Frequently Asked Questions

  1. When is a grease trap required?
  2. What type of work requires a permit?
  3. What are some building permit fees?
  4. How do I contact the Building Code Compliance Department?
  5. What building codes are adopted?
  6. When and how do I schedule an inspection?
  7. How long will it take to receive my permit?
  8. When is an Engineer or Architect required?
  9. When do I need an asbestos survey?
1. When is a grease trap required?
The Grease Trap Ordinance dictates that one is required whenever a 3-compartment sink is specified by the Food Establishment Rules. In addition, to grease traps other pre-treatment devices maybe required as per Pre-Treatment Policy. Reference Pre-Treatment Device Guide Below:

Pretreatment Device Guide

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2. What type of work requires a permit?
  • New construction of buildings or structures
  • Alterations, repairs, remodel or additions to existing buildings or structures
  • Remodeling and repairs of interior tenant lease finish outs
  • Exterior remodels, repairs and alterations of buildings or structures
  • Changes in the use or occupancy of an existing buildings or structures
  • Moving or relocating of existing buildings
  • Demolition of interior or complete buildings or structures
  • Installing, refacing and replacing of wall, pylon or freestanding signs
  • Electrical, plumbing and mechanical work

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3. What are some building permit fees?
Minimum permit fee: $40.00
Minimum commercial plan review fee: $6.00
Commercial Plan Review fee is 15% of the building permit fee
New construction or additions: based on square foot
Remodel or repairs based on improvement value
If you need further clarification concerning fees or have questions concerning building permits, please call (956) 681-1300
A re-inspection fees is asses by all departments in the amount of $40.00 for all failed inspection.

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4. How do I contact the Building Code Compliance Department?
Our office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday- Friday
Inspectors and Plan Examiners can be reached by phone between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm.

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5. What building codes are adopted?
Current building codes adopted by the City of McAllen are as follows:
2012 International Building Code
2012 International Fire Code
2012 International Residential Building Code
2009 International Energy Conservation Code
2011 National Electrical Code
2012 International Mechanical Code
2012 International Plumbing Code
2012 International Fuel & Gas Code

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6. How do I schedule an inspection?
If you need to schedule an inspection call the recorder at 956-681-1328.
AM (morning) inspections need to be requested between 12:01 PM. the previous day and 6:59 AM. the same morning.
PM (afternoon) inspection need to be requested between 7:00 AM and 12:00 PM the same day.

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7. How long will it take to receive my building permit?
Residential Permits - 3 working days
Commerical Permits - 5-10 working days
8. When is an Engineer or Architect required?
Engineering: Flowchart
Architect: Flowchart

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9. When do I need an asbestos survey?
2001 Senate Bill 509 FAQ
2002 Senate Bill 509 FAQ

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