Storm Shelter Permits in Lubbock, TX
The City of Lubbock requires a building permit for every storm shelter installation. The homeowner is responsible for obtaining the permit. We provide manufacturer specifications and documentation to support your application.
The Permit Process, Step by Step
Application Submission
The homeowner submits a building permit application with the City of Lubbock Development Services department, including a site plan showing the shelter location relative to property lines, structures, and utility easements. We provide the manufacturer specifications and documentation needed for your application.
Storm Shelter Supplement Form
Lubbock requires a Storm Shelter/Safe Room Supplement form in addition to the standard building permit. This form documents the shelter manufacturer, model, FEMA compliance, wind rating, and occupant capacity. We provide all the manufacturer information you'll need to complete this form.
Permit Approval
Typical turnaround is 5–10 business days for residential storm shelter permits. Once your permit is approved, contact us to schedule your installation date.
Installation
We install your shelter per manufacturer specifications and local code requirements. The approved permit must be posted at the job site during installation.
Lubbock Setback & Placement Rules
The City of Lubbock enforces specific setback requirements for underground storm shelters. During our site assessment, we verify your property lines, easements, and utility locations to ensure full compliance.
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Side yard setback | 5 ft minimum from property line |
| Rear yard setback | 5 ft minimum from property line |
| Front yard | Not permitted in most residential zones |
| Utility easements | Shelter cannot encroach on any easement |
| Height above grade | 3 inches maximum (Sheltris standard) |
| Drainage | Must not redirect water toward neighboring properties |
Requirements based on City of Lubbock Unified Development Code. Always verified during Sheltris site assessment. See ICC 500 standards →
City of Lubbock Development Services
If you want to verify permit requirements directly, the City of Lubbock Development Services department handles all building permits.
You don't need to contact them — Sheltris handles permitting for every installation. But the info is here if you want it.