Short answer
Yes, most Texas counties require a permit for pole barns over 200 sq ft — even for agricultural buildings. Ag exemptions cover some but not all rules, and city/county variation is big.
State-level rules
Texas doesn't have a unified state-level building permit for residential or agricultural outbuildings. Permit authority is delegated to counties and cities, which is why the rules vary so much.
Where ag exemptions help — and where they don't
Ag-exempt parcels in Texas generally don't need a building permit for a barn used strictly for agriculture (hay, livestock, equipment). But they do typically still need to comply with:
- Setbacks from property lines
- Floodplain rules
- Electrical permits (if wired)
- Septic permits (if plumbed)
If you plan to use the building for anything non-ag — a shop, storage for personal vehicles, or a barndominium — the ag exemption likely doesn't apply.
How builders handle permits
Most reputable Texas builders will handle the permit process as part of your build contract. Ask up front:
- Is permit filing included in your quote?
- Who pays the permit fee — builder or owner?
- What happens if the county rejects the plan?
Next steps
Start by calling your county permit office with your proposed size and location. Then browse post-frame builders in Texas and ask how they handle permits.