Do I Need a Permit to Replace Windows in Texas?

Improving your home is an exciting prospect. However, sometimes going through all the correct channels to get the work done legally can be daunting. Unfortunately, going on government websites to search for the right permits you need to replace your windows is not always as straightforward as one would hope. That is where we can help.

We have compiled a list of permitting requirements for cities within the Dallas-Forth Worth area and an overview of the process so you as a homeowner walk away feeling equipped to take the next steps towards your project.

Check out some permitting FAQs below or skip ahead to the list of permitting requirements.

What are building permits?

First, let's begin with building permits and their value for your project. The permit itself is a written authorization from the city you live in or the county if you are outside specific city limits. This authorization allows you to construct the project. They are a necessary part of almost any construction or remodeling project to ensure the safety and standard of the work, compliance with local building and construction codes, and any zoning laws in your area. 

All of this means that there is not a cut-and-dry answer for exactly what kind of permit you need or the exact circumstances in which you need to apply for them. It varies from city to city, which is why we have compiled the below list of permit requirements for cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Do I need a permit for a remodeling project?

You will likely need a permit for your remodeling project since the majority of any construction-related projects require a permit. You can check the list to see if replacing your windows will require a permit for your specific city or county, its usually best to call for a clear answer.

What is the permitting process?

The permitting process doesn't only constitute you applying for it and patiently waiting until the permit turns up in your mailbox. Instead, it requires both an application and an inspection following the completion of your project. Together, these serve to help the city determine whether your project does meet the zoning and safety standards we mentioned before. 

The permitting application normally requires the following materials:

• Building Permit Application Form
• Window Map
• Order Form w/ NRFC  Ratings
• Window Room Locations
• Window Measurement Specs
• Permit Fees

It should go without saying, that you should always wait for the approval of your application before you start your project. If you don't, you risk incurring a fine or being denied your application and having to spend far over your budget to alter your project's parameters to eventually secure the permit.

During the project, there are certain code requirements you should keep in mind to make passing the inspection more likely. Once you have finished your project, you will need to let your permit officer or the city council office know so they can follow up with an inspection. You will need to schedule the inspection with them. Other expectations you should have of the inspection include:

• The presence of the homeowner is required.
• The permit and sight card must be present.
• Stickers need to remain on the windows until after the inspection has been passed.

Once these two steps are finished, you find yourself on the legal side of the remodeling process and a safe window replacement is done.

Where can I find the permitting requirements for my city?

You can find the permitting requirements for your city on your local government's website most of the time. However, if you are having trouble finding what you need on a convoluted government website, look through the list we have compiled of permitting requirements for window replacement projects in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

What if I don't get a building permit?

There will always be specific reasons you don't end up with a building permit. These should be specified so you can adjust the plans or work with the contractor to figure out how to succeed in the next application. However, if the local building department finds out you have been working without a permit, they are likely to fine you, which can be up to $500 per day of work done violating the building permit laws. They will also notify you to cease work.

Permitting Requirements by City - North Texas*

*Permitting requirements may change. The information below reflects known requirements at the time of publishing on June 3, 2022. For the most up-to-date information contact your local office.

Allen, Texas

• Windows: Permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: No permit needed if not changing the opening

Argyle, Texas

• Windows: Permits required for window replacement
• Doors: Permits not required for exterior doors

Arlington, Texas

• Windows: Permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: Permit needed for all door replacements

Carrollton, Texas

• Windows: permit not required if not changing the opening
• Doors: permit not required if not changing the opening

Cedar Hill, Texas

• Windows: permit not required if not changing the opening
• Doors: permit not required if not changing the opening

Colleyville, Texas

• Windows: permit not required if not changing the opening
• Doors: permit not required if not changing the opening

Coppell, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Dallas, Texas

• Windows: permit not required if not changing the opening
• Doors: permit not required if not changing the opening

Denton, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Flower Mound, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Haltom City, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Highland Village, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Irving, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Lewisville, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Murphy, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

North Richland Hills, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Parker, Texas

• Windows: Permit not required for windows

Plano, Texas

• Windows: permit needed for all window replacements
• Doors: permit not required

Richardson, Texas

• Windows: permit not required if not changing the opening
• Doors: permit not required if not changing the opening