do water heaters require a.permit?
Gas-fired water heaters require a mechanical permit and electrical water heaters need a plumbing permit to ensure that the unit is installed properly with a temperature and pressure relief valve, the valve has an attached drainpipe, and the entire system is installed in a safe location.
Installation of water heater requires a plumbing permit. I recently had a water heater installed and the contractor got a permit. When the inspector came, he asked why he was there. I replied that I was told a permit was required to replace a water heater, but he said he had never heard of such a thing.
Check for local requirements. To have a gas water heater, you will need a supply of gas. If you are going to install gas piping or change the gas piping you already have, a separate gas-piping permit must be obtained. The gas piping must not block the removal of the tank. Always adhere to the manufacturer's installation instructions.