Plumbing Permits in Surrey
What Surrey homeowners should know about plumbing permits, applications, and inspections.
Contact
Reviewed Permit Insights
Key information from official Surrey sources. Always confirm with the municipality before starting work.
Permit required under city bylaw
A plumbing permit is required under the Surrey Plumbing Bylaw 6569 for plumbing work.
Certain repairs typically exempt
The city states no permit is required for: repairing leaks in pipes, replacing plumbing fixtures (must conform to bylaws/code), or removing stoppages for cleanout purposes only (no cutting of pipes).
Online applications for contractors
Online plumbing permit applications are available for registered contractors. Registration is required via email to plumbing@surrey.ca.
Next-day inspections available
Request inspections online or by phone (604-591-4245). Call by 3pm for next business day inspection.
What Usually Requires a Permit
Installing or modifying plumbing system
Required under Surrey Plumbing Bylaw 6569.
Water heater installation
All water heater installations require plumbing permit.
Adding new fixtures
New bathroom, additional sink, shower, etc.
Relocating fixtures
Moving plumbing to a new location requires permit.
Backflow prevention devices
Cross-connection control devices require permit.
Gas plumbing (any)
All gas work requires permit and licensed gas fitter.
What Typically Doesn't Require a Permit
Repairing leaks in pipes
Explicitly listed as not requiring permit by City of Surrey.
Replacement of plumbing fixtures (same location)
Explicitly listed as not requiring permit. Fixtures must conform to bylaws and code.
Removing stoppages (cleanout only)
No permit needed if removal is for cleanout purposes only and does not require cutting of pipes.
How to Apply
- 1Review requirements on the official plumbing permits page first.
- 2Contractors: Apply online through Surrey's plumbing permit portal (registration required via plumbing@surrey.ca).
- 3Provide associated building permit number when applying for plumbing permit.
- 4Hydronic heating drawings must be uploaded at time of application.
- 5Licensed plumbers can apply on behalf of homeowners.
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
- •Request inspections online or by phone at 604-591-4245.
- •Call by 3pm for next business day inspection.
- •Daily inspection schedules available online (North, Central, South areas).
- •Supporting documents email to plumbing@surrey.ca.
- •Work not ready for scheduled inspection may be subject to re-inspection fee.
Working With a Plumber
Most licensed plumbers in Surrey 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.
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Surrey permit requirements change. We'll let you know when we update this page.
This page provides general guidance based on City of Surrey requirements as of the last review date. Requirements change — always verify current rules with the official City of Surrey permit page before starting work.