| Where to apply | City of Round Rock permit portal |
|---|---|
| Adopted codes | Pools are reviewed to the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code; confirm the other code editions with Building Inspection |
| Review time | About 30 business days for a single family remodel after the application is accepted; no expedited review |
| Contact | Building Inspection, 512-218-5550 |
What Round Rock requires
- Round Rock uses a one permit system: electrical, plumbing and mechanical work is added to the main permit, and each contractor accepts the assignment in the portal before issuance.
- Removing walls requires an engineered design, and the city strongly recommends an asbestos survey before walls are removed in older homes.
- Additions, decks, pools and sheds need a plot plan showing the work with dimensions.
- Sheds, pergolas, pools and similar structures go in side or rear yards, stay out of setbacks and easements, and are limited to 15 feet tall; a shed under 200 square feet still needs a permit.
- A permit becomes invalid if work does not start within six months of issuance.
Round Rock permit fees
| Permit | Fee |
|---|---|
| Residential remodel permit | $500 |
| New single family permit | $485 |
| In ground pool | $350 |
| Spa or above ground pool | $125 |
| Uncovered deck or patio | $125 |
| Covered deck or patio | $200 ($300 with electrical or plumbing) |
From the city's published fee schedule as of October 18, 2026. Fees are usually updated each fiscal year starting October 1.
Before you apply
- Confirm the address is inside Round Rock city limits. Land in the extraterritorial jurisdiction or unincorporated county follows Williamson County rules instead of the city's building permit.
- Check the deed restrictions and get HOA approval if the neighborhood has one; cities do not enforce private restrictions, and HOA review is a separate step.
- Find out whether the lot is in a floodplain, on a septic system or near protected trees, since each adds a review.
- Pull the property's permit history so open or expired permits are dealt with before a new application.
How the process works
- Prepare the application and plans for the project type: a site or plot plan, floor plans and any structural, electrical, plumbing and mechanical plans the city asks for
- Submit through City of Round Rock permit portal and pay the review fee
- Answer the reviewer's comments, revising the plans where needed, and resubmit
- Once the permit is issued, schedule each required inspection in order and keep the approved plans on site
- Pass the final inspection; new homes and added living space then receive their certificate of occupancy or final approval
Texas licensing for remodeling trades
| Who | What Texas requires |
|---|---|
| General contractors | Texas has no state license for general contractors; cities register contractors locally (Austin, Cedar Park and Marble Falls, for example). |
| Electricians | Electrical work requires a license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (apprentice, residential wireman, journeyman or master, working under a licensed electrical contractor). |
| Plumbers | Plumbing work requires registration or a license from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (apprentice, tradesman, journeyman or master). |
| Air conditioning and refrigeration | TDLR registers technicians, certifies technicians who pass an exam, and licenses contractors, who need 48 months of experience and an exam. Registered technicians work under a licensed contractor. Handling refrigerant also requires EPA Section 608 certification. |
| Homeowners | Many cities let homeowners pull permits for their own homestead. In Austin that includes electrical, plumbing and mechanical work, with exceptions such as the main electric service and refrigerant work. |
Sources: TDLR: Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors; TDLR: Electricians; Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners; City of Austin Homeowner's Permit.
Project permit guides
Our project guides go deeper on each type of work, with City of Austin review tracks, documents and fees that are a useful reference for any city in the metro: kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, whole home renovation, home addition, ADU (additional dwelling unit), garage conversion, new garage, deck and patio cover, swimming pool, new home and investor and flip renovation.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply for a building permit in Round Rock?
Through City of Round Rock permit portal. Questions go to Building Inspection, 512-218-5550.
Which building code does Round Rock use?
Pools are reviewed to the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code; confirm the other code editions with Building Inspection.
How long does permit review take in Round Rock?
About 30 business days for a single family remodel after the application is accepted; no expedited review.
Sources
- Round Rock: Residential Single Family Remodel & Additions
- Round Rock: Homeowner Projects
- Round Rock: Other Building Permits
Related
General information gathered from official sources on October 18, 2026, not legal advice. Codes, fees and procedures change; we confirm them for your address during the free consultation and handle the permit for you.