FAQs • Robinson, TX • CivicEngage

When is a permit required?: Permits are required when there is new construction to a building as well as some repair work or alterations to an existing structure. In addition, when a building is to be remodeled or enlarged, a permit is required. New work consists of any new construction, commercial or residential, from vacant ground to a completed new structure. Projects that are considered cosmetic, such as new wallpaper, carpet, paint, cabinets, or trim work do not require a permit. Please visit other areas of our web site or contact Building Inspection for any questions concerning your specific project.

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Permits & Inspections Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is Building Inspection located and what are the hours of operation?: City Hall, 111 W. Lyndale Ave., Robinson, TX 76706, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Hours of inspections: Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Friday 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

2. What forms of payment are accepted?: Master Card, Visa, checks, and cash.

3. What is the cost of a permit?: Permits will vary in cost according to type of application. Refer to the fee schedule section of our website by clicking here. (insert link https://www.robinsontexas.org/242/Fee-Schedule)

4. When is a permit required?: Permits are required when there is new construction to a building as well as some repair work or alterations to an existing structure. In addition, when a building is to be remodeled or enlarged, a permit is required. New work consists of any new construction, commercial or residential, from vacant ground to a completed new structure. Projects that are considered cosmetic, such as new wallpaper, carpet, paint, cabinets, or trim work do not require a permit. Please visit other areas of our web site or contact Building Inspection for any questions concerning your specific project.

5. What construction can occur on property before issuance of a building permit, and when can dirt work begin on a project?: Site grading is authorized with a permit from Building Inspection.

6. Can a utility permit be issued prior to the building permit?: Yes, provided all applicable engineering issues are approved.

7. Is a pre-construction meeting required prior to new construction?: Yes. A pre-construction meeting is required for civil work, and these meetings are combined on building projects to address building permit topics.

8. Can a “foundation-only” permit be obtained?: Yes, provided the site is platted, there is no pending zoning change, building plans are provided for building placement, and no engineering issues remain unresolved. A “foundation-only” permit is issued by Building Inspection.

9. Can application be made for a building permit while the site is being platted or zoning is pending?: Yes. However, the building permit will not be issued until all platting and zoning issues are approved.

10. When can utilities be turned on?: Utilities for construction purposes may be released after permits are issued and installations are inspected by Building Inspection.

11. What is a Certificate of Occupancy?: A Certificate of Occupancy, or C.O., is required for all buildings or structures that are occupied or used. When a tenant leases a new space, a C.O. will be required. Upon issuance of a C.O. and approval of all required inspections, utilities will be released with the new tenant’s name.

12. Is a new C.O. required when the business name stays the same but the owner of the business changes?: Yes. A new Certificate of Occupancy is required, and must be applied for through Building Inspection.

13. Can a portion of the building or structure be occupied prior to the completion of the entire building or structure?: A partial or conditional Certificate of Occupancy may be issued by Building Inspection under certain conditions.