Do I need a permit for a water heater replacement in Detroit, MI?

Yes. Plumbing alterations beyond the working parts of a faucet or valve need a permit, and gas piping work needs a mechanical permit.

Note: No project-specific official page found; based on the general permit rule.

Cost

Fee not extracted; see the BSEED fee schedule. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://detroitmi.gov/departments/buildings-safety-engineering-and-environmental-department-bseed/building-permits

Where to apply

City of Detroit BSEED (Accela online portal or Development Resource Center)

Permitting authority: City of Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED). Local historic districts need a permit for all exterior work. Based on BSEED's "Do I Need a Building or Trade Permit?" guide. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“A permit is required for alterations to plumbing systems that involve more than the working parts of a faucet or valve, or clearance of stoppages”

Source: https://detroitmi.gov/sites/detroitmi.localhost/files/2025-12/Do%20I%20NEED%20A%20PERMIT_0.pdf

“For any heating, cooling, gas piping, air distribution or exhaust system – new or alteration”

Source: https://detroitmi.gov/sites/detroitmi.localhost/files/2025-12/Do%20I%20NEED%20A%20PERMIT_0.pdf

Verified: 2026-10-19 · Status: verified · Confidence: medium