Navigating Permits and Approvals in Custom Home Construction

AUTHOR Mike Hollaway

DATE Feb 20, 2026

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In my 40+ years of building custom homes, one thing is clear: understanding the permit process sets the foundation for a smooth construction journey. Clients often underestimate the time and detail involved in acquiring necessary permits, but realistic expectations can prevent frustration down the line. Working closely with San Antonio and nearby county building departments has given me invaluable insights into how different jurisdictions operate. My advocacy at the state level has also focused on keeping regulations reasonable for builders and clients alike.

The permit and approval process isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about understanding the unique requirements of each jurisdiction. Whether it’s city rules, county codes, or community specifics, every area has its own set of demands. Some lots even require HOA architectural review processes to ensure neighborhood standards. Site-specific issues, like topography or existing trees, can also influence the speed and ease of obtaining approvals.

I handle these regulatory requirements by maintaining strong relationships with local building officials, ensuring projects move efficiently through the approval stages. This means clients don’t have to worry about these technical details and can instead focus on their dream home.

Whether you’re contemplating building in San Antonio or the Texas Hill Country, my experience will help guide your project through regulatory hurdles. Call me at (210) 490-0069 to discuss how we can navigate your project’s regulatory requirements together.

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