Plumbing Permits
Planning plumbing work on your property? Whether it’s an upgrade, repair, or new installation, it’s important to do it safely — and that starts with a licensed professional and the proper permit.
Who Can Get a Permit?
Only licensed plumbing contractors can apply for permits. The City licenses contractors who employ Journeyman Plumbers with a minimum of two years of experience and interprovincial qualifications. Property owners cannot be issued a plumbing permit themselves, but they are still responsible for making sure work is performed by someone authorized and a valid permit is in place before work begins.
Inspection Process
Staff carry out inspections to ensure work complies with the National Plumbing Code and Plumbing By-Law, which aim to protect public health by setting minimum standards for plumbing system design and installation across all residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
Depending on the project, inspections may occur at multiple stages, whether new construction, renovations, or repairs in existing buildings.
Apply for a Plumbing Permit
You must have your permit before work begins. Permits for all plumbing work can only be issued to plumbing contractors who obtain a Plumbing Contractor's License or a Plumbing Journeymen License from the City of St. John's.
Fees
- For each new fixture installed or roughed-in, including special fixture: $18.48 (minimum permit: $42.24)
- Plumbing renovation without the replacement or addition of fixtures: $42.24
- For the connection of existing plumbing system to each City water or sewer service: $21.12
- Water turn on fee: $66 (new construction only)
For License Fees:
- Journeyman Plumber: $35
- Contractor: $220
Note: The maximum number of plumbing inspections for a single-family dwelling is four, after which a $200 fee may be imposed for each additional inspection as determined by Inspection Services.
Permit fees can be paid in person at the Permit Counter or by phone at 709-576-8694.
The Permit Counter is located on the third floor of the John J. Murphy Building (City Hall Annex), which can be accessed via the pedway on the second floor of City Hall, 10 New Gower Street.
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