Request Building Permit Records - Fort Worth, TX

Housing and Building Standards Texas 3 Minutes Read · published February 06, 2026 Flag of Texas

Fort Worth property owners, contractors, researchers, and neighbors can request public records for building permits through official city channels. This guide explains which office holds permit records, how to submit a public information request, typical record types available, common processing steps and timelines, and where to find official forms and contact points for Fort Worth, Texas. Use the links below to go directly to the Development Services permit pages, the City Open Records office, and the Fort Worth Code of Ordinances for authoritative rules and procedures.Development Services - Permits & Inspections[1] City Open Records[2] Fort Worth Code of Ordinances (Municode)[3]

What records are public

Permit records commonly available include permit applications, issued permits, inspection results, contractor names, approved plans where retained as public, and certificate of occupancy records where applicable. Some attachments may be redacted for privacy or security under Texas law as administered by the City Secretary.

How to request building permit records

  • Start with the Development Services permits page to identify permit numbers or addresses.Permits & Inspections[1]
  • Submit an Open Records request to the City Secretary per the city’s Open Records instructions; request can specify format (electronic/PDF) and date range.Open Records[2]
  • If the permit is recent, contact Development Services for expedited access to active plan review or inspection results.Development Services[1]
Requests that specify permit number and address are processed faster.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for building permit violations in Fort Worth is handled by Development Services/Building Inspections and, for civil penalties, Municipal Court or Code Compliance as appropriate. The Fort Worth Code of Ordinances sets enforcement authority and penalties; where specific dollar amounts or per-day penalties are required, the municipal code or individual ordinance sections should be consulted directly. Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[3]

  • Fine amounts and daily continuation penalties: not specified on the cited page.[3]
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing violations: not specified on the cited page; the municipal code provides enforcement framework.[3]
  • Non-monetary remedies include stop-work orders, corrective orders, revocation or suspension of permits, and referral to Municipal Court.[3]
  • Primary enforcer: City of Fort Worth Development Services / Building Inspections; complaints and inspections are routed through Development Services contact points.Development Services[1]
If you receive a stop-work order follow the instructions immediately and contact Development Services.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit application forms and submittal requirements on the Development Services permits page. Specific form names and fees vary by permit type (building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing). If a named form or fee schedule is required, it is listed on the Development Services page; fees or form numbers not specified on the cited page should be confirmed with Development Services.[1]

How-To

  1. Identify the property address and any permit number you know.
  2. Search online resources or contact Development Services to confirm permit status and available documents.Development Services[1]
  3. Submit an Open Records request to the City Secretary specifying records requested, preferred format, and contact information.City Open Records[2]
  4. Pay any applicable reproduction or research fees as stated by the City; await response within the timeframe indicated by the Open Records office.

FAQ

Who holds Fort Worth building permit records?
The City of Fort Worth Development Services department maintains building permit records; older archived records may be held or reproduced via the City Secretary on request.
How long does the city take to respond to an Open Records request?
Response times follow the City’s Open Records process; exact timelines or statutory response periods should be confirmed with the City Secretary.Open Records[2]
Are building plans always public?
Some plans are public records, but portions may be redacted for privacy or security; check Development Services guidance and request redacted copies if necessary.Development Services[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Start at Development Services to locate permit numbers and status.
  • Submit formal Open Records requests through the City Secretary for official copies.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Fort Worth - Development Services Permits & Inspections
  2. [2] City of Fort Worth - City Secretary Open Records
  3. [3] Fort Worth Code of Ordinances (Municode)

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