Permits & Fees

What is the purpose of a building permit?

A permit provides a property owner protection and assurance.  Inspections can expose issues, including building code violations or safety hazards.  Having an inspection to approve your project is the best way to ensure that it was completed properly and is up to industry standards for safety and quality.  This is beneficial because you will discover and avoid an issue before it becomes major or costly.  Having the necessary permit could also be useful during a homeowners insurance claim.

Permitting is also important for resale and/or home values.  If you are adding an addition or finishing the basement or attic, you are adding square footage to your home.  If repairs or improvements have not been permitted  and documented properly, concerns could arise during the sale or refinance of your home.

When is a building permit required?

  • Additions and structural modifications: For example, changing, moving or repairing walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, deck or patio cover, adding or modifying fencing, garage conversions
  • Demolitions
  • Electrical, mechanical or plumbing work, including replacing water heaters or adding a lawn sprinkler system
  • Adding or removing an accessory building

When are building permits not required?

  • Cosmetic remodeling such as paint, flooring, cabinets, countertops, trim, etc. or replacing plumbing fixtures.

This is not an exhaustive list, so please contact us before beginning work on your project if you have any questions.  You are welcome to call City Hall at 903-482-5426 or ask via our online question portal.

Building Permits:

Other Permits:

City of Van Alstyne Permits Contact Information:

Call City Hall: (903) 482.5426
Fax: (903) 482.5122
E-mail: permits@cityofvanalstyne.us

Building/Fire Plan Review and Inspections:

The City of Van Alstyne contracts with an outside consultant for building plan review and inspections.

Please contact Bureau Veritas to request inspection(s). Inspections requested by 3:00pm Monday – Friday will be performed the next business day.

Bureau Veritas Contact Information:

To request an inspection, call the inspection line:

817-335-8111 or 972-980-8401 / toll-free: 877-837-8775

FAX requests to: 817-335-8110 or 972-980-8400 / toll-free: 877-837-8859

To check the status of your permit, call City Hall:

903-482-5426

Plan Review and Permit Fees:

Most Building/Fire plan review and permit fees are based on the value of the work being done while others may be based on square footage or trade. All fees can be found in the fee schedule.  For exact fees please contact City Hall at 903-482-5426.

Permit fees may be paid online as well as via phone or in the office!
*Please do not use this link to pay your utility bill*

Permit FAQs — How do I?