Checklist for Residential Building Plans for Permit Approval in Houston

Planning a new home, addition, or renovation in Houston is exciting — but before construction begins, you’ll need permit approval from the City of Houston. Submitting the right residential building plans is essential to keep your project moving forward without delays.

At J Hannah Group, we specialize in drafting accurate, code-compliant residential building plans that get approved the first time. To help homeowners and builders, we’ve created this simple checklist of what’s typically required for permit approval in Houston.

Residential Building Plan Checklist (Houston)

1. Site Plan

• Property boundaries and dimensions

• Easements, setbacks, and proposed building footprint

• Driveways, sidewalks, and utility connections

2. Floor Plans

• Scaled drawings of each level

• Room labels and dimensions

• Door and window locations

3. Elevations

• Front, rear, and side views of the home

• Roof slope, height, and materials

• Exterior finishes and details

4. Foundation Plan

• Slab or pier & beam layout

• Structural reinforcement notes (as required)

5. Electrical & Mechanical Layouts

• Locations for outlets, switches, and fixtures

• HVAC equipment and ductwork placement

6. Plumbing Plan

• Fixture locations (sinks, tubs, showers, toilets)

• Water supply and sewer connections

7. Energy Code Compliance

• REScheck or equivalent documentation showing Houston energy efficiency compliance

8. Engineer’s Seal (if required)

• Some structural components may require an engineer’s review and seal

Why This Checklist Matters

The City of Houston’s residential permit process is strict for good reason — to ensure safety, energy efficiency, and compliance with zoning rules. But missing even one detail can cause costly delays.

That’s where J Hannah Group comes in. Our drafting team understands local requirements and creates residential building plans that are clear, accurate, and ready for approval.

Get Permit-Ready Residential Plans with J Hannah Group

Whether you’re building a new home, planning a remodel, or adding on to your existing property, J Hannah Group can help you move from idea to permit approval with confidence