Houston heating and air conditioning permits and rules
Source: Texas HVAC Help (texashvachelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
Heating and air conditioning permits in Houston
Houston requires a permit to install, repair or replace a condensing unit. Fee: 2% of valuation plus $47.00, plus a $33.56 admin fee. Valid 180 days. (source: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center)
A New Complete System permit covers any install where all equipment and ductwork is being installed or replaced. Fee: $11.41 per ton plus $47.00, plus the $33.56 admin fee. Plan review may be required. Valid 180 days. (source: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center)
Licensed contractors must register their license with the City of Houston before pulling these permits. Mechanical Inspections: 832.394.8850. (source: City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center)
Statewide rules that apply here
TDLR says contractors who install, repair or maintain air conditioning, refrigeration or heating systems must have a TDLR license, and air conditioning and refrigeration companies must employ a licensed contractor at each permanent location. (source: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)
The air conditioning and refrigeration licensing law does not apply to a person doing air conditioning and refrigeration contracting in a building owned solely by that person as the person's home (Occupations Code 1302.053). Your city can still require a permit and inspection. (source: Texas Legislature)
See AC permits in other cities, mini-split rules 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 I need a permit to replace an AC in Texas? · Do HVAC contractors need a license in Texas? · Do mini-splits need a licensed contractor in Texas? · Can I replace my own AC in Texas? · Refrigerant rules for Texas AC work · HVAC permit fees in Texas cities · How to check a Texas HVAC contractor and complain · HVAC work that does not need a permit in Texas cities · Can an HVAC contractor do the electrical hookup in Texas? · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center: Condensing Unit Permit (HPWCODE1022) (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Houston, Houston Permitting Center: New Complete System Permit (HPWCODE1024) (checked November 2, 2026)
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR): Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (checked November 2, 2026)
- Texas Legislature (Texas Constitution and Statutes): Occupations Code Chapter 1302: Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (checked November 2, 2026)
Last updated: