PlainPermit

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

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for an HVAC or AC replacement in Houston, 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. All mechanical work needs a permit, pulled by a TDLR-licensed air conditioning contractor registered with the City.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see the Houston Permitting Center fee schedule. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/news-events/2026-fee-increase-notice · All verified Houston permit fees

Where to apply

Houston Permitting Center (iPermits online)

Permitting authority: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center (Houston Public Works). Applies inside Houston city limits. Planning, flood, and deed-restriction reviews can add requirements. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“All electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work”

Source: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/sites/g/files/nwywnm431/files/2024-11/Permit%20Submittal%20Overview_Presentation_11.19.2024.pdf

“Mechanical: Air Conditioning Contractor must have a type A or B license from the TDLR and registered with the City of Houston.”

Source: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/sites/g/files/nwywnm431/files/2024-11/Permit%20Submittal%20Overview_Presentation_11.19.2024.pdf

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: medium

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