In my area a permit would be required. But for your specific area of Texas, I have no idea. Ask your city/town or if you live in the county, ask the county or state.
The problem with connecting generators to your panel is that they can "back feed" into the electrical lines in the neighborhood, possibly electrocuting someone who thinks the power is off. So good idea to have it inspected whether you have to or not. (CYA)
Also as to generators, these provide "dirty power". Electronic things do not like the electricity provided by generators. Might possibly damage electronic things. Best to use a "power line conditioner" or a computer type UPS with power line conditioner between the generator and anything electronic.
For example I have a generator. When power goes out, I will directly connect my refrigerator, freezer, window A/C, or space heater. (Not all at once since not enough power.) But if I want to connect my computer, satellite TV, stereo, etc., I will connect my UPS between the generator and these.
I just run extention cords all over the place.