When do I need an engineer's stamp on plans?

It depends on the building type and the local building official. Texas law exempts private single-family homes, small apartment buildings, farm buildings and certain one-story commercial buildings up to 5,000 square feet from having to use a licensed engineer, as long as the person doing the work does not claim to offer engineering. That exemption does not stop a building official from asking for engineered plans when a design goes beyond the code's prescriptive rules. IBC Section 3115 calls for structural analysis of container buildings, and Leander notes limits for windstorm and expansive-soil foundations. Ask your building official whether they will require sealed foundation or structural drawings.

Check your local rule. This varies by state, county or city. Your permitting office has the final word; the official lookup pages below show you who that is.

Sources

• Extracts from the Texas Engineering Practice ActCity of Alamo Heights, Texas
• Frequently Asked Questions Regarding EnforcementTexas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors
• LicensingCity of Leander, Texas