What does Houston require for a standby generator?

Houston requires an electrical permit to install a standby generator, issued only to registered master electricians, with gas piping permitted separately. Since September 1, 2025, qualified third parties may review and inspect home backup power systems. Houston also publishes safety rules for portable generators.

Key facts for Houston, TX

• Houston says registered electrical contractors who install a standby generator must apply for an electrical permit.
• Houston issues electrical permits only to registered master electricians.
• After SB 1202 took effect September 1, 2025, Houston allows qualified third parties to review and inspect home backup power installations up to 600 volts for one- and two-family homes.
• Houston's portable generator guidance cites Houston Fire Code Section 1204: keep portable generators at least 5 feet from windows, doors, air intakes and combustible walls, with 20 feet recommended.
• Houston says a portable generator connected to fixed gas piping or the power grid requires a utility release from CenterPoint Energy.
• After Hurricane Beryl in 2024, NWS reported Harris County outages peaked at around 2.7 million people, with over a million still without power four days later.
• NWS recorded two deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning from generator use in Harris County after Hurricane Beryl.

What permit does Houston require?

The Houston Permitting Center says registered electrical contractors who install a standby generator must apply for an electrical permit, and electrical permits are issued only to registered master electricians. The city publishes a Residential Standby Generator Permit and Inspection Guideline (CE-1060).

Houston's generator guidance lists a separate plumbing inspections contact for gas work.

How did SB 1202 change Houston's process?

Houston updated its process when Senate Bills 1202 and 1252 took effect September 1, 2025 (city notice). Qualified third parties, such as master electricians and certified electrical inspectors, may now review and inspect home backup power installations up to 600 volts for one- and two-family homes. Houston publishes a third-party checklist (CE-1416).

What did Hurricane Beryl show?

The National Weather Service reported that Beryl's winds caused widespread tree and power line damage in Harris County. Outages peaked at around 2.7 million people, and over a million were still without power four days later. Two people in the county died of carbon monoxide poisoning from generator use.

What are Houston's portable generator rules?

Houston's portable generator guidance says a permit may not be required, but the construction code still applies. Units must be listed to UL 2201, kept at least 5 feet from windows, doors, air intakes and combustible walls, with 20 feet recommended for carbon monoxide. Never use one in a garage. A portable unit tied to gas piping or the grid needs a utility release from CenterPoint Energy.

How to choose a provider in Houston, TX

• Check the electrical contractor on TDLR's license search.
• For propane, ask for the installer's Railroad Commission license.
• Ask who pulls the electrical and gas permits, or whether third-party review applies.
• Confirm the transfer switch is part of the permitted job.
• Check HOA screening rules.
• Install CO alarms on every level.

Questions people ask

Who can get a generator permit in Houston?

Only registered master electricians. Houston issues electrical permits only to them.

Can a third party inspect my Houston generator?

Yes. Since September 1, 2025, qualified third parties may review and inspect home backup power installations up to 600 volts for one- and two-family homes.

What standard must a portable generator meet in Houston?

Houston's guidance cites Fire Code Section 1204: it must be listed to UL 2201 and used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How far should a portable generator be from my Houston home?

Houston's guidance requires at least 5 feet from windows, doors, air intakes and combustible walls, and recommends 20 feet.

How long were outages after Hurricane Beryl?

NWS reported outages peaked around 2.7 million people in Harris County, with over a million still without power four days later.

Sources

• Houston Permitting Center, Generator Permit
• Houston Permitting Center, Process Updates for Residential Backup Power Systems
• Houston Permitting Center, Portable Generator Safety Information (CE-1420)
• NWS Houston/Galveston, County Impacts Associated with Hurricane Beryl (2024)
• TDLR license search, electricians

This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.