The licensing and registration requirements for building contractors are different based upon the type of work that will be performed.
Commercial General Contractor
There are no license or registration requirements for commercial general contractors.
Home Improvement Contractor
You will need a permit to perform limited repair and replacement such as:
- Non-structural remodeling alterations
- Conversions
- Modernizations
- Detached accessory buildings 400 square feet and smaller
Registration Requirements
Home Improvement Contractor Application (PDF)
To receive a permit, you will need to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor. To register, you will need to submit the following:
- An FBI national background check will be required for a Home Improvement Contractor license to be issued.
- Government issued photo identification
- Registration and renewal fee: $150 for two years
- A certificate of liability insurance with The City of San Antonio listed as the certificate holder
- Must maintain the following type and minimum limits of liability:
- $300,000 per occurrence (combined for property damage and bodily injury)
- $600,000 (total amount the policy will pay for property damage and bodily injury coverage)
- $300,000 for products and completed operations
Residential Building Contractor
You must be registered as a Residential Building Contractor for the following projects:
- New residential construction
- Alterations or remodeling of existing homes that involve structural work
- Additions to residential structures
- Foundation repairs or detached accessory buildings greater than 400 square feet
Registration Requirements
Residential Building Contractor Application (PDF)
To register as a Residential Building Contractor, you will need to submit the following:
- An FBI national background check will be required for a Home Improvement Contractor license to be issued.
- Government issued photo identification
- Registration and renewal fee: $170 for two years
- A certificate of liability insurance with the City of San Antonio listed as the certificate holder
- Must maintain the following type and minimum limits of liability:
- $500,000 per occurrence (combined for property damage and bodily injury)
- $1,000,000 (total amount the policy will pay for property damage and bodily injury)
- $500,000 for products and completed operations