Appendix I — INSTALLATION STANDARDS

(Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	HCD			DSA			OSHPD							BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	1	2	1-AC	AC	SS	SS/CC	1	1R	2	3	4	5	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6
Adopt Entire Chapter										X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Adopt Entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections that are listed below	X			X	X			X
Chapter/Section
IAPMO IS 31-2022	X			X	X			X

This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.

448 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

APPENDIX I

INSTALLATION STANDARDS

CONTENTS

Page

IAPMO IS 26-2019 [e4]

IAPMO IS 31-2022

IAPMO IS 33-2019 [e2]

TCNA Handbook-2022

450 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

"The information contained in this appendix is not part of this American National Standard (ANS) and has not been processed in accordance with ANSI's requirements for an ANS. As such, this appendix may contain material that has not been subjected to public review or a consensus process. In addition, it does not contain requirements necessary for conformance to the standard."

The following IAPMO Installation Standard is included here for the convenience of the users of the Uniform Plumbing Code. It is not considered as a part of the Uniform Plumbing Code unless formally adopted as such. This Installation Standard is an independent, stand-alone document published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and is printed herein by the expressed written permission of IAPMO.

TRENCHLESS INSERTION OF

POLYETHYLENE (PE) PIPE FOR SEWER LATERALS

IAPMO IS 26-2019 [e4]

The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency, or referenced in the adopting ordinance.

1 Scope

1.1 General

This standard shall govern the trenchless installation of polyethylene (PE) pipe for use in sanitary and storm sewers. The installed pipe shall comply with the requirements of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC [TM] ) published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) as to grade and connections to existing pipe and shall also comply with this standard. This standard specifies requirements for the installation of the trenchless insertion of polyethylene (PE) pipe for use in sanitary and storm sewers. 1.2 Terminology

In this Standard,

(a) “shall” is used to express a requirement, i.e., a provision that the user is obliged to satisfy to comply with the Standard;

(b) “should” is used to express a recommendation, but not a requirement;

(d) “can” is used to express a possibility or a capability.

Notes accompanying sections of the Standard do not specify requirements or alternative requirements; their purpose is to separate explanatory or informative material from the text. Notes to tables and figures are considered part of the table or figure and can be written as requirements.

2 Reference Publications

This Standard refers to the following publications, and where such reference is made, it shall be to the current edition of those publications, including all amendments published thereto.

ASTM International

ASTM D3261

Standard Specification for Butt Heat Fusion Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Fittings for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe and Tubing

ASTM F714

Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PR) Based on Outside Diameter

ASTM F894

Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Large Diameter Profile Wall Sewer and Drain Pipe

ASTM F1055

Standard Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing

ASTM F2620

Standard Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings

3 Abbreviations

The following abbreviations apply in this Standard:

PE — Polyethylene

HDPE — High Density Polyethylene

4 General

4.1 Product Requirements

Polyethylene (PE) sewer pipe or tubing and fitting joining methods shall be installed in accordance

IS 26

with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and comply with ASTM F714, ASTM F894 the applicable nationally recognized standard.

4.2 HDPE Materials

HDPE Extra High Molecular Weight 3408 SDR 17 Pipe Socket-Type PE Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled.

Note: The HDPE 3408 SDR 17 pipe used in this process was selected because of its ability to retain its circular shape even when bent on a 1.2 m (4 ft) radius during and after installation. 4.3 Protection of Pipe

Pipe shall be stored in a way to protect it from mechanical damage (slitting, puncturing, etc.). It shall be stored under cover to keep it clean and avoid long term exposure to sunlight. Exposure to sunlight during normal construction periods is acceptable. 4.4 Joining Methods

PE joints shall be made in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. PE pipe shall be joined to other pipe materials by an approved listed adapter or transition fittings listed for the specific transition intended.

4.4.1 Butt-Fusion Joints [2024 UPC 705.5.1.1]

Butt-fusion joints for PE pipe shall be installed in accordance with ASTM F2620 and shall be made by heating the prepared ends of two pipes, pipe and fitting, or two fittings by holding ends against a heated element. The heated element shall be removed when the required melt or times are obtained, and heated ends shall be placed together with applied force. Do not disturb the joint until cooled to ambient temper ature.

