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Michigan, Kalamazoo County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

In Kalamazoo County, Michigan, plumbing permit requirements are primarily handled at the local level, often through a county-wide building authority or individual township/city building departments. For properties in unincorporated areas, the jurisdiction typically falls under the Kalamazoo Area Building Authority (KABA) or the Kalamazoo County Environmental Health Department for specific utilities like wells and septic systems.

Kalamazoo County Building & Safety Divisions and Jurisdiction

The Kalamazoo Area Building Authority (KABA) is responsible for issuing building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits for several participating jurisdictions within Kalamazoo County, including Comstock Township, Kalamazoo Township, the City of Parchment, Pine Grove Township, Richland Township, and the Village of Richland. For plumbing work, permits are required for installations such as new fixtures, drains, and water/sewer connections. Plumbing work cannot begin until a permit has been filed with and issued by KABA. All installations must comply with the Michigan Plumbing Code, and no work should be concealed until it has been inspected and approved.

Homeowners can obtain permits if they are occupying the dwelling, but work on rental properties must be done by a licensed contractor. Licensed contractors must register their license with the enforcing agency.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

For properties located in unincorporated areas of Kalamazoo County, the Kalamazoo Area Building Authority (KABA) generally handles plumbing permit requirements. KABA serves as a single point of contact for permits and inspections for its member municipalities. If a project involves utilities like wells or septic systems, the Kalamazoo County Environmental Health Department would be the relevant authority.

The Michigan Plumbing Code applies statewide, and local jurisdictions enforce it. Therefore, even in unincorporated areas, adherence to the Michigan Plumbing Code is mandatory. Permits are generally required for new plumbing installations, replacements, additions, and alterations affecting the supply, drainage, or venting configuration. Minor repairs, such as those involving only the working parts of a faucet or valve, or clearing stoppages without altering existing piping or fixtures, may not require a permit.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Michigan, including Kalamazoo County.

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

Select a City in Kalamazoo County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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