Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Detroit, MI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $700–$2,200 est. 6–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
Get my personalized route — $14.99

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Michigan

3 stops

  1. Michigan Master Plumber License

    Required to contract for plumbing work in Michigan. Issued by the Michigan Bureau of Construction Codes. Applicants must pass a state examination, have 4 years of plumbing experience (including journeyman experience), and carry $100,000 liability insurance. License renewed every 3 years.

    Official government source

    $175 (3-year license fee) + exam fees4–8 weeks

  2. Michigan Plumbing Contractor Bond/Insurance

    Plumbing contractors in Michigan must carry at least $100,000 in general liability insurance. Workers' compensation is required if you have employees.

    Official government source

    $600–$1,500/year1–5 days

  3. Michigan Business Entity Registration (if applicable)

    LLCs and corporations must register with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

    Official government source

    $50 (LLC filing fee)5–10 business days

City of Detroit / Wayne County

2 stops

  1. City of Detroit Business License

    All businesses operating in Detroit must register with the City of Detroit Department of Licenses and Inspections. Plumbing contractors must also register as a licensed contractor with the city to pull plumbing permits.

    Official government source

    $125–$250/year1–3 weeks

  2. Detroit — Contractor Registration for Permits

    Plumbing contractors must register with the Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) to obtain plumbing permits. The state-licensed Master Plumber must be on file. Michigan state license is required.

    Official government source

    No additional fee beyond state license verification1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$2,200 · 6–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides