Nashua, New Hampshire Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Nashua, New Hampshire Plumbing Permit Ordinances
In Nashua, New Hampshire, the Department of Building Safety is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for plumbing permit ordinances. They are responsible for ensuring all construction and development projects comply with local regulations and building codes.
Plumbing work requires a separate permit, distinct from a general building permit.
Permit Application and Submission
- Permit applications can be submitted electronically via email to [email protected], by mail, or in person at City Hall. An after-hours drop box is also available at the Elm Street entrance of City Hall.
- Residential permits typically require one set of paper plans, while commercial and multi-family projects require two sets of paper plans and an electronic set.
- Permits are generally valid for 6 months. If work has not commenced or has been abandoned, no refund is issued. A partial refund (50% of the permit fee, excluding the non-refundable application fee) may be available if work has not started.
Fee Structure
Permit fees in Nashua are itemized and can vary based on the project type and scope. While a comprehensive fee schedule is available by ordinance (Ordinance-18-012), some general fee structures are outlined below:
- Application Processing Fee: A nonrefundable application processing and review fee is required. For residential plumbing (one- and two-family and townhouses), this fee is $50. (Note: Some sources indicate a $30 fee for this category, potentially from an older ordinance.)
- Per Fixture/Connection Fee: A fee is charged per fixture or fixture connection, such as a tub, shower, sink, water closet, etc. This fee is $9.50 per fixture. (Note: Some sources indicate $7.50 per fixture, possibly from an older ordinance.)
- Other Fees: Additional fees may apply for items such as pumps and ejectors ($18), electric water heaters ($18), water pipes ($18 per 100 feet), and sanitary sewer connections ($35).
- Surcharge for Late Permits: A surcharge of 100% of the applicable fee (not to exceed $275) is applied if construction begins before a permit is obtained.
- Reinspection Fee: A fee of $75 is charged for reinspection of work that failed an initial inspection or if the premises were unavailable.
- Square Footage-Based Fees: For general building permits, fees are often calculated based on square footage: $0.18/sq ft for residential (one- and two-family, townhouses) and $0.28/sq ft for commercial (including multifamily).
Zoning and Other Nuances
- Separate permits are required for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work.
- Site plan changes and changes in use require approval from the Planning and Zoning Commission.
- New Hampshire state licenses are required for plumbing and electrical work. A NH Gas Fitter License is required for gas piping and gas-fired equipment installation.
- Homeowners may be exempt from plumbing licensing requirements for installations, repairs, or replacements in their own residence, provided they are performing the work themselves. However, all installations must comply with the New Hampshire and Nashua Plumbing and Mechanical Codes.
- The Nashua Plumbing Code adopts the International Plumbing Code, with amendments.
Resources to Learn More
Because Nashua is located within Hillsborough County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
New Hampshire, Hillsborough County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Hillsborough County, New Hampshire Plumbing Permit Requirements
In Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, plumbing permit requirements are primarily handled at the local city and town level, rather than by a county-level building and safety division. This means that the specific rules, application processes, fees, and inspection requirements will vary depending on the municipality within Hillsborough County where the property is located.
New Hampshire state law mandates that plumbing work must adhere to the state plumbing code, which is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with state-specific modifications. Generally, a permit is required for new plumbing installations, alterations, extensions, and repairs that involve opening concealed piping.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
Information regarding specific plumbing permit requirements for properties in unincorporated areas of Hillsborough County is not readily available. However, it is typical for unincorporated areas to fall under the jurisdiction of the county or a designated regional authority for building and permitting services. Given that Hillsborough County's permitting is decentralized to individual cities and towns, it is advisable to contact the Hillsborough County government directly or the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal's Office for guidance on unincorporated areas.
General Plumbing Permit Requirements in New Hampshire:
- Licensed Professionals: In most cases, plumbing permits can only be obtained by a New Hampshire Licensed Master Plumber. Some municipalities may have exceptions for homeowners performing work on their own primary residence, but this often requires a pre-permit meeting and adherence to all code requirements.
- Permit Application: A completed permit application form is typically required. This may include a detailed drawing, sketch, or formal plan set of the proposed work.
- Inspections: Plumbing work usually requires inspections at various stages, such as "underground" or "rough-in" inspections before walls are closed up. The plumber must be present for inspections, and advance scheduling is necessary.
- Code Compliance: All plumbing work must comply with the New Hampshire State Plumbing Code, which is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC).
- Fees: Permit fees are generally based on the number and types of fixtures, the scope of work, or project valuation.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within New Hampshire:
New Hampshire Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
State Statutes and Adopted Plumbing Codes
The state of New Hampshire regulates plumbing through the New Hampshire State Building Code, which is established under RSA 155-A. The state has adopted the 2021 edition of the International Plumbing Code (IPC) as the technical standard for plumbing installations, alterations, and repairs. This model code is applied with specific New Hampshire-approved amendments to address local climate, geological, and infrastructure conditions.
Primary State Boards and Agencies
Plumbing regulation in New Hampshire is managed through a collaborative framework involving several entities:
- New Hampshire Building Code Review Board (BCRB): This board is responsible for reviewing, recommending, and adopting the state building codes, including the International Plumbing Code and its associated state-specific amendments.
- Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC) - Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board: This board oversees the licensing of plumbing professionals (apprentices, journeymen, and master plumbers). It sets standards for the profession, administers licensing exams, and handles disciplinary actions.
- Department of Environmental Services (NHDES): This department manages environmental regulations that intersect with plumbing, particularly regarding private well water quality and private septic system requirements.
Resources to Learn More