Does Macomb County have its own plumbing code, or does it follow the state?

Macomb County follows the Michigan state plumbing code — the 2021 Michigan Plumbing Code (Part 7), effective March 12, 2024. Michigan operates under a single state construction code system, meaning every municipality in the county enforces the same base standard. Individual cities and townships may have additional local requirements, but the underlying plumbing code is identical statewide.

Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Macomb County?

Yes. Even a direct like-for-like water heater replacement requires a plumbing permit in Michigan. If the water heater is gas-fired, a mechanical permit is also required for the gas piping and venting. Your licensed plumbing contractor will pull all required permits as part of the installation.

Can a homeowner pull their own plumbing permit in Macomb County?

Yes, but only for work in your own primary residence that you will personally perform. Michigan law allows homeowners to obtain permits for their own single-family dwelling with a homeowner's affidavit, provided all inspections are completed. Homeowners cannot pull permits for rental properties or homes they do not occupy.

How deep must a sewer line be buried in Macomb County?

Michigan Plumbing Code requires building sewer lines to be buried a minimum of 42 inches (3.5 feet) below finished grade. This requirement is specific to Michigan's frost line depth and ensures pipes are protected from the freeze-thaw ground movement that occurs every winter in Southeast Michigan.

What happens if I do plumbing work without a permit in Macomb County?

Starting permitted plumbing work without a permit subjects you to a $110 investigation fee in addition to the normal permit fee, potential stop-work orders, and mandatory uncovering of any concealed work for inspection at your own expense. Unpermitted work can also complicate a home sale and may void your homeowner's insurance coverage for related damage claims.

Do I need a permit for trenchless sewer repair in Macomb County?

Yes. Both CIPP pipe lining and pipe bursting require a plumbing permit and a post-repair inspection in Michigan. The completed trenchless work must use approved liner materials and pipe products. A licensed plumbing contractor will pull all required permits and coordinate required inspections.

Who can test backflow prevention devices in Macomb County after the 2024 rule change?

As of July 31, 2024, backflow prevention assembly testers in Michigan must hold both an active ASSE 5110 certification AND an active Michigan plumbing license at the apprentice, journey, or master plumber level. ASSE 5110 certification alone is no longer sufficient for testing results to be accepted by a public water supply official.

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Plumbing Code & Permits

Plumbing Code Requirements in Macomb County, Michigan

Updated March 2026 By Bison Plumbing — Licensed Master Plumbers, Warren MI 14 min read

Quick Answer

Macomb County follows the 2021 Michigan Plumbing Code (Part 7), effective March 12, 2024, which adopts the International Plumbing Code with Michigan-specific amendments. All major plumbing work — sewer line repairs, water heater replacements, fixture additions, backflow preventer installation, and new construction — requires a permit i