Portable cabin regulations in Texas depend largely on your location. While many rural areas have minimal oversight, most of the communities served by Lone Star Structures have established permitting and zoning requirements that apply to portable cabins. This guide breaks down the official rules for each location to help you plan with confidence.
Maybe. Some Texas cities allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in specific zoning districts, but others don’t. Where they are allowed, there are usually rules about size, design, and location. For example, Round Rock allows detached ADUs in certain zones but limits their size and appearance. Check with your local planning department before using a cabin as an ADU.
It depends. In many rural areas, cabins can be used as tiny homes, but cities often have stricter rules. Some places require a permanent foundation, utility hookups, or a minimum size. Others may not allow tiny homes at all. Contact your local permitting office to find out what’s allowed in your area.
In most areas of Texas, especially within city limits, a permit is required to build or place a portable cabin. While rural areas may have fewer regulations, many cities enforce building codes, zoning rules, and setback requirements for accessory structures. We’ve outlined the official guidelines for each Texas community we serve in the sections below to help you plan confidently. Be sure to check with your local permitting office for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Note: Regulations can change and may differ by property. Always check with your local permitting office to confirm the most up-to-date requirements before starting your project.
Yes. Building permits are required for any new structure, including portable cabins in the City of Bastrop. All construction must adhere to the city’s adopted building and zoning codes. Specific guidance for accessory or portable buildings is handled through the Development Services Department, which reviews plans for compliance with setbacks, lot coverage, and structural standards before issuing a permit. Contact Bastrop Development Services to verify whether your portable cabin might qualify for any minor exemptions (e.g., storage sheds under a certain size), but plan on a full permit and inspection process.
Yes. In Cedar Park, any residential accessory structure, including portable cabins, requires a building permit unless it’s a one‑story detached accessory building under 80 sq ft used solely for tool or storage purposes. Structures larger than 80 sq ft must be submitted through the My Government Online portal, including a site plan, foundation/anchoring details, construction elevations, and electrical or plumbing plans if applicable. Permits undergo inspections: layout, foundation, framing (if site-built), electrical/plumbing (if applicable), and final. The city enforces the adopted 2021 International Building Codes. For the most accurate information, contact the Cedar Park Building Permits & Inspections.
Yes. Elgin requires a building permit for any new structure or alteration, including portable cabins, within city limits. The city has adopted the 2021 International Residential, Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fuel‑Gas, Energy, Existing Buildings, Property Maintenance, Fire, and Electrical Codes. Additionally, accessory structures must conform to zoning and development standards overseen by the Planning & Zoning Division. Permit applications are submitted via the Building Division and reviewed for compliance with structural, safety, and site-specific codes before inspections and final approval .
Yes. In Georgetown, any new accessory or detached structure (including portable cabins) requires a building permit and must comply with standards in the Unified Development Code. Setbacks depend on the zoning district and typically mirror standard accessory‑structure rules (e.g., ~5 ft from side/rear). Impervious cover limits apply to rooftops and driveways . In historic overlay areas, design consistency with existing homes is also required under the Historic District Design Guidelines.
Yes. Liberty Hill requires a building permit for any new structure, including portable cabins and sheds. The city enforces the 2021 International Codes, and accessory structures must meet zoning setbacks, be located in side/rear yards, and comply with lot coverage limits. Setbacks are 3 ft side/rear and 20 ft front, with a minimum lot size of 5,000 sq ft. The permit expires after 180 days if work hasn’t started. For the most up-to-date information, contact the Liberty Hill Building Permits & Inspection Department.
Yes. Lott is an incorporated city in Falls County and requires permits for new buildings and additions, including portable cabins. While the city does not currently maintain a public-facing website, permits are issued through City Hall. All structures must comply with basic safety and zoning standards, and setback rules are reviewed as part of the permitting process. For the most accurate information on size limits, placement, or inspection requirements, contact the City of Lott directly at (254) 584‑2681, Lott City Hall (Facebook), or visit City Hall at 117 E Gassaway Ave, Lott, TX 76656.
Yes. Pflugerville enforces the 2021 International Building and Residential Codes, and requires permits for detached accessory structures over 100 sq ft. These structures must comply with zoning setback rules (often 5 ft side/rear), lot coverage limits, and foundation requirements, and go through the standard permit review and inspection process. Contact the Pflugerville Development Services Department, or check the municipal code for specific size and setback thresholds.
Yes. In Round Rock, a building permit is required for most detached structures, including portable cabins. The city’s zoning code allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in specific zoning districts such as MU-L (Mixed-Use Limited) and OF-1 (Office). Detached ADUs must meet strict design, occupancy, and size criteria. For example, standalone ADUs in MU-L are limited to 450 square feet per floor, and garage-based units may not exceed 625 square feet, excluding balconies. All ADUs must match the principal dwelling in exterior materials and design. Zoning review is required prior to permitting, and permits must be obtained through the Planning and Development Services Department.
Yes. In the Village of Salado, building permits are required for new construction, including portable cabins and accessory buildings. Permit applications must include a completed form with a detailed site plan showing setbacks, building dimensions, and proximity to property lines and septic systems. Salado follows the International Building Code and requires that accessory structures comply with zoning and subdivision ordinances. Building permit fees are based on project value and must be paid prior to plan review. Bureau Veritas conducts inspections, and final approval is required before use. Permits expire if work does not commence within 180 days. For current forms and instructions, visit the Salado Development Services page.
Yes. In Taylor, any accessory or detached structure, including portable cabins, requires a building permit applied for via MyGovernmentOnline. The city enforces the adopted 2018 International Residential and Building Codes. Permit applications must include site plans showing setbacks, foundation or anchorage details, and elevations. Zoning review is required before code review. Setback standards follow zoning district rules, and the Development Services Department oversees inspections and approvals.
Yes. Temple requires a building permit for any new or altered structure, including portable cabins. Applications via MyGovernmentOnline must include a detailed site plan with distances from all property lines (typically 3 ft from side, 10 ft from the house, and 25 ft from commercial buildings). Permits undergo a 10-business-day review, followed by inspections and final sign-off. The city enforces adopted model building codes and zoning standards. For the most accurate information, contact the Temple Building Permits & Inspections Department.
Placing a portable cabin on your property doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little preparation. Use this checklist to stay on track:
Following these steps early can save time, money, and frustration later.
Although each city or town has its own procedures, most follow a similar process when it comes to portable cabins:
If you’re ever unsure, reach out to your local development office for help.
Placing a portable cabin on your property opens the door to new possibilities, extra space, weekend retreats, or even a future home. While permit requirements may vary from town to town, one thing stays the same: taking the time to follow the right steps ensures your investment is secure and compliant.
At Lone Star Structures, we’ve walked this road with customers across Central Texas. Whether you’re just starting to plan or ready to order your cabin, we’re here to help you navigate the process. From understanding local requirements to selecting the right design, we’ll make sure you’re set up for success, legally, structurally, and practically. If you have questions about cabins or permitting in your area, reach out to our team, or visit our portable cabins page to explore your options.
Lone Star Structures is family owned and we started building top-notch storage sheds more than 25 years ago! Old-fashioned values of honesty, integrity, and good work ethic are a part of our tradition and our goal is to honor Christ as we interact with our neighbors and community. Our hard-working family and employees are ready to help your dream backyard become a reality. We stand by ready to help you!
