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1. What is the best way to report code violations?

Whether you wish to remain anonymous or not, call the Code Enforcement hotline at (972) 721-4929. State the address and the conditions you are concerned about.  If you wish to be contacted, please leave your name and phone number.  A code officer will investigate your concerns before 5 p.m. the following business day.

2. What is the form I need to replace the fence in my yard?

Prior to installing a new fence, the property owner must submit plans and a fence permit application for review and approval by the City of Irving Inspections Department, located on the second floor of City Hall, 825 W. Irving Blvd. 

Download the Permit Application

3. What is the maximum height of grass/weed conditions before they become a violation?

When grass/weeds exceed 10 inches in overall height, then those conditions may be worked. 

State law requires a seven-day notice before Code Enforcement may utilize a contractor to mow the property. This only occurs when the homeowner fails to bring property into compliance. 

If a city contractor is used, the property owner is billed for services rendered. Failure on the property owner’s part to pay amounts due will result in the filing of a lien against the property.

4. What type of work requires a permit?

• Building repairs (Including roofing/remodeling existing structures)
• Building Additions
• Accessory Structures
• Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC work
• Fences
• Signs

For information or questions regarding obtaining permits, contact the Inspections Department at (972) 721-2371 or email to Irving-Permits@cityofirving.org

5. How many people may live in a single-family home?

The number of people is based on the number of bedrooms.  

For example, in a three-bedroom home: Seven (7) people maximum. Formula: Two people per bedroom, plus one additional person.

6. How many cars per single-family lot are allowable?

The number of cars is based on the number of licensed drivers residing in the home.  

For example, four licensed drivers in the household: Six (6) cars maximum. Formula: One car per licensed driver, plus two additional cars.

7. What constitutes illegal outside storage?

Generally, items that are not designed for outdoor use.  

Examples

• Tools
• Car parts
• Tires
• Household furniture

When in doubt, report to Code Enforcement for investigation.

8. Can cars be parked on the grass?

Yes, if they are operable and parked in the backyard behind a screening fence, or if they are in the front yard and actively being washed.

Otherwise, they must be parked on an improved surface. A tire barely touching the grass at the edge of a driveway does not constitute an enforcement action.

9. Does the city of Irving enforce the replacement of 3/8-inch decking with 7/16 inch or greater to reshingle a roof? Or is proper decking thickness only enforceable on new construction?

The roof decking requirement is the same for both new construction and reroofs when the decking is replaced. However, the minimum thickness is not 7/16 inch. In the past, Irving had a local amendment with that requirement, but today the city follows straight code.

The decking requirements are found in the International Residential Code Table R503.2.1(1). Notice in the table that 3/8-inch thick decking is allowed.

10. Is there a requirement regarding the type of surface a recreational vehicle (RV) needs to be parked on – gravel, cement, or bare ground? If a cement slab or gravel is required, what are the dimensions

The RV must be parked on an improved surface at all times, unless it’s effectively screened by a 6-foot blind fence or vegetation. In addition, the vehicle cannot block the sidewalk, and RVs cannot be parked on the street.