Texas construction site notice: posting rules (2026)
Small sites post it 2+ days before work; large sites before work. Copy the storm sewer operator.
Free. Fills in the right TCEQ form.
Key takeaways
- A small site posts Form 20963. A large primary operator posts 20961 and a large secondary operator 20962.
- The notice goes where the public and local, state and federal authorities can safely and readily view it.
- Small sites post the notice at least 2 days before work starts. Large sites post it before work starts. A copy goes to the storm sewer operator at least 2 days before.
- It stays up until final stabilization.
The site notice is a one-page TCEQ form. You post it where people can read it.
Which form do I post?
| Case | Form | Signature on the form |
|---|---|---|
| Small site, 1 to under 5 acres | 20963 (12-19-2022) | Yes, certification under II.E.2 |
| Small site, low potential for erosion | 20964 | Yes, plus the county window dates |
| Large site, primary operator | 20961 | No signature block |
| Large site, secondary operator | 20962 | Yes, certification under II.E.3 |
What does a small-site notice say?
Operator, contact and phone; project description and location; start date; end or stabilization date; where the SWP3 is kept; the signed certification; that the storm sewer operator was notified and when; and the removal date.
Where do I post it?
Post it where it is safely and readily available for viewing by the general public and local, state and federal authorities.
A posted copy may have a redacted signature if a signed original with a viewable signature is on site.
On a linear project, post near where work is actively underway. You may move it along the project.
Who gets a copy?
The operator of the storm sewer system that receives your runoff, called the MS4 operator. This is usually a city, county or district.
The permit says the copy goes to the operator of any storm sewer system that receives your runoff. You find that city, county or district yourself.
Some cities ask for more. Houston asks for a copy of the notice at least 2 days before earth disturbing work. See the Houston guide.
How does it come down?
Remove it only after final stabilization. Fill in the removal part and send the completed notice to the storm sewer operator within 30 days. Coverage ends when the notice is removed.
Read small-site closeout.
FAQ
Does a house under 1 acre need a notice?
Not under the TCEQ permit, if it is under 1 acre and not part of a larger plan. Check your city.
What if I start without posting?
The permit says small sites must post before starting. TCEQ orders have fined builders for lapsed coverage and for work before authorization. See real TCEQ penalties.
Facts and sources
- TCEQ permit TXR150000 (2023), Parts II.E, II.F, III.D
- TCEQ forms: 20961, 20962, 20963, 20964
- Houston Permitting Center construction site notice page
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