Houston electrical permits and rules
Source: Texas Electrician Help (texaselectricianhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
Electrical permits in Houston
Houston's electrical inspections page says all electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrical contractor, and work under an electrical permit must be inspected and approved before the project is finalized. (source: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center)
Houston's guidance for repairs after Winter Storm Uri in 2021 also says all electrical work must be completed by a licensed electrician. (source: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center)
The Electrical Inspections section registers licensed contractors and electrical masters with the city. (source: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center)
Statewide rules that apply here
A person must hold a TDLR license to perform or offer to perform electrical work or residential appliance installation, unless an exemption in Section 1305.003 applies (Occupations Code 1305.151). A state license is valid anywhere in Texas; a city electrician license is only good inside that city. (source: Texas Legislature)
State law exempts electrical work "not specifically regulated by a municipal ordinance" that is done in or on a dwelling by a person who owns and resides in the dwelling (Occupations Code 1305.003(a)(6)). TDLR notes that city or regional rules may override its exemptions. (source: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)
See permits in other cities, doing your own electrical work and checking a license.
Other cities: Houston · Dallas · San Antonio · Austin · Plano · Corpus Christi · Frisco · El Paso · Irving · Round Rock · Fort Worth · Arlington · Lubbock · McKinney
On this site: Do electricians need a license in Texas? · Can I do my own electrical work in Texas? · When do I need an electrical permit in Texas? · Who can install a water heater or dishwasher in Texas? · How to check a Texas electrician and complain · Texas city electrician licenses and fees · Electrical work exempt from the Texas license law · Panel, meter and generator work in Texas cities · Reporting unlicensed electrical work in Texas · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center: Electrical Inspections (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center: Repairs after winter storm (checked November 2, 2026)
- Texas Legislature (Texas Constitution and Statutes): Occupations Code Chapter 1305: Electricians (checked November 2, 2026)
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR): Exemptions to Electrician Licensing (checked November 2, 2026)
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