The plumbing code controls the design and installation of plumbing systems, including sanitary and storm drainage, sanitary facilities, water supplies, and storm water and sewage disposal in buildings. The 2009 Michigan Plumbing Code went into effect August 20, 2010. Provisions for one- and two-family dwellings are included in the 2009 Michigan Residential Code.
Plumbing is the practice, materials and fixtures used in the installation, maintenance, extension, and alteration of all piping, fixtures, plumbing appliances, and plumbing appurtenances in connection with sanitary drainage or storm drainage facilities; venting systems and public or private water supply systems, within or adjacent to any building or structure.
Plumbing work shall not be started until a permit for such work has been issued by the appropriate enforcing agency.
A permit is not required for repairs which involve only the working parts of a faucet or valve or clearance of stoppages provided alterations are not made in the existing piping or fixtures.
To obtain plumbing permits, an applicant shall be a licensed plumbing contractor or a homeowner installing his/her own plumbing, building sewer, or private sewer. The state or a governmental subdivision shall require the plumbing contractor to record his or her current plumbing contractor license number on the permit application. A licensed plumbing contractor shall designate 1 or more licensed master plumbers employed full-time who directly supervise the installation of plumbing to obtain permits using the license number of the plumbing contractor. The master plumber's license number must also be recorded on the permit application.
Permits for a building sewer/private sewer or water service, only, may be issued to other than licensed contractor/master plumbers. Contact should be made with the enforcing agency to determine any local requirements relating to water services and building sewer installation which may be in effect.