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Bellingham, WA Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Adopted code
2021 Uniform Plumbing Code
State amendment
WAC 51-56
Permit required
before any plumbing work
Issuing office
Building Official

Summary

Bellingham adopts the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code by reference under WAC 51-56, and its Construction Administrative Code requires a permit before installing, altering, or replacing any plumbing system in the city.

Except as amended by this chapter, the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, Chapter 51-56 WAC, as now and hereafter amended by the state of Washington, is hereby adopted by reference.

D. The 2023 National Electric Code (NFPA 70), as amended by Chapter 296-46B WAC, is hereby adopted by reference.

E. In accordance with state requirements, 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code – Chapter 51-55 WAC. [Ord. 2024-03-009 § 1; Ord. 2022-02-004 § 1; Ord. 2021-01-003 § 1; Ord. 2017-06-016 § 1; Ord. 2016-07-019 § 1; Ord. 2014-06-029 § 1; Ord. 2013-06-039 § 1; Ord. 2010-06-036].

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-06-015, passed June 1, 2026).

Full Breakdown

BMC 17.10.010(C) adopts the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, as amended by Washington under Chapter 51-56 WAC. Construction Administrative Code Section 101.5.6 applies that code to installation, alteration, repair, and replacement of plumbing systems, fixtures, and appurtenances connected to water or sewage service, and Section 105.1 requires the owner or contractor to obtain a Building Official permit before starting any such regulated plumbing work in Bellingham.

Violations & Fines

Unpermitted plumbing work is a civil infraction of up to $2,050 per violation (minimum $100), or, if done knowingly, a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to $5,000 and 364 days in jail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for plumbing repairs in Bellingham?
Yes, generally. Section 105.1 requires a permit to install, alter, repair, or replace plumbing systems, though minor leak repairs and stoppage clearing are exempt under Section 105.2.
What plumbing code does Bellingham use?
The 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code, adopted by reference under BMC 17.10.010(C) as amended by the state in Chapter 51-56 WAC.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bellingham

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsBuilding PermitsSome RestrictionsBuilding InspectionsSome RestrictionsElectrical PermitsSome RestrictionsDoor Locking HardwareSome RestrictionsCarbon Monoxide DetectorsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/NeuterSome Restrictions

All Bellingham rules

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