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1. What must I have to receive approval for my residential construction?

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

We are currently using the 2012 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 remodeling/renovation jobs valued over $1,000.

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

A Storm Water Prevention Application Permit is now required per 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 5,000 square feet or over 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 are optional.

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 complaince from the asbestos consultant will be needed before any work can proceed.

All plans shall be submitted to the Building Inspection Division.

444 4th Street

Port Arthur, TX 77640

5. Do I need to register with TDLR?

TDLR 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.

8. Is there a plan check fee?

Plan check fees apply when the valuation of proposed construction exceeds $1,000. Reference Section B-104 in 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?

The minimum amount for small project (such as foundation and roofing) bonds is $15,000.

Large projects 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 is required to be submitted to the Inspections Office, prior to beginning work.

11. Are plans required to install new signs?

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 for review and permitting, prior to the commencement of any work.
For additional information on the placement of signs you may contact the Planning and Zoning, 409-983-8135. 

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

Fence permits are required for the installation of fences at least four feet high.

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?

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?

A shed larger than 200 square feet requires a permit in the City of Port Arthur. However, it is a good Idea 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 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 or 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.

20. How long is the permit good for?

Permits are valid for six months.