(a) It shall be unlawful to install, alter or reconstruct any plumbing or plumbing system, as defined by the Plumbing Code and § 4-401, in any building in the city without first making application to and receiving a permit therefor from the City Clerk, after approval by the Chief Building Official or his or her authorized assistant. The application for such permit shall be made and the permit obtained before any plumbing work is commenced.
(b) No permit shall be required for making minor repairs of any plumbing including repair of leaks in water pipes, traps or cocks, opening up stoppage in waste or supply pipes, traps or drains, replacing fixtures when waste pipes are not disturbed, or replacing frozen pipes inside the building, and like repair work not involving original installation or reconstruction.