New Construction

All newly constructed buildings, new additions, and renovations that qualify as ’substantial improvement’ must receive a permit and be reviewed by the Fire Department and Building Department prior to construction and occupancy. A plan review is conducted prior to issuance of a permit, and this requires engineered drawings to be submitted to the City Building Department for review. Fire Protection System plans get reviewed by the Fire Department after the building plans have been approved and permit issued. No construction is permitted to commence until a building permit has been issued.

Existing Building Renovations

For existing buildings that are not remodeling over 50% of the building’s assessed tax valuation, engineer/architect stamped drawings are not required to be submitted. Drawings can be submitted without an engineer/architect provided they are legible and in accordance with the samples below. Hand drawn plans will only be accepted if they are legible and are in accordance with the sample below. 

What is required to have a permit? What is required to have a Fire Department plan review?

A flow chart has been provided below, which will help guide you through the process. The Fire Marshal’s Office will review all existing and new construction projects for fire and life safety compliance. The Cuero Building Department will only issue construction permits for new construction. If your project is limited to paint, carpet, and other minor cosmetic changes, a construction permit will not be required. Please refer to the Building Department’s web page on this site for more information.

What does the Fire 
Department inspect before I can open my business?

Once you are permitted (if applicable) and construction is completed, you will request a final inspection from the Fire Marshal using the appropriate form below. The Cuero Fire Department will inspect your business for fire and life safety issues, such as EXIT signs, door locks/handles, emergency lighting, basic electrical issues, fire extinguishers, fire alarm/fire sprinkler/kitchen hood systems, and means of egress (how you get out of the building). A checklist is provided below as a basic idea of what may be included in a fire inspection. This list is not an all-exhaustive list. A copy of the 2021 International Fire Code is available for review at the Fire Department Office at the fire station.

Foster Home Inspections

Foster homes will be inspected by the Cuero Fire Department as required by the State of Texas and licensing standards, utilizing the Texas State Fire Marshal form (provided in the packet below).  The City of Cuero does not have additional requirements for foster homes.