Los Angeles County Municipal Code Ch. 1 Administration

100. • Adoption and Incorporation by Reference

Except as hereinafter changed or modified, Sections 1.2.0 through 1.14.0 of Chapter 1, Division I, of that certain Plumbing Code known and designated as the 2025 California Plumbing Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission, are adopted and incorporated by reference into this Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code as if fully set forth below, and shall be known as Sections 119.1.2.0 through 119.1.14.0, respectively, of Chapter 1 of Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code.

Except as hereinafter changed or modified, Chapters 2 through 17 and Appendices A, B, D, H, I, J, M, and S, of that certain Plumbing Code known and designated as the 2025 California Plumbing Code as published by the California Building Standards Commission, are adopted and incorporated by reference into this Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code as if fully set forth below, and shall be known as Chapters 2 through 17, and Appendices A, B, D, H, I, J, M, and S, of Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code.

A copy of the 2025 California Plumbing Code shall be at all times maintained by the Chief Plumbing Inspector for use and examination by the public.

(Ord. 2025-0049 § 2, 2025; Ord. 2022-0053 § 2, 2022; Ord. 2019-0058 § 2, 2019; Ord. 2016-0055 § 2, 2016; Ord. 2013-0050 § 2, 2013; Ord. 2010-0055 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 2002-0078 § 2, 2002; Ord. 99-0042 § 2, 1999; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.1   Title

Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code shall be known as the Los Angeles County Plumbing Code, may be cited as such, and will be referred to in this ordinance as "this Code."

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.2   Purpose and Intent

The purpose of this Code is to provide minimum standards to preserve the public health, safety and welfare by regulating the design, construction, quality of material, and installation of plumbing. Consistent with this purpose, the provisions of this Code are intended and always have been intended to confer a benefit on the community as a whole and are not intended to establish a duty of care toward any particular person.

This Code shall not be construed to hold the County or any officer, employee, or agent thereof responsible for any damage to persons or property by reason of any inspection authorized herein or by reason of the issuance or non-issuance of any permit authorized herein, and/or for any action or omission in connection with the application and/or enforcement of this Code. By adopting the provisions of this Code the County does not intend to impose on itself, its employees, or agents any mandatory duties of care towards persons and property within its jurisdiction so as to provide a basis of civil liability for damages.

This section is declaratory of existing law and is not to be construed as suggesting that such was not the purpose and intent of previous Code adoptions.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.3   Scope

The provisions of this Code shall apply to the construction, alteration, moving, removal, repair and use of any plumbing or drainage work, and the qualification and registration of certain persons performing such work on any premises within the unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles, and to such work or use by the County of Los Angeles in any incorporated city not exercising jurisdiction over such work or use.

Where the requirements of this Code conflict with the requirements of Title 29 Los Angeles County Mechanical Code, this Code shall prevail.

The provisions of this Code shall not apply to work located primarily in a public way; to work consisting of public utility service piping; certain governmental agencies, special districts and public utilities as determined by the Chief Plumbing Inspector; or to work otherwise specifically exempted elsewhere in this Code or by the Chief Plumbing Inspector.

Except as hereinafter changed or modified, the building standards contained in the Uniform Plumbing Code of the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, which are published in the California Building Standards Code, are applicable to all occupancies and uses throughout the County of Los Angeles. Amendments to the building standards contained in the Uniform Plumbing Code, by state agencies, are applicable only to those occupancies or uses which the state agency making the amendment is authorized to regulate.

(Ord. 2013-0050 § 2, 2013; Ord. 2002-0078 § 3, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.3.1   Repairs and Alterations

101.3.1.1

In existing buildings or premises in which plumbing installations are to be altered, repaired or renovated, deviations from the provisions of this Code are permitted, provided such deviations are found to be necessary and are first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Any plumbing system may have its existing use, maintenance or repair continued when the Authority Having Jurisdiction determines that its use, maintenance or repair is in accordance with the original design and no hazard to the public health, safety or welfare has been created by such system.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.3.1.2

Existing building sewers and building drains may be used in connection with new buildings or new plumbing and drainage work only when they are found upon examination and test performed by the owner or owner's designated agent to conform in all respects to the requirements governing new work. Based on the test result, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall notify the owner to make any changes necessary to conform to this Code. No building or part thereof shall be erected or placed over any part of a drainage system that is constructed of materials other than those approved elsewhere in this Code for use under or within a building.

Existing building sewers and building drains may be used in connection with plumbing alterations or repairs if such sewers or drains have been properly maintained and found upon examination and test performed by the owner or owner's designated agent that they are in working condition and free from any defect. Applicant shall provide necessary documents showing the existing building sewers and building drains were installed in accordance with the applicable laws in effect at the time of installation. Any plumbing system existing on January 1, 1975, shall be deemed to have conformed to applicable law in effect at the time of installation and to have been maintained in good condition if currently in good and safe condition and working properly.

(Ord. 2019-0058 § 2, 2019; Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.3.1.3

All openings into a drainage or vent system, excepting those openings to which plumbing fixtures are properly connected or which constitute vent terminals, shall be permanently plugged or capped in an approved manner, using the appropriate materials required by this Code.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.3.2   Maintenance.

The plumbing and drainage system of any premises under the jurisdiction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be maintained in a sanitary and safe operating condition by the owner or the owner's agent.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.3.3   Existing Construction.

