Thinking about turning your garage into a flex room, office, or guest suite? In Converse, a well-planned conversion can add useful space, but the rules are strict and the details matter. You want a safe, comfortable room that passes inspections and protects your resale and insurance. This guide covers the permits, codes, and common pitfalls so you can move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Do you need a permit in Converse?
Converse treats a garage conversion as permitted work. The City’s Converse permits list specifically includes “converting a garage into any other type of room.” You’ll submit plans, pay fees, post the permit on site, and pass inspections.
Converse has adopted the 2024 International Codes and 2023 NEC. Plan reviews and inspections use those editions. Reviews can take about two weeks or more depending on completeness, and permits can expire if work does not start within 180 days or finish within a year. The City posts inspection scheduling and permit expiration rules.
What your plan must include
Expect to submit a complete package: plot plan, floor plan with new use, framing/structural details, foundation info when relevant, trade plans, and energy/insulation documentation. See the City’s Required Plans checklist. If you change structure or spans, an engineer’s stamp may be required.
Garage conversions typically need separate permits for each trade. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC have their own applications and inspections. Review Converse’s Permit Types and Regulations before you apply.
Contractors must be registered with the City before a permit is issued. Homeowners can do work on their primary residence, but it can affect liability and insurance. Check current rules for contractor registration and ask the building department if you qualify as an owner-builder.
Safety and code must-haves
Egress and sleeping rooms
If your new room will be a bedroom, it must have an emergency escape opening. Typical IRC minimums include about 5.7 square feet of net clear opening (5.0 at grade), a maximum sill height of around 44 inches, and minimum clear dimensions of about 20 inches wide by 24 inches high. These measurements are taken when the window is open. Undersized egress is a common fail.
Fire separation and doors
Inspectors look for proper fire separation where the garage meets the dwelling. This often includes gypsum board on the garage side of walls and a rated, self-closing door where openings remain. Missing drywall or the wrong door rating is another frequent issue.
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
New outlets, lighting, and circuits must meet the 2023 NEC, including GFCI and AFCI where required. Plumbing tie-ins and new fixtures need the right traps, vents, and permits. HVAC must be sized and extended correctly to serve the conditioned space. Unpermitted or DIY trade work is a leading cause of failed inspections and insurance problems.
Energy and ventilation
Habitable rooms must meet current energy code. Plan for insulation in exterior walls and ceilings, compliant windows, and proper ventilation. Converse enforces the 2024 code set, so energy details will be reviewed with your plans.
Structural considerations
If you frame in the garage door opening, you may need beams or headers sized to carry loads and a foundation detail. The City may require an engineer’s stamp for bigger changes. Include framing and foundation notes in your submittal.
Administrative and legal pitfalls in Converse
Unpermitted work
Skipping permits can lead to stop-work orders, fines, orders to undo work, insurance claim issues, and closing delays. Converse explains the rationale for permits and inspections on its permits page. Many insurers view unpermitted work as a coverage risk. Review general guidance on the insurance risks of unpermitted work.
HOAs and ARC approval
If your neighborhood has an HOA, apply for architectural approval before city permits, especially if you alter exterior finishes or parking. Texas regulates HOA architectural review. See [Texas Property Code Chapter 209](https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/DocViewer.aspx?DocKey=PR/PR.209&ExactPhrase=False&HighlightType=1&Phrases=30/%7C.3&QueryText=30/+ .3) for the framework.
Floodplain and utilities
Check whether your lot sits in a special flood hazard area. The Bexar County flood maps help you flag extra requirements early. If you plan to add plumbing, confirm wastewater service and any connection rules. Portions of northeast Bexar County, including parts of Converse, are served by the San Antonio River Authority for wastewater.
Parking and zoning
Converting a garage can reduce off-street parking. Converse prompts applicants to confirm zoning and parking requirements during pre-permit checks. Plan for replacement parking if needed so you stay compliant.
Separate unit or short-term rental
Creating a separate dwelling can trigger different zoning, utility, and certificate-of-occupancy requirements. Before you design for a rentable unit, confirm your path with the Converse building department.
Your pre-project checklist
- Step 0: Call the Converse Building Department at 210-658-8285 to confirm permit needs and code editions. Reference the Building page.
- Step 1: Check zoning and flood status. Use City maps and the Bexar County flood maps.
- Step 2: If you have an HOA, get ARC rules and written approval. See the state framework in [Texas Property Code Chapter 209](https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/DocViewer.aspx?DocKey=PR/PR.209&ExactPhrase=False&HighlightType=1&Phrases=30/%7C.3&QueryText=30/+ .3).
- Step 3: Assemble plans. Follow the City’s Required Plans checklist for drawings and energy documentation.
- Step 4: Hire a Converse-registered contractor and confirm trade licenses, or register as an owner-builder if you qualify. Review contractor registration.
- Step 5: Build your timeline. Allow about two weeks or more for plan review, then schedule inspections. Review inspection and expiration rules.
- Step 6: Call your insurer. Discuss scope, permits, and any premium or coverage impacts. See general risks of unpermitted work here.
- Step 7: Plan for taxes. Added conditioned space can be reappraised by BCAD. Read Bexar Appraisal District guidance.
Common inspection fails in Converse
- Missing or undersized bedroom egress window.
- Improper electrical work, including missing GFCI/AFCI or overloaded circuits.
- Inadequate fire separation or a non-rated, non-self-closing door at the garage opening.
- HVAC sizing or duct extension not documented to code, or missing insulation and ventilation details.
- Unpermitted or incorrect plumbing connections without required traps or backflow protection.
Timeline and budget planning
Set realistic expectations. Build in about two weeks or more for plan review, plus time for phased inspections. Permits expire if you do not start within 180 days or finish within one year. Re-inspection fees apply if items fail, so complete rough-in checks before closing walls.
Thinking about resale
Conversions done to code protect you at closing. If your project adds habitable square footage, the appraisal district can revalue the property. Expect a notice from BCAD and budget for possible tax changes. You can review the process in Bexar Appraisal District guidance.
Ready to plan your next move? Whether you are adding space before selling or optimizing your home for the long haul, connect with the local team that understands Converse codes, neighborhoods, and buyer expectations. Reach out to Harkin Realty for tailored advice and a smooth path from project to purchase or sale.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to convert my garage in Converse?
- Yes. Converse lists garage conversions as permit-required work, with plan review and inspections.
How long does permit approval take in Converse?
- Plan review can take about two weeks or more depending on the completeness of your submittal.
Can I do the work myself as the homeowner?
- Homeowners can work on their primary residence, but contractors must be registered and trades usually need licensed permits and inspections.
What egress window size is required for a bedroom conversion?
- Bedrooms need an emergency escape opening. Typical IRC minimums are about 5.7 square feet of net clear opening, with a maximum sill height of around 44 inches.
Will my property taxes go up after a garage conversion?
- If the project adds habitable square footage, BCAD may reappraise the home and adjust your property taxes accordingly.
