How to Get a Fort Worth Contractor Registration Bond (2026)

Starting a construction or utility project in Fort Worth, Texas? You'll likely need a contractor registration bond before the city will issue your permits. This guide covers the specific bond types and city requirements.

Who Needs a Contractor Bond in Fort Worth?

The City of Fort Worth requires any firm, business, or individual obtaining permits for work in the public right-of-way (the "parkway") or on municipal infrastructure to be licensed and bonded.

Common trades requiring these bonds include:

• Excavation and Paving Contractors
• Utility and Sewer Contractors
• Driveway and Sidewalk Builders
• Storm Drain and Street Contractors
• General Commercial Contractors

Types of Bonds Required by the City

Depending on your scope of work, the Fort Worth Development Services Department requires specific bonds:

1. Parkway Contractor Bond

This is the most common bond for contractors working on driveways, sidewalks, or curbs.

• Residential: $10,000 bond requirement.
• Commercial/Utility: $25,000 bond requirement.

2. Street and Storm Drain Contractor Bond

For larger-scale civil infrastructure projects, the city mandates a $25,000 Street and Storm Drain Contractor Bond.

3. Utility Contractor Requirements

Utility contractors performing work in the city must have a $25,000 Parkway bond and may be subject to higher insurance requirements, including umbrella coverage.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Purchase the Bond

You must obtain the original bond from a licensed surety company. The bond must include Power-of-Attorney documentation and be signed and sealed.

Get your Fort Worth contractor bond here from Rock Like Agency.

Step 2: Prepare Insurance Documents

You need a Certificate of Liability Insurance. The City of Fort Worth must be named as an "Additional Insured" and "Certificate Holder" on the policy.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Download and fill out the Contractor Registration Application. Ensure your business information matches exactly across your bond, insurance, and application.

Step 4: Pay Fees and Submit

The City of Fort Worth currently charges a $562.50 registration fee. Submit your bond, insurance certificate, application, and payment to the Development Services Department at:

Fort Worth Development Services 200 Texas St. Fort Worth, TX 76102

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the bond actually cost?

You only pay a small premium, not the full bond amount. For a $10,000 or $25,000 Fort Worth contractor bond, the annual cost is typically between $100 and $250, depending on your business history and credit.

How long is the registration valid?

Fort Worth contractor registrations expire one year from the date of issuance. You must renew your bond and insurance annually to maintain your standing with the city.

What happens if my bond expires?

If your bond or insurance lapses, the city will suspend your registration, and you will be unable to pull new permits or schedule inspections on existing projects until the paperwork is updated.