Permit guidance · Last reviewed 2026-08-28
Plumbing Work Permits in Miami
A permit is often required, depending on the exact scope. Confirm with the department. This is educational information, not a legal determination and not a substitute for the building department.
City of Miami vs unincorporated Miami-Dade
City of Miami
Plumbing repairs may qualify for MEP repair permits on City express paths. Repipes, water-heater replacements, and drainage alterations generally need a standard plumbing permit.
Miami-Dade County (unincorporated)
Work that alters the plumbing system is generally permitted. Simple fixture swaps more often are not. Ask the department or a licensed plumber who will pull the permit.
Other municipalities (Coral Gables, Miami Beach, Hialeah, and the rest) have their own building departments. Always start with the jurisdiction of the property address.
Typical steps
- Describe the job: clog, fixture, heater, or repipe.
- Ask whether a permit is required and who pulls it.
Exemptions (high level)
Clearing a clog is not usually a plumbing permit. Replacing a water heater often is.
Fees
Confirm plumbing permit fees with the issuing department.
Official resources
Businesses that perform related work
Directory classifications from source evidence — not a certified permit-puller list.
Sources & verification
Factual and regulatory statements on this page are based on official government and licensing authorities. Requirements change — always confirm current details at the source.
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Verify a License / Licensee SearchVerification of Florida construction, real-estate, CPA, cosmetology, and other DBPR-regulated licenses.Source checked 2026-08-28
- Miami-Dade County — Contractor licensing and permitting (RER / Building)Miami-Dade County contractor licensing and building permit requirements.Source checked 2026-08-28
- City of Miami Building Department — Permits, construction, and residential permit guideCity of Miami building permits, iBuild, express review, and roofing/window/solar catalog items. Confirm current checklists on the City site.Source checked 2026-08-28
Questions
Can you tell me if I need a permit?
Only the building department with jurisdiction over the address can. This page summarizes published City of Miami and Miami-Dade guidance and links to those sources.
Who should pull the permit?
For licensed contracting work, the contractor typically pulls it under their license. Being asked to pull it yourself as an owner-builder shifts responsibility to you.