Port Townsend, WA Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code
- State amendments
- WAC Chapter 51-56
- Enforcing official
- PCD director or designee
- Penalty basis
- Chapter 1.20 PTMC
Summary
Port Townsend enforces the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code as amended by the state, and plumbing work needs a permit under the adopted building code administrative rules.
F. The Uniform Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, as amended by the Washington State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-56 WAC (including adoption of Appendices A, B and I).
G. The Washington State Energy Code, Commercial Provisions, 2021 Edition, including Appendix chapters, as adopted and amended by the Washington State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-11C WAC.
H. The Washington State Energy Code, Residential Provisions, 2021 Edition, including Appendix chapters, as adopted and amended by the Washington State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-11R WAC. (Ord. 3315 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 3269 § 1 (Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 3152 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016; Ord. 3093 § 1 (Exh. A), 2013; Ord. 3039 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2947 § 1, 2007).
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 3364, passed May 18, 2026).
Full Breakdown
The city adopts the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code, as amended by the Washington State Building Code Council in WAC 51-56, by reference in PTMC 16.04.020(F). Administrative provisions from International Building Code Chapter 1 govern permitting, inspection, and enforcement for all codes listed in PTMC 16.04.020, so plumbing installations and alterations go through the same building-permit process as construction work. The director of planning and community development (or a designee) is the enforcing official for all adopted codes, including plumbing.
Violations & Fines
Violations of Chapter 16.04 PTMC or any permit issued under it are subject to Chapter 1.20 PTMC, which allows abatement, criminal penalty, and civil penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Port Townsend
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