Massachusetts · statewide
Massachusetts gas line installation: licensed fitters and permits
Updated · Prepared by the Plumb Right Now editorial team
Short answer
In Massachusetts, gas fitting work is governed by 248 CMR, the regulations of the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Permits for gas fitting are issued only to properly licensed individuals, not to apprentices; employees of a gas company are the main exception. A journeyman gas fitter needs two years as an apprentice, 150 hours of approved gas fitting theory and a passing exam.
What Massachusetts requires or changes
248 CMR 3.00 governs the installation, removal, alteration, repair and inspection of all plumbing and gas fitting work in Massachusetts under M.G.L. c. 142. [1]
Gas fitting permits are issued only to properly licensed individuals and may not be issued to apprentices. [1]
A gas company may have a permit issued to an employee authorized to act for the company; gas company employees still need permits and inspections. [1]
A journeyman gas fitter must work at least two years as an apprentice, complete 150 hours of approved gas fitting theory and pass the journeyman exam. [2]
Common gas jobs that need a permit
- Running a line to a new range, dryer, fireplace or grill.
- Moving or replacing a gas water heater or boiler; see water heater replacement.
- Converting from oil or propane to natural gas.
- Repairing a leak in house piping; if you smell gas in the house, leave first and call the gas company.
Before you hire
Ask for the fitter's Massachusetts license number and confirm it with the Division of Occupational Licensure. The licensed fitter pulls the permit from your town's gas inspector and the work is inspected before the gas is turned on. See gas line installation, and Worcester and Springfield for local context.
Common questions
Who can get a gas permit in Massachusetts?
Only a properly licensed plumber or gas fitter; apprentices can't.
Which regulations cover gas fitting in Massachusetts?
248 CMR, from the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.
What does a Massachusetts journeyman gas fitter need?
Two years as an apprentice, 150 hours of approved theory and a passing exam.
Do gas company workers need a license in Massachusetts?
They work under the company, but the work still needs a permit and inspection.
Is the gas work inspected in Massachusetts?
Yes. The local gas inspector checks permitted work before the gas is turned on.
Can an apprentice run my gas line in Massachusetts?
Only under a licensed fitter; permits can't be issued to apprentices.
How do I check a Massachusetts gas fitter's license?
Look it up with the Division of Occupational Licensure.
Does moving a gas dryer need a permit in Massachusetts?
New or altered gas piping is permitted work; ask the fitter to pull the permit.
What should I do if I smell gas in my Massachusetts home?
Leave, then call the gas company or 911 from outside; don't use switches or phones inside.
Who issues gas permits in my Massachusetts town?
The local gas inspector, to the licensed fitter doing the work.
Gas Line Installation and Repair across Massachusetts
Sources (2)
- 248 CMR 3.00, General provisions governing plumbing and gas fitting work · checked 2026-10-06
- Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure, Apply for a Journeyman Gas Fitter license · checked 2026-10-06