La Porte, TX - Official Website

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Inspections Division

1. I want to put a vending machine in my place of business. Do I need a permit?: There is no Arcade License in La Porte However, Chapter 10 (Amusements), Sect. 10-31 thru 10-83 does regulate "Coin-Operated Machines." Machines must be registered annually with the city and a decal is issued for each machine. Registration and decals are handled by Inspections Services (281-470-5073).
Inspections Services Division.

2. How do I arrange for building inspections?: Please call our 24 hour Inspection Line at 281-470-5130. In your message please include your name, phone number, the permit application number, the inspection address and what type of inspection you need.

3. Do I need a permit to reroof my own home?: Yes, a permit is needed and the correct type of shingles is critical. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073
Inspections Services Division page.

4. What size building requires a building permit?: All buildings require a building permit.

5. Where do I go to get a building permit?: Permits can be obtained from the Inspections Division. You may contact our office at 281-470-5073 for further assistance.
Inspections Services Division page.

6. How much does a permit cost?: Methods for calculating construction permit fees vary with the different types of permits. You may contact us at 281-470-5073 and we can provide you with a permit fee schedule or we will be happy to assist you in calculating the fee. Building permit fee schedule is also available on our website.

7. Can a homeowner get his / her own construction permit?: With the completion of a construction homestead affidavit, a homeowner may obtain a permit for remodeling, repairs, and additions to his / her home. This affidavit waives the insurance and licensing requirements applicable to contractors. Homestead affidavit form must be notarized. You may contact our office for further assistance at 281-470-5073.

8. Is a permit required if I want to clear my land?: Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073 for information and guidelines on Clearing Permits.

9. Where does a contractor register to work in La Porte?: The City has no requirement for the registration of contractors, however, to obtain a permit, contractors are required to file an insurance certificate with the City.

The Inspection Division does maintain a "courtesy" contractor list that is available for handout. However, please note this is a courtesy only and the City does not recommend any contractor.

Inspections can be reached by calling 281-470-5073.

10. Who do I call to get a permit for certain construction work?: The Inspection Division issues construction permits and can be reached at 281-470-5073. The Inspection Division handles new construction, additions and remodels of building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical. It also handles driveways, accessory building, roofing and roofing replacements as well as demolition, signs and fences.

11. Who reviews construction plans in La Porte?: The City's Inspection Division does construction plan review for the City. They can be reached by calling 281-470-5073.

12. Where can I get a copy of the deed to my property?: An individual can contact the Harris County Courthouse Real Property Records Division at 713-755-6439.

13. I want to tear down an old detached garage that is behind my house. Do I need a permit?: Yes, a demolition permit is required. Contact the Inspection Division at 281-470-5073.

14. I want to build a fence that is 8 feet high. Who do I contact about regulations?: The City's Zoning regulations address fence heights. Contact the Inspection Division at 281-470-5073.

15. I have opened a new business and would like to have a grand opening. Will I need permission from the City to do this?: The City does not have a Grand Opening Permit.

16. I want to have a business in my home. What do I need to do?: The City's Zoning regulations address home occupations. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

17. I want to move a small storage building onto my property. Do I need a permit?: Yes, a permit is needed. The City's Zoning regulations address placement of structures. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

18. I want to open a business in an existing building. Do I need a permit?: As a minimum, a Zoning Permit is required. The type of business determines other required permits. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

19. Do I need a permit to put a swimming pool in my backyard?: Yes, a permit is needed for installing a swimming pool. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.

20. Do I need to put a fence around my swimming pool?: Yes, a fence is required. Contact the Inspections Division at 281-47-5073.

21. I want to put a sign on my business. Do I need a permit?: Yes, a permit is needed. The City's Zoning regulations address sign issues. Contact Inspections Division at 281-470-5073.