Santa Rosa, CA Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- 2025 CA Plumbing Code, Title 24 Part 5
- Local citation
- City Code § 18-24.010
- Sewer connection required
- City Code § 18-24.304.2
- Fixture-swap exemption
- Water-conserving faucets/showerheads, § 18-24.104.2
- Violation penalty
- Gov't Code § 36900, per § 18-24.106.3
Summary
Santa Rosa adopts the 2025 California Plumbing Code by reference, renumbered with an '18-24.' prefix, and requires a permit before plumbing work begins. Every building with plumbing fixtures must connect to a public sewer, an approved private disposal system, or an approved grey water system.
For purposes of citation, all sections of the California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5, 2025 Edition as adopted in Santa Rosa City Code Section 18-04.015, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and its IAPMO Installation Standards, and Appendix A, Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System... as amended by the California Building Standards Commission, as adopted by reference and amended in this Title 18, are renumbered by adding "18-24." before each section number.
Full Breakdown
Chapter 18-24 governs plumbing work. ' before each Plumbing Code section number. 2 requires that every building with plumbing fixtures connect to a public sewer, an approved private sewage disposal system, or an approved grey water disposal system. 2). 3 criteria, so long as the work does not require rearranging valves, pipes or fixtures.
Violations & Fines
Section 18-24.106.3 amends Plumbing Code Section 106.3 so that any violation of the plumbing provisions, as locally amended, is punishable under California Government Code Section 36900. Appeals from a Building Official decision on plumbing permits go to the Board of Building Regulation Appeals under Section 18-24.107.1, following the filing procedure and time limits in Section 18-04.065. Plumbing work performed without a permit triggers the citywide investigation-fee rule in Section 18-08.170: a mandatory special investigation plus an added fee equal to the full permit fee, regardless of whether a permit is ultimately issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plumbing code does Santa Rosa enforce?
Does every building need a sewer connection in Santa Rosa?
Can I replace a faucet or toilet in Santa Rosa without a plumbing permit?
What happens if I violate the plumbing code in Santa Rosa?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Rosa
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Rosa to another location·View the California building safety overview
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