Do I Need a Permit to Remodel a Bathroom?
Short answer
Cosmetic-only work (paint, tile, vanity, flooring) needs no permit. The moment you move or add plumbing, touch wiring beyond a fixture swap, or remove walls, you need permits — usually plumbing and electrical, sometimes building.
Usually exempt (no building permit)
- Painting, wallpaper, tile, trim, and cabinet/vanity replacement in the same location
- Like-for-like faucet or toilet swaps at existing connections (most places)
Permit required
- Moving or adding any drain, vent, or supply line (tub-to-shower conversions included)
- New circuits or outlets — bathrooms require GFCI protection and a dedicated 20-amp receptacle circuit under modern code
- Removing or altering walls, even non-bearing ones, in many jurisdictions
- Adding a bathroom where none existed
What trips people up
- Exhaust ventilation (fan or operable window) is required; new fans need proper ducting to the exterior, not the attic
- Waterproofing behind tile in showers is a frequent inspection point
- Unpermitted bathrooms are the classic appraisal problem — "3rd bathroom not on record"
How to apply
Pulled as separate plumbing/electrical permits for smaller scopes, or a combined remodel permit for bigger ones. Homeowners can often self-perform in their own residence; licensed trades otherwise.
Check your jurisdiction: exemption thresholds are from the 2021 IRC (R105.2) as adopted by most states — your city or county may amend them. Find your local building department, adopted codes, and online permit portal on the BuildSpec permit pages.