Rockville Maryland Plumbing Permits

Is a permit required to install a new sink, toilet, bathtub, or hot water heater?
A plumbing permit must be obtained prior to commencement of all new plumbing work and most replacement projects.  Replacement of an existing sink or toilet, for example, does not require a permit providing that no modification to the water or sewer connections is made.
 
Homeowners desiring to do his/her own minor plumbing work must provide proof of residences.  Owners of multiple properties cannot obtain permits for homes that are not their primary residences.  Persons renting a home cannot obtain permits for work in the rental property.    

NOTICE:  Homeowners cannot obtain permits for the replacement of water and sewer lines, including the replacement or upgrade of the City water meter setting.  Also, if additional fixtures are added to a residence, the City will require plumbing demand calculations as prescribed in the City plumbing code.  The installation of additional fixtures may require the upgrade of the incoming water supply and meter.  A licensed Master Plumber or design professional must perform all plumbing calculations.  Calculations using criteria established by WSSC will not be accepted.

Is a permit required to do emergency plumbing work?
A licensed Master Plumber may undertake emergency work to rectify an immediate health or hazardous condition without obtaining prior approval.  However, the City must be notified of the situation by faxing a completed application to the Rockville Inspection Services Division at 240-314-8265.  The contractor must follow up with a formal permit submittal the following business day.  All work requiring permits must not be covered or concealed from the inspector’s view.

What happens if work is done without first obtaining the required permit?
The City will immediately assess an investigation fee ranging from $100 to $200 for each permit not obtained.  Also, failure to obtain a permit can result in the issuance of a State of Maryland Uniform Civil Citation with fines up to $1,000.  If the fine is not paid within the timeframe prescribed by law, the City will send the citation to the District Court for prosecution.

Contact Rockville City Hall for more information on this.