TDLR Architectural Barriers Project Registration (Texas Accessibility Standards) — projects of $50,000+: Austin restaurant guide
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Architectural Barriers
What it is
Texas law requires any building project with an estimated construction cost of $50,000 or more to be registered with TDLR before construction, have its construction documents reviewed by a Registered Accessibility Specialist (RAS), and be inspected by a RAS for compliance with the 2012 Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS). Projects under $50,000 must still comply with TAS and the federal ADA but need not register.
When a restaurant needs it
Any construction, alteration or tenant finish-out with an estimated cost of $50,000 or more (the owner may delegate to the architect or tenant by filing an Owner/Agent designation).
How to apply
Register the project in TABS (TDLR's online system) or mail the Project Registration Form, pay the $175 filing fee, hire a RAS for the plan review (before inspection) and the inspection after construction.
Documents you’ll need
- Project registration (TABS)
- Full set of construction documents for RAS plan review
- Owner/Agent designation (if the architect or tenant registers)
- RAS inspection report
Good to know
This is separate from the City building permit and from ADA. TDLR can require corrective work after the RAS inspection, so have the RAS review the plans early, not just inspect at the end.
Official source
TDLR — Architectural Barriers program at a glance ($50,000 threshold, fees) · TDLR — Architectural Barriers FAQ
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.