Building Department Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Permit required for an storage shed/building
Yes, Please visit the Accessory Buildings page for specific information.
Category: Building
What building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical codes has the City of Denison adopted?
Category: Building
If I am a homeowner, may I do my own work?
Yes, but you still need a permit and need to register as a homeowner if you occupy the home and have a homestead exemption, If you have not applied through the Grayson County Appraisal District for a homestead exemption or this is a rental property, you will have to register as a contractor when applying for a permit. For more information or to check if your house is homestead exempt, please contact the Grayson County Appraisal District at 903-893-9673.
Category: Building
What is needed if Atmos gas company requires a city inspection to get your gas turned on?
You will need to get a plumber to put a pressure gauge on your gas line. Any appliance tied to the gas line will need to be brought up to code. The plumber will need to get a permit and call for the inspection. If the inspection passes, then we send a release to Atmos. You will need to contact Atmos Gas Company for service by calling 1-800-286-6700.
Category: Building
What is needed if the electrical company requires a city inspection to turn electrical service on?
You will need a registered electrical contractor to pull the permit unless you have a homestead exemption from the appraisal office. Once you have a permit and pass inspection you will need to call your electric company to set up service, so they can tie the application and release together.
Category: Building
Where is the Building Department located and what are the hours of business?
The main office is located on the 2nd floor of City hall: 300 W. Main St. Denison, TX 75020
The Building Department is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Category: Building
What is considered the historical district?
This is a section of the City of Denison from the 700 Block of West Main to the 300 Block of East Main and from Gandy Street to Crawford Street. Any type of exterior work, including painting, is required to go before the Historical Preservation Board and also required to have a permit. If you have questions, please check with the city’s Planning and Zoning Department at planning@cityofdenison.com
Category: Building
Are there special requirements for the Highway 75 area?
Yes. This is considered the corridor development area. Any new construction, exterior remodel, on and off-premise signs, lighting canopies, awnings, landscaping, etc. in this area needs to go through the Planning and Zoning Department at planning@cityofdenison.com
Information can also be found in the Zoning Ordinance: Article V – Special Area Standards.
Category: Building
What is required to obtain a permit?
It depends on the type of permit being applied for, but the following are a general guideline:
- Scope of work (Detailed list of everything being done. Include materials)
- Owner and contractor's name and phone number
- Site plan, drawing, or floor plan
- Have a registered contractor registration
Category: Building
How many sets of plans are required for an application of a permit?
All permits are submitted online through MyGov where you will be required to upload plans.
Category: Building
When is a certificate of occupancy needed?
Any time a new business is opened, a new building is built, a new business is opening in an existing building, ownership of the business changes, or changing business names.
Category: Building
Why is a certificate of occupancy needed?
The Inspection Department uses the certificate of occupancy (CO) for information to help identify potential hazards that may be encountered while responding to emergency calls by the Fire Department. The CO verifies that the structure conforms to the most current life and safety standards.
Category: Building
What is the cost of a permit?
Permits will vary in cost according to type of application. Please refer to the fee schedule for further information.
Category: Building
What forms of payment are accepted?
The City of Denison accepts cash, check, and credit/debit cards.
Category: Building
How long is a permit good for?
Permits are good for six months or (six months after the most recent inspection up to one full year).
Sign Banner permits are only good for 30 days
Category: Building
Where do I post my permit?
Post the permit on the job site in a visible place at the front door or window.
Category: Building
How do I get my project inspected?
Please Login to Mygov to request your inspections.
Category: Building
Is a permit needed for signs?
Yes, a permit is required on all signs. Refer to the Code of Ordinances for more information or visit our Sign Permit page.
Category: Building
Are licenses or certificates required to operate a restaurant?
Yes. Requirements for restaurants and temporary vendors can be obtained from the Grayson County Health Department and Environmental Health Division by calling 903-465-2878 ext. 241. Contact Fire Marshal by calling 903-465-2720 Ext: 2207 for Fire Department requirements. A Certificate of Occupancy is required from the Inspection Department by calling 903-465-2720.
Category: Building
What are the requirements on new windows?
All new windows must meet current code requirements. Under current 2015 IECC its a U-Factor of .35 or better and SHG of .25 or better (Lower number or better)
Category: Building
Is a permit required to occupy or use a building?
Yes. A certificate of occupancy permit is required and must be applied for through the Building Department. If you have questions, call 903-465-2720.
Category: Building
Can a portion of a building or structure be occupied prior to the completion of the entire building or structure?
For more information or if you have questions, please call 903-465-2720.
Category: Building
What should be done with a certificate of occupancy once it is received?
The certificate of occupancy is required to be posted in a conspicuous location on the premises and shall not be removed except by the building official.
Category: Building
Is a Permit required for a fence?
Yes, please visit the Fence Requirements page for specific information.
Category: Building
