Jackson, Tennessee Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Jackson, Tennessee Plumbing Permit Ordinances
In Jackson, Tennessee, plumbing work requiring a permit is overseen by the City of Jackson Building & Codes Department. Properties within the city limits may also require permits from the Madison County Building Department.
Permits are generally required for activities such as adding new plumbing fixtures, replacing or installing water heaters, and rerouting pipes.
The City of Jackson has adopted codes that include the 2018 International Plumbing Code.
Permit fees can vary based on the scope of the work. For instance, adding a new fixture might cost between $55-$175, while water heater replacement could range from $40-$110. Rerouting pipes may cost between $110-$450. A general application fee of $90 is also noted, with specific fees for different types of structures and projects.
It is important to note that replacing a fixture like a faucet or toilet typically does not require a permit.
The City of Jackson Building & Codes Department is located at 119 East Main St., Suite 208, Jackson, TN 38301, and can be reached at 731-425-8262. Their operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
For projects located within city limits, it is advisable to contact both the City of Jackson Building Department and the Madison County Building Department. The Madison County Building Department can be reached at 731-423-6014.
Resources to Learn More
Because Jackson is located within Madison County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Tennessee, Madison County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Madison County Plumbing Permit Requirements
In Madison County, Tennessee, a separate plumbing permit is required for any plumbing work. This permit can be obtained from the Madison County Building Department. Additionally, a letter from the Madison County Health Department is necessary for septic systems before permits can be issued. The county enforces the 2018 International Building Code and the 2018 International Residential Code (One- and Two-Family Dwelling) Code for its permits and inspections. Inspections must be conducted by a Madison County Building Department Inspector. A pressure test of 40 psi is required before service can be reconnected, and all deficiencies must be corrected prior to service resumption. Permits can be purchased by homeowners for owner-occupied properties or by state-licensed contractors who meet Tennessee requirements.
Unincorporated Areas
The zoning regulations for Madison County, Tennessee, apply to all areas within the unincorporated parts of the county. This includes rules regarding land use and building regulations, as detailed in the Madison County Zoning Map and Ordinance. While specific plumbing permit requirements for unincorporated areas are not explicitly detailed separately from the general county requirements, it is understood that these regulations apply broadly across the county's jurisdiction.
State-Level Plumbing Regulations
Tennessee has adopted the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) and the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) as the base technical standards for residential plumbing systems. State-specific amendments are codified in the Tennessee Plumbing Rules. Generally, most plumbing work in Tennessee requires a license, with homeowners performing work on their primary residence being an exception. For projects valued at $25,000 or less, a Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP) may be sufficient, though LLPs are not universally accepted across all counties and municipalities. Projects exceeding $25,000 require a Mechanical Plumbing Contractor (CMC-A) license, which is recognized statewide.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Tennessee:
Tennessee Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Plumbing Code Adoption in Tennessee
The State of Tennessee adopts the International Plumbing Code (IPC) as its statewide baseline technical standard for plumbing systems. As of the most recent state-level updates, the 2021 edition of the International Plumbing Code is the primary standard adopted by the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office for statewide building construction safety. It is important to note that while the state establishes these minimum standards, local jurisdictions (counties and municipalities) may adopt and enforce their own codes, provided they are equal to or more stringent than the state-adopted baseline.
Regulatory Agencies and Oversight
Plumbing regulation in Tennessee is managed through a multi-layered framework involving several key entities:
- Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO): Operates under the Department of Commerce and Insurance and is responsible for adopting and maintaining the minimum statewide building construction safety standards, including the IPC. The SFMO also oversees the certification of municipal, county, and state-employed plumbing inspectors.
- Tennessee State Plumbing Board: Also operating under the Department of Commerce and Insurance, this board is responsible for the licensure, discipline, and trade practice standards for plumbers across the state. Their authority is derived from Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Title 62, Chapter 6.
- Local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ): Local building departments are responsible for the day-to-day enforcement of plumbing codes, including the issuance of permits and the conducting of inspections for new construction, renovations, and repairs.
Resources to Learn More