Renovation Permits

if I’m remodeling a bathroom and staying within the footprint, not disturbing the ceiling or lighting and replacing shower tiles, plumbing fixtures, but not moving any lines, do I need to pull permits?TIA

not if you’re feelin lucky.

if you are just replacing fixtures and not pipes/wires, you shouldn't need a permit.  if you are putting  in new pipes (other than just replacing a small section that is worn out), you likely do

What are you doing with the electrical?  You may need a permit for that.

Not sure what Maplewood's rules are about this. Likely, a permit is required. However, many people do this exact job without permits. Right or wrong, this is commonly done.

lights are 3- 4” cans in the ceiling and one 6” above the shower. Not touching the lights or moving existing outlet. 

Law changed last year 

https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/alerts/pdfs/OM_MW_03052018.pdf

Thank you!

permits are really no big deal if the work is done correctly, even if it’s DIY. 

Put down a reasonable cost for the work, the permits don’t cost much.

Bit of a hassle factor involves waiting for approvals and scheduling rough in and final permits.

Just do it!

it’s only a 1.5 bath home. I’d rather not have to bathe in the basement slop sink for any longer than necessary!

dano said:
it’s only a 1.5 bath home. I’d rather not have to bathe in the basement slop sink for any longer than necessary!

 Yes, thats when it really is a PITA to have a permit. Your'e without the full bath for a week without waiting for inspectors. 

permits are easy, its the inspectors that can be an issue.  I once dealt with a plumbing inspector who came in yelling and even yelled at me for not knowing the contractor was doing the job wrong.....and refused to say what was wrong/the right way to do it.

some of the inspections seemed to be a joke...5 second look and out the door.

I was without a tub for about a week, tore up on a Monday, rough inspection within the next couple days, put a tub in on friday..but just a tub, no shower yet...that was a couple more weeks.....but at least the tub was usable...I had been using a bucket filled with hose water from outside.

they actually needed the tub in for the plumbing rough inspection...it was a while ago, i don't remember the exact details

One of the clearest arguments for using a contractor who is known and knows the community and the permitting process is what that contractor will save you in time and heartache

jmitw said:



some of the inspections seemed to be a joke...5 second look and out the door.

 I believe the real reason for permits is so they can tax the improvements accordingly. Every inspection I've had done has been the 5 sec look and out the door.