Plumbing and the Trail to Eagle
Plumbing is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Plumbing Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 7 main requirements for Plumbing. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Describe how a properly working plumbing system protects your family's health and safety.
- b.List five important local health regulations related to plumbing.
- c.Describe the safety precautions you must take when making home plumbing repairs.
- 2
Do the following:
- a.Make a drawing and explain how a home hot- and cold-water supply system works.
- b.Make a drawing and explain the drainage system of the plumbing in a house.
- 3
Show how to use five important plumber's tools.
- 4
Identify and explain common plumbing terms.
- 5
Name the kinds of pipe that are used most often in a plumbing system.
- 6
Do FOUR of the following plumbing tasks under the supervision of a knowledgeable adult.
- 7
Identify three career opportunities in plumbing.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Plumbing Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Plumbing, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Plumbing is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 12 Plumbing requirements for you.
Plumbing Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Plumbing merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Plumbing is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Plumbing merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Plumbing in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Plumbing merit badge?
Plumbing is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Plumbing can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Plumbing merit badge have?
Plumbing has 7 main requirements with 5 sub-requirements, for 12 items in total.
