Do You Need a Permit to Replace Your Roof in Dallas?

Replacing your roof is a major home improvement project—and in Dallas, it almost always requires a building permit. Skipping the permit process can lead to fines, failed inspections, and headaches when it’s time to sell. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about roof replacement permits in Dallas–Fort Worth so you can stay compliant, protect your investment, and breeze through inspections.

1. Ensure Code Compliance
   The City of Dallas enforces the International Residential Code (IRC) locally adopted to guarantee safe, weather-resistant roofing installations. A permit ensures your new roof meets wind uplift, fire-resistance, and energy-efficiency standards required across North Texas.
   
   
2. Protect Your Warranty & Insurance
   Many shingle manufacturers and insurers require proof of a valid permit for a replacement roof. Without it, your warranty may be voided, and storm-damage claims could be denied if work was done unpermitted.
   
   
3. Avoid Costly Penalties
   Unpermitted work can trigger stop-work orders, civil penalties, and even demolition orders in extreme cases. Pulling a permit upfront costs a few hundred dollars—far less than fines and rework.
   

In Dallas city limits—and most suburban jurisdictions in DFW—a permit is required for:

• Full Roof Replacement: Tear-off of all existing layers down to the deck
• Re-roof with More Than Two Layers: Stacking three or more shingle layers
• Structural Repairs: Deck replacement, framing reinforcement, or modifying roof pitch
• Installation of New Skylights or Roof Penetrations
  
  

Minor Repairs, such as replacing a handful of shingles or re-caulking flashings, typically do not require a permit. However, anytime work involves decking, insulation, or ventilation upgrades, plan on pulling one.

1. Gather Required Documents
   
   Roofing Plan: A simple sketch showing roof area, slope, and materials.
   Property Deed or Plat: To confirm lot dimensions and address.
   Manufacturer Product Data: Shingle or membrane spec sheets for wind and fire ratings.
   
   
2. Submit Your Application
   
   Online via the City of Dallas eTRAC portal or your municipal building department’s website.
   In-Person at your local permitting office (e.g., Dallas Permit Center).
   
   Expect to pay a permit fee based on the roof area—typically $150–$400 for residential projects.
   
   
3. Schedule Your Inspection
   
   

Once approved, the city will issue a permit number. During installation, you’ll need:

Deck Inspection (before underlayment)

Final Inspection (after shingles/membrane and flashing are complete)

Inspections are usually scheduled within 1–2 business days of your request.

• Streamlined Process: We prepare and submit all paperwork—and follow up—so you don’t have to.
  
  
• Accurate Documentation: Our team uses precise roof measurements and manufacturer specs to avoid permit delays.
  
  
• Inspection Coordination: We schedule and attend deck and final inspections, ensuring swift approvals.
  
  
• Code Expertise: Our technicians install your roof to meet or exceed Dallas and Tarrant County code requirements on wind uplift (110 mph+) and fire resistance.
  

• Insurance Denials: Post-storm claims can be rejected without proof of a permit.
  
  
• Sale Complications: Unpermitted work must often be disclosed—or even torn off—when you sell.
  
  
• Safety Hazards: Uninspected decking or ventilation can lead to leaks, mold, and structural damage.
  
  
• Stop-Work Orders: The city may halt your project mid-installation, leading to delays and extra fees.
  

1. Verify Property Limits: Double-check your lot lines to confirm no overhang violations.
2. Confirm Contractor Licensing: Only licensed Texas roofing contractors can pull residential permits.
3. Plan Around Weather: Aim to secure your permit in winter or spring—when inspection slots and contractor schedules are more open.
4. Keep Records: Store your permit card and inspection reports with your homeowner documents for future reference.
   

Don’t let red tape delay your roof replacement. At 921 Roofing & Exteriors, we make permitting painless—so you enjoy a safe, code-compliant roof without the hassle. Call us today at 972-807-7315 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation and permit application. With us handling the details, you’ll have peace of mind from permit to final inspection!