In most cases, YES. Before starting a project, please email permits@sunsetvalley.org, or call 512-892-1383.

We will be more than happy to assist in any way possible and ensure compliance with applicable codes.

A permit is required to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, improve, remove, convert, move or demolish any building or structure within the City’s zoning jurisdiction. 

A building or construction permit shall not be issued for any work unless the land use for such property is in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 2 (zoning), 4 (watershed), and 5 (floodplain) of the Land Development Code, or a variance had been approved for the proposed use.

In general, one building permit is issued for a construction project. The general contractor will add the Master electrician, Master plumber and Certified HVAC technician to the building permit. We ask for a copy of each trade professional’s certificate of insurance, photo id and current license. When a permit is for trade work only, such as electrical, plumbing and HVAC we will ask those trades to pull a building permit for the work being done.

Generally, cosmetic work such as painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, installation of cabinets, counter tops, similar finish work, and minor repairs to existing structures does not require a permit unless electrical, plumbing and/or HVAC work is involved.

We ask for 3 copies of dimensioned plans for extensive interior/ exterior remodels to homes. These plans do not always require an engineer or architect stamp. A plan review by the third-party inspection company (McComis Inspections, Inc) is required with an approximate 10-day review time.

For electrical, plumbing and HVAC permits please have the appropriate Master or Certified tradesperson submit permit application and specs for the equipment being installed/ changed out.

Any additions to the property such as additions to the home, accessory structures, in ground swimming pools, decks, sidewalks, additions to an existing or new driveway require a permit and a review by the City’s Development Team to review impervious cover calculations and building setbacks.

There are regulations related to fence construction depending on the location of and on your property, type of fence and height you wish to install.  Contact Permitting for more information.

Yes. The extra-territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) area of Sunset Valley primarily includes properties along Country White Lane, Grand Reserve at Sunset Valley apartment complex, and three properties at the end of Stearns Lane. All development in the ETJ is required to obtain watershed and site plan approvals and sign permits from the City.

• International Building Code 2015
• International Mechanical Code 2015
• Uniform Plumbing Code 2015
• International Fire Code 2015 - See Austin Fire Department Submittal Requirements and Cover letter required listed below
• National Electrical Code 2017
• International Energy Conservation Code 2015

Depending on the type of work that is permitted, an inspection is required. See list of required inspections below. Once the permitted work is completed, a final inspection is required. Upon Final Inspection, a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or Certificate of Compliance (CC) will be issued authorizing occupancy of the structure.

Permits remain active for 180 days, but will expire on the 181st day if the project has not received an inspection, or after the date of the last inspection that shows progress towards completion of the project. An expired permit must be resolved before a new building permit can be issued. To check whether an expired permit exists on your property, call the Development Coordinator at 512-892-1383. You can resolve expired permits by following the expired permit process.

Yes. The type of permit required depends on where the business is operated.

A Home Occupation Permit is required for use of an area within the primary residential structure provided it does not exceed 20% of the dwelling unit. No assistant may be employed or use the dwelling and no signs on premise may be used to advertise. There is no fee associated with the filing of a Home Occupation Permit and approvals are granted administratively.

A Special Use Permit is required when an accessory building is involved in the operation of the business. The process includes notification to nearby property owners and a public hearing is scheduled. Conditions may be imposed to address potential impacts to the neighborhood related to traffic, noise, or other nuisances related to the business use. A fee of $100 must be filed with the application. Special Use Permits are considered by the Zoning Commission and City Council for approval.

The zoning regulations of the Land Development Code set forth building setbacks for both a primary residence and all accessory structures. Setback distances are from the actual property line, not from the edge of street pavement. Generally, Code regulations require:

Primary residence:

• 50 foot from the front
• 30 foot from the rear
• 20 foot from the side

There are additional provisions within the Code for corner lots and restrictions relative to the placement of accessory structures on the lot.

Both. If you find yourself in a situation where there is a conflict between the setback requirements under current City Code and those shown on your subdivision plat, then THE MOST RESTRICTIVE SETBACK APPLIES. If you follow this general rule of thumb, you will maintain compliance with both the zoning regulations of the city and your subdivision plat regulations.

The City cannot enforce deed restrictions unless they mirror city codes. Deed restrictions are a contract between the homeowners in a specific area and the developer. The City is not a party to that contract. If you want your deed restrictions enforced, first try your homeowners association. If one does not exist or they will not enforce the restriction, any party to the contract has a right to go to the Justice of the Peace’s office and file a “Suit for Specific Performance”.