I am not sure if this is on point, but this is from the Jersey City Code:

Chapter 131 (2)(b)


Plumbing subcode schedule of fees. Plumbing fees for replacement permits, extension permits, new building permits, heating apparatus, cooling apparatus, ventilating and specialty apparatus shall be as follows:
(a)
Plumbing fixtures: $10.00. Included but not limited to: water closet, urinal, bidet, bathtub, lavatory, shower, floor drain, sink, dishwasher, drinking fountain, washing machine hose bib, closet bend, coffee maker, gas appliance, gas service connection, ice maker, rain leader, roof drain, sprinkler head, sump pump, trap prime, washing machine tray, yard drain.
(b)
 
Water Heater $30.00
Fuel Oil Piping $10.00
Gas Piping $10.00
Steam boiler $30.00
Hot Water Boiler $30.00
Sewer Pump $40.00
Interceptor $40.00
Separator $40.00
Back flow Preventer $10.00 (domestic)
Back flow Preventer $75.00 (fire service)
Grease trap $40.00
Sewer connection $40.00
Water Service $30.00 (up to 2″)
Water Service $60.00 (above 2″)
Stacks $40.00

You definitely do NOT need a permit just to replace a hot water heater.

You can get one at Home Depot, and have them install it for you.

Maybe if you're moving the hot water heater to a new location in the apartment you'd need a permit and inspection. In-place replacement, no.

Yes you need a permit but if you have a single family in the state of NJ then you don't need to be licensed for any work you do in your own single family home.

But that being said there is no way I would apply for a permit and get that inspected. It is mindless to replace a hot water heater. I would not apply for any permit that I know I could get away without the DOB snooping around my house. Just so my taxes can go up more. No thanks.

Technically, you do need a permit, but most people don't bother and a sensible contractor/plumber will often tell you to skip the process. The chances of being caught by the city are pretty slim. Also, why risk having a city inspector go on a fishing expedition in your home and writing you up for all sorts possible violations?

Really? I can't believe they need a permit to change your water heater. I have never heard of that before. Would I need to get a permit if I want to change my sheets? Absolutely rediculous. Maybe that is why it takes so long for inspectors to actually do their real jobs when they are busy doing bull like this.

Quote:

Wow-- AND they have to inspect first? Just wow.

What happens if your hot water heater breaks in the middle of the night? This city is officially batshit insane.

FYI, it is unlawful to charge extra for filing a permit.

Yes, you do need a permit but you can do it yourself instead of having the plumber do it if you have time and want to save some money. The permit office is by the Exchange place and you need two permits: one for plumbing and one for fire marshall for the gas water heater. We had to pay bit extra because our house was historic. I forgot exactly how much we paid but it was roughly 1/2 cost of what the plumber charged. It makes sense since their time is factored into the cost. Overall, it wasn't that painful to do but it was bit of hassle to arrange the inspectors to come to the house. Luckily for us, the inspector showed up first thing in the morning. Once they approve the heater, they put stickers stating that it passed the inspection.

of course you need a permit and it has to be done by a plumber.

Never heard of anyone saying they needed one or got one, and I've been here 26 years FWIW.

I was under the impression that I did. One plumber said I didn't need to get one. Does anyone know? I'd rather not give the bldgs dept any extra shakedown money if I don't have to.