Town of Cary, NC

Water heater replacement permits in Town of Cary

Narrow exemption; otherwise trade permit

Replacement is exempt only in a one- or two-family dwelling when location, size/heating capacity, fuel or energy source, vent/plumbing routing or sizing do not change, and work is done by a licensed NC plumbing contractor. Cary also lists water heaters as online residential trade permits with no plan review.

What to know before starting

The information below was checked against the linked official source on 2026-09-21. Confirm final requirements with Town of Cary Inspections and Permits; Planning and Development Services; 311 or 919-469-4000 before work begins.

Required permits and fees

  • Plumbing permit — Exempt only when every stated condition is met; otherwise confirm/obtain (Confirm with Cary)
  • Gas/electrical permit — Confirm if connected systems change (Confirm with Cary)

Required plans

No-plan-review online trade permit is listed for water heaters; confirm equipment details.

Setback rules

Not stated; confirm if exterior equipment or site work is involved.

Required inspections

  • Schedule applicable plumbing/gas/electrical inspection
  • Cary says final inspections must be called in by phone

Issuing authority

Town of Cary Inspections and Permits; Planning and Development Services; 311 or 919-469-4000

Confirm with office

919-469-4000

Official source: Town of Cary - FAQ and Click2Gov for Inspections and Permits