When Do You Need a Permit for Land Work?

Usually No Permit Required

• Basic land clearing on rural private property
• Brush hogging and vegetation maintenance
• Small ponds not affecting waterways
• Driveway construction on private property

May Require Permits

• Work within city limits or ETJ (extraterritorial jurisdiction)
• Properties in HOA-governed areas
• Significant grade changes (1+ feet of fill or cut)
• Work affecting drainage to other properties
• Work near wetlands, streams, or floodplains

Always Check First

When in doubt, contact your county permit office or city planning department. A quick phone call can save significant problems later. We can help advise based on experience in your area, but final authority rests with local regulators.