PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for an HVAC or AC replacement in Austin, TX?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for an HVAC or AC replacement in Austin, TX.

Last verified: · Confidence: medium · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Permit required Confidence: medium

Yes. HVAC change-outs are permitted under the Residential Change-Out Program.

What changes the answer

Cost

Residential change-out permit, HVAC: $74.05 for the first system, $20.69 each additional (FY2026-27).

Fee source: https://austin.widen.net/content/kqozxt8sbc/original/Fees_Residential.pdf?u=x8lbbe&download=true · All verified Austin permit fees

Where to apply

City of Austin Development Services (see Types of Permits for the right web form / AB+C Portal)

Permitting authority: City of Austin Development Services Department. Applies inside City of Austin jurisdiction. Flood hazard areas and the Wildland-Urban Interface change several exemptions. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“Residential Change - Out Program Permits - HVAC (first system) $74.05”

Source: https://austin.widen.net/content/kqozxt8sbc/original/Fees_Residential.pdf?u=x8lbbe&download=true

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: medium

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HVAC / AC replacement permits elsewhere in Texas

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