No provision of this Code shall be deemed to require a change in any portion of a plumbing or drainage system or any other work regulated by this Code in or on an existing building or lot when such work was installed and is maintained in accordance with law in effect prior to the effective date of this Code, except when any such plumbing or drainage system or other work regulated by this Code is determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to be in fact dangerous, unsafe, insanitary, or a nuisance and a menace to life, health, or property.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.4   Chief Plumbing Inspector

The office of Chief Plumbing Inspector exists in the Building and Safety Division of the Department of Public Works. The Chief Plumbing Inspector shall administer the provisions of this ordinance under the supervision of and control of the Director of the Department of Public Works, and shall be a competent mechanical engineer, well versed in accepted sanitary engineering practices and techniques, plumbing construction and installation methods, and the statues of the State of California and the ordinances of the County of Los Angeles relating to such matters.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.5   Use of Terms

Whenever the term "Chief Plumbing Inspector" or "Plumbing Inspector" is used in this Code, other than in Section 101.4, such term shall be construed to mean the "Director of the Department of Public Works" of the County of Los Angeles or his or her authorized representative.

Whenever the term "Authority Having Jurisdiction" is used in this Code, such term shall be construed to mean the following:

For purposes of administering the requirements of Title 28, Appendix H relating to the plan approval of private sewage disposal systems or plan approval of any construction activity impacting a private sewage disposal system, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be the Health Officer;

For purposes of administering the provisions of Chapter 1, Section 101.3.1 of this Code solely to the extent that the Authority Having Jurisdiction has discretion to approve deviations from the provisions of this Code for alterations, repairs, or renovations of existing private sewage disposal systems, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be the Health Officer;

For purpose of administering the provisions of Chapter 1, Section 101.3.3 of this Code solely to the extent that the Authority Having Jurisdiction has authority to determine that a private sewage disposal system is dangerous, unsafe, insanitary, or a nuisance and a menace to life, health, or property, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be the Health Officer;

For all other purposes, the term "Authority Having Jurisdiction," when it is used in this Code, shall be construed to mean the Chief Plumbing Inspector.

(Ord. 2013-0050 § 2, 2013; Ord. 2010-0055 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.6   Jurisdiction Over Public Sewers and Their Maintenance

This Code shall not modify any other Los Angeles County regulations governing the installation and maintenance of public sewers or the character or pretreatment of industrial wastes discharged into public sewers or elsewhere.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.7   Validity

101.7.1

If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance is, for any reason, held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The board of supervisors hereby declares that it would have passed this ordinance, and each section, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, sentences, clauses and phrases are declared invalid.

(Ord. 2002-0078 § 5, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.7.2

Wherever in this Code reference is made to an appendix, the provisions in the appendix shall not apply unless specifically adopted.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.8   Health and Safety

Whenever compliance with all the provisions of this Code fails to eliminate or alleviate a nuisance, or any other dangerous or insanitary condition which may involve health or safety hazards, the owner or the owner's agent shall install such additional plumbing and drainage facilities or shall make such repairs or alterations as may be ordered by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

101.9   Board of Appeals*

The Board of Examiners of Plumbers or other authorized board shall act as a Board of Appeals for appeals arising from actions of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

The Board of Appeals shall have no authority to interpret the administrative portions of this Code, nor shall the Board be empowered to waive requirements of this Code.

Appeals shall be made in writing to the Chief Plumbing Inspector, no later than 60 days from the date of the action being appealed from. The appellant may appear in person before the Board or be represented by an attorney and may introduce evidence to support his claims. Appeals shall be heard at reasonable times at the convenience of the Board.

The appellant shall cause to be made at his own expense any tests or research required by the Board to substantiate his claims.

A fee of $622.84 shall be paid to the Department of Public Works whenever a person requests a hearing before the Board of Appeals.

(Ord. 2010-0055 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 2002-0078 § 6, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

101.10   Violations and Penalty

Every person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this Code shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and each such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this Code is committed, continued, or permitted. Upon conviction of any such violation, such person shall be punishable by a fine not exceeding $1,000 or by imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or by both such fine and imprisonment.

The provisions of this section are in addition to and independent of any sanctions, penalties or costs which are or may otherwise be imposed for a violation of any of the provisions of this code.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 2002-0078 § 7, 2002; Ord. Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.1   Submission of and Checking of Plans

The Plumbing Inspector shall require submission of, examine, and check plans and specifications, drawings, descriptions and diagrams necessary to show clearly the character, kind and extent of plumbing work covered by applications for a

permit, and upon approval thereof shall issue the permit applied for.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.1.1

The Authority Having Jurisdiction may require the submission of plans, specifications, drawings, and such other information as the Authority Having Jurisdiction may deem necessary, prior to the commencement of, and at any time during the progress of any work regulated by this Code.

The issuance of a permit upon plans and specifications shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans and specifications or from preventing construction operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of this Code or of any other pertinent ordinance or from revoking any certificate of approval when issued in error.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.2   Fees

The Plumbing Inspector shall collect such fees as are required by this Code and issue receipts therefor, copies of which shall be maintained as a record in his office. He shall transfer all fees collected by him to the proper authority provided by law to receive such funds.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.3   Inspection

The Plumbing Inspector shall administer and enforce the provisions of this Code in a manner consistent with the intent thereof, and shall inspect all plumbing and drainage work authorized by any permit to assure compliance with provisions of this Code or amendments thereto, and may approve or reject said work in whole or in part as conditions require.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.4   Certificates of Approval

The Plumbing Inspector shall issue upon request a Certificate of Approval for any work approved by him.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.5   Work Rejected

The Plumbing Inspector shall have the authority to reject all work done or being done or materials used or being used which do not comply with the provisions of this Code and amendments thereto and other pertinent laws and ordinances.

