Build-out and occupancy permits in Houston

1. 1

   Food establishment plan review

   Houston Health DepartmentHouston

   Submit plans before building or remodeling a food establishment.

   Fee

   Varies

   Filed

   Filed on the agency's portal

   Takes

   No standard time published; expedited review in 1 to 2 business days.

   File on the agency's siteHow to fill it

2. 2

   Certificate of Occupancy

   City of Houston, Houston Permitting CenterHouston

   Form CE-1045-A, emailed to Occupancy Inspections (Occupancy.Inspections@houstontx.gov); iPermits is only for paying afterwards. Needed for a new tenant use or change of use inside city limits.

   Fee

   Varies

   Filed

   Paper form, mailed

   Takes

   Houston lists the Certificate of Occupancy's processing time as 15 minutes once the final inspection is approved; the certificate is emailed to you.

   File on the agency's siteHow to fill it

3. 3

   Fire permits for hazardous materials and high-piled storage

   Houston Fire Department, Fire Marshal's OfficeHouston

   Needed when storage or batteries cross fire code thresholds.

   Fee

   Varies

   Filed

   Filed in person

   Renews

   Every year.

   File on the agency's siteHow to fill it

Agency requirements change. Check each agency's page before you file.