Tempe, Arizona Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Tempe, Arizona Plumbing Permit Ordinances
In Tempe, Arizona, the City of Tempe Building Safety Division, under the Community Development Department, is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for plumbing permits. They adopt and enforce the 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with amendments.
Permits are generally required for any plumbing work that affects the water supply, drainage system, or gas lines. This includes, but is not limited to, water heater replacements, new fixture installations, pipe rerouting, and additions to plumbing systems.
Specific Local Zoning or Fee Nuances:
- Permit Application Process: All permit applications must be submitted online through the Tempe Citizen Access (TCA) Portal. A registered account is required to use the portal.
- Fee Structure: Permit fees are based on the total valuation of the project. For example, a permit for a project valued between $1 to $500 is $95 (with a slight increase to $97 effective July 1, 2025). Larger valuations result in higher fees, calculated based on increments of the total value. There are also specific flat fees for certain types of projects, such as refuse enclosures ($104-$106) and demolition permits ($95-$97).
- Annual Permits: Tempe offers an Annual Utilities Permit for electrical utilities and an Annual Maintenance Permit. The Annual Utilities Permit is $1,389 (increasing to $1,424 effective July 1, 2025), and the Annual Maintenance Permit is $279 (increasing to $286 effective July 1, 2025).
- Zoning and Development Code: While specific zoning nuances directly tied to plumbing permits are not detailed in the provided search results, Tempe does have a Zoning and Development Code that governs land use and development. It is advisable to consult with the City of Tempe Building Safety Division or the Community Development Department for any specific zoning considerations that might impact plumbing installations.
- Water Heater Replacements: The Tempe Building Permits Office requires permits for water heater replacements, especially if they involve modifications to gas lines or electrical connections.
Resources to Learn More
Because Tempe is located within Maricopa County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Arizona, Maricopa County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Maricopa County Plumbing Permit Requirements
In Maricopa County, Arizona, plumbing permits are generally required for any new installations, major repairs, or system expansions in both residential and commercial projects. The Maricopa County Planning and Development Department oversees permitting for unincorporated areas. For properties located in these unincorporated areas, the county's Building Permits division handles the permit process. Licensed plumbers are typically responsible for managing permit applications, ensuring compliance with county codes and inspection requirements.
While replacing an existing water heater with a like-for-like model may not require a permit, Maricopa County does offer the option to obtain a permit for inspection purposes. For other plumbing work, such as equipment, water line, sewer, or gas line repairs, and new gas line installations for specific appliances, permits are generally necessary. The county utilizes an online system called Permit Center for submitting applications, searching for permits, and scheduling inspections.
The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has adopted various codes, including the International Plumbing Code (IPC), which must be adhered to for code compliance. Local additions and addenda to these codes are also in effect.
Permit timelines for standard plumbing projects in unincorporated Maricopa County typically range from 7 to 14 business days. Expedited review processes, such as the "Fast Track" program, may be available for simpler projects, potentially reducing review times.
Unincorporated Areas Jurisdiction
For properties situated in unincorporated areas of Maricopa County, the county's Building and Safety Divisions, specifically the Planning and Development Department, hold jurisdiction over plumbing permit requirements. This means that residents in these areas must comply with county-level regulations rather than those of a specific municipality. Licensed plumbers familiar with these county procedures are essential for navigating the application process for properties outside of incorporated city limits.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
- Maricopa County Building Permits are responsible for overseeing rural and unincorporated residential areas.
- Licensed plumbers familiar with county procedures must handle permit applications for properties outside city limits.
- Permit applications are submitted through Maricopa County's online Permit Center.
- Compliance with county codes and inspection requirements is mandatory.
- Standard plumbing projects typically have a permit timeline of 7-14 business days.
- Rural properties may have additional requirements for septic systems and well water connections.
- The International Plumbing Code (IPC), as adopted and amended by Maricopa County, applies to unincorporated areas.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Arizona:
Arizona Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Plumbing Code Adoption in Arizona
Arizona does not have a single, mandatory statewide plumbing code. Historically, legislation was enacted to create a state-level commission and mandate a uniform code, but those provisions were subsequently repealed. Consequently, the adoption and enforcement of plumbing standards are delegated to local jurisdictions, such as cities, towns, and counties.
Because there is no statewide mandate, local municipalities have the authority to adopt and amend their own plumbing regulations. Many jurisdictions in Arizona choose to base their local codes on nationally recognized model codes, most commonly the International Plumbing Code (IPC) or the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Because these codes are adopted at the local level, the specific edition (e.g., 2018, 2021, or 2024) and any local amendments can vary significantly from one city or county to another.
Regulatory Oversight and Licensing
While the adoption of technical plumbing codes is local, the regulation of plumbing contractors is handled at the state level by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). The ROC is responsible for licensing and regulating contractors to ensure they meet professional standards. While the ROC does not dictate the specific technical plumbing code used by a city, licensed contractors are required to adhere to the codes and ordinances adopted by the local jurisdiction where the work is being performed.
Resources to Learn More