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

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.  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 watershed development permit and a review by the City’s Development Team to review impervious cover calculations and building setbacks.

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.  A permit is not required for construction of one-story detached accessory structures (sheds) not greater than 120 square feet measured along exterior walls that are intended and used for storage and similar uses as well as fences.  Also not requiring a permit are decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are no more than 24 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve an exit door, are in compliance with setback requirements for structures and are not located in any easements as well as roof repair or replacement made with the same or similar materials to be repaired or replaced.

To start the process please visit our permit website.

No, however fences must comply with Section 150.106 of the Land Development Code.

Yes. The extra-territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) area of Sunset Valley primarily includes properties along Country White Lane, the MAA Sunset Valley apartment complex, and three properties at the end of Stearns Lane. All development in the ETJ is required to obtain watershed development and sign permits from the City.  A building permit is not required.

Once the permitted work is completed, a final inspection is required. Upon Final Inspection, a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) will be issued. 

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 Services Manager at 512-892-1383.

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

My subdivision plat shows a building setback requirement that is different than those shown in current City Code. Which setback requirement do I have to meet? 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 homeowner's 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”.