New Construction Information

To apply for a building permit for new construction and alterations the City of Orange requires the following:

Complete and submit application for a building permit. MEPs require separate permits.

Submit two (2) completes set of construction documents and one (1) digitized copy for commercial construction that includes the following:

• A scaled site plan showing all existing buildings, proposed  buildings, the distances between  all buildings,  the distances from buildings to the property lines and parking areas.
• Foundation and building plans with plumbing, electrical and mechanical plans. Load calculations required.
• Rainwater drainage plan/study for new construction.
• Scope of Work and Code Analysis for commercial construction
• Verification of Energy Code compliance (ComCheck, ResCheck or equivalent).
• Elevation Certificate if construction is located in the special flood hazard area (zones A and V).
• Asbestos Survey for all commercial construction in existing buildings.
• Architectural Barriers Registration number for non-residential projects over $50,000.00 valuation

The City of Orange has adopted the 2021 International Building Codes (IRC, IBC, IFC, IECC, IPC, IMC, IFGC, IEBC,  IPMC, and ISPSC) and the 2023 National Electric Code. 
View the Codes here: 2021 I-Codes

• 2021 International Building Code and the 2021 International Residential Code.
• 2023 National Electrical Code, and the 2021 International Building Code, whichever is most stringent.
• 2021 International Plumbing Code and the 2021 International Building Code, whichever is most stringent.
• 2021 International Mechanical Code and the 2021 International Building Code, whichever is most stringent.
• 2021 International Fire Code and the 2021 International Building Code, whichever is most stringent.
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code with amendments and the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code as adopted by the State of Texas.