Plumbing Division     441-7525
24-Hour Inspections  441-8213
FAX                            441-8214

1. Why Are Permits Required?
2. When are Permits Required?
3. Are Permits Necessary for Lawn Sprinkler Systems & Swimming Pools?
4. What Does Not Require Permits?
5. Who is Responsible for Obtaining Permits?
6. Who May Take Out Permits?
7. How Much Do Permits Cost?
8. Where Do I Obtain Permits?
9. How Do I Get an Inspection?
   

Why Are Permits Required?

Health and safety are the primary reasons for requiring permits. City inspectors check to make sure proper materials are used and that the work is done according to the Lincoln Plumbing Code.

When are Permits Required?

Permits and inspections are required any time a plumbing system or fixture is installed, replaced or relocated. A fixture is a stool, lavatory, sink, garbage disposal, dishwasher, tub, shower, water heater or similar equipment. A permit is also needed any time a water pipe, drain pipe or vent is replaced, installed or relocated.

Are Permits Necessary for Lawn Sprinkler Systems & Swimming Pools?

Permits and inspections are also required on underground lawn sprinkler systems, water softeners, swimming pools, water-cooled air conditioners and heat pumps. All permits must be issued prior to starting the work, except in the case of emergency weekend work or after office hours. At that time, a permit must be obtained as soon as possible after the installation.

What Does Not Require Permits?

Any minor repair work does not require a plumbing permit. Minor repair work is repairing a damaged or leaking P-trap; opening up and cleaning drain pipes repairing and/or resetting existing fixtures; replacing faucets, faucet washers or sump pumps.

Who is Responsible for Obtaining Permits?

Regardless if the property is commercial, industrial, apartments or a single family residence, it is responsibility of the owner of the property to see the proper plumbing permits are obtained for the work being done.

Who May Take Out Permits?

A plumbing permit can only be issued to a properly registered master plumber of the City of Lincoln, or to the owner/occupant of a single family dwelling.

How Much Do Permits Cost?

Fees are based on the number of fixtures installed.

Where Do I Obtain Permits?

The Building & Safety Department, 555 So. 10, Room 203 (second floor) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. weekdays. If a registered contractor will be doing the work, the contractor must obtain the necessary permits. It is the homeowner's responsibility to ensure permits are obtained.

How Do I Get an Inspection?

Office hours for Inspectors are 8-9 a.m., Monday through Friday. Requests for same-day inspections must be received by 7:30 a.m. Requests for inspections received after 7:30 a.m. are scheduled for the following day. Because of the number of requests for inspections, specific appointment times are not possible except for emergencies.

Plumbing Division:  441-7525
24-Hour Inspections:  441-8213
FAX:  441-8214