Permit Requirements for Kingston, Michigan
For Plumbing projects in Kingston, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Tuscola 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 Kingston is located within Tuscola County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Michigan, Tuscola County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Tuscola County Plumbing Permit Requirements
Tuscola County partners with SAFEbuilt for building department services, which include plumbing permits. For projects requiring zoning approval, contact your local zoning administrator before submitting your building permit application. Note that Tuscola Township and Arbela Township are exceptions and may have different procedures.
Plumbing work generally cannot commence until a permit application has been filed with SAFEbuilt. All installations must comply with the Michigan Plumbing Code, and no work should be concealed before inspection.
Permit Application Process
- Applications and other relevant information can be found on the SAFEbuilt website.
- Permit applications can be submitted via mail or in person to SAFEbuilt's office located at 141 S. Almer St., Caro, MI 48723.
- Contact SAFEbuilt at 989-262-4546 or [email protected] for inquiries.
- Inspection scheduling can be done 24 hours a day by calling 800-503-9513. Inspections requested before 4:00 PM will be scheduled for the next business day.
When Permits Are Required
- Permits are generally required for new construction, additions, and renovations.
- Major plumbing repairs, replacements, or modifications to sewer and drain lines require permits.
- Work affecting the drainage-waste-vent (DWV) system, such as adding or relocating fixtures, typically requires a permit.
- Water heater replacement usually requires a permit.
- Gas line installation and modification generally require a permit.
Exemptions and Plan Requirements
- Plans are generally not required for one- and two-family dwellings under 3,500 square feet, minor alterations and repairs, buildings with fewer than 12 plumbing fixtures, or work by governmental/state agencies costing less than $15,000.
- Plans are required for all other building types and must be prepared by or under the supervision of a licensed architect or engineer.
Unincorporated Areas
For properties in unincorporated areas of Tuscola County, the general county-wide permitting process through SAFEbuilt applies, unless specific township exceptions are noted. It is always advisable to confirm specific requirements with the Tuscola County Building Department or SAFEbuilt directly.
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