Barndominiums are widely accepted across most counties.
Texas does not have a mandatory statewide building code for unincorporated areas. Cities may adopt the IBC/IRC. Many rural counties have no code enforcement. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) regulates manufactured housing.
Primary Code
IBC / IRC (locally adopted)
Code Version
Varies by jurisdiction
Adoption Level
Local Only
Statewide Enforcement
No
Many rural unincorporated areas require no building permit. Cities require full permits. Commercial construction always requires permits within incorporated areas.
Residential
Not Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Agricultural buildings on agricultural land may qualify for exemption in many counties. Some counties require an agricultural exemption form. Even exempt properties may need septic and electrical permits.
Not applicable in areas without code enforcement. In cities, structures under 120 sq ft may be exempt.
Gulf Coast requires wind ratings up to 150 mph. Panhandle has moderate wind and some snow load. Tornado Alley risk in north-central Texas. Minimal seismic risk.
Wind Load
90–150 mph
high zone
Snow Load
0–15 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC (locally adopted)
Version
Varies
No statewide energy code mandate. Cities adopt locally.
License Type
No state license required
Texas does not require a state general contractor license. Some cities require local contractor registration. TDLR regulates specific trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
Front
25–30 ft
Side
5–10 ft
Rear
10–20 ft
Set by local zoning where applicable. Many rural areas have zero setback requirements due to no zoning.
Expansive clay soils common throughout central Texas. Post-tensioned slabs are the standard in many areas. Sandy soils in east TX and Gulf Coast. Caliche in west TX.
Minimal or no permits in rural areas. Very popular.
No permits in most rural areas. Steel barns are extremely common.
Texas is the #1 state for barndominiums. Many rural areas have zero permit requirements. Large and growing lender network.
No permits needed in many rural areas.
Full IBC compliance within incorporated cities.
While Texas counties may have zero zoning, private deed restrictions and HOA covenants can still limit metal building construction. Always pull the deed and review CC&Rs before purchasing land. This is the single most common reason barndominium projects get blocked in Texas.
Significant flood zones in Houston area, along the Gulf Coast, and near major rivers and creeks throughout the state.
Key counties with specific permit information for Texas.
Full IBC enforcement within Houston city limits. Unincorporated Harris County has limited enforcement. High wind loads near coast.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,500
Full enforcement within city. Unincorporated areas more flexible.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,000
Full enforcement within Austin. ETJ enforcement as well.
Typical fees: $400 – $3,000
Growing area. Full enforcement in cities. County enforcement moderate.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,000
Rural central TX. No county building permits. Very barndo-friendly.
Typical fees: $0 – $200
Ag Exemption AvailableNo county building codes. Popular for barndominiums.
Typical fees: $0 – $200
Ag Exemption AvailableEast TX. No county building permits. Lake-area development.
Typical fees: $0 – $200
Ag Exemption AvailableCentral TX. No building permits. Hill Country adjacent.
Typical fees: $0
Ag Exemption AvailableVerify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
