Richardson, TX Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- International Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition
- Sewer depth minimum
- 12 inches below grade
- Water heater access
- Required above 8 feet elevation
- Storm drain design rainfall
- 5 inches, 100-year hourly rate
- Appeals body
- Board of Adjustment
Summary
Richardson enforces the 2021 International Plumbing Code, with Appendices C and E, as the Richardson Plumbing Code under Sec. 6-287. Any plumbing work requires a permit through the Building Inspection Department, and the city has amended dozens of IPC sections to fit local conditions.
There is hereby adopted by the City of Richardson, Texas, the International Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition, together with Appendices C and E and amendments, a copy of which is on file in the city secretary's office and made a part of this article for all purposes, the same as if copied in full herein... "[A] 102.5.1 Change in tenancy or ownership. It shall be unlawful to make a change in tenancy or ownership of any existing building or lease space without first making application for and obtaining approval for a certificate of occupancy."
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
" Section 6-288 then amends dozens of IPC provisions for local conditions. 1). 10). 6). 5). 1). 1). 4).
Violations & Fines
Performing plumbing work, or changing tenancy or ownership of a building or lease space, without the required permit or certificate of occupancy violates the Richardson Plumbing Code. Failed inspections require correction and a paid reinspection fee before the Building Inspection Department will sign off, and unresolved code disputes are appealable only to the board of adjustment, not directly to municipal court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plumbing code does Richardson use?
Do I need a permit to change tenants in a commercial space?
How deep must a building sewer be buried in Richardson?
Where do I appeal a plumbing permit decision?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richardson
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Richardson to another location·View the Texas building safety overview
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Plumbing Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle plumbing permits.