Residential Development
- What are permits?
- When do I need a building permit?
- What is comprehensive planning?
- What is zoning?
- How does the City help with urban planning?
- What size fence can I build?
- How can I find out what the zoning is on my property?
- I need a map of my neighborhood. Where can I get maps?
- What if I change a use on my property?
- What is the One Stop Center?
- What is HOT?
What are permits?
The City of Tulsa helps regulate construction through permit requirements. The permitting process is designed to ensure all construction in Tulsa is safe. There are several types of permits, including building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, curb cut, stormwater and zoning. Most home improvement projects require one or more of these permits. Demolition or relocation of all or part of any building also requires a permit. To determine whether your project needs a permit, call the One Stop Center at 596-9601.
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When do I need a building permit?
Once you have decided on your home improvement, make a site plan for your property showing the improvements and the type of construction you will be using. Bring your plans to the One Stop Center located at 111 S. Greenwood Ave. A permit is needed for all new construction. Most of the time, you must obtain a permit for repairing or replacing existing features. The size and type of the construction determines permit costs. For brochures or information, contact the One Stop Center at 596-9601.
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What is comprehensive planning?
INCOG’s Planning Services Division maintains a master plan for future development of the metropolitan area. The plan includes guidelines on appropriate land use (residential, commercial, office, industrial, public facilities, utilities, transportation, etc.). It is developed and maintained with public input, helping the region grow in an orderly manner. The Comprehensive Plan is updated on a continuing basis to reflect changing needs over time. For more information call INCOG at 584-7526.
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What is zoning?
Zoning districts were established to promote compatible patterns of land use within the city limits. Zoning districts also establish site development regulations and performance standards appropriate to the purposes and the uses allowed in each district. The City of Tulsa is divided into 18 zoning districts, each with a comprehensive plan.
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Requests for zoning and land division changes for Tulsa are handled by the Land Development Services Division of INCOG at 584-7526. The staff reviews zoning requests for compatibility with the Comprehensive Plan, development guidelines, zoning codes and physical characteristics of the surrounding area. Staff then makes recommendations to the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission. After proper zoning is acquired, Land Development Services staff processes the platting of the tract, if necessary. These two services help ensure that the area develops according to approved guidelines. Staff also processes requests for zoning variances and special exceptions for the Tulsa City and County Boards of Adjustment.
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How does the City help with urban planning?
The Urban Development Department oversees tax increment/incentive districts, economic development planning, the Downtown Tulsa Improvement District, historic preservation, the Tulsa Preservation Commission and the Tulsa Development Authority. Program services include coordination of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), comprehensive housing, affordability strategy and housing assistance. For questions on housing programs and economic development planning, call the Urban Development Department at 596-2600. You can also visit the TDA website.
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What size fence can I build?
Fencing in your front yard may not exceed four feet in height. Side and backyard fencing may not exceed eight feet. INCOG Land Development Services staff can discuss the allowed heights for fencing. The City of Tulsa requires a building permit to build retaining walls. In some cases, screening fences are required between residential and commercial/industrial areas. For more information, please contact INCOG at 584-7526. NOTE: Restrictive covenants may differ. Check your deed for restrictions.
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How can I find out what the zoning is on my property?
To find out the zoning on any property, you can contact INCOG at 584-7526 and ask for a zoning officer. You must have the legal description or address of the property.
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I need a map of my neighborhood. Where can I get maps?
You can purchase base maps, zoning maps, aerial maps, traffic counts, and census maps from INCOG for a small reproduction fee. Call INCOG at 584-7526.
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What if I change a use on my property?
A nonconforming use is the use of any land, building or structure that does not conform to current applicable use regulations, but did comply or was not under requirements to comply at the time the use was established. Specific requirements govern the discontinuance of nonconforming uses. If you have a question concerning nonconforming use, call INCOG at 584-7526.
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What is the One Stop Center?
The One Stop Permit and Licensing Center located at 111 S. Greenwood Ave. is designed for citizen convenience. This facility provides staff for building permits and plans review, sign permits, construction and code inspections, trades testing and licensing, business licensing and more all under one roof. Free parking is available for customers. For more information, contact the One Stop Permit Center at 596-9456.
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What is HOT?
Home Ownership Tulsa’s HOT Line, 596-1500, serves as a “one stop” resource and information center for a variety of home ownership issues. HOT is a local partnership of more than 65 organizations committed to increasing homeownership.