ADU Permit Requirements in Belton, TX

The City of Belton (Bell County seat) runs its own permitting through the Planning Department's Building Permits & Inspections division. The city's current page states it has adopted the 2015 ICC I-Codes, including the 2015 International Residential Code, with the 2020 NEC adopted at the state level. The city held a public hearing on April 30, 2026 to consider adopting the 2024 International Codes and 2023 NEC, but those were still proposed and not reflected as adopted on the city's own building page. Building Official is Tim Novinger (254-933-5814).

By Joey, Founder · Last verified June 4, 2026 · How we research →

Code: 2015 IRC Verified: 2026-06-04 1 local rules

When you need a ADU permit

Required·Rule 1

TX (ZIP 76513), building an accessory dwelling unit requires a building permit from the City of Belton Planning Department (Building Permits & Inspections division), with the structure reviewed under the 2015 International Residential Code. Zoning and lot rules also apply, so confirm that an ADU is allowed on your lot. Submit through the MGO Connect online portal, or call 254-933-5812.

Typical Timelineabout 2 weeks
SourceCity of Belton Planning Department, Building Permits & Inspections / 2015 International Residential Code · view source

ADU Permit Costs: Belton vs. Nearby

CityEstimated Fee
Belton N/A
Houston $500 – $5,000
San Antonio $500 – $5,000
Dallas $500 – $5,000

Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Belton permit costs →

Zoning Considerations

Zoning

ADU regulations vary dramatically by state and city. Many states (CA, OR, WA) have preemption laws that override local zoning restrictions. Check both state law and local zoning before designing.

Estimated Project Timeline

Here's a typical timeline for a adu project:

Week 1
Get quotes & finalize design
Contact licensed contractors, get 3+ quotes, finalize project scope and drawings (plan drawings required).
Week 2
Prepare permit documents
Contractor prepares site plan, construction drawings, and permit application. Gather required documents per your city's checklist.
Week 3
Submit permit application
Your contractor submits the application to Belton's building department, apply online here.
Week 4-5
Plan review & approval
Typical processing time: about 2 weeks. Plan review examiner checks drawings for code compliance.
Week 6+
Construction & inspections
Post the permit card on site. Work begins. Schedule inspections at required stages (varies by project). Final inspection required before closing the permit.

Timeline is based on the typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.

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Building Department Contact

NameCity of Belton Planning Department (Building Permits & Inspections)
Address333 Water Street, PO Box 120, Belton, TX 76513
HoursMonday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact the building department for current ADU permit fee information. Fees typically vary based on project scope and valuation.

It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller ADU projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.

Working without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.

Typical approval time for ADU permits is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.

Learn More About ADU Permits

Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.

Read ADU Guide →

Estimate your permit fees →

Disclaimer: This information was last verified on 2026-06-04. Building permit requirements may change. Zoning requirements (setbacks, lot coverage, height limits) are separate and vary by location. Always confirm with your local building and planning departments before starting your project. PermitMint provides general guidance, not legal advice.