Learn how to get a permit to clear land that will require non-hand tool machinery or grading.
Clearing that requires no grading and only hand tools does not require a permit, but clearing utilizing machinery does.
Clearing does not include grading or any other form of earth moving, such as pushing trees. If you are unsure, please contact the Travis County Permit Office.
Application Process
Verify Your Address
This website provides information on development outside corporate city limits in Travis County.
To verify what city and county your property is located in, use the Jurisdiction Web Map.
Gather Required Information
The following information is needed to complete your application:
- Address
- Legal description of the property from Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD)
- Property ID (PID)
- Lot #
- Block
- Phase and section
- Proposed construction start date
- Estimated cost of construction
Collect & Complete Other Required Documents
- Site plan
- Area to be cleared
- Methods to be used
- Erosion and sedimentation control plan
- Stabilization plan
Create an Account
Travis County uses an online platform to process development permits.
Once you complete all previous steps, please proceed to create a permitting account.
Apply for Your Permit
Once your account is created and phone number verified, you can move on to filing your paperwork.
Please have all the requirements in previous steps handy.
Start your online application.
Follow the instructions and steps provided within the platform.
In the “Select an Application Type” step, select “Development (Non-Residential)”.
Check the Status of Your Application
As we review your application, you can track the progress in the permitting website.
All communication associated with your permit application will be conducted within the same website. Please monitor your email and queue for status updates or comments associated with your application.
Respond to Our Comments (if applicable)
If the County has provided comments on your application, action is required by you to address the comments. The review process will be paused until you have responded sufficiently to each comment.
Receive the Permit
Once your application is approved, you will receive an e-mail notification.
Post the permit somewhere visible from the public right of way (ROW) on your work site before you begin your project.
Schedule Inspections
After you receive your permit, you must schedule the following inspections. Additional inspections may be required.
- Pre-construction meeting with environmental to determine applicable inspections
Related Permits
Projects associated with commercial properties, multi-family residence, or manufactured home parks.
Find information about permits for construction and remodeling projects outside corporate city limits in Travis County, such as:
- Subdivision Applications
- Driveways
- On-Site Sewage Facilities
- Demolition & Clearing
- More…
Commercial Site Plan
Learn how to get a permit for the development of commercial non-dwelling projects, such as offices, medical centers, hotels, malls, large-scale utility projects, and more.
On-Site Sewage Facility (Septic System)
Learn how to get a permit to install a septic system on a commercial property.
References & Code
Travis County Code:
- Chapter 247, Health & Safety
- Chapter 249, Junkyards, Automotive Wrecking, and Salvage Yard
- Chapter 260, Public Swimming Pools
- Chapter 312, Siting of Solid Waste Facilities
- Chapter 448, On-Site Sewage Facilities
- Chapter 464, Floodplain Management
- Chapter 482, Development Regulations
