- Do I need to get a permit to replace my hot water heater?
Yes, in order to ensure proper installation and compliance with required codes, a permit is required.
- Can you recommend a plumbing contractor?
No, but for inquiries concerning licensed plumbers, contact a Permit Technician at 240-313-2460, Extension 2, Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
- What is the cost of a plumbing permit?
The cost of the permit depends on the extent of the work being done. Please see Plumbing Permit Fees.
- What is the application process?
Plumbers or their representatives may apply in person or by mail.
The application will be checked for the following:
- Completeness
- Valid and current business and masters license numbers
- Up-to-date insurance certificate
- Outstanding Notices for "Violation for the premise" (outstanding fees or fines will be collected with the permit fee)
- Building Permit (if required for the work being done) issuance prior to the plumbing permit application
If all conditions are met
- Fees are calculated and collected
- A receipt is issued
- A permit number is assigned
- The permit is issued while the customer waits
- How long will it take to process a plumbing permit?
Processing a plumbing permit for walk-in transactions usually take no more than 15 minutes. Mail-in applications are usually processed within two working days. However, a plumbing permit is contingent on the building permit approval and will not be issued until all approvals have been received for the building permit.
- Can a homeowner do their own plumbing work?
Washington County is permitted to grant a homeowner a permit to those qualified to perform work on their own residence. The homeowner can do plumbing in or on his or her place of residence owned by him or her. Homeowners requesting to perform their own HANDS-ON plumbing work shall take a written or oral examination of basic plumbing skills, given by the Washington County Department of Permits & Inspections on a one-time basis only. After receiving a score of 70% or greater the homeowner will be permitted to obtain a plumbing permit to perform his/her own hands-on plumbing work within the confines of his/her own dwelling, up to 3 feet (915 mm) from the foundation wall on the building drain. Homeowners making application must sign a release agreement stating that he/she intends to personally occupy the dwelling that said house is not for sale, rent or commercial use, and that the house is not being built or remodeled by the property for the purpose of offering it for sale, rent or commercial use. A valid drivers license or photo identification shall be presented at time of examination.
- What are the minimum fixture requirements for residential construction?
1 water closet, 1 lavatory, 1 bathtub/shower, 1 kitchen sink and 2 automatic clothes washer connection.
- How can I find out if a contractor is a State Licensed Plumbing Contractor?
Visit the State of Maryland Dept. of Licensing & Regulation website at http://www.dllr.state.md.us/license/occprof/plumber.html.
- How does someone apply for a Washington County Plumbing License?
Refer to the Permits tab under Plumbing Licensing and Forms.
- How does someone apply for a Washington County Mechanical License?
Currently Washington County does not have a mechanical license. A copy of the Maryland State HVAC license must be submitted with the first completed Washington County Mechanical Permit that is applied for.
Permits Home Page
Washington County Home Page
Document Modified:
8/2/07 1:50 PM