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
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.
New Fees Approved with the FY15 Fee Schedule
During the FY15 budget process, several new fees were adopted that affect permitting and licensing applications, including three percent technology fee added to all permit and planning applications and a $2 technology fee added to all licenses. Additionally, paper plans for new construction and land development applications will be assessed a $25 to $45 electronic conversion fee. For a full listing of all City permit, license and other application fees, view the FY15 Schedule C.