Plumbing Permit in Detroit, Michigan

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a plumbing permit in Detroit?

BSEED requires a plumbing permit for alterations to plumbing systems that involve more than the working parts of a faucet or valve or the clearance of stoppages, and the contractor column of the same guide states the requirement as alterations to plumbing systems including piping. The two exemptions BSEED publishes are the stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe, and the clearing of stoppages or repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures including the removal and reinstallation of water closets where the repair does not require replacing or rearranging valves, pipes or fixtures. If a concealed trap or pipe has to be removed and replaced with new material, BSEED treats it as new work needing a permit and inspection. Work must be performed by a City of Detroit licensed Plumbing Contractor. Plumbing alterations beyond the working parts of a faucet or valve or clearance of stoppages. Always confirm with the office before starting.

How much does a plumbing permit cost in Detroit?

BSEED Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2024, modified 7/18/2025, PLUMBING INSTALLATION PERMITS: "Application Fee (Non-Refundable), Flat" $73; "Each: Stack, Stack Alteration (soil, waste, vent, conductor), Sump, Interceptor, Pump, Device, Plumbing Fixtures, Plumbing Appliance, Plumbing Appurtenance, Plus Any Other Fixture, Drain, Water Connected Appliance or Appurtenance Not specifically Listed, Each" $44; "Building Drain, Building Sewer (sanitary, storm, manhole, catch basin, combined) each one" $146; "Water Distribution System, each one" $66; "Water Service (curb stop into the house), Each" $88. See the official fee schedule for current amounts.

How long does a plumbing permit take in Detroit?

In Detroit, a plumbing permit typically takes about 1 day for a plumbing permit after the application is submitted. Times can vary by workload and project scope, so confirm with the office.

Where do you apply for a plumbing permit in Detroit?

You can apply through the Detroit permit portal or contact the City of Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) directly. The links are listed on this page.

Can a homeowner pull a plumbing permit themselves in Detroit?

Under Michigan law (MCL 339.2403(b), (c); MCL 339.2401(a)(iii), (b)(ii)(A); MCL 339.5737(3)(g); MCL 339.6107(2)(d); MCL 339.5819): Yes. A Michigan homeowner may pull the building permit and do the work on their own home without a residential builder license, because the licensing article both defines the trade to exclude them and exempts them outright. MCL 339.2401(a)(iii) says a residential builder is a person that erects a residential structure except for the person's own use and occupancy on the person's property, and MCL 339.2403(b) exempts an owner of property with reference to a structure on the property for the owner's own use and occupancy. Own use and occupancy is the condition, so the exemption does not cover building to sell, and MCL 339.2403(c) limits owners of rental property to maintenance and alteration of that property. The statute sets no cap on how many times a homeowner may use the exemption; the only frequency rule in the article catches purchase, substantial rehabilitation, and resale of the same structure more than twice in 1 calendar year, and MCL 339.2401(b)(ii)(A) exempts work for the person's own use and occupancy from even that. Homeowners can also pull their own trade permits: electrical work in a single family home and accompanying outbuildings owned and occupied or to be occupied by the person doing the work (MCL 339.5737(3)(g)), their own plumbing, building sewer, or private sewer in their single-family dwelling if a permit is secured (MCL 339.6107(2)(d)), and a heating or refrigerating system if the owner affirms in the permit application that they are or will become the owner and occupant (MCL 339.5819). Confirm how Detroit applies this before you apply.