(Ord. 2002-0078 § 9, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.6   Corrections

The Plumbing Inspector may order changes in workmanship or materials, or both, when the Plumbing Inspector determines that such changes are necessary to obtain compliance with the provisions of this Code.

Notices of correction or violation shall be written by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and may be posted at the site of the work or mailed or delivered to the permittee or his authorized representative. Refusal, failure, or neglect to comply with any such notice or order within ten (10) days of receipt thereof, shall be considered a violation of this Code, and shall be subject to the penalties set forth elsewhere in this Code for violations.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.7   Investigation

The Plumbing Inspector may investigate any construction or work regulated by this Code, and issue such notices and orders as provided in Section 102.11.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.8   Records

The Plumbing Inspector shall keep a complete record of all the essential transactions of his office.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.9   Qualification and Registration

The Plumbing Inspector shall maintain an official list of all persons qualified and registered as required by this Code to carry on or engage in the business of plumbing, gas fitting or sewerage contractor, or to labor at the trades of plumbing or gas fitting in this unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.10   Permission to Enter

Every applicant for a permit (pursuant to Section 103.0) shall be deemed to have given his permission to the Plumbing Inspector or his duly authorized representative to enter at reasonable times any building, structure or premises to which the permit relates to perform any duty imposed upon him by this Code. Every person who denies or prevents, obstructs, or attempts to deny, prevent or obstruct such access is guilty of a misdemeanor.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.11   Dangerous and Insanitary Construction

Whenever the Plumbing Inspector determines that any construction or work regulated by this Code is dangerous, unsafe, insanitary or a menace to life, health or property, or is in violation of this Code, the Plumbing Inspector shall have the authority to make an investigation. The Plumbing Inspector shall have the authority to order any person, firm or corporation performing or responsible for such construction or work to discontinue said construction or work, or to repair, alter, change, remove or demolish same, as the Plumbing Inspector, in his discretion, may consider necessary for the proper protection of life, health or property. The Plumbing Inspector shall have the authority, in the case of any gas piping or gas appliance, to order any person, firm or corporation supplying gas to such piping or appliance to discontinue supplying gas thereto until such gas piping or gas appliance is made safe to life, health and property as determined by the Plumbing Inspector.

Every such order shall be in writing, addressed to the owner, agent or person responsible for the premises in which such condition exists, and shall specify the date or time when such order shall be complied with, which time shall allow a reasonable period in which such order can be complied with by the person receiving such order. Refusal or failure or neglect to comply with any such notice or order shall be considered a violation of this ordinance.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.12   Stop Orders

Whenever any work regulated by this Code is being done contrary to the provisions thereof, the Plumbing Inspector may order the work stopped by notice in writing served on any persons engaged in doing or causing such work to be done. Any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the Plumbing Inspector to proceed with the work.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

102.13   Liability

The liability and indemnification of the Chief Plumbing Inspector and any of his subordinates are governed by the provisions of Division 3.6 of Title 1 of the Government Code.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.1   Permits Required

A person, whether acting as principal, servant, agent or employee, shall not do or cause or permit to be done any gas piping, plumbing, drainage, house sewer or private sewage disposal work regulated by this Code without first securing a permit from the Chief Plumbing Inspector authorizing him so to do.

(Ord. 2002-0078 § 10, 2002; Ord. 99-0042 § 5, 1999; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.1.1

It shall be unlawful for any person to install, alter or repair or cause to be installed, altered or repaired any gas piping, without first obtaining a permit from the Authority Having Jurisdiction to do so, provided however, no permit shall be required from a serving gas supplier to disconnect defective gas piping or equipment, when authorized by Section 1207.0.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.1.2

Permits for gas piping shall show the total number of gas outlets to be provided for on each system, and such other information as may be required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.2   Time Limit

Every permit issued by the Building Official under the provisions of this Code shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 12 months from the date such permit is issued, or the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days, or the permittee fails to obtain inspection as required by the provisions of Section 104.0 of this Code for a period of 180 days.

Exception: Permits issued to abate violation(s) in conjunction with a code enforcement action shall expire and become null and void at a date not to exceed 12 months from the issuance date or at a date determined by the Building Official.

The Building Official may grant one or more extensions of the time for action by the permittee for a period not exceeding 180 days from the date of expiration upon written request by the permittee and payment of a fee in an amount determined by the Building Official, not to exceed 25 percent of the permit fee. Once a permit, including any extension(s) thereof, has expired, the permittee shall file a new application as specified in Section 103.9.

(Ord. 2019-0058 § 2, 2019; Ord. 2013-0050 § 2, 2013; Ord. 2002-0078 § 11, 2002; Ord. 99-042 § 6, 1999; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.3   House Sewers in New Developments

When a written agreement covering partial inspection and inspection fees has first been made between the Department of Public Works and the principals involved, house sewers constructed in new developments may be extended from the main line sewer to the approximate point on the lot of their future connection with the house drain or drains. Each such house sewer shall conform to the requirements of this Code and shall terminate at a proper depth and location for future connection to the building drain or drains. No connection shall be made between such house sewer and any building drain until a house sewer permit as required by this Code has first been obtained.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.4   Other Permits

In addition to the permits required by Section 103.1, and as a prerequisite to the obtaining them, any person desiring to connect to a trunk sewer, to construct a public sewer, to connect to the public sewer at a point where no branch fitting has been provided in such sewer, or to discharge industrial liquid waste shall obtain permits from the Department of Public Works so to do. No permit shall be issued to connect to a public sewer not under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Works until the applicant for such connection has first obtained written permission from the authority controlling such sewer and has filed a copy of such permission with the Chief Plumbing Inspector.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.5   Work in Public Highways