4.4.2 Electro-Fusion Joints [2024 UPC 705.5.1.2]

Electro-fusion joints shall be heated internally by a conductor at the interface of the joint. Fittings shall comply with ASTM F1055 for the performance requirements of polyethylene electro-fusion fittings. The specified electro-fusion cycle used to form the joint requires consideration of the properties of the materials being joined, the design of the fitting being used, and the environmental conditions. Align and restrain fitting to pipe to prevent movement and apply electric current to the fitting. Turn off the current when the required time has elapsed to heat the joint. Do not disturb the joint until cooled to ambient temperature. 4.4.3 Socket-Fusion Joints [2024 UPC 705.5.1.3]

Socket fusion joints shall be installed in accordance with ASTM F2620 and shall be made by simultaneously heating the outside surface of a pipe end and the inside of a fitting socket. Where the required melt is obtained, the pipe and fitting shall be joined by inserting one into the other with applied force. Do not disturb the joint until cooled to ambient temperature.

4.5 Trenchless Installation of Sewers

The trenchless installation of sewers will be as fol lows:

(a) Preliminary Steps (i) Inspect the inside of the sewer line using a camera and recording device to ascertain the line condition.

(ii) Mark the details revealed by the video inspection including:

The ground surface to show the location of the lateral tie of the city wye.
The line location with an arrow in the street pointing back at the lateral.
The property denoting the lateral location.
The locations of the proposed excavations.

(iii) Obtain utility line identification service contact information and all applicable permits. (b) Excavation In addition to the above markings, the local utility companies will mark utilities. Considerations are soil density; clearance from obstacles, utilities, and structures; location of bends, and water service locations. Excavations and shoring shall be in accordance with jurisdictional safety requirements. (c) Set Up Fuse the proper length of polyethylene pipe in accordance with ASTM F2620, or ASTM D3261 and fuse the end to a small length that is attached to the pulling head. A rod pusher cable is pushed through the damaged host pipe and attached to the pulling cable, which is then drawn through the pipe. The clevis end of the cable is attached to the pulling head. The pulling equipment is then set up according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

(d) Pulling Pull the pulling head through. Once the pull is done, complete the connection to the existing piping.

4.6 Cleanouts

4.6.1 Plug Each cleanout fitting for cast-iron pipe shall consist of a cast-iron or brass body and an approved plug. Each cleanout for galvanized wrought-iron, galvanized steel, copper, or brass pipe shall consist of a brass plug as specified in Table 1, or a standard weight brass cap, or an approved ABS or PVC plastic plug, or an approved stainless-steel cleanout or plug. Plugs shall have raised square heads or approved countersunk rectangular slots. 4.6.2 Approved Each cleanout fitting and each cleanout plug, or cap shall be of an approved type.

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IS 26

4.6.3 Watertight and Gastight

Cleanouts shall be designed to be watertight and gastight.

5 Testing and Inspection Requirements

5.1 Media

The piping of the building sewer shall be tested with water. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require the removal of cleanouts, etc., to ascertain whether the pressure has reached all parts of the system.

5.2 Water Test

The system shall be tested by plugging the end of the building sewer at its points of connection to the public sewer or private sewage disposal system and completely filling the building sewer with water from the lowest to the highest point thereof.

5.3 Inspections

The completed piping shall be internally inspected by camera unless waived by the Administrative Authority.

TABLE 1

CLEANOUTS (See Section 4.6.1)

NPS	SIZE OF CLEANOUT (inches)	THREADS PER INCH
1.5	1.5	11.5
2	1.5	11.5
2.5	2.5	8
3	2.5	8
4 & larger	3.5	8

Note: For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm

Uniform Plumbing Code References

The following sections of the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code apply.

105.2 Required Inspections

105.2.2 Other Inspections

105.3 Testing of Systems

301.2 Minimum Standards

309.0 Workmanship

312.0 Protection of Piping, Materials, and Structures

314.0 Trenching, Excavation, and Backfill

701.3 Drainage Fittings

705.5.1.1 Butt Fusion Joints

705.5.1.2 Electro-Fusion Joints

705.5.1.3 Socket-Fusion Joints

723.0 Building Sewer Test

TABLE 1

CLEANOUTS (See Section 4.6.1)

The following standards from Tables 1701.1 and 1701.2 of the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code apply.

