Permit Requirements for Frankfort, Michigan
For Plumbing projects in Frankfort, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Benzie County.
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:
General Plumbing Guidelines
Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.
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Because Frankfort is located within Benzie County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Michigan, Benzie County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Benzie County Plumbing Permit Requirements
Benzie County, Michigan, has specific requirements for plumbing permits, primarily managed by the Benzie County Building Safety and Code Enforcement Department. This department is responsible for enforcing state codes and regulations related to construction, including plumbing, within the county and in Springdale Township, Manistee County. For properties in unincorporated areas, the county's building department typically holds jurisdiction.
County-Level Jurisdiction
The Benzie County Building Safety and Code Enforcement Department handles the administration and enforcement of state codes for new construction, existing buildings, remodels, and various specialized inspections, including plumbing. They utilize BS&A computer programs for permit processing and code enforcement. Inspectors are registered in compliance with state requirements and perform plan reviews and site inspections.
Rules for Unincorporated Areas
For properties located in unincorporated areas of Benzie County, the county's building department is the primary point of contact for obtaining plumbing permits and ensuring compliance with the Michigan Plumbing Code. The county enforces state codes, and permits are generally issued to licensed plumbing contractors or homeowners performing work on their own single-family dwelling, provided a permit is secured and inspections are performed. The State of Michigan Plumbing Act also outlines requirements for permits and licensing, emphasizing that governmental subdivisions shall issue permits only to licensed plumbing contractors, with specific exceptions for homeowners and minor repairs.
Permit Application and Plan Review
A Residential Plumbing Permit application is required for plumbing work. Plans must be submitted for review if a dwelling unit is 3,500 square feet or greater, or for most commercial projects. However, plans are not required for one- and two-family dwellings under 3,500 square feet, minor alterations and repairs, or buildings with fewer than 12 plumbing fixtures. Permit fees are subject to change, with an increase approved for 2026.
Key Contacts and Information
- Benzie County Building Department: 231-882-9673
- Inspection Request Line: 231-882-9674 (Call by 3:30 PM for next available inspection)
- Email Applications: [email protected]
- Plumbing & Mechanical Inspections: Tuesdays & Thursdays
- Plumbing & Mechanical Inspector: Dean Eldred, 231-660-4990
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Michigan:
Michigan Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
State Statutes and Adopted Plumbing Codes
The State of Michigan regulates plumbing installations through the Stille-DeRossett-Hale Single State Construction Code Act (Public Act 230 of 1972). Under this authority, the state has adopted the 2021 Michigan Plumbing Code, which is based on the 2021 edition of the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with specific Michigan amendments. This code became effective on March 12, 2024. For detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories high, the plumbing requirements are governed by the Michigan Residential Code.
Primary State Board and Agencies
The primary agency responsible for the administration and enforcement of plumbing codes and licensing in Michigan is the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), specifically through the Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC). Within the BCC, the Plumbing Section oversees inspections and code enforcement. Additionally, the State Plumbing Board, created by Public Act 733 of 2002, is responsible for making recommendations for plumbing code rules, licensing plumbers, and establishing regulations necessary for the enforcement of the act.
Resources to Learn More