Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: October 2026
These are the questions people ask us most about building permits in Dallas, answered the short way first. This site is not a government agency; we estimate fees from the city's published schedule and point you to the official office for the final word. For the calculator itself, start on the home page.
How much does a building permit cost in Dallas?
It depends on the project. A 2,000 square foot new home runs roughly $1,608 all in, a single-trade remodel permit is about $221, and new multi-family is $652 per unit plus review fees. The calculator at the top of this page runs the city's exact tables.
Where do I apply for a Dallas building permit?
Online through the DallasNow portal at aca-prod.accela.com/DALLASTX, or in person at the Oak Cliff Municipal Center, 320 E. Jefferson Blvd.
How long does Dallas plan review take?
The city's goal is about 5 days for initial residential review. Commercial remodels typically take about 12 business days to first review, and new commercial buildings 20 or more.
Do I need a permit for a remodel in Dallas?
If the work touches electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or structural elements, yes. Purely cosmetic updates generally do not need one. When in doubt, call 214-948-4480.
Who do I contact with questions about my Dallas permit?
The Planning and Development Department's permit line is 214-948-4480, or email residential questions to biresidential@dallas.gov.
Are Dallas permit fees going up soon?
The current schedule took effect July 1, 2025, and the city runs comprehensive fee studies every three years, so the next major update is expected around 2027 to 2028. We re-verify these numbers every September.
Is this an official city website?
No. This is an independent resource operated by Perfect Option MBC, LLC. We are not a government agency and we are not affiliated with the city. Every estimate is built from the city's published fee schedule so you can confirm the number at the source.
Is the estimator free?
Yes. The estimator and this guide are free to use, with no account and no sign-up. The details you enter are calculated in your browser and are not stored or sent to us.
How current are the fees?
We work from the fee schedule the city publishes, and we update our math when the city updates its schedule. Treat every result as a well-sourced estimate, and confirm the final figure with the city when you apply.