Plumbing: FAQs
When is a permit required?
For all work not listed in Exempt work.
Plumbing work see SBC-3-2010 (IPC 2009 with RI amendments) Chapter 1 Admin. §106 Permits
106.2 Exempt work. The following work shall be exempt from the requirement for a permit:
1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material,such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be
obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
How much will the permit cost?
The Plumbing Permit Fee is based on labor and material (no matter who is paying for materials or doing the work). See the permit fee schedule for Building, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing on pg. 8 of the Guide to Permitting.
Who can take out a permit and who can do the work?
A Rhode Island master plumber may take out a permit and his licensed employees may perform the work.
A home owner of an owner-occupied single family residence may take out a permit if they perform the work without help.
What inspections are required?
At a minimum a Rough Inspection is required when piping is installed before drywall is installed or the work is covered up in any way, and a Final Inspection is required when all fixtures are installed and the hot water is on. For Plumbing work, see SBC-3-2010 (IPC 2009 with RI amendments) Chapter 1 Admin. §107 Inspections.
What kind of materials can be used on the job?
Only approved materials per the Plumbing Code see SBC-3-2010 (IPC 2009 with RI amendments)
Are any other approvals or permits necessary other than the Plumbing Permit?
Often, they are. Contact all appropriate authorities, including Providence Water, State Board of Health, Narragansett Bay Commission, etc. as required. Additional information is available in the Guide to Permitting.
Can permits be issued on the same day or while I wait?
For most work the Permit may be obtained at the counter while you wait, however; large scale projects may require plan review, which can take from 15 to 30 business days.
Are the Codes available for reference?
Code books are available from the Rhode Island State Building Commission. They may be available at your public library (they are not available on-line, except for purchase.) See State of Rhode Island Building Code Commission or NASCLA Publications, Inc.