Restaurant Build-Out Checklist for Dallas Permits

Opening a new restaurant in Dallas is exciting, but the path from concept to grand opening involves navigating a detailed permitting process. Whether you’re developing a trendy café, deli, or fine dining space, proper planning is essential to stay compliant and on schedule. At Squarefoot Construction, our team brings the commercial construction expertise in Dallas needed to help owners and investors achieve a seamless restaurant build-out from start to finish.

Understanding the Dallas Permit Process

Before construction begins, you’ll need to secure the appropriate permits from the city and county. This includes building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits, all of which fall under the umbrella of health department approvals. Working with a professional contractor experienced in restaurants and delis ensures your project aligns with both health and safety codes before inspections take place.

Our design/build approach simplifies this process by integrating design, engineering, and permitting under one roof. This means fewer delays, clearer communication, and faster approvals—keeping your opening date within reach.

Key Requirements for a Restaurant Build-Out in Dallas

When planning your restaurant build-out in Dallas, it’s important to understand the city’s specific requirements for commercial kitchens and customer areas. The following checklist highlights some of the most important permit-related considerations:

• Grease Trap Installation: A properly sized grease trap is required to prevent fats, oils, and grease from entering the sewer system. The Dallas Water Utilities Department must approve your system before installation.
• Ventilation and Hood Systems: Proper venting is crucial to meet building code and health department standards. This includes mechanical exhaust for cooking equipment and fire suppression integration.
• ADA Compliance: Accessibility standards must be met for entrances, restrooms, seating, and pathways. This ensures that all guests, including those with disabilities, can safely and comfortably enjoy your restaurant.
• MEP Sequencing: Coordinating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems (known as MEP sequencing) is key to maintaining project efficiency and avoiding costly rework.
• Health Department Coordination: Final inspections and approvals are required before you can legally open to the public. Early coordination prevents delays during the final stages of construction.

Streamlining the Build-Out Process

With so many moving parts, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by paperwork and requirements. That’s where commercial construction services from Squarefoot Construction make the difference. Our team handles the details, from architectural coordination to subcontractor scheduling, ensuring that your project remains compliant and on time.

By leveraging our design/build capabilities, we can address design challenges early, sequence MEP trades effectively, and ensure every phase of construction aligns with Dallas building codes. We also stay in close communication with city inspectors and the health department, minimizing delays and maintaining transparency throughout your project.

Partner with Squarefoot Construction

Your vision deserves to be built on a foundation of precision and compliance. Whether you’re opening a fast-casual deli or a full-service restaurant, Squarefoot Construction brings the expertise and organization needed to navigate Dallas’s complex permitting process. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and learn how our commercial construction services can turn your restaurant vision into a fully permitted, ready-to-open space.