Shed: Austin's real threshold (200 sq ft, 15 ft) is more generous than the 120 sq ft general pattern shown elsewhere on this site — this page uses Austin's actual confirmed numbers.

Fence: Austin explicitly does NOT regulate fence material (wood, metal, stone) outside the Wildland-Urban Interface zone — the general 'masonry/concrete needs a permit' pattern shown for other cities does not apply here.

Deck: Austin's exemption bundles four conditions together (not attached, no egress, ≤200 sq ft, ≤30 in) — all four have to hold for the deck to be exempt.

Retaining wall: Austin's published exemption threshold (4 ft, unless supporting a surcharge or in a flood hazard area) matches this checker's general pattern exactly, so no city-specific override was needed here — confirmed as accurate for Austin.

Water heater replacement: Austin runs a dedicated, expedited 'Residential Change-Out' permit program specifically for water heater and HVAC swaps — its existence confirms a permit is expected even for a same-for-same replacement, just processed faster than a full building permit.

EV charger installation: Austin Energy (the city-owned utility) directly confirms a City of Austin electrical permit and inspection is required for both hardwired charging stations and new receptacle installations for plug-in stations — matching this checker's general pattern exactly for Austin.

While you are planning work in Austin, you may also want what common household appliances cost to run in Texas, how to dispose of old paint, batteries, and other household hazardous waste, and smoke alarm placement and the 10-year expiration rule.