Repipe & Water Service Projects

For all types of properties
Updated: 04/14/2026

A plumbing permit is required for a repipe or water service project. The scope of the plumbing permit will cover, as needed, repipe, water service, and water heater replacement.

A building permit will also be required if shear walls, firewalls, or any structural member are affected by the repipe. Plans must be submitted to obtain the building permit.

DEFINITIONS

A repipe project entails replacing the interior water lines of a home. The scope of an interior repipe permit includes replacing the water service and water heater, if needed.

A water service project entails repiping the exterior water lines from the house to the water meter.

Gyp and shear repair refers to the remediation of gypsum (drywall) and the restoration of shear walls that are typically cut during a repipe project. Such repairs are critical for maintaining the structural integrity and fire rating of the building.

Why a permit is vital - To protect against leaks, rot, and hazards, it is vital that plumbing projects comply with current California codes. A City inspector will check for code compliance. Note: Insurance companies may deny claims related to unpermitted work.

Make sure the project complies with the Repipe Requirements listed below.

Permit Process

Get Ready to Apply

Who can apply? We recommend that the applicant be a licensed contractor. See Who Can Apply for a Building Permit for others who may apply. Whoever signs the building permit application is responsible and potentially liable for all activity under the permit. See Owner-Builders Beware!

SJPermits can help. At SJPermits.org, you can pay fees, schedule inspections, check the status of a permit, and find permit records and property information. An SJPermits account is required only if you are applying for an online permit or for projects that require Standard Plan Review.

How to Apply

Single-family and duplex properties:

If only a plumbing permit is needed, use SJPermits.org for an online permit.
If both a plumbing permit and building permit (for structural repairs) are needed, plans are required. Use Standard Plan Review.

Multifamily properties:

4 units or less - If only a plumbing permit is needed, use SJPermits.org for an online permit.
Over 4 units or if a building permit is required - Plans are required. Use Standard Plan Review.

Commercial properties: Plans are required. Use Standard Plan Review.

Online Permit at SJPermits.org

Go to SJPermits.org.
Use the Application Wizard to be guided to the correct process and permit.
You may secure multiple permits, if needed, with one application.
SJPermits presents the fee and enables online payment; for more info, see Building Fees.If you still need assistance, use Submit a Help Ticket.
After payment, you will be able to download the Permit Card.
For help, first see Help for SJPermits. If you still need assistance, use Submit a Help Ticket.

Standard Plan Review Service

PREPARE THE PERMIT APPLICATION PACKAGE

Who can prepare plans? While some plans may be prepared by anyone, we recommend working with professionals. Inaccurate plans will require resubmittals and more fees. Accurate plans save time and money. See Plans That Require an Architect or Engineer.

Forms may require digital signatures. See Digital Forms & Signatures for help.

MULTIFAMILY OR COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL PROPERTIES - REQUIRED:

Building Permit Application - See instructions.
Select the appropriate checklist below. It also outlines relevant forms and plans to include in the permit application package.

Commercial/Industrial Projects Submittal Checklist
Multifamily Projects Submittal Checklist
Under Project Scope: Check "Other" and enter "Repipe Structural Repair"
Project Plans - Use the Plan Review Submittal Package instructions. Show:
- Pipe sizing calculation per CPC Chapter 6 or Appendix A
- Floor Plan showing all fixtures
- Schematics showing all piping sizes and fixtures
- Plans must be stamped and signed by a professional architect or engineer.

SINGLE-FAMILY/DUPLEX PROPERTIES - REQUIRED:

Building Permit Application - See instructions.
Single-Family & Duplex Projects Submittal Checklist - Under Project Scope: Check "Other" and enter "Repipe Structural Repair"
Owner-Builder Acknowledgement and Verification of Information Form - Submit only if the property owner is the permit applicant.
Relevant plans following the Plan Set Instructions for Single-Family, Duplex & Townhouse Projects. Show:
- Pipe sizing calculation per CPC Chapter 6 or Appendix A
- Floor Plan showing all fixtures
- Schematics showing all piping sizes and fixtures

TO APPLY

This service uses online platforms. You will first apply at SJPermits and then upload documents through SJePlans.A City plan reviewer will review the plans and send comments to the ePlan Applicant through SJePlans. After the plans are approved and final fees are paid, then the building permit will be issued. Follow these instructions:

* Standard Plan Review Service *

We look forward to serving you.

Inspections

The installer is responsible for ensuring the project meets the Repipe Requirements shown below.

You will be issued a Permit Card that lists required inspections. Schedule inspections at SJPermits.org or call 408-535-3555 for assistance.

Be ready — read Inspection Success.

The Permit Card must always be on-site and available to the Inspector.
Have building plans and manufacturer instructions, if any, available.
Ensure there is access to all areas of the project work; provide a ladder if one is needed.

Repipe Requirements

Key code requirements:

Schematic showing sizing method - Be prepared to provide the inspector with a schematic of pipe sizing, prepared per the California Plumbing Code.
Altered shear walls/firewalls require inspection - If shear walls, structural components, and/or firewalls are compromised or altered during the repipe process, a building permit must be obtained and plans may be required. IMPORTANT! Repair work must be inspected prior to covering.
Materials - Water pipe and fittings inside a building shall be brass, copper, cast iron, galvanized malleable iron, galvanized wrought iron, galvanized steel, or other approved materials.
- Polyethene, polybutylene, PVC and copper water pipe manufactured to recognized standards may be used for cold water services outside a building.
- All plastic service piping requires a 14 gauge tracer wire for its entirety.
Like materials - All materials used in the water supply system, except valves and similar devices, shall be of a like material except where otherwise approved by the Building Division.
Joining dissimilar materials - Acceptable methods of joining dissimilar materials are as follows:
- Dielectric protection via a 6-inch brass nipple or dielectric union.
- When dielectric fittings are used to join dissimilar metals, listed clamps and a bonding jumper must be installed at all such connections.
Non-removable backflow prevention devices - These are required on hose bibbs.
Brace water heaters - See Water Heaters for details.
Water hammer/shock arresters are required for quick closing valves in water piping systems, such as clothes washers and dishwashers when repiping projects are performed.
A non-metallic water service can replace an existing metallic water service. However, in these cases, the electrical grounding system may require alteration.

IMPORTANT: A repipe project may be subject to a refundable Construction and Demolition Diversion Deposit (CDDD).

Be prepared to show the inspector:

Schematic showing sizing method

Questions?

We are here to help — visit, call, or email us. See Contacts sidebar.

City of San José

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