Building Permit Information
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Many construction, renovation, and development activities in the City of Odessa require a permit to ensure that construction, remodeling and development projects meet safety standards and follow local building codes. Permits help protect property owners, future occupants and the community by ensuring work is completed safely and properly. The City of Odessa has adopted the 2012 International Building Code
Before starting any project, please review the list below:
🏠 Residential Projects
Project | Permit Required | Inspections Required |
|---|---|---|
| Accessory Structures (garage, shed, carport, or any structure 120 sq. ft. or larger) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (if 400 sq. ft. or larger) |
| Additions to any building | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Cosmetic repairs (paint, flooring, trim, cabinets, drywall) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Decks (all covered decks and new uncovered decks 30” or more above grade) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Deck repair or replacement (top boards only) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Demolition | ✅ Yes | Utility disconnect verification |
| Driveway (permit required if 30" above grade) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Exterior siding | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Fences (permit required if 3.5 ft. or higher) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Foundation repair (only if removing or replacing walls) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| New home construction | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (multiple) |
| Retaining/masonry walls (permit required 3.5 ft. or higher) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Roof replacement (decking replacement) Ice barrier underlayment is required | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Roof replacement (shingle replacement only) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Structural remodels (removing walls or beams) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Swimming pools (above-ground 24 inches deep or more) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Swimming pools (in-ground) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Window or door repair/replacement (if no change in opening size) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
⚡ Electrical Projects
| Project | Permit Required | Inspections Required |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical repairs, remodels, or upgrades | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Generator installation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| New electrical service | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Solar panel installation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
🚿 Plumbing Projects
| Project | Permit Required | Inspections Required |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture replacement (sink, toilet, bathtub) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Gas line installation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Lawn/irrigation sprinklers | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| New plumbing for a building | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Sewer line installation or replacement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Water heater replacement (only when converting electric to gas) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Water line installation or replacement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
❄️ Mechanical / HVAC Projects
| Project | Permit Required | Inspections Required |
|---|---|---|
| New HVAC system | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| HVAC replacement | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Ductwork installation or modification | ❌ No | ❌ No |
🏢 Commercial Projects
| Project | Permit Required | Inspections Required |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial kitchen hoods | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Commercial remodel | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Demolition | ✅ Yes | Utility disconnect verification |
| New commercial construction | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (multiple) |
| Parking lot (new installation or repair) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Sign installation | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Need Help Before You Start?
If you have questions or are unsure whether a permit is required, please contact the Community Development Department before beginning any work.
📞 816-230-5577, ext. 2
Building Permit Applications
Building Permit Applications are available online or at City Hall and must be submitted to the Community Development Coordinator in person or @ Jenny.Neel@cityofodessamo.com.
⏱ Processing time ranges from 1–6 weeks, depending on project size and permit volume.
Important Building Permit Information
No building, alteration, addition, or demolition may begin without an approved permit.
Permits will not be issued for projects that violate the City’s Zoning Code
Beginning construction without required permits is a City Code violation and may result in:
Double permit fees
Removal of unapproved construction
Delays in inspections
⚠️ No inspections will be conducted until all required permits are obtained.
⚠️ Separate permits are required for each construction job.
Permit Expiration Periods
General permits: Valid for 180 days
Exterior work permits: 180 days from issuance
New residential construction: 180 days from issuance
Commercial or industrial projects (50,000 sq. ft. or less): Up to 2 years
Craftsman & Building Licenses
All contractors and subcontractors working within Odessa city limits must hold a City of Odessa Business License
A Craftsman License is required to obtain electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits, unless:
The contractor holds a valid master or journeyman trade license, or
The owner of a single-family residence is performing the work themselves
Commercial Building Handbook
This Commercial Development Handbook is provided to walk you through the essential steps, expectations and resources you will need along the way. If you have questions at any point, we're here to help!
