Pull Permits for Your Bathroom Renovation
Permits protect you, ensure code-compliant work, and prevent problems when selling your home. Don't skip this critical step.
Quick Summary
Why Permits Matter
Permits ensure your renovation meets local building codes, protecting your safety and investment. The inspection process catches potential problems before they become expensive fixes. When you sell your home, unpermitted work can derail the sale or require costly remediation.
What Requires a Permit?
Usually Requires Permit
- ✓Moving or adding electrical outlets
- ✓Installing new light fixtures (hard-wired)
- ✓Moving plumbing fixtures
- ✓Adding new plumbing lines
- ✓Moving or removing walls
- ✓Installing exhaust fans
- ✓Adding new water heater
- ✓Converting tub to shower
Usually No Permit Needed
- ○Painting walls and ceiling
- ○Replacing faucets (same location)
- ○Replacing toilet (same location)
- ○Installing towel bars, mirrors
- ○Replacing vanity (same footprint)
- ○Updating tile/flooring
- ○Replacing medicine cabinet
- ○Replacing showerhead
Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always check with your local building department—don't assume. Even seemingly simple work may require permits in some areas.
Types of Permits You May Need
Building Permit
Required for structural work like moving walls, framing, or major alterations. Covers the overall scope of renovation work.
Plumbing Permit
Required for new plumbing lines, moving fixtures, adding a shower or tub, or water heater installation. Often needs to be pulled by a licensed plumber.
Electrical Permit
Required for adding circuits, moving outlets, installing hard-wired fixtures, or updating the electrical panel. Often needs to be pulled by a licensed electrician.
Mechanical Permit
Required for HVAC work, exhaust fan installation, or ductwork modifications. Less common for bathroom renovations unless adding heated floors or radiant heat.
The Permit Process
Gather Required Documents
Depending on your scope of work, you may need:
- Completed permit application form
- Floor plans showing existing and proposed layout (for major changes)
- Contractor license and insurance information
- Product specifications for new fixtures
- Proof of homeownership
Submit Application
Most jurisdictions now allow online applications. You can also visit the building department in person:
- Simple permits may be issued over the counter same-day
- Complex projects require plan review (1-4 weeks)
- Pay permit fees at time of application
- Ask about required inspections and timing
Display Permit & Post Card
Once approved, the permit must be posted at the work site (typically in a window). The inspection card tracks all required inspections.
Schedule Inspections
Inspections are required at specific milestones. Common bathroom renovation inspections include:
- Rough-in: After plumbing/electrical are installed but before walls are closed
- Framing: If walls were moved or modified
- Final: After all work is complete
Get Final Sign-Off
After passing final inspection, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion. Keep this document—you'll need it when selling your home to prove the work was done to code.
What Happens If You Skip Permits?
- ⚠️Fines: Penalties for unpermitted work range from hundreds to thousands of dollars
- ⚠️Required removal: You may be ordered to tear out completed work
- ⚠️Sale complications: Buyers' inspections often reveal unpermitted work, derailing sales
- ⚠️Insurance issues: Claims may be denied for damage related to unpermitted work
- ⚠️Liability: You're personally liable for any safety issues from non-code work
- ⚠️Retroactive permits: Getting permits after the fact requires exposing work for inspection