No person shall install, remove, alter or repair any house sewer or part thereof which is located in any public way in the County of Los Angeles without having first obtained a permit from the Department of Public Works or the State Department of Public Works (Division of Highways), whichever agency may have jurisdiction over the particular thoroughfare affected.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.6   Reserved

103.7   Work Not Requiring Permit

No permit shall be required in the case of any repair work as follows: The stopping of leaks in drains, soil, waste or vent pipe; provided, however, that should any trap, drainpipe, soil, waste or vent pipe be or become defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material in any part or parts, the same shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be procured and inspection made as hereinbefore provided. No permit shall be required for the clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures when such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

No permit, test or inspection shall be required where a plumbing system or part thereof is set up for exhibition purposes and has no connection with a water or drainage system.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.8   Issuance of Permits

103.8.1

Except as otherwise provided herein, only duly registered or licensed contractors may apply for the permit(s) required by this Code, and the Chief Plumbing Inspector shall not be required to issue any permit to any person other than a duly registered or licensed contractor unless otherwise provided herein.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.8.2

A permit may be issued to the bona fide owner of any single-family dwelling, including common accessory and minor poultry or agricultural buildings, occupied and used exclusively by or designed to be occupied and used exclusively by, said owner, to do any plumbing or drainage work regulated by this Code in said dwelling or accessory buildings.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.8.3

A permit may be issued to or work may be performed by any responsible person not acting in violation of Chapter 9, Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California for the installation, alteration or repair of water piping, water treatment equipment, and for private sewage disposal systems and building sewers.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.9   Application for Permit

Any person legally entitled to apply for and receive a permit shall make such application on forms provided for that purpose. He shall give a description of the character of the work proposed to be done and the location, ownership occupancy and use of the premises in connection therewith. The Plumbing Inspector may require plans, specifications, or drawings and such other information as he may deem necessary and pertinent prior to the granting of a permit.

If the Plumbing Inspector determines that the plans, specifications, drawings, descriptions or information furnished by the applicant are in compliance with this ordinance and all other laws and ordinances applicable thereto, he shall issue the permit applied for upon payment of the required fee as hereinafter fixed. When plan check or other fees are required by this or any related ordinance or statute, such fees shall be collected in addition to the required permit fees.

Any person requiring a permit to connect to a public sewer which has been constructed at no cost to the abutting property shall make proper application to the Department of Public Works as required by Division 2 of Title 20 of the Los Angeles County Code, and shall pay such connection charges or execute such waivers as are required by that ordinance or other statute prior to obtaining a house sewer permit as required by this Code.

When no permit is issued within one year following the date of the application therefor, the application shall automatically expire. Plans and specifications previously submitted may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Chief Plumbing Inspector. The Chief Plumbing Inspector may, before or after expiration of the application, grant up to two extensions, not exceeding 180 days per extension, beyond the initial one-year limit upon written request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action from being taken and upon the payment of an extension fee as determined by the Chief Plumbing Inspector, not to exceed 25 percent of the plan check fee.

Once an application, including any extension(s) thereof has expired, the applicant shall file a new application, resubmit plans and specifications and pay a new plan checking or review fee.

(Ord. 2013-0050 § 2, 2013; Ord. 2010-0055 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2002-0078 § 12, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.10   Cost of Permit*

Any person applying for a permit shall, at the time the application is made, pay to the Chief Plumbing Inspector the fees set forth in this section.

Except as provided herein, a plumbing permit and a sewer or private sewage disposal permit shall be required for each building or installation.

EXCEPTION: Where accessory buildings and/or appurtenances, such as laundry rooms, guest houses, bath houses or swimming pools, are used in conjunction with a single-family residence, are located on the same lot and under the same ownership, and are erected at the same time as the main building, all plumbing items may be combined on one plumbing permit. All buildings and appurtenances, regardless of type, located on the same lot and under the same ownership may, when being connected at the same time to a common house sewer or to a common or multiple private sewage disposal system, be combined on one sewerage permit.

Plumbing permit fees shall be as specified in Table No. I.

Sewer and private sewage disposal permit fees shall be as specified in Table No. II.

For the purpose of this section, a sanitary plumbing outlet on which or to which a plumbing fixture or appliance may be set or attached shall be construed to be a fixture. Built-in dishwashers shall be construed fixtures whether individually trapped or not. Fees for reconnection and retest of existing plumbing systems in relocated buildings shall be based on the number of plumbing fixtures, gas systems, water heaters, etc. involved.

When interceptor traps or house-trailer site traps are installed at the same time as a house sewer on any lot, no sewer permit shall be required for the connection of any such trap to an appropriate inlet fitting provided in the house sewer by the permittee constructing such sewer.

When a permit has been obtained to connect an existing building or existing work to the public sewer, or to connect to a new private disposal facility, backfilling of private sewage disposal facilities abandoned consequent to such connection is included in the house sewer permit.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.11   Plan Check Fee

103.11.1*

A plan checking fee as indicated shall be paid to the Chief Plumbing Inspector at the time of submitting plans and specifications for work requiring Plumbing Code plan check. Said fee shall be equal to the greater of 40 percent of the required plumbing permit fee as set forth in Table I of this chapter or $158.63.