Table 1701.1 Standards

ASTM D2239 Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (SIDRPR) Based on Controlled Inside Diameter

ASTM D2683 Socket-Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter-Controlled Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing

ASTM D3261 Butt Heat Fusion Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Fittings for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe and Tubing

ASTM F714 Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DRPR) Based on Outside Diameter

ASTM F894 Polyethylene (PE) Large Diameter Profile Wall Sewer and Drain Pipe

ASTM F1055 Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing

ASTM F2620 Heat Fusion Joining of Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings

Table 1701.2 Standards

ASTM D2657 Heat Fusion Joining of Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings

IAPMO PS 25 Metallic Fittings for Joining Polyethylene Pipe for Water Service and Yard Piping

Note: For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm

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INSTALLATION STANDARD FOR PEX TUBING SYSTEMS

FOR HOT- AND COLD-WATER DISTRIBUTION

IAPMO IS 31-2022

The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency, or referenced in the adopting ordinance.

1 Scope

1.1 General

1.1.1 This Standard specifies requirements for the installation of SDR 9 CTS crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing and fittings, including cold-expansion, crimp, press, and mechanical compression fittings, intended for hot- and cold-water distribution systems within buildings.

1.1.2 This Standards applies to

(a) SDR 9 CTS PEX tubing complying with ASTM F876 and pressure-rated in accordance with PPI TR-3; and (b) PEX fitting systems complying with (i) ASTM F877, for mechanical compression fittings and metal or plastic insert fittings with stainless steel press sleeves; (ii) ASTM F1807 or ASTM F2159, for metal or plastic insert fittings with copper crimp rings; (iii) ASTM F1960, for cold expansion fittings with PEX reinforced rings; or (iv) ASTM F2080, for cold expansion fittings with metal compression sleeves. 1.2 Terminology

In this Standard,

(a) “shall” is used to express a requirement, i.e., a provision that the user is obliged to satisfy to comply with the Standard; (b) “should” is used to express a recommendation, but not a requirement; (c) “may” is used to express an option or something permissible within the scope of the Standard; and (d) “can” is used to express a possibility or a capability. Notes accompanying sections of the Standard do not specify requirements or alternative requirements; their purpose is to separate explanatory or informa

tive material from the text. Notes to tables and figures are considered part of the table or figure and can be written as requirements.

1.3 Units of Measurement

SI units are the primary units of record in global commerce. In this Standard, the inch/pound units are shown in parentheses. The values stated in each measurement system are equivalent in application, but each unit system is to be used independently. All references to gallons are to U.S. gallons.

2 Reference Publications

This Standard refers to the following publications, and where such reference is made, it shall be to the current edition of those publications, including all amendments published thereto.

ASTM International

ASTM F876 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing

ASTM F877 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems

ASTM F1807 Standard Specification for Metal Insert Fittings Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring, or Alternate Stainless Steel Clamps, for SDR9 Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing and SDR9 Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Tubing

ASTM F1960 Standard Specification for Cold Expansion Fittings with PEX Reinforcing Rings for Use with Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Tubing

IS 31

ASTM F2080 Standard Specification for ColdExpansion Fittings with Metal Compression-Sleeves for CrossLinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and SDR9 Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Pipe

ASTM F2159 Standard Specification for Plastic Insert Fittings Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring, or Alternate Stainless Steel Clamps for SDR9 Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing and SDR9 Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Tubing

ASTM F2657 Standard Test Method for Out door Weathering Exposure of Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing

AWWA (American Water Works Association)

AWWA C904 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Pressure Tubing, ½ In. (13 mm) Through 3 In. (76 mm), for Water Service

IAPMO (International Association of Plumb- ing and Mechanical Officials)

IAPMO/ANSI

UPC-1 Uniform Plumbing Code

PPI (Plastics Pipe Institute)

