Tornado Recovery


​FAQ's for Multifamily and Commercial Structures

Do I need a permit from the city?

Construction work including repair work requires permits from the City.

Applications for commercial, residential remodel, and trade permits with Building Inspection located at Oak Cliff Municipal offices at 320 E Jefferson Blvd. room 118.

For work only requiring a trade permit (electrical, plumbing, mechanical), a licensed and registered contractor may apply for a single trade permit.

Can debris be cleaned up without a permit?

Yes, you can clean up debris without a permit to evaluate the structure and clean up tornado debris. Dumpsters are not allowed to be parked in the City of Dallas Right-of-Way.

Complete removal of the structures and foundations requires a demolition permit.

Demolition Permit Checklist
Demolition Indemnification "Hold Harmless" Agreement

How much does a permit cost?

Fee Schedule and a Permit Fee estimator worksheet

Do I need a contractor to apply for a permit?

A contractor, owner or his agent may apply for a permit for construction work, but a registered contractor is required on the application to issue the permit.

How long will it take to receive my permit?

A simple remodel may take up to 4 days while a major remodel/reconstruction permit may require 4-6 weeks.

Can I apply online for a permit?

Registered Contractors may apply online at:

Online Trade Permits* only https://developdallas.dallascityhall.com/

 *electrical work under $100,000 in value

Online Electronic Plan Reviews for building permits:  https://plansubmittal.dallascityhall.com

Instructions for Online Electronic Plan Review-

https://dallascityhall.com/departments/sustainabledevelopment/buildinginspection/Pages/online_permits.aspx

What is the process?

Depending on the type of work performed the permit application is required along with additional checklists pertaining to the type of work.

Steps to Follow to Obtain a Permit and Inspections:

1. The general contractor will submit application, checklists and plans if required.
2. Plans and documents will be reviewed and if all requirements are in compliance with the code a permit will be         processed and issued.
3.     The general contractor will post permits on site and abide by the site regulations in the permit package.
4. Contractors for each trade will call the number on the permit documents for inspections:
a. For each trade prior to covering up the work:  Contractor for each trade (electrical, mechanical and plumbing) must pass inspection prior to the general contractor calling in framing inspection.
b. For each trade upon completion of the work.: Contractor for each trade (electrical, mechanical and plumbing) must pass inspection prior to the general contractor calling in final building inspection.
5. Additional trades may be required depending on the scope of work.

Commercial applications and forms

·         Permit Application

New Construction/Reconstruction:

Commercial Building - Finish Out/Remodel/Renovation - Application Checklist  (this form must be used whenever major sections of structural walls are replaced or when electrical or plumbing work is also involved)

 • Commercial Building - New Construction and Additions

Will I be expected to comply with the current construction codes?

All new work will be required to meet the current construction code.

How will nonconformity to the zoning regulations be addressed?

If a structure housing a nonconforming use is damaged or destroyed other than by the intentional act of the owner or his agent, a person may restore or reconstruct the structure without board approval. The structure must be restored or reconstructed so as to have the same approximate height, floor area, and location that it had immediately prior to the damage or destruction.

If a nonconforming structure is damaged or destroyed other than by the intentional act of the owner or his agent, a person may renovate, remodel, repair, rebuild, or enlarge a nonconforming structure if the work does not cause the structure to become more nonconforming as to the yard, lot, and space regulations.