Plumbing Permits in Richmond
What Richmond homeowners should know about plumbing permits, applications, and inspections.
Contact
Reviewed Permit Insights
Key information from official Richmond sources. Always confirm with the municipality before starting work.
Online permits through MyPermit
Plumbing, Gas, and Sprinkler permits can be applied for online through MyPermit via your MyRichmond account.
Homeowner DIY permits not online
Homeowner applications for Trades permits (where the homeowner will be completing the work) are currently not available online. Contact the Permit Centre for assistance.
Business licence required
Your Business Licence must be issued and active to receive your permit. Inter-Municipal Business Licence (IMBL) from Metro-West municipalities is accepted.
What Usually Requires a Permit
Plumbing system installation or modification
Plumbing trades permits available through MyPermit.
Water heater replacement
Tank and tankless water heater installations require permit.
Adding new fixtures
New bathroom, additional fixtures, etc.
Relocating fixtures
Moving plumbing requires permit for new pipe routing.
Gas plumbing (any)
All gas work requires permit and licensed gas fitter.
What Typically Doesn't Require a Permit
Faucet replacement (same location)
Like-for-like fixture swap typically does not require permit. Confirm with city if unsure.
Toilet replacement (same location)
Same position, same connections.
Drain cleaning
Maintenance work, no permit needed.
Minor valve repairs
Shut-off valve replacement in same location.
How to Apply
- 1Review requirements on the Building Approvals page first.
- 2Contractors: Apply online through MyPermit (requires MyRichmond account).
- 3Homeowners doing their own work: online application not available; contact Permit Centre at 604-247-4638.
- 4Ensure Building Permit is issued before applying for plumbing permit (for new construction).
- 5Active Business Licence or IMBL required to receive permit.
Inspections
Most plumbing work requires at least two inspections: a rough-in inspection (before walls are closed) and a final inspection (after completion).
What to Expect
- •Schedule inspections online at inspections.richmond.ca.
- •Rough-in inspection before closing walls.
- •Final inspection after work completion.
- •Mobile app available for MyRichmond on iOS and Android.
Working With a Plumber
Most licensed plumbers in Richmond will handle permit applications and inspection scheduling as part of their service. Ask about this when getting quotes.
Verify your plumber is licensed through SkilledTradesBC. They should be able to provide their certification number on request.
Owner-Builder Work
Page Updates
Not Sure If You Need a Permit?
Use our quick checker tool to get guidance on common plumbing work.
Check Your ProjectGet notified when permit info updates
Richmond permit requirements change. We'll let you know when we update this page.
This page provides general guidance based on City of Richmond requirements as of the last review date. Requirements change — always verify current rules with the official City of Richmond permit page before starting work.