When a Plumbing Code plan check is required and any of the following systems are included in the work proposed, a supplemental plan review fee, in addition to the fee specified in the immediately preceding paragraph, shall be collected for each of these systems as follows:

EXCEPTION: Plan check is not required for an earthquake actuated gas shut-off valve if the valve has a pressure loss through it of less than 10 feet of equivalent length of pipe in the line which it is installed.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 2002-0078 § 13, 2002; Ord. 95-0069 § 1, 1995; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.11.2*

For plan checking individual systems not required to be reviewed under subsection 103.11.1 above, a plan check fee shall be paid to the Chief Plumbing Inspector as follows:

EXCEPTION: Plan check is not required for an earthquake actuated gas shut-off valve if the valve has a pressure loss through it of less than 10 feet of equivalent length of pipe in the line which it is installed.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0069 § 2, 1995; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.11.3*

In addition to the aforementioned fees, the Chief Plumbing Inspector may require additional charges for reviews required by the complexity of plans, or revisions of approved plans and reports, or services beyond the initial and second check when such additional work is due to changes, omissions or errors on the part of the plan check applicant. Fees shall be $158.63 per hour. The payment of said fees shall not exempt any person from compliance with other provisions of this Code.

(Ord. 2002-0078 § 14, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.12   Investigation Fee

103.12.1   Work Without a Permit*

Whenever any work has been commenced without a permit as required by the provisions of Section 103.1 of this code, a special investigation shall be made prior to the issuance of the permit. An investigation fee shall be collected for each permit so investigated. The investigation fee shall be equal to and in addition to the permit fees specified in Section 103.10, but in no event shall the investigation fee be less than $487.88.

EXCEPTION 1: The investigation fee shall be $243.94 when the Chief Plumbing Inspector has determined that the owner- builder of a one family or two family dwelling, accessory building or accessory structure had no knowledge that a permit was necessary and had not previously applied for a permit from the Building and Safety Division of the County of Los Angeles.

EXCEPTION 2: The foregoing provisions shall not apply to emergency work when it shall be proved to the satisfaction of the Chief Plumbing Inspector that such work was urgently necessary and that it was not practical to obtain a permit therefor before the commencement of the work. In all such cases, a permit must be obtained as soon as it is practical to do so, and if there is an unreasonable delay in obtaining such permit this exception shall not apply and the investigation fee shall be charged.

The payment of the investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this Code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.12.2   Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction*

In compliance with Section 301.3 of this Code regarding the use of an alternate material or method of construction, an application shall be submitted in writing to the Chief Plumbing Inspector together with a filing fee of $317.25. When staff review exceeds two hours, an additional fee of $158.63 per hour shall be charged for each hour or fraction thereof in excess of two hours.

(Ord. 2016-0055 § 2, 2016; Ord. 2010-0055 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.13   Surrender of Permit

If no portion of the work or construction covered by a permit issued by the Chief Plumbing Inspector under the provisions of this Code has been commenced, the person to whom such permit has been issued may deliver such permit to the Chief Plumbing Inspector with the request that such permit be canceled. The Chief Plumbing Inspector shall thereupon stamp or write on the face of such permit the words "Canceled at the request of the permittee." Thereupon such permit shall be void and of no effect.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.14   Suspension or Revocation of Permit

The Chief Plumbing Inspector may suspend or revoke any permit issued under the provisions of this Code whenever such permit is issued in error, or is issued on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or has been obtained by falsification or misrepresentation, or when work is being done thereunder in violation of this or any other related ordinance or regulation.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.15   Refund

In the event that any person shall have obtained a permit and no portion of the work or construction covered by such permit shall have been commenced, and such permit shall have been canceled as provided in Section 103.2 or Section 103.13, the permittee, upon presentation to the Chief Plumbing Inspector of a request therefor in writing, shall be entitled to a refund in an amount equal to 80 percent of the fee actually paid for such permit.

The Chief Plumbing Inspector will satisfy himself as to the right of such applicant to such refund, and each such refund shall be paid as provided by law for the payment of claims against the County. No refund shall be made when a permit has been obtained by falsification or misrepresentation and has been revoked for such cause.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.16   Transfer

Permits are not transferable from one person to another or from one location to another.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.17   Exemption From Fee

The requirements for fees contained in this Code shall not apply when the collection of such fee is contrary to the provisions of any contract to which the County of Los Angeles is a party or is legally prohibited by other statutes.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

103.18   Noncompliance Fees*

If the Chief Plumbing Inspector in the course of enforcing the provisions of this Code or any state law issues an order to a person and that person fails to comply with the order within 15 days following the due date for compliance stated in the order, including any extensions thereof, then the Chief Plumbing Inspector shall have the authority to collect a noncompliance fee.

The noncompliance fee shall not be imposed unless the order states that a failure to comply within 15 days after the compliance date specified in the order will result in the fee being imposed. No more than one such fee shall be collected for failure to comply with an order. The amount of the noncompliance fee shall be $146.52 per building for Group R Division 3 occupancies and $293.26 per building for all other occupancies and shall be in addition to the fees specified elsewhere in this Code.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

103.19   Annual Review of Fees

The fees in this Code shall be reviewed annually by the Director of Public Works. Beginning on July 1, 1992, and thereafter on each succeeding July 1, the amount of each fee in this Code shall be adjusted as follows: Calculate the percentage movement between March of the previous year and March of the current year in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all urban consumers in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA areas, as published by the United States Government Bureau of Labor Statistics; and adjust each fee by said percentage amount, provided, however, that no adjustment shall decrease any fee and no fee shall exceed the reasonable cost of providing services. When it is determined that the amount reasonably necessary to recover the cost of providing services is in excess of this adjustment, the Chief Plumbing Inspector may present fee proposals to the Board of Supervisors for approval.

