Planning and Inspections
Welcome
Driven by a diverse and robust economy, El Paso's strong business climate provides a distinct and unique environment in which to do business. Our goals are clear:grow business, create jobs and establish and maintain a healthy business environment in El Paso.
The City Development Department is committed to helping our City reach these goals by efficiently and effectively providing direct services to El Paso's businesses, residents, visitors and development and construction community, including planning and land development, building permitting, inspection and safety, business licensing, special event permitting, and pre-development consultation assistance.
On this site, you'll find information about each of the department's divisions, ongoing projects, information about existing building permits, licensing requirements, planning projects and much more.
Latest News Permit
Infill Development Update
Our Infill Special Permit Standards have changed. On May 30, 2017, City Council adopted an Ordinance amending the Infill Development section of Title 20, Section 20.10.280. The amendment adds new location and design criteria for Infill Special Permits. It also includes new regulations and standards that govern how they are reviewed. The approved ordinance can be found here. The checklist and the policy guide can be found on the Applications page here.
When Do I need a Building Permit?
If you're planning on building, repairing, or making renovations to your home or property you will be required to obtain the appropiate building permit. To know if you require a building permit click here.
Solar Panels
Need a permit to install a solar panel system? Click here for a step-by-step:
Solar permit step-by-step. For more information about solar, including information about PACE financing and SolSmart Designation, please visit our Solar Webpage.
Permit Summary Report
Looking for Permit Summary Report? Click here for a Self-Service Report Viewer.
Instructions: Click the link. If you have issues viewing the entire report, save it as a PDF File. This will give you a full view of the report.
2015 Code Adoption
As of September 1st, 2016 the City of El Paso has adopted the following codes from the International Code Council (ICC) and National Electrical Code (NEC).
2015 International Building Code
2015 International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings
2015 International Mechanical Code
2015 International Plumbing Code
2015 International Existing Building Code
2015 International Fuel Gas Code
2015 International Fire Code
2015 International Energy Conservation Code
2014 National Electric Code
For local amendments, see Title 18 of the City of El Paso Municipal Code.
PWSF Application Process Update
Effective April 8, 2015, the Planning & Inspections Department is revising its application and permitting process for Personal Wireless Service Facilities (PWSF). This revision is necessary for the City to comply with new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules that govern how municipalities regulate PWSF. These changes affect the review of new infrastructure, colocations, and modifications to existing infrastructure... Read More
Call-In Permits and License Renewals now available online
In an effort to fully implement electronic permitting and licensing, customers may now request call-in trade permits and most types of license renewals online through our Citizen Access Portal, no trips to the City necessary. Visit our e-Services page to view complete tutorials and step-by-step guides for logging in and uploading applications.
Sidewalk Retail Vending Program Now Available City-Wide
In September, the El Paso City Council approved a new City-wide program that will allow retail businesses located in zero lot line buildings to use City sidewalks as a venue for displaying store merchandise. All businesses wishing to participate in the program must first obtain a sidewalk retail vending permit. To learn more, download the permit application or visit us at the One-Stop-Shop.
New Housing Ordinance Adopted
The El Paso City Council recently adopted a new ordinance that redefines and clarifies where homeless shelters, halfway houses and group residential facilities may be located. Under the new ordinance, existing facilities will not be affected but will be required to register with the City by December 9th. If you operate a facility affected by the new ordinance, visit us at the One-Stop-Shop to learn more about the registration process.