When people want to build or open new businesses in Harris County, they have to first go through the commercial permitting process. Through a series of inspections, the Harris County Engineering Department will determine whether the business is in compliance with all state and county building regulations.

Harris County has adopted its own set of codes that must be followed, including building codes and fire codes. The county also enforces codes set by the state of Texas, including mechanical codes, electrical codes and plumbing codes.

Each set of codes requires its own inspection. For example, meeting fire safety standards involves an inspection of alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers and ventilation systems, among other requirements.

The process can seem complicated and overly demanding, but it has been designed to safeguard public health while providing safety to emergency responders during emergency situations. Read more about the topic in an article published in the Feb. 18 edition of Community Impact Newspaper here.