While it may seem like you’d only need a plumbing permit to perform a large-scale repairs or projects, that’s not the case. Even smaller jobs involving your plumbing system could require you to pull a plumbing permit for a multitude of reasons. In this article, we’ll discuss when—and why—you’d need to get a plumbing permit.

Jobs That Require a Permit

Typically, more complex jobs—where you’ll likely be hiring a plumber to assist—will require a plumbing permit. This includes most subterranean work, such as any jobs involving sewer lines as well as relocating, repairing or replacing pipes or plumbing lines. Adding new plumbing installations, such as a new toilet or bathroom sink, will also require a permit, regardless of whether or not the fixture is going into a brand-new home or an existing structure. Replacing, or upgrading, your water heater will also require a permit due to the complexity of the job and the fact that water heater safety regulations need to be observed.

What Does Not Require a Permit

Fortunately, the DIY fixer can still get quite a bit done without a permit, you just have to know what. Your run-of-the-mill everyday repairs—such as clearing a clogged garbage disposal or snaking a shower drain—will not require a permit. Nor will replacing a pre-existing fixture, such as a toilet, with another fixture in the same spot, as you won’t have to run new pipes. Usually, tasks that don’t require you to alter your plumbing system will not need a permit. Even emergency repairs done to a leaking pipe, that is under 5 feet long, can be done freely.

How to Get a Plumbing Permit

If the job you’re looking to do needs a permit, you should not start on it until you have said permit in hand. A licensed contractor will be able to supply you with a permit or help you apply for one yourself, and established plumbing businesses even have individuals on staff whose primary job is to research and obtain permits for jobs. As plumbing codes and requirements for permits can vary by county, it’s best to rely on a professional when looking to obtain a permit.

Why Do You Need a Plumbing Permit?

While it may seem like an excessive amount of bureaucracy to go through simply to add a toilet into your home or to repair your sewage lines, permits are there for your safety. Not only do they ensure that contractors and plumbers are doing their tasks while following the safety codes and regulations set by your local county, they also act as proof that the work being done on your home or property complies with the necessary regulations set by your district.

Not getting a permit can leave you hurting, financially. Considered a violation of the law, doing jobs that require a permit, without a permit, can lead to costly civil or even criminal penalties. So it’s best to make sure your bases are covered by applying for the appropriate permits with the help and aid of a plumbing professional.

535 Plumbing – Your Plumbing Permit Experts

If you live on Oahu and are in need of a licensed plumber, choose 535 Plumbing for the job! Our team of professional Oahu plumbers are highly skilled and our excellent customer support representatives will work with you to schedule your appointments at a time you most convenient. Learn more and schedule an appointment by calling (808) 300-0535, or Visit Our Contact Us Page. Mahalo!