Ann Arbor, Michigan Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Ann Arbor Municipal Plumbing Permit Ordinances
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, plumbing permits are managed by the City's Planning and Development Department, specifically through its Building Department. This department is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for plumbing permits. All plumbing work requires a permit before commencement, and installations must comply with the State Plumbing Code. Work cannot be concealed until it has been inspected and approved by a city inspector. Permits are typically valid as long as work is progressing, with a provision for invalidation if work is not started or is suspended for 180 days. Permits can be closed if no inspections are conducted within 180 days of issuance or the last inspection.
For applications submitted after March 2022, permits can be accessed and managed through the online portal at stream.a2gov.org. Older applications can be found in the A2Trak archive system.
Trade permits, including plumbing, are generally processed within 2-3 business days after application submission via STREAM. However, multiple applications on a property may require additional processing time. Plumbing permits associated with a building project will not be released until the main building permit is approved.
Specific local zoning or fee nuances for Ann Arbor include:
- Permit Fees: A base application fee of $15 is required for all permits, which is non-refundable and does not include inspections. Fees for inspections are typically on a pay-as-you-go basis and invoiced upon completion.
- Plan Review Fees: For building permits, a plan review fee is due upon application submittal. Trade permit plan examination fees are 25% of the Building Plan Examination Fee.
- Reactivation of Permits: Expired permits can be reactivated for 90 days at a time for a $35 fee per permit.
- Refund Policy: Permits under $140 are not eligible for refunds. For permits over $140, a partial refund may be available, but review fees are non-refundable if the review has occurred, and no refunds are issued if an inspection has taken place.
- Address Change Fee: There is a $100 fee for changing or creating new addresses for a development.
- Materials: Materials from the City main to the building entrance must meet City of Ann Arbor requirements. Piping inside the building downstream of the City water meter should be copper, with specific requirements for dissimilar metals.
Resources to Learn More
Because Ann Arbor is located within Washtenaw County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Michigan, Washtenaw County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Washtenaw County Plumbing Permit Requirements
In Washtenaw County, Michigan, plumbing permits are regulated by the Washtenaw County Building Inspection Department, which enforces the 2015 Michigan Plumbing Code. Permits are generally required for most plumbing installations and modifications, including new construction, replacements, additions, and alterations affecting the supply, drainage, or venting configuration.
County-Level Jurisdiction and Building & Safety Divisions
The Washtenaw County Building Inspection Department oversees plumbing permit requirements for various jurisdictions within the county, including Augusta Township, the City of Dexter, Lodi Township, Saline Township, Scio Township, Sharon Township, and Webster Township. For areas outside of these specific jurisdictions, residents should contact their local municipality.
Plumbing work generally cannot commence until a permit application has been filed with Washtenaw County Building Inspection. All installations must comply with the State Plumbing Code, and no work should be concealed until it has been inspected and approved by a Washtenaw County plumbing inspector.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
Washtenaw County Building Inspection covers specific townships and cities within the county. For properties located in unincorporated areas not explicitly listed as covered by Washtenaw County Building Inspection, it is essential to contact the local municipality directly to determine their specific plumbing permit requirements.
When work is to be done within the road right-of-way (33 feet or less from the center of the road), a permit is required from the Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC). A copy of this permit must be submitted before the plumbing permit process can be completed.
Permit Application and Inspection Process
- Permit applications can be submitted by mail, fax, or via a secure drop box at 705 N Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor.
- For permits issued after June 21, 2021, inspections can be scheduled through the online Energov portal or by calling the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system at 866-458-7358.
- For permits issued before June 21, 2021, inspections can be scheduled by calling the Washtenaw County Building Inspection office at 734-222-3900 or by faxing the request to 734-222-3930.
- A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to schedule inspections.
- Plans are generally not required for one- and two-family dwellings under 3,500 square feet, minor alterations and repairs, or buildings with fewer than 12 fixtures. Plans are required for all other building types and must be prepared by a licensed architect or engineer.
- Homeowners can apply for permits and perform work on their own primary residence, provided they sign a homeowner affidavit. For commercial, industrial, apartments, and rental units, a licensed plumbing contractor must apply for and perform the work.
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