Residential Bathroom Remodel Requirements


A building permit is required for the replacement, remodeling, or alteration of an existing bathroom. All work shall comply with the currently adopted Building Codes and applicable local amendments.

This requirement applies to all residential property types, including:

  • Single Family
  • Two-Family dwellings
  • Townhomes/Coach
  • Condominiums/Apartments

 

Note: Replacement of cabinetry in a bathroom also requires a permit, as such work typically involves code-required updates to plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems.

PERMIT SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Permit application
  • Scope of work/Contract
  • Construction drawings: to include an existing layout and a proposed layout
  • Manufacturers cut sheets (fixtures, valves, and exhaust fans)
  • Letter of Intent from a licensed plumber
  • Contractors must be properly licensed and registered

CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS

Structural

  • Load-bearing walls shall not be altered without approved structural details
  • A Design Professional may be required for load-bearing changes

Plumbing

  • Fixtures shall be listed and installed per the manufacturer's instructions
  • Indicate if the tub will be replaced with a shower. 
  • Toilet clearance:15 inches from the centerline to the side wall
  • Sink Clearance: Minimum 21 inches clear space in front of fixtures
  • Showers: minimum 900 sq. in. with a minimum 30-inch dimension
  • Shower/tub wall finishes must be non-absorbent in the wet area
  • Window must be glazed and 50 % openable or exhaust vented directly outdoors
  • Traps and vents required for all fixtures
  • Shower valves must be pressure-balanced
  • Anti-scald protection required for tubs and showers
  • Plumbing riser (isometric) diagram for new or relocated fixtures
  • Updated piping and venting required for relocated fixtures

Electrical

  • Minimum one GFCI-protected receptacle within 3 feet of lavatory
  • All bathroom receptacles shall be GFCI-protected
  • Lighting required; fixtures over tubs/showers must be rated for damp or wet locations
  • Electrical plan showing lighting, receptacles, and circuits
  • Electrical work shall comply with the NEC as adopted
  • Indicate circuits will be ARC fault protected

Mechanical

  • Bathroom must have an operable window or an exhaust fan vented to the exterior
  • Mechanical ventilation information (bathroom fan)
  • Exhaust fans shall not be discharged into attics or crawl spaces
  • Show all existing and modified supply and return vents

Fire and Life Safety

  • Fire-resistance ratings of walls and ceilings shall be maintained
  • Show the location of all Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms and indicate how they will be interconnected

Energy Efficiency

  • Alterations affecting the building envelope shall comply with IRC energy requirements

Note: Additional information may be required during permit review.

REQUIRED INSPECTIONS

  • Rough: Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, Building
  • Final: Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, Building

All inspections require a minimum of 24-hour notice.

Construction hours are Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Construction on Sundays is prohibited.