(Ord. 2022-0053 § 2, 2022; Ord. 2019-0058 § 2, 2019; Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 99-0042 § 8, 1999; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.1   General.

All plumbing systems for which a permit is required by this Code shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. No portion of any plumbing system shall be concealed until inspected and approved. Neither the Authority Having Jurisdiction nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of material required to permit inspection. When the installation of a plumbing system is complete, an additional and final inspection shall be made. Plumbing systems regulated by this Code shall not be connected to the water, energy fuel supply, or the sewer system until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of this Code or of other laws. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this Code or of other laws shall not be valid.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 2002-0078 § 15, 2002; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.1.1   Scope.

All new plumbing work, and such portions of existing systems as may be affected by new work, or any changes, shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to insure compliance with all the requirements of this Code and to assure that the installation and construction of the plumbing system is in accordance with approved plans. Special construction and inspection may be required on work involving special hazards or conditions and on work requiring extensive, unusual or constant inspection. Special inspections, when necessary, shall be accomplished by the means set forth in Title 26 of the Los Angeles County Code except that the Special Inspector shall be a qualified person approved and registered by, and reporting to, the Chief Plumbing Inspector.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.1.2   Inspection.

No water supply system or portion thereof, shall be covered or concealed until it first has been tested, inspected, and approved.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.1.3   Covering or Using.

No plumbing or drainage system, building sewer, private sewage disposal system or part thereof, shall be covered, concealed, or put into use until it has been tested, inspected, and accepted as prescribed in this Code.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.1.4   Uncovering.

Any drainage or plumbing system, building sewer, private sewage disposal system, or part thereof, which is installed, altered, or repaired is covered or concealed before being inspected, tested, and approved as prescribed in this Code, it shall be uncovered for inspection after notice to uncover the work has been issued to the responsible person by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2   Testing of Systems.

All plumbing systems shall be tested and approved as required by this Code or the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.1   Test.

Tests shall be conducted in the presence of the Authority Having Jurisdiction or its duly appointed representative.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.2   Test Waived.

No test or inspection shall be required where a plumbing system, or part thereof is set up for exhibition purposes and has no connection with a water or drainage system.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.3   Exceptions.

In cases where it would be impractical to provide the required water or air tests, or for minor installations and repairs, the Authority Having Jurisdiction, at its discretion, may make such inspection as deemed advisable in order to be assured that the work has been performed in accordance with the intent of this Code.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.4   Protectively Coated Pipe.

Inspection and repair shall conform to IAPMO Installation Standard IS-13, listed in Table 14-1.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.5   Tightness.

Joints and connections in the plumbing systems shall be gastight and watertight for the pressures required by test.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.6   Retesting.

If the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work will not pass the test, necessary corrections shall be made and the work shall then be resubmitted for test or inspection.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.2.7   Approval.

Upon the satisfactory completion and final test of the plumbing system, a certificate of approval shall be issued by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to the permittee on demand.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.3   Inspection Requests

104.3.1   General.

It shall be the duty of the person requesting inspections required by this Code to provide access to and means for proper inspection of such work.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.3.2   Advance Notice.

It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by the permit to notify the Authority Having Jurisdiction, orally or in writing, that said work is ready for inspection. Such notification shall be given not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the work is to be inspected.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.3.3   Responsibility.

It shall be the duty of the holder of a permit to make sure that the work will stand the test prescribed before giving the notification.

The equipment, material, and labor necessary for inspection or test shall be furnished by the person to whom the permit is issued or by whom inspection is requested.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.4   Other Inspections.

In addition to the inspections required by this Code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction may require other inspection of any plumbing work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this Code and other laws which are enforced by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.4.1   Defective Systems.

An air test shall be used in testing the sanitary condition of the drainage or plumbing system of any building premises when there is reason to believe that it has become defective. In buildings or premises condemned by the proper Authority Having Jurisdiction because of an insanitary condition of the plumbing system or part thereof, the alterations in such system shall conform to the requirements of this Code.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

104.4.2   Moved Structures.

All parts of the plumbing systems of any building or part thereof that is moved from one foundation to another, or from one location to another, shall be completely tested as prescribed elsewhere in this section for new work, except that walls or floors need not be removed during such test when other equivalent means of inspection acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction are provided.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.1   General Registration Requirements

105.1.1

Except as provided in subsections 103.8.2 and 103.8.3 of Section 103.8, a person shall not direct or perform any plumbing or gas fitting work unless, either:

He possesses a valid license covering the work performed issued pursuant to Chapter 9, Division 3, of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California; or

He is a registered Plumbing or Gas Fitting Contractor, or a registered Journeyman Plumber or Gas Fitter, or an apprentice as hereinafter defined.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.1.2

Nothing contained in this Code shall be deemed to require registration of any person holding a valid State Contractor's License issued by the State of California. Permits as required by this Code may be issued to applicants possessing a valid State Contractor's License issued pursuant to Chapter 9, Division 3, of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California when such license includes within its classification limitations the activities set forth on the application for permit, and entitles the licensee to perform personally or through employees qualified and registered as required by this Code all such activities without further personal local qualification or registration.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.1.3

When an applicant for a Plumbing or Gas Fitting Contractor's Certificate of Registration having no valid contractor's license issued by the State of California has met the conditions imposed elsewhere in this Code and has filed an affidavit stating that no work will be performed pursuant to such Certificate in violation of Chapter 9, Division 3, of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California, and the Board of Examiners so finds, the Chief Plumbing Inspector shall issue him a Certificate of Registration.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.1.4

Nothing contained in this Code shall be deemed to require registration of any apprentice.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2   Definitions

For the purpose of this Code and in addition to the definitions set forth in Chapter 2 of this Code, certain terms, phrases and words and their derivatives shall be construed as set out in this section. Words used in the singular include the plural and the plural the singular.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2.1   Apprentice.

