Permits and paperwork for a Texas mobile home move
1. The road move (TxDMV)
Homes wider than Texas's legal limits need a TxDMV manufactured housing single-trip permit: one move, a specific route, valid up to 5 days, $40. A double-wide moving on its own axles needs a separate permit for each half [5]. Sections over 16 feet wide need escort cars [5]. Your mover normally gets the permit; TDHCA says the person or company that moves the home must get any required permit [8].
2. Ownership (TDHCA Statement of Ownership)
After the move, apply to TDHCA for a new Statement of Ownership showing the new location, with a copy of the moving permit. Any lienholder must be paid off or give written consent to the move [8]. If the home was moved in the past without a permit, TDHCA may accept a tax certificate from the old county showing no taxes due instead [8].
3. Installation (TDHCA licensed installer)
Only a TDHCA-licensed installer may install or re-level the home [8] [7]. The installer files a Notice of Installation (Form T) within 7 days, with a $75 fee for one section plus $25 per extra section, so TDHCA can inspect before skirting [9] [10]. See how to check a license.
4. Wind zone
Moving into Cameron or Willacy County (Brownsville, Harlingen, San Benito, Raymondville, South Padre)? Those are Wind Zone II counties under Texas law. A home built on or after September 1, 1997 can only be installed there if it was built to HUD Wind Zone II standards; homes built before that date have no restriction. Hidalgo County itself is Wind Zone I. Check the data plate inside your home before you plan the move. [11] [8]
5. Local rules
Cities, counties and mobile home parks may require their own placement permits, setbacks, utility inspections or park approval. Ask the new park or the city/county permit office before you book the move. Budget $500 to $2,000 for local permits in many places [4].