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1. What is required to receive approval for my residential construction project?

Residential Construction Plans being submitted for approval must include two (2) sets of plans.

The City of Port Arthur currently using the 2015 International Residential Code (as of October 16, 2012)

• A survey of property and site plan is needed showing the setbacks for the front, side and rear of the property. Site plans must be done by a licensed professional. All new construction must install sidewalks for new homes and provide off-street parking for occupants.
• Foundation plans are required for the structure(s).
• Details of electrical and plumbing components for the structure(s) are required.
• Elevation views of the structure are required.

In the flood zones, special design plans for the foundation must be designed by an Engineer. An elevation certificate is also required prior to issuance of a permit and after completion of work.

• Framing plans showing spans and lumber sizes are required.
• Windows must conform to the Windstorm requirements for this area and must meet impact resistant standards, or an acceptable shuttering system must be provided for each window.
• Design wind load for this area is 120 mph (3 sec gust 130) for residential structures and 130 mph for commercial buildings. Design wind load for the coastal exposure is 140 mph.
• A building permit is required for all remodeling/renovation jobs.

2. How much does it cost to get a Storm Water Prevention Application Permit?

A Storm Water Prevention Application Permit is now required per Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations. The permit fee is $45 per acre.

3. What are the commercial project requirements?

On commercial projects two sets of plans with wet seals on first sheets are required. Any project that is either a new, or out-of-ground building, will require an engineer’s seal. A full set of plans (24 x 36) is required. A complete set of civil plans are also required. Com Check calculations (for Commercial Compliance) and compliance with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC®)  is required. 

4. What are the asbestos requirements for public/commercial buildings undergoing renovation/remodel?

Remodeling jobs for public or commercial buildings require an asbestos survey prior to issuance of a permit. A letter of compliance from the asbestos consultant will be needed before any work can proceed. 

All plans shall be submitted to: 

City of Port Arthur

Building Inspection Division

444 4th Street

Port Arthur, TX 77640

5. Do I need to register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR)?

TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Registration) registration is required at submission for projects valued in excess of $50,000. You can reach TDLR by phone at 1-800-803-9202.

6. How long is the plan review process?

Review of commercial plans runs 15-20 days depending on workload and size of project being submitted.

Residential project plan reviews take 7-10 days on average.

7. What are the Energy Code requirements?

Checks for commercial and residential structures are required at plan submission. Residential buildings/structures must comply with chapter 11 of the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC). Commercial projects must comply with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC®).

8. Is there a plan check fee?

Plan check fees apply to all commercial projects with plans. The Fee is due at submission of permit application and is in addition to the permit fee. The plan check fee is calculated as 65% of the permit fee. Reference Section 18-33 of The Code of Ordinances.

Total Valuation	Fee
$1,001.00 to $50,000.00	$35.00 for the first $1,000.00 plus $6.25 each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including $50,000.00
$50,001.00 to $100,000.00	$293.00 for the first $50,000.00 plus $5.20 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including $100,000.00
$100,001.00 to $500,000.00	$500.00 for the first $100,000.00 plus $4.15 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including $500,000.00
$500,001.00 and up	$2,000.00 for the first $500,000.00 plus $3.10 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof

9. Are contractors required to be bonded/insured?

Yes. The minimum amount for small project (such as foundation and roofing) bonds is $15,000; large projects require a $25,000 bond and all contractors require a Certificate of Insurance in order to perform work in the City of Port Arthur. The minimum amount is $100,000 and must list the City of Port Arthur as a certificate holder.

10. Is a permit required for refacing existing signs?

A permit IS required for refacing existing signs. Application must be submitted to the Inspections Office, prior to beginning work.

11. Are plans required to install new signs?

Yes.

• Submission of plans is required for the installation of new attached or detached signs.
• Elevation photos are required.
• A legible site plan showing the location and setback for the proposed sign(s) is also required.

Detached signs shall comply with the area, setback and height requirements, as follows, except as provided for certain detached signs non-premises signs:

Area (square feet)	Setback (in feet)	Height (in feet)
0 - 50	5	20
50+ - 150	15	30
150+ - 400	25	40

Plans are required to be submitted to the Building Inspections Office in the City Hall Annex Building for review and permitting, prior to the commencement of any work.
For additional information on the placement of signs you may contact Planning and Zoning, 409-983-8135.

12. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Yes. Fence permits are required for the installation of fences from (at least) four feet high, and above.

13. How can I get a copy of a previously issued permit?

All request for records regarding permits issued and contractors should be submitted first to the City Secretary’s office.

14. Do I need an asbestos survey for a commercial building?

Yes. If there is any demolition work performed on a commercial building, or construction that disturbs the existing walls, floors, ceilings, roof, etc., then an asbestos survey is required. This requirement is state law and is mandatory regardless of a structure’s age.

15. I want to build a shed in my backyard. Is a permit required for that?

Yes, if a shed larger than 200 square feet, it requires a permit in the City of Port Arthur. However, it is recommended to check with Planning and Zoning, and the permit office, to make sure your shed does not encroach on any rights of ways or easements.

16. I want to add a room on to my house. Can I obtain a permit to do the work myself?

If you own the house and it is your primary residence (homestead), then you may obtain all necessary permits.

17. How many sets of plans are required for new construction?

Two (2) sets of plans are required for new construction.

18. What is required for a contractor to become licensed and or bonded in the City of Port Arthur?

Contractors must have a Contractors Bond and a City of Port Arthur Certificate of General Liability.

19. What is the cost for permits?

The permit cost is determined by the valuation of work for commercial structures, and is based on square footage for residential construction.

20. How long is the permit good for?

Permits are valid for six months.