An apprentice means a person of employable age who is engaged in learning the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Trades in accordance with local standards, and who is covered by an apprentice agreement which has been approved by the local joint apprenticeship committee and registered with the California State Division of Apprenticeship Standards. An apprentice or other nonregistered person may do plumbing or gas fitting work only under the direct supervision and in the immediate presence of a registered plumber or gas fitter.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2.2   Certificate of Registration.

A certificate issued by the Chief Plumbing Inspector to qualified persons not otherwise regulated by the Business and Professions Code of the State of California stating that the holder thereof is entitled to act and serve in the unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles as a Plumbing, or Gas Fitting Contractor or as a Journeyman Plumber or Gas Fitter, as the case may be.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2.3   Gas Fitting Contractor.

A person who is engaged in the business of installing, altering or repairing gas piping, gas water heaters, gas water-heater vents or any part or parts thereof, who is not otherwise regulated by the Business and Professions Code of the State of California, and who does or who holds himself forth as willing to furnish materials and do personally or through employees qualified and registered as required by this Code any work or services in connection therewith in the unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles, and who is the legal possessor of a Gas Fitting Contractor's Certificate of Registration.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2.4   Journeyman Gas Fitter.

A person who installs, alters or repairs gas piping, gas water heaters, gas vents or any part or parts thereof as an employee, who does not furnish any materials or supplies, and who is the legal possessor of a Journeyman Gas Fitter's Certificate of Registration.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2.5   Journeyman Plumber.

A person who installs, alters or repairs plumbing as an employee, who does not furnish any materials or supplies, and who is the legal possessor of a Journeyman Plumber's Certificate of Registration.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.2.6   Plumbing Contractor.

A person who is engaged in the business of plumbing, or an individual who is in responsible charge of the installation and maintenance of plumbing for a specific employer, and who is not otherwise regulated by the Business and Professions Code of the State of California, and who does, or holds himself forth as willing to furnish materials and to do personally, or through employees or subordinates qualified and registered as required by this Code, any work or services in connection with the installation, alteration or repair of plumbing, or any part thereof, within the unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles, and who is the legal possessor of a Plumbing Contractor's Certificate of Registration.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.3   Board of Examiners

105.3.1

A Board, to be designated as the Board of Examiners of Plumbers, and Gas Fitters of the County of Los Angeles, exists in the Building and Safety Division of the Department of Public Works. The Chief Plumbing Inspector shall act as secretary to said Board.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.3.2

The Board of Examiners shall have five positions. A member of the Board of Examiners shall be appointed to a vacant position by, and serve at the pleasure of, the Board of Supervisors.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.3.3

Each person who is a member of the Board of Examiners on the effective date of this amendment shall serve at the pleasure of the Board of Supervisors for the remainder of his or her term of three years.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.3.4

The members of the Board of Examiners shall be two Plumbing Contractors, two Journeyman Plumbers, and one Mechanical Engineer, each of whom, except the Mechanical Engineer, shall have been actively engaged in the trade of plumbing in the unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles for a period of at least ten years prior to his or her appointment to said Board.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.4   Length of Service—Vacancy

The provisions of this section shall become applicable to a position on the Board of Examiners at the expiration of term of the member occupying that position on the effective date of this amendment.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.4.1

Each member of the Board of Examiners shall serve at the pleasure of the Board of Supervisors. Each position on the Board of Examiners shall become vacant every four years from the date this amendment becomes applicable to each position.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.4.2

A member's position on the Board of Examiners shall become vacant upon his or her death, resignation, or removal by the Board of Supervisors. In the case of such a vacancy, the Board of Supervisors shall appoint a successor to serve until the position next becomes vacant under subsection 105.4.1 of this section.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.4.3

The provisions of Chapter 5.12 of the County Code shall not apply to the Board of Examiners.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.5   Rules of the Board of Examiners

The Board of Examiners shall adopt rules consistent with the ordinances of this County and with the statutes of this State governing applications and examinations. These rules shall be printed and available to the public. The Board of Examiners may from time to time alter or modify these rules.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.6   Meetings of the Board of Examiners

The Board of Examiners shall hold not less than one regular meeting each 90 days.

At a meeting at which a quorum is present, the expressed concurrent will or vote of a majority of those members of the Board of Examiners participating or voting, as the case may be, but in no event less than two, shall constitute the will or action of the Board.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.7   Duties of the Board of Examiners

105.7.1

It shall be the duty of the Board of Examiners to give, in such a manner as it may deem proper, such examinations as are required by the terms of this Code.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.7.2

It shall be the duty of the Board of Examiners to examine each applicant to determine his qualification in the classification applied for and to certify to the Chief Plumbing Inspector all applicants who have passed a satisfactory examination. In lieu of examination, the Board shall authorize the Chief Plumbing Inspector to accept as proof of an applicant's competency a valid Certificate of Registration issued pursuant to examination of any other agency within the State of California giving an examination, the scope and character of which, in the opinion of the Board, is at least equal to that given by the Los Angeles County Board of Examiners of Plumbers.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.7.3

