Horseshoe Bay makes updates to permitting system
Horseshoe Bay is launching a new permitting system. Staff photo by Maci Cottingham
Horseshoe Bay residents and contractors will see changes to the city’s development process beginning Monday, Oct. 5, as a new online permitting system launches alongside updated fees and procedures.
Among the biggest changes is the city’s short-term rental permit fee, which will double from $600 to $1,200. Building permit fees will also shift from a construction cost-based calculation to one based on the square footage of a development.
The changes coincide with the launch of GovWell, an online platform that will replace the city’s combination of manual processes and separate permitting tools. Residents, contractors and business owners will be able to apply for permits, submit plans, schedule inspections and track applications through the system.
GovWell will initially handle all building permits, including those for new homes, decks, fences and roof replacements.
“By bringing these steps together in one platform, we aim to reduce delays, improve visibility into the review process, and make it easier for applicants to understand next steps,” Development Services Director John Byrum said.
The city council recently approved several fee and procedural changes that will take effect alongside the new system.
Permit deposits will be eliminated, with applicants instead charged incrementally as projects progress. Work cannot continue until outstanding fees are paid. A technology fee will also be added for permits requiring significant processing time in GovWell.
The changes also shift authority over some building permit extensions from the council to the Development Services director. The director will consider third and fourth extension requests, while fifth and sixth extensions will remain subject to council approval.
Development Services will also take over public hearing notices, including mailed letters, posted signs and newspaper publications. Applicants previously handled those notices after city staff confirmed the requirements. The associated costs will now be included in city fees.
The city’s development policies, review standards and service expectations will remain unchanged. Planning applications and code enforcement are expected to move to GovWell at a later date.
Additional information is available here or by calling Development Services at 512-598-9959.