Permit Requirements for Lake, Michigan
For Plumbing projects in Lake, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Clare 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 Lake is located within Clare County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Michigan, Clare County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Clare County Plumbing Permit Requirements
In Clare County, Michigan, plumbing permits are handled by the Clare County Community Development department. This department is responsible for issuing permits and conducting inspections for building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work throughout the county, including in unincorporated areas.
Plumbing work cannot commence until a permit has been filed with Clare County. All installations must comply with the State Plumbing Code, and no work should be concealed before it has been inspected and approved.
Jurisdiction and Unincorporated Areas
Clare County Community Development is the enforcing agency for code enforcement throughout the county, except for cities, villages, or townships that have their own permitting authority. For properties in unincorporated areas, permits are generally obtained through the Clare County Community Development office.
Permit Application Process
- Applications can be downloaded from the Clare County Community Development website or obtained directly from their office.
- Completed applications, along with payment, can be submitted to the Clare County Community Development office in Harrison, MI.
- Alternatively, for permits handled by the county, applications can sometimes be dropped off at Clare City Hall, where they will be forwarded to the county.
- Permits are typically valid as long as work is progressing and inspections are requested and conducted. A permit may be canceled if no inspections are requested within six months of issuance or the last inspection.
When a Permit is Required
A plumbing permit is generally required for any work that involves the alteration or disassembly of existing drain, waste, vent, and water distribution piping, or any work that alters a plumbing fixture. This includes new construction, remodels, and significant repairs or modifications to sewer and drain lines. However, permits are typically not required for minor repairs such as leak repair, faucet repair, or clearing stoppages, provided no existing piping or fixtures are altered.
Plan Review
Plans must be submitted before a permit can be issued, with some exceptions. Plans are generally not required for:
- One and two-family dwellings with a building area of not more than 3,500 sq. feet.
- Alterations and repair work deemed minor by the plumbing official.
- Buildings with fewer than 12 required plumbing fixtures.
- Work completed by a governmental subdivision or state agency costing less than $15,000.00.
For all other building types, plans must be prepared by or under the direct supervision of a licensed architect or engineer.
Licensing Requirements
To obtain a plumbing permit, the applicant must be either a licensed plumbing contractor or a homeowner installing plumbing in their own occupied home. Licensed plumbing contractors must record their license number on the application and designate a full-time licensed master plumber to supervise the work. The master plumber's license number must also be on the application. Permits for building sewer or water service only may be issued to individuals other than licensed contractors or master plumbers, but local requirements should be checked.
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