County Board debates mandatory permits for water heater installations

In a pivotal discussion at the Mohave County Building Code Advisory Board meeting on June 24, 2025, members debated the necessity of maintaining a permit requirement for water heater installations, highlighting the balance between public safety and regulatory burden.

Member Ruggie, a seasoned county official, emphasized the longstanding presence of this requirement in the county's codes and fee schedules, noting its importance for public health and safety. "I've seen an awful lot of job sites with water heaters done incorrectly," he stated, underscoring the potential dangers, including gas leaks and carbon monoxide risks. Ruggie, who identifies as an anti-regulation advocate, acknowledged the need for oversight in this area, particularly as a licensed contractor.

Support for the permit requirement was echoed by fellow contractor Mr. Walker, who shared his own experience of hiring a plumber for his water heater installation due to safety concerns. "If you do it wrong, there's a lot of issues that could be not good for people," he warned, reinforcing the argument for keeping the permit system intact.

However, the discussion also revealed concerns about the financial impact on low-income residents. One member suggested exploring the possibility of offering courtesy inspections, similar to practices in other municipalities, to alleviate the burden of the permit fee for those on fixed incomes.

Commissioner McGee contributed to the dialogue by expressing his respect for the building department's efforts to streamline regulations, while also advocating for limited government intervention. He raised questions about the practicality of enforcing additional regulations without imposing further costs on the community.

As the board continues to weigh the implications of the permit requirement, the conversation reflects a broader tension between ensuring safety and minimizing regulatory hurdles for residents. The outcome of this discussion could shape future building practices and safety standards in Mohave County.