Central Texas

Killeen and Waco both check contractors before issuing permits. Killeen's 2023 fee schedule lists an $80-a-year construction registration paid through MGO Connect, and Waco wants proof of state licensing and insurance naming the City of Waco before it issues plumbing, electrical or mechanical permits.

Places in Central Texas

Central Texas contractor and permit checks

Killeen issues building permits and schedules inspections through MGO Connect, where contractors add their registration and pay fees. Waco's Inspection Services Department takes permit applications through its EnerGov Self Service portal, and a trade contractor must create an account, register the company and file a certificate of insurance first. Waco Local Historic Landmarks also need a Certificate of Appropriateness before exterior work that needs a permit, demolition, or changes such as painting, siding or windows.

Outside city limits in Bell County, the County Engineer's Office in Belton (254-933-5275) handles engineering permits, driveway permits and floodplain management. Septic permits go through the Bell County Public Health District, and since September 1, 2024 the required affidavits must be recorded with the County Clerk before the application is filed. The plumbing guide and electrician guide explain which state licenses to check.

Water, mosquitoes and burn bans in Central Texas

Killeen sets its drought stages in step with Bell County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 and the Brazos River Authority, which both started Stage 1 in spring 2026. Killeen's Stage 1, voluntary since April 1, 2026, was still in effect as of October 2026, with even-numbered addresses watering on Sundays and Thursdays and odd-numbered on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Waco's schedule, effective July 1, 2024, allows outdoor watering three days a week, with none on Fridays or between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

The Bell County Public Health District runs mosquito control with 17 traps, tests mosquitoes for viruses such as West Nile, and gives residents free dunks or granules at 4236 Lowes Drive in Temple; the pest control guide covers hiring for yards. Bell County's burn ban for unincorporated areas began September 21, 2026 and was lifted on October 1, 2026 after rainfall, so check before a tree service burns brush.

Central Texas appraisal districts and tax offices

The Bell County Appraisal District has offices in Belton (411 East Central Avenue, 254-939-5841), Killeen (301 Priest Drive, 254-634-9752) and Temple. In McLennan County, the appraisal district is at 315 South 26th Street in Waco (254-752-9864).

McLennan taxes are collected by the county Tax Assessor-Collector, listed at 215 North 5th Street in the Records Building; the state directory entry is old, so call 254-757-5130 before you go. McLennan property can also be taxed by special districts such as McLennan Community College District and watershed districts. In both counties, Texas law sets the protest deadline at May 15 or 30 days after the notice is delivered, whichever is later.

Central Texas places by county

Bell County places

Killeen

McLennan County places

Waco

Lists to start with include Killeen movers and Waco roofers.

Central Texas local business FAQs

Do contractors have to register in Killeen?+

Yes. Killeen's fee schedule effective October 1, 2023 lists an $80-per-year construction registration, added and paid in MGO Connect. A newer schedule exists, so confirm the current amount with the city.

What do I need before filing a septic permit in Bell County?+

Since September 1, 2024, the required affidavits must be recorded with the Bell County Clerk at 1201 Huey Rd. in Belton before the septic application goes to the Bell County Public Health District.

Sources

Guide checked October 22, 2026.