Do I need a plumbing permit to hook up water and sewer to a new home?

Usually yes inside a city, and often required by the water or sewer provider even outside one. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners advises consumers to check with the local plumbing inspection department on whether work needs a permit and inspection. Utilities may also require their own steps: for example, Austin requires approved plans, paid tap fees and a right-of-way permit before connection, and Texas public water systems require a Customer Service Inspection for new construction. In unincorporated rural areas, county requirements are often lighter, but septic permits still apply. Call the city or county and your utility before work starts.

Check your local rule. This varies by state, county or city. Your permitting office has the final word; the official lookup pages below show you who that is.

Sources

• Consumer InformationTexas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE)
• New Service ConnectionsCity of Austin, Austin Water
• Cross-Connection Control and Backflow PreventionTexas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)