Show All Answers

1. How far back from the street can I build?

Typically, a structure can be built as far from the street as desired, as long as the structure does not encroach on any building setbacks.

For more information on a specific property, please call Development Services at 361-485-3320.

2. How high can I build my fence?

Fences can be a maximum of 8 feet in height, however a fence that crosses a front building setback line shall be required to transition down to 3 feet in height. For lots with no platted front building setback line, a distance of 20 feet shall be used.

For more information on what is appropriate or acceptable when building a fence, access the Building Guide (PDF).

3. Where are the property lines on my property?

Building setbacks are determined either by Platting or Fire Code. If your property is platted, the building setbacks will be shown on the plat, which can be requested by calling Development Services at 361-485-3360.

4. Do above-ground pools require a permit?

Yes, above-ground pools do require a permit. Permits are required to ensure that the area has been fenced off.

5. Why can't I have my site plan and building plan reviewed together?

Site plans and platting documents are approved by Planning Services, building plans and permits are approved by the Development Center. These are separate divisions within Development Services.

The separate plans can, however, be reviewed concurrently. Plat approval is required prior to site plan approval and site plan approval is required before building permits may be issued.

Submitting Plans

Information on how to submit plans to both departments may be found by referencing our Development Guide.

6. Do I need a permit for a street closure?

Yes a street closure does require a permit/Letter of Approval.

Parades & Block Parties

Permits for parades and block parties, are issued by the Police Department; to access the necessary forms, visit the Police Department Documents and Forms page.

Construction Related

Requests for construction related street closures must be submitted to Celeste Menchaca. For more information or to submit a construction related street closure request, please email Celeste Menchaca.

The request needs to include:

• Purpose of closure
• Name of streets to be closed
• Name of cross streets that intersect closures
• Dates and times of closures
• Contact name, number, and address

7. Am I required to have a handicap accessible ramp to my building?

The State of Texas has guidelines that must be followed regarding accessible ramps to structures; inquiries would need to check the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations Architectural Barriers/Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) for requirements.

For More Information

For more information, access the Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) of the Architectural Barriers Act Article 9102, Texas Civil Statutes (PDF).

8. If I am the homeowner can I pull my own permit?

Yes, if you or your family own and live at the property and have registered with the Victoria County Appraisals District for Homestead Exemption.

9. Do I need a permit to demolish a building?

Yes. To submit a request, please access the Building Permit Application (PDF).

Asbestos Survey

Depending on project, you may also need an asbestos survey.

Asbestos Survey Requirements

Building owners and contractors must provide the city with evidence that asbestos surveys have been conducted on portions of buildings affected by the planned renovation or demolition by a person licensed under the Texas Asbestos Health Protection Act.

Licensed Asbestos Inspectors

To access a current list of licensed asbestos inspectors, you may:

• Contact the City of Victoria Development Center
• Contact the Texas Department of Health’s Asbestos Program in Austin, TX by phone at 800-572-5548
• Visit the Texas Health and Human Services Asbestos Program page

10. Do I need a permit to put up a storage building?

Only if the storage building exceeds 200 square feet, although the building must not be placed within lot setbacks and easements running through your property.

11. Do I need a permit to repair, install or extend a driveway?

No, within your property lines your can repair concrete, or pave your driveway.

If, however, you are working in the City right-of-way or approach into the street, this will need approval and permitting.

12. Are tamper resistant plugs required in homes?

For residences, all electrical plugs under 42 inches from floor shall be tamper resistant, unless located behind major appliances.

13. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Generally no; however masonry columns/fences or fences with electrical components require permits.

Additionally, fences should never extend beyond a property line, and all fences must follow the height requirements found in the Building Guide (PDF).

14. Do I need a permit to repair my manufactured home?

For fixing and improving upon an existing manufactured home, the Texas Manufactured Housing Division needs to be notified for any requirements and/or inspections.

Manufactured Housing Division Contact

• Call the Manufactured Housing Division toll-free customer service line at 800-500-7074
• Visit the Texas Department of Community and Housing Affairs, Manufactured Housing Division page

15. What are the building setbacks on my property?

Building setbacks are determined either by Platting or Fire Code. If your property is platted, the building setbacks will be shown on the plat, which can be requested by calling Development Services at 361-485-3360.