CITY OF FERRIS: When do you need a building permit?

Q. What do you want people to know about obtaining permits to do work?

A. The City of Ferris reviews documents needed to ensure that buildings, accessory buildings (sheds, shops etc..), fences and signs are compliant with all government codes and safety standards prior to construction.

Documentation could involve a simple paragraph and drawing describing the work to a complex set of plans drafted by an architect and engineer.

Plan reviews are conducted to ensure that all planning standards, zoning, building and safety ordinances are meet prior to issuing a permit. Upon Approval a building permit will be promptly issued.

Q. Is this for new homes and buildings or for existing too?

A. The City of Ferris issues permits for both new construction, remodeling or repair of existing building as well as inspection to determine that existing properties are within the minimum property standards which focus on the safety and welfare of our citizens.

Q. What is the process of getting a permit?

A. Applications for a building permit maybe made Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Hall, 100 Town Plaza, Ferris, Texas 75125.

We will meet with you to discuss all needed documentation.

Bring your application with three (3) complete sets of plans and other required documents.

For small projects a simple drawing a detailed description will most often be acceptable.

Application with hard copy plans and submittals, plan reviews by the City Engineer, Fire Marshal, Planning & Zoning, Chief Building Official and any other appointed team member. Upon approval from all departments a permit is issued.

Q. What falls under the ordinance for when a permit is needed and when it is not needed?

A. A permit is required for all new construction, changes, modifications, repairs and alterations to commercial or residential structures and their electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems. Also a permit is required when constructing a carport, shed, shop, accessory building and sign. A permit is NOT required for most aesthetic finishes such as painting, tile or flooring. Installation of gutters and downspouts does not need a permit either. Satellite antenna installation does not need a permit. Replacing a water heater or service to a gas supply line does require a permit. Replacing a toilet or faucet does not require a permit but relocating them does require a permit.

Q. How are these permits going to help make the city a better place to live for residents?

A. Permits are issued based on approval of a comprehensive plan review to determine code compliance with zoning, building and safety. Permits protect our citizens by promoting safety and welfare of all our city’s residences and visitors by helping to ensure inspections are made and code compliance has been met.

Q. Has there been complaints about building codes?

A. Yes, particularly to the older building and remodeling projects. The main concern is safety of the structures, electrical and plumbing systems. We expect many commercial remodeling and renovation to be begin soon and understand the feeling of our community with regards to making sure these older buildings are remodeled with safety in mind.

Q. Who keeps up with who has permits and who does not?

A. Permitting, Inspection Services and Code Compliance departments are headed by the Chief Building official with the assistance of an experienced permitting specialist that has code compliance knowledge. In addition, we work closely with our outstanding team at City Hall; City Manager, Police Chief, public works Superintendent and our fire department.

Q. What happens if a builder or contractor does not have a permit?

A. Experienced professionals in the construction industry know by experience when a permit is needed. For example: when a roofer of 10 years says they didn’t know a permit was required please do yourself the favor and check their credentials and references. A stop work order maybe issued by the Chief Building Official and team or a citation may be issued by the police. The city ordinance provides fines of up to $2,000 for doing work prior to getting a permit.