A plumbing permit is needed when you want to undertake sizable alterations to pipes in the ceiling, wall, or floor. Furthermore, you must have a permit when performing new installations, replacements, or when doing repairs.
You also need the license when replacing drain pipes and unique fixtures like water heaters. However, some permit exemptions exist for minor operations in some states, like clearing stoppages and repairing minor leaks in pipes and drains.
Read on to understand in detail the various instances where a plumbing permit is necessary.
Building Permit Has No Provision for Plumbing Works
Sometimes, building permits have provisions for plumbing works in construction. However, most states require separate plumbing permits that are issued to licensed plumbing contractors.
Always confirm with your local regulations before undertaking plumbing work in any building.
When Replacing a Drain
Replacing a drain line is a complex and time-consuming activity. Due to this project’s complexity acquiring a plumbing permit is necessary.
Municipal Water Supply or Sewer Lines
You need a plumbing permit when connecting or disconnecting a facility to water supply or sewer services. Furthermore, you need this permit when doing repairs, replacements, or demolitions to such connections.
As a licensed plumber, architect, or professional engineer, you must have this permit after submitting plans and drawings for approval.
Working on Water Heaters
Working on water heaters is one of the most dangerous plumbing activities in any building. As a licensed plumber, you need to devolve a lot of time to ensure the system does not pose any threat to occupants. It’s for this reason that a plumbing permit is a must when working on any kind of water heater.
New Plumbing Installations
When you install a plumbing fixture where none existed before, you must have a permit. You may be installing a new wastewater system, a backflow device, a house drain, water supply piping, or any new plumbing fixture.
You may also have to pay a permit fee and have a plumbing inspector from the city perform a plumbing inspection to verify the connection is safe and up to local building code!
Re-piping
Changing all the water piping systems or replacing PVC pipe at home is a significant plumbing undertaking. As a result, you need a permit before any alterations to ensure safety according to set guidelines.
Relocating a Plumbing System
Moving a plumbing system to a new area is a remodeling job. For this reason, all building codes guidelines have to be taken into account.
Fire Suppression Systems
You must have a plumbing permit when working on fire suppression systems like standpipes, fire hydrants, overhead sprinklers, and fire pumps.
As a property owner or a certified plumbing contractor, you must apply for this permit and submit a detailed and complete plan for the fire suppression systems to get approval.
Gas Systems
You need a plumbing permit and a master plumber when installing, altering, or replacing any gas piping systems. A special plumbing permit is issued for medical gas and vacuum systems explicitly used in hospitals and industries.
Get Started on The Permit Application!
Before you proceed with any plumbing project, always check the local building and plumbing codes. Be sure you know the type of plumbing jobs that will require a permit. A plumbing permit application is easy to fill out and keep the city water and sewer pipes in good working order and helps homeowners avoid costly leaks and potential health hazards.
For plumbers, a permit ensures you adhere to the set codes for the public’s safety. If you are a property owner, a permit will enhance efficiency in your work. You will get a permit after application from your local inspection department.