Upper Darby Township requires plumbing permits for the installation, replacement, or alteration of plumbing systems and fixtures.

Plumbing permits are required to ensure that work is performed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and applicable Township regulations, protecting public health, sanitation, and safety.

When a Plumbing Permit is Required

A plumbing permit is required for, but not limited to, the following:

• Installation of new plumbing systems or piping
• Replacement or relocation of plumbing fixtures (sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, etc.)
• Installation or replacement of water heaters
• Installation or modification of water supply or distribution piping
• Installation or modification of sanitary, storm, or drainage systems
• Installation of sump pumps or sewage ejector systems
• Installation of backflow prevention devices
• Connection to public water or sewer systems
• Gas piping associated with plumbing systems (as applicable)

Any work involving plumbing systems regulated by the UCC requires a permit.

Work That May Not Require a Plumbing Permit

Certain minor work may not require a permit, including:

• Minor repairs such as stopping leaks
• Clearing clogged drains
• Replacement of small components that do not alter the system
• Work that does not involve rearranging piping, valves, or fixtures

Important:
If the work involves replacing, relocating, or modifying plumbing systems, a permit is required.

Even if a permit is not required:

• All work must comply with applicable codes
• Other permits or approvals may still be required

Who Can Apply

Plumbing permits may be obtained by:

• Licensed plumbing contractors
• Property owners (where permitted by law)

All plumbing work must be performed in accordance with applicable code requirements and Township regulations.

Application Requirements

A complete plumbing permit application typically includes:

• Completed permit application form
• Description of the work being performed
• Fixture count and type (if applicable)
• Piping layout or system description (for larger projects)
• Equipment specifications (if applicable)
• Any required supporting documentation

Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope of work.

Plan Review and Approval

Plumbing permit applications are reviewed to ensure compliance with:

• Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
• International Plumbing Code (IPC), as adopted by Pennsylvania
• Applicable Township regulations

Once the application is approved, the permit will be issued.

Work may not begin until the permit has been issued.

Inspections

Plumbing inspections are required to verify that work complies with approved permits and applicable codes.

Inspections may include:

• Rough-in inspection of piping
• Water supply and drainage system inspection
• Fixture installation inspection
• Gas piping inspection (if applicable)
• Final inspection

All required inspections must be approved prior to final completion.

Permit Expiration

Plumbing permits are valid for a limited time.

Failure to commence or complete work within the required timeframe may result in permit expiration.

Extensions may be requested in accordance with Township regulations.

Fees and Payments

Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.

Payments may be made:

• Online
• By check or money order

Cash is not accepted.

(Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.)

Important Reminders

• A permit is required before starting plumbing work
• All work must comply with applicable codes
• Inspections are required prior to completion
• Additional permits (building, electrical, or mechanical) may be required depending on the project
• Working without a permit may result in double fees, stop work orders, and enforcement action

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to replace a water heater?
Yes. Replacement of a water heater requires a plumbing permit.

Do I need a permit to fix a leak?
Minor repairs may not require a permit, but replacement or modification of piping does.

Will my work be inspected?
Yes. Inspections are required to ensure compliance with code requirements.

Contact the Buildings Division

For questions regarding plumbing permits, please contact the Buildings Division.

Email: LI@UpperDarby.org

Phone: 610-734-7613

Residents may also submit inquiries or report concerns through the Township One Center.

To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.