Examining Board of Plumbers

About the board

 The Examining Board of Plumbers’ duties are conferred by Article 4 of the General City Law of New York State. These duties include:

  • Examining and having jurisdiction over all persons desiring or intending to engage in the plumbing trade. The Board determines the fitness and qualifications for conducting the business of master plumber or to act as inspector of plumbing and to issue Certificates of Competency. 
  • Formulating, in conjunction with the local Board of Health, a code of rules regulating the work of plumbing and drainage in the City.
  • Preparing and issuing metal plates or signs to employing or master plumbers.
  • Registering employing or master plumbers.
  • Canceling a plumber’s registration in the event of violations of the Plumbing Code or laws or regulations relating to plumbing.
  • Clarifying and interpreting the meaning and intent of the code of rules regulating the work of plumbing and drainage, including the materials, workmanship, and manner of executing such work.
  • Administering and enforcing the testing, licensing, and registration of qualified master plumbers.
  • Granting waivers for any provisions of this code, which may result from disputes between an applicant for a permit and the Commissioner of Neighborhood and Business Development.
  • Reviewing, on a specific case basis, applicant appeals resulting from permits denied by the Commissioner.

Plumbing Licensing Information: Click here to learn more about how to apply for a Plumbing License online.

Appointment Process

Members are appointed by the Mayor and subject to confirmation by City Council.   

Membership Requirement and Length of Term

This Board consists of five (5) members with the following experience/credentials:

  • 2 employing or master plumbers with no less than 10 years' experience
  • 1 journeyman plumber with no less than 10 years’ experience
  • 2 Ex officio members:  Director of the Water Bureau, and chief water engineer for the City 

Terms are for 3 years beginning January 1st.

If you are interested in applying for a position on the board, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (585) 428-6140.

Current Board Members

Richard Benedict         Journeyman
Gary Mauro Master Plumber / Employer
William Kurtz Master Plumber / Employer
Marvin Parker City of Rochester Plumbing Inspector

2024 Meeting Schedule*, Exam Dates, Application Deadlines 

The 2024 Meeting Schedule can be accessed here.

*If you wish to appear before the Board, please contact licensedtrades@cityofrochester.gov or call (585) 428-9339.