fences over 2.5 feet in height
- Roof and/or siding replacement
- Window and/or exterior door replacement
- New flatwork (walkways, sidewalks, etc.) and improvements to existing flatwork
- Plumbing - all new installations, repairs and replacements, includes water heaters/softeners
- Electrical - all new installations, repairs and replacements
- Mechanical/HVAC - all new installations, repairs and replacements
- Solar panel installation
- Demolition or moving a structure
- Manufactured home installation
- Irrigation systems
- Tree removal
Projects that DO NOT require a permit:
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting and similar finish work
- Sheet rock repair
- Swings and playground equipment
- Cabinets and countertops installation
- Prefabricated swimming pools (less than 24 inches deep)
- Water leak or clogged drain repair that does not involve the replacement of concealed water or wastewater piping
Will I need an inspection?
Yes. All permits will require some type of inspection. Most new residential dwelling and new commercial structures are reviewed and inspected by Bureau Veritas Services. To schedule an inspection with Bureau Veritas call: 1-877-837-8775 or email: bvtxplanreview@bureauveritas.com
All other inspections can be scheduled by contacting the Building Division, Inspection Hotline. To schedule an inspection via the Inspection Hotline call: 737-787-7957 or email: inspections@lockhart-tx.org
What do I do if I have asbestos or lead in my home?
- Texas Asbestos Health Regulations exempt residential buildings with four or fewer dwelling units and/or privately owned dwelling units being renovated or demolished from asbestos abatement requirements.
- Commercial or public buildings being renovated or demolished must be tested for Asbestos Containing Building Materials (ACBMs) by an individual certified in accordance with Texas Administrative Code section 296.151 prior to the start of construction or demolition.
- Lead based paint used in homes and businesses built prior to 1978 is regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Department, they can be reached at 512-776-7111.
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?
- It is prohibited to remove a protected tree without first securing approval from the City of Lockhart's inspection department.
Do I need a permit to work in public the right of way?
- A public right-of-way are the areas on, below, or above a public roadway, highway, street, public sidewalk, alley, utility easement, or waterway in which the city has an interest. For work occurring in the public right of way, such as replacing a driveway, a right of way permit is required.
What are building setbacks?
- Every property in the City of Lockhart has areas that cannot be built upon. These areas are called setbacks and they vary based on each property's zoning designation. The Building Division can assist with determining setbacks during the permit application process.
Is the property in the Historic District?
Does the project involve a historic structure?
Contact the city's Historical Preservation Officer, Kevin Waller, at 737-787-7949, prior to undertaking any work in the Historic District or to a city-designated historic landmark.