The City of North Richland Hills recently implemented a new online paperless system for permits and inspections. The new NRH E-Services Portal allows residents and contractors to conduct all business online, including application, document and plan submittal, permit review and approval, fee payment, and inspection requests and results. Customers no longer need to bring applications, plans, or payments to City Hall.
In addition to building permits, frequently used forms on the new E-Services Portal include applications for garage sale permits, special event permits, zoning change requests, rental home inspections, and more. You can access the new NRH E-Services Portal at www.nrhtx.com/eportal. If you have questions, please call 817-427-6300.
When do I need a building permit?
Most home improvement projects beyond cosmetic work require a building permit. The permit and inspection process helps protect your family from safety risks like structural failures, fire hazards or electrical shock. It may also help eliminate costly repairs for poorly completed work. Following are some common projects that require permits:
- Installing or replacing water heaters, HVAC systems, water lines or sewer lines;
- Any electrical or gas line work (including valves);
- Replacing residential roof decking;
- Adding or replacing walls or windows;
- Pouring concrete, widening/replacing driveway;
- Installing storage sheds 144 square feet or more;
- Construction of carports or patio covers;
- Foundation repairs;
- Installing a tornado shelter;
- Installing lawn irrigation systems;
- Installing a fence, or replacing 4 or more panels;
- Building or replacing a deck more than 30” above grade or a retaining wall over 3 feet in height;
- Building or repairing a swimming pool or spa.
- Projects that are cosmetic, such as painting, wallpapering, carpeting, patching sheetrock, putting in cabinets and trim work, etc., do not require permits. Additionally, permits are not required when replacing existing residential shingles, electrical lighting or plumbing fixtures.
Safety is the primary reason building permits are required. When a permit is issued, the city will inspect the work to make sure it is done correctly and in compliance with current building and safety codes. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to make sure that their contractor obtains the proper permit(s). Permits should be displayed on site until the work is completed and passes inspection.
Many simple permits for smaller projects take only a few days to be approved, with inspections completed within a day of being requested. Alternatively, work done without permits can result in fines and longer project timelines because of possible corrective work. For more information, please call us at 817-427-6300.