Reading, PA Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Who may apply
- Only a licensed master plumber
- Per shop
- One master plumber authorized at a time
- Permit expiration
- Voids after 6 months unstarted
- Homeowner exception
- Interior water piping and rain leaders only
- Penalty
- $500 to $5,000 per violation
Summary
Reading's Plumbing Code lets only a licensed master plumber apply for a plumbing permit, caps each shop at one authorized master plumber, and voids unused permits after six months.
106.3 Applications for permits. Application for permits shall be made by a person holding a current master plumber's license issued by the Code Service Division of the City of Reading. Each shop must a have a master plumber assigned to apply for permits from Codes Service Division for the City of Reading. There can be only one master plumber in any one shop to pull permits.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-8: Current through August 10, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Reading adopted the 2009 International Plumbing Code as its Plumbing Code (Section 180-901), then amended it: Section 180-902.A(5)(a) restricts permit applications to a currently licensed master plumber, and limits each shop to one master plumber authorized to pull permits at a time. Plans must accompany applications, and a permit voids if work has not started within six months or sits abandoned 180 days. A narrow homeowner exception lets an owner-occupant of a single-family home handle only interior water piping and rain-leader work without a license, subject to inspection before concealment.
Violations & Fines
Unlicensed plumbing work violates the Plumbing Code and is a summary offense: a fine of $500 to $1,000 for the first two offenses, up to $5,000 after that, plus possible jail time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for a plumbing permit in Reading, PA?
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reading
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