What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Atlanta, Texas?

In Texas, there is no single statewide “general contractor” or “handyman” license; most handyman-type work is allowed without a state license so long as you do not perform regulated trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.) and you follow local permitting rules. Texas does not provide a clear statewide dollar-threshold “handyman exemption” like some states; instead, licensure turns on the type of work (regulated trade vs. unregulated), and on specific local registration/permit rules.

The magic number in TX: $None. Jobs under $None (labor + materials combined) don't require a contractor license — you can take those as a handyman. Jobs at or above $None require a contractor license. Know your number, know your limit.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Painting (interior/exterior) where no lead-abatement certification is required (pre-1978 lead paint rules may apply to contractors doing renovation for compensation)
Minor drywall patching and texture repair
Basic carpentry: trim, baseboards, interior doors (like-for-like), cabinet hardware
Assembling furniture, installing blinds/curtain rods, wall mounting (non-structural) shelves/TV mounts (use proper anchors; avoid cutting into electrical/plumbing)
Fence repairs that do not involve significant structural/engineered components (local permits may apply for new fences)
Minor caulking/grouting and tile repair (non-structural, no shower pan rebuild requiring plumbing changes)
Gutter cleaning and minor gutter repairs
Deck board replacement/repair that does not alter structural members (new decks/structural modifications commonly require permits/engineering)

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Atlanta

Based on the TX threshold, handymen in Atlanta commonly take on:

Painting (interior/exterior) where no lead-abatement certification is required (pre-1978 lead paint rules may apply to contractors doing renovation for compensation)
Minor drywall patching and texture repair
Basic carpentry: trim, baseboards, interior doors (like-for-like), cabinet hardware
Assembling furniture, installing blinds/curtain rods, wall mounting (non-structural) shelves/TV mounts (use proper anchors; avoid cutting into electrical/plumbing)
Fence repairs that do not involve significant structural/engineered components (local permits may apply for new fences)
Minor caulking/grouting and tile repair (non-structural, no shower pan rebuild requiring plumbing changes)
Gutter cleaning and minor gutter repairs
Deck board replacement/repair that does not alter structural members (new decks/structural modifications commonly require permits/engineering)

⚠️ What Requires a License

Electrical contracting/installation/repair beyond very limited minor replacement tasks—Texas electrical licensure through TDLR is generally required for electrical work performed for compensation
Plumbing work regulated by TSBPE (running new pipe, altering supply/drain/vent, water heater install in many jurisdictions, sewer line work, etc.)—requires proper plumbing licensure and permits
HVAC/air conditioning & refrigeration system installation, service, and refrigerant-related work—requires TDLR ACR licensing and often EPA 608 compliance
LP-gas/propane system work—regulated by the Railroad Commission of Texas LP-Gas program
Any work requiring a building permit where the permit must be pulled by a licensed trade contractor (common for electrical/plumbing/HVAC permits)
Specialty regulated work (examples: elevator/escalator work, fire alarm/extinguisher systems)—requires applicable Texas licenses through TDLR/other agencies

What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work

In TX, you can take jobs under $None (labor + materials) without a contractor license. When a client asks, be straightforward: for jobs under this threshold, you're operating legally as a handyman. For larger projects, refer them to a licensed contractor or get licensed before bidding that work.

Business License — Atlanta

Required. Business Permit / Occupation Tax Certificate (city-level business registration)

Setting Up Your Business in TX

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in TX: $300 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Atlanta

Step 1: Register your business entity (LLC recommended) with the Texas Secretary of State ($300 filing fee).
Step 2: Confirm whether the City of Atlanta requires a business permit/occupation tax certificate for contractors; obtain it before advertising/starting jobs inside city limits.
Step 3: Get general liability insurance (and commercial auto if using a work truck).
Step 4: Define your service list to avoid regulated trades unless you (or a subcontractor) hold the required Texas trade licenses; verify permit triggers with Atlanta City Hall for the specific job types you plan to offer.

Research generated by AI. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.