Orlando Plumbing Permit Guide: What You Need to Know (2025)
Plumbing permits protect your home from faulty work that can cause water damage, mold, and health hazards. In Orange County, most significant plumbing work requires a permit and inspection. This guide explains when plumbing permits are required in Orlando and how the process works.
Key Takeaways
- New plumbing installations and pipe replacements require permits in Orange County
- Simple repairs (fixing a leak, replacing a faucet) typically do not require a permit
- Your licensed plumber must pull the permit — not you
- Plumbing permit fees run $75–$250 in Orange County
- Unpermitted plumbing work can cause insurance and resale problems
When Is a Plumbing Permit Required in Orange County?
A plumbing permit is required for: new plumbing installations, water heater replacement, pipe replacement or rerouting, adding new fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers), sewer line work, and water service line replacement.
Simple repairs typically do not require a permit: fixing a leaking pipe, replacing a faucet or showerhead, replacing a toilet (same location), and unclogging drains.
When in doubt, ask your licensed plumber. They know the local requirements and will advise on permit requirements for your specific project.
The Plumbing Permit Process in Orange County
Your licensed plumber submits a permit application to Orange County Building Division. For standard residential plumbing projects, permits are typically issued within 1–3 business days.
Plumbing permit fees run $75–$250 depending on project scope. Water heater replacements are at the lower end; new plumbing installations are at the higher end. Your plumber should include permit fees in their quote.
After the work is complete, an inspection is required. For work inside walls, a rough-in inspection is required before walls are closed. A final inspection is required after all fixtures are installed.
Special Plumbing Considerations in Orlando
Orlando's older neighborhoods (College Park, Colonialtown, Delaney Park) often have cast iron drain pipes that are corroding and need replacement. This is a significant project requiring permits and typically costs $8,000–$20,000 for a whole-home repipe.
Water heater replacement is one of the most common permitted plumbing projects in Orlando. A standard water heater replacement requires a permit and inspection in Orange County. Tankless water heater installation also requires a permit.
Orange County is served by municipal water and sewer in most areas. If your home has a septic system (common in rural Orange County areas), septic work requires separate permits from the Orange County Environmental Health division.
Permit Checklist
- Confirmed plumber will pull all required permits
- Permit number provided before work begins
- Rough-in inspection scheduled if work is inside walls
- Final inspection scheduled and passed
- Certificate of completion received
Red Flags to Avoid
- Plumber suggests skipping the permit
- Asks you to pull the permit yourself
- Work begins before permit is issued
- Cannot provide permit number when asked
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Orlando?
Yes — water heater replacement requires a plumbing permit in Orange County. Your plumber must pull the permit and schedule an inspection.
How much does a plumbing permit cost in Orange County?
Plumbing permit fees run $75–$250 depending on project scope.
Do I need a permit to fix a leaking pipe?
Simple repairs like fixing a leaking pipe or replacing a faucet typically do not require a permit. New installations and pipe replacements do.
What does a plumbing inspector check?
Proper pipe sizing, correct materials, secure connections, proper venting, water pressure, and compliance with Florida Plumbing Code.
Do I need a permit for a whole-home repipe in Orlando?
Yes — whole-home repiping requires a plumbing permit and multiple inspections in Orange County.
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