Online Electronic Plan Submittal – E-Permits

First time users will need to register for an account. 

Make sure you are selecting the correct application type in order to avoid any unexpected delays! 

Here are the steps for applying through E-Permits:

1. Access the E-Permits platform and log in
2. Navigate to the "Projects" section
3. Click on "Apply"
4. Locate your address on the map by either entering it or zooming in and double-clicking on the location
5. A "Red Pin" will appear on the map, and all associated data will be retrieved by E-Permits. If the address is incorrect, you can correct it on the next page
6. Click on the green "Apply" button
7. In the selection labeled "Application," choose "Stormwater Quality Renewals & Transfers”
8. Provide the required detailed information and click on "Next"
9. Complete the application page and click on "Next"
10. Upload all the necessary documents, and once finished, click on "Next"
11. Finally, review the disclaimer, select "Agree," and then click on "Submit Application"

Contact E-Permits Support

Once the inspection request has been submitted and additional information is needed, contact the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office at (713) 274-1730 or email Fire Marshal support.

If your project requires a pre-inspection document, please select the form from the list below. Fill out the forms and attach them before submitting your request to the Fire Marshal’s Office.

• As-built Certificate (Fire Code)
• Fire Alarm Installation Certificate (SF035)
• Fire Extinguisher System Installation Certificate (SF205)
• Contractor's Material and Test Certification for Aboveground Piping (SF041)
• Contractor's Material and Test Certification for Underground Piping (SF042)

An application fee will be added to the project once the first review has been completed or project has been approved. If disapproved, the application fee must be paid before downloading the plan review comments. If approved, the permit fee and admin fee (if applicable) must be paid prior to downloading the approved plans.

HARRIS COUNTY COMMERCIAL BUILDING PLAN SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST

• Completed Fire Code Review Sheet
• Architectural/Engineering Plans
• Site Plan – This should show the existing site plan, propose a condition, and identify the building/structures
• Other architectural or Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP) drawing sheets that are needed to demonstrate compliance with the applicable codes (keep in mind, we do not have a full building code in unincorporated Harris County, so we typically do not need an entire set of structural or MEP drawings).
• Certain projects may require additional information such as the following:
  • Approved Floor Plan from the Public Health Department for Food Establishment Projects Food Establishment Procedure (PDF)

This application is for new construction or a building addition, such as commercial establishments and structures.

"Substantial Improvement"

The repair, restoration, reconstruction, improvement, or remodeling of a building for which the cost exceeds 50% of the building's value according to the certified tax appraisal roll for the county for the preceding year in which the work began; a change in occupancy classification involving a change in the purpose or level of activity in a building, including the renovation of a warehouse into a loft apartment. For purposes of determining if an improvement is a substantial improvement, the applicant for a permit must submit data reflecting cost of the restoration, reconstruction, improvement, or remodeling. Costs shall include the value of all labor and materials. A permit is required prior to the start of any substantial improvement. For purposes of this code, substantial improvement begins on the date that the repair, restoration, reconstruction, improvement, or remodeling begins, and it also includes when the change in occupancy classification begins or the date the materials are first delivered for that purpose.

• Fire Code Permits & Fee Schedule (PDF)
• Currently Adopted Codes (PDF)
• Food Establishments 
• Harris County Fire Code Frequently Asked Questions
• State Requirements for Engineers
• State Requirements for Architects
• Procedures
• Code Modifications and Alternative Methods 
• Harris County Address Lookup
• Request Open Records/Plans