The Board shall compile and keep current a list of agencies maintaining satisfactory examination and qualification procedures. This list shall be reviewed and brought up to date at least once each year. A copy of said list shall be kept on file in the office of the Chief Plumbing Inspector.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.7.4

It shall be the duty of the Board of Examiners of Plumbers and the Chief Plumbing Inspector to carefully consider any written charges, filed in the manner provided for in this Code, against any holder of a Certificate of Registration at its first regular meeting after the filing of such charges. The Board of Examiners shall render prompt decision in all cases of this kind.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.8   Issuance of Certificate of Registration

When an applicant for a Plumber's or Gas Fitter's Certificate of Registration shall have made payment of the fee prescribed by Section 105.11 hereof, shall have appeared before the Board of Examiners, and shall have passed a satisfactory examination, or is the legal possessor of an equivalent credential, the Board of Examiners shall certify him to the Chief Plumbing Inspector, who shall issue to him a Certificate of Registration for the classification in which he was qualified.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.9   Failure to Appear or to Pass Examination

105.9.1

Any applicant who fails to appear for examination after being duly notified, or any applicant who fails to pass a satisfactory examination, may reapply for examination after the expiration of 30 days. Should such person fail to pass the second time the Board may refuse a third application for examination from the said applicant until after the expiration of six months from the date of the first examination.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.9.2

When an applicant has failed to appear for examination after being duly notified, or when an applicant has failed to pass and reapplies for examination as provided for in this Section, a new application shall be filed and a new fee charged.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.10   Extension by Reason of Military Service

When the holder of a Plumber's or Gas Fitter's Certificate of Registration has joined any branch of the Federal armed services he may apply within ninety (90) days after his discharge for extension of this Certificate without further examination or fee. He shall submit evidence of his date of entry into and discharge from such Federal service. Said extension shall date from the first day of the month following discharge and shall be valid for the same number of months for which it would have been valid had the certificate holder not entered the Federal service.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.11   Certificate Fees*

Each applicant for a Certificate of Registration shall pay to the Department of Public Works the following fees at the time he files his application thereof:

For a Plumbing, or Gas Fitting Contractor's Certificate of Registration $121.97

For a Journeyman Plumber's or Gas Fitter's Certificate of Registration $97.31

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

105.12   Refund of Fees

105.12.1

When an applicant fails to take the examination for good cause shown, he may apply for and receive a refund of 80 percent of his application fee.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.12.2

When an application for any Certificate has been filed in error, the applicant may apply for and receive a refund of 80 percent of his application fee.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.13   Duties of Holders of Certificate of Registration

105.13.1

It shall be the duty of every holder of a Certificate to comply with all requirements of this and all other ordinances of the County of Los Angeles and all laws and legal rulings of the State of California which apply to plumbing and drainage work.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.13.2

Every registered Plumber and Gas Fitter shall carry with him his Certificate of Registration and shall exhibit it whenever requested to do so by authorized persons at all times during which he is engaged in any activity for which such Certificate is required.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.13.3

It shall be the duty of every holder of a Certificate of Registration to notify the Chief Plumbing Inspector of any change in the address or place of business named and contained in such person's Certificate within five days after the same shall have been changed.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.14   Charges Against Holders of Certificate of Registration

105.14.1

Any person may file with the Board of Examiners or the Chief Plumbing Inspector written charges against the holder of any Certificate of Registration. Such charges shall state in detail the nature and substance of the matters charged, and must be signed with the full name and correct address of the person making the charge.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.14.2

Should the Chief Plumbing Inspector find that the holder of any Certificate of Registration has willfully violated any of the provisions of this or any other related statute governing the installation, alteration or repair of plumbing or drainage system or parts thereof in the unincorporated territory of the County of Los Angeles, he may at his discretion suspend or revoke the Certificate. No permit required by this Code shall be issued to any person while his Certificate is so suspended, and no application for reinstatement shall be filed by any person whose Certificate has been revoked before the expiration of six months from the date of such revocation. Certificates of Registration are not transferrable from one person to another, and the lending of any Certificate or the obtaining of permits thereunder for another person shall be deemed cause for revocation.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.14.3

Should the Chief Plumbing Inspector find that any Certificate of Registration has been obtained by fraud, he shall immediately revoke such Certificate.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.14.4

The Chief Plumbing Inspector shall not suspend or revoke any Certificate of Registration until he shall have given the holder hereof at least 10 days' written notice to appear and show cause why his Certificate should not be suspended or revoked. In showing such cause, he may be represented by an attorney and may introduce evidence.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.14.5

When the Chief Plumbing Inspector shall suspend or revoke any Certificate of Registration, no refund of fees shall be made to the holder thereof.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

105.15   Expiration and Renewal of Certificate and Licensing*

Every Certification of Registration provided for by this ordinance, unless sooner revoked, shall expire on June 30, biennially, and each such Certificate my be renewed on or before that date upon payment of the following renewal fees:

If the applicant for a Plumber's or Gas Fitter's Certificate of Registration has not been so registered for a consecutive period of one year, a certificate issued prior to such period shall not be sufficient upon which to base the renewal of such Certificate of Registration.

(Ord. 95-0068 § 3 (part), 1995.)

* Editor's note: Fee changes in this section were made by the director of public works due to increases in the Consumer Price Index and are effective July 1, 2025.

106.0 through 118.0 - Reserved.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007.)

Following is a list of the state agencies that adopt building standards, the specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, and the specific statutory authority of each agency to adopt such building standards, unless otherwise stated.

(Ord. 2007-0110 § 2 (part), 2007.)