Skip to main content

Plumbing Permit Information

The Plumbing Code
The purpose of the plumbing code is to insure the proper installation of systems for furnishing potable water, for sanitary sewage disposal and storm drainage; and to insure public safety, health, and welfare insofar as affected by the installation of plumbing.

What is the plumbing code?
The Michigan Plumbing Code controls the design and installation of plumbing systems, including sanitary and storm drainage, sanitary facilities, water supplies, and storm water and sewage disposal in buildings.  Presently, provisions for one- and two-family dwellings are included in the Michigan Residential Code.

Plumbing is the practice, materials and fixtures used in the installation, maintenance, extension, and alteration of all piping, fixtures, plumbing appliances, and plumbing appurtenances in connection with sanitary drainage or storm drainage facilities; venting systems and public or private water supply systems, within or adjacent to any building or structure.

Are plumbing permits required?
Plumbing work shall not be started until a permit for such work has been issued by the appropriate enforcing agency.

A permit is not required for repairs which involve only the working parts of a faucet or valve or clearance of stoppages provided alterations are not made in the existing piping or fixtures.

Do you need a license to do plumbing work?
To obtain plumbing permits, an applicant shall be a licensed plumbing contractor or a homeowner installing his/her own plumbing, building sewer, or private sewer. The state or a governmental subdivision shall require the plumbing contractor to record his or her current plumbing contractor license number on the permit application. A licensed plumbing contractor shall designate one (1) or more licensed master plumbers employed full-time who directly supervise the installation of plumbing to obtain permits using the license number of the plumbing contractor. The master plumber's license number must also be recorded on the permit application.

Permits for a building sewer/private sewer or water service, only, may be issued to other than licensed contractor/master plumbers.  Contact should be made with the enforcing agency to determine any local requirements relating to water services and building sewer installation which may be in effect.

* Permits can be checked and obtained expeditiously online at:  https://aca-prod.accela.com/lara/.  Additionally, permits can be obtained via mail; however, applying by mail may cause delays in the application process.

Plumbing Permit Application *
Plumbing Inspector Region Map

Prior to applying for a plumbing permit, it is suggested the applicant review the Statewide Jurisdiction List. This information is updated regularly due to changes in the plumbing code enforcement that may be conducted by either the state, county or local unit of government. A plumbing permit application must be submitted to the appropriate enforcing agency.

Questions  regarding plumbing permits should be directed to the Building Trades Section at 517-241-9313 or bccpermits@michigan.gov.