City of Amarillo, TX
Home MenuRoofing Information
This Roofing resource page assists with information on the requirements and regulations associated with re-roofing/roofing projects. Compliance with the building codes and safety standards will assist in assuring a successful roofing project.
Basic Requirements
This is a partial list of requirements to aid contractors, suppliers, adjusters, and homeowners.
Permits
All roofing projects require permits, as per section 105.1 of the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC).
Click here for Requirements to Obtain Roofing Permits.
Fees
Contact Building Safety at 806-378-3041 for current pricing.
Permit Number Display
Permit numbers must be displayed and clearly visible from the street.
Drip Edge
A drip edge is a piece of metal flashing installed along the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutter system. Installation is mandatory for all asphalt shingled roofing projects.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Single-station carbon monoxide alarms are required in existing dwellings with attached garages or in which fuel-fired appliances exist.
Click here for Carbon Monoxide Alarm Informational Bulletin
Attic Ventilation
There are specific requirements for proper attic ventilation based on attic area and ventilation type which are important for maintaining air quality, controlling moisture, and preventing damage to roofing materials. The minimum ventilation area required is calculated based on the total square footage of the attic space. Specifically, for every 150 square feet of attic area, there must be at least one square foot of ventilation. For example, if the attic area is 1800 square feet, a minimum of 12 square feet of ventilation is required (1800 / 150 = 12). However, if there is an equal amount of ventilation both at the lower soffit area and the upper static roof area, this requirement can be reduced to 1/300th of the attic area.
Click here for the Re-Roofing Ventilation Guidelines.
Roof Covering Removal
New roof coverings cannot be installed without removing existing layers. There are exceptions for complete and separate metal roofing systems, review current code details for more information.
Vent and Flashing Replacement
Damaged or deteriorated roof vents and flashings must be replaced.
Chimney Crickets/Saddles/Diverters
Chimney crickets/saddles/diverters are wedge-shaped structures constructed on the uphill side of a chimney to divert water around it. They are required for chimneys wider than 30 inches.
Exhaust Vent Termination
There are specific termination requirements for exhaust vents, including dampers and approved caps.
- Exhaust vents shall have dampers and screen (clothes dryer vents shall be without screen)
- Fuel fired appliances shall have approved/listed termination caps as required by manufacturer
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood shakes and shingles must only be used on solid sheathing. (See code R905.8, as amended). Material for shakes and shingles will be a minimum Grade 1 as graded per the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau.
Roof Slope for Drainage
Roofs shall be sloped as required for drainage unless designed for water accumulation.
Contractor Registration
All contractors, person or business, must register before performing work within city limits.
Click here for Roofing Contractor Registration Requirements.
Penalties for Unpermitted Work
- $250.00 First occurrence plus the cost of the normal permit fee
- $500.00 for each additional occurrence plus triple the required permit fee
Additional Resources
Contact Building Safety for more information 806-378-3041.