Washington, DC Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Fine per violation
- up to $2,000
- Jail per violation
- up to 90 days
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
- Covers
- fixtures, water supply, drainage work
Summary
The District's Construction Codes control all plumbing design, installation, and repair work, requiring a permit reviewed by DCRA before fixtures, water supply lines, or drainage connections are installed or altered.
The design, installation, repair, or removal of plumbing fixtures intended to receive and discharge water, liquid, or water-carried wastes into the drainage system with which they are connected; the introduction, maintenance, and extension of a supply of water through a pipe or pipes, or any appurtenance thereof, in any building, lot, premises, or establishment; ... the performance of all classes of work usually done by plumbers and drain layers including the removal of plumbing fixtures, pipes, and fittings.
Full Breakdown
D.C. Code § 6-1403(a)(5) puts the design, installation, repair, or removal of plumbing fixtures, water supply piping, and drainage connections under the Construction Codes, which incorporate the District's adopted Plumbing Code. Under § 6-1405.01, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs administers and enforces building permits for this work, and § 6-1405.03(b)(2)(E) lists plumbing plans as a distinct component of the construction documents a permit application must cover before work begins.
Violations & Fines
Violating the Construction Codes, including doing plumbing work without an approved permit, is punishable under D.C. Code § 6-1406(a) by a fine up to $2,000 or up to 90 days imprisonment per violation, plus possible injunctive relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for plumbing work in D.C.?
What happens if I skip the permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Washington
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