Arizona, Coconino County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Coconino County Plumbing Permit Requirements

Coconino County requires permits for various construction and remodeling projects, including those involving plumbing. These permits are essential for ensuring that work meets minimum safety standards and is performed according to code. Properties in unincorporated areas of Coconino County are subject to these permit requirements.

The Coconino County Building Division, part of the Community Development Department, is responsible for administering and enforcing building codes and permit processes. They adopt and utilize various International Code Council (ICC) codes, including the 2018 International Plumbing Code, along with state-specific codes like the Arizona State Plumbing Code.

For properties in unincorporated areas, building permits are generally required. It is crucial to verify with Coconino County Community Development if a specific parcel is suitable for building, as permits may not be issued for properties that are too small for their zoning district or were created without proper approvals.

Plumbing permits, along with mechanical, electrical, and manufactured home permits, are typically valid for six months. If the work is not completed within this timeframe, a new permit will be necessary.

Coconino County utilizes an Online Permit Portal for permit applications, payments, status tracking, and inspection requests. This portal is the primary method for submitting zoning permit applications and payments.

Key points regarding permits in Coconino County:

Permits are required for installations like new water heaters, furnaces, or air conditioners, ensuring work is done to code and by licensed professionals.
Building permits are required in all unincorporated areas of the county.
Plumbing permits are valid for six months; work must be completed within this period or a new permit is needed.
The county uses the 2018 International Plumbing Code and the Arizona State Plumbing Code.
The Coconino County Building Division aims to safeguard public safety, health, and welfare through its permitting and inspection processes.

Resources to Learn More

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

Arizona Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Plumbing Code Adoption in Arizona

Arizona does not have a single, mandatory statewide plumbing code. Historically, legislation was enacted to create a state-level commission and mandate a uniform code, but those provisions were subsequently repealed. Consequently, the adoption and enforcement of plumbing standards are delegated to local jurisdictions, such as cities, towns, and counties.

Because there is no statewide mandate, local municipalities have the authority to adopt and amend their own plumbing regulations. Many jurisdictions in Arizona choose to base their local codes on nationally recognized model codes, most commonly the International Plumbing Code (IPC) or the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Because these codes are adopted at the local level, the specific edition (e.g., 2018, 2021, or 2024) and any local amendments can vary significantly from one city or county to another.

Regulatory Oversight and Licensing

While the adoption of technical plumbing codes is local, the regulation of plumbing contractors is handled at the state level by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). The ROC is responsible for licensing and regulating contractors to ensure they meet professional standards. While the ROC does not dictate the specific technical plumbing code used by a city, licensed contractors are required to adhere to the codes and ordinances adopted by the local jurisdiction where the work is being performed.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Coconino 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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