PPI TR-3 Policies and Procedures for

Developing Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB), Hydrostatic Design Stresses (HDS), Pressure Design Basis (PDB), Strength Design Basis (SDB), Minimum Required Strength (MRS) Ratings, and Categorized Required Strength (CRS) for Thermoplastic Piping Materials or Pipe

3 Abbreviations

The following abbreviations apply in this Standard:

CTS — copper tube size

HDPE — high density polyethylene

IC — insulation contact

NTS — nominal tubing size

PEX — crosslinked polyethylene

SDR — standard dimension ratio

UV — ultraviolet light

4 General

4.1 Tubing

4.1.1 PEX tubing can be

(a) pigmented throughout (i.e., with color); (b) non-pigmented (e.g., translucent or natural); or (c) coated with a pigmented layer. 4.1.2 PEX tubing is typically available in NTS-1/4 to NTS-3.

4.1.3 Before installation, the installer shall review the tubing markings and verify that

(a) the standard designation(s) of the fittings to which the tube can be joined to is included in the markings; (b) it bears a certification mark from an accredited certification organization; and (c) pressure and temperature ratings meet or exceed that of the intended end-use. 4.2 Fittings 4.2.1 Cold-Expansion Fittings

Cold-expansion fittings typically are made of brass, stainless steel, or sulfone; consist of an insert and a PEX reinforcing ring; and are available in NTS-3/8 to NTS-3.

4.2.2 Crimp or Press Insert Fittings

Crimp or press insert fittings typically

(a) are made of brass, stainless steel, or sulfone; (b) consist of an insert and a copper crimp ring or a stainless steel press ring (c) are available in NTS-3/8 to NTS-2 4.2.3 Compression Fittings

Compression (i.e., transition) fittings typically

(a) are made of brass; and (b) consist of (i) a nut, a compression ring, and an insert; or (ii) an O-ring brass insert with a compression sleeve. (c) are available in NTS-1/4 to NTS-3. 4.3 Installation

Only fittings systems marked on the tubing shall be used for installation with that particular tubing.

4.4 Tools

Tools and tool accessories (e.g., tool heads) used for the installation of PEX tubing systems shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and written instructions.

4.5 Tubing Protection

4.5.1 Abrasion

PEX tubing passing through drilled or notched metal studs or metal joists, or hollow-shell masonry walls shall be protected from abrasion by elastomeric or plastic sleeves or grommets.

4.5.2 Puncture

Steel-plate protection shall be installed in accordance with the local plumbing code.

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IS 31

5 Handling 5.1 Receiving

When receiving PEX tubing shipments, the receiver shall inspect and inventory each shipment, ensuring that there has been no loss or damage. In addition:

(a) At the time of unloading, the markings of all tubing, fittings, and accessories shall be verified to ensure that all items have been manufactured in accordance with the applicable product Standard and appropriately certified. (b) An overall examination of the shipment shall be made. If the shipment is intact, ordinary inspection while unloading shall be sufficient to ensure that the items have arrived in good condition. (c) If the load has shifted, has broken packaging, or shows evidence of rough treatment, each item shall be carefully inspected for damage. (d) The total quantities of each shipment (e.g., tubing, gaskets, fittings, and accessories) shall be checked against shipping records. (e) Any damaged or missing items shall be noted on the delivery slip. The carrier shall be notified immediately, and a claim made in accordance with its instructions. (f) No damaged material shall be disposed of. The carrier shall recommend the procedure to follow. (g) Shortages and damaged materials are normally not reshipped without request. If replacement material is needed, it shall be reordered from the manufacturer, the distributor, or a manufacturer’s representative. 5.2 Storage and UV Exposure

5.2.1 PEX tubing and fittings shall be stored indoors and in its original packaging until the time of installation. Appropriate precautions to protect the tubing from damage, impact, and punctures shall be taken.

5.2.2 Accumulative exposure time to UV radiation during storage and installation shall not exceed the UV exposure limits recommended by the manufacturer or specified in ASTM F876. Note: ASTM F876 has four categories for UV-resis- tance, ranging from untested to 6 months of contin- uous exposure, as listed in the material designation code.

5.3 Exposure to Heat

5.3.1 PEX tubing and fittings shall not be exposed to open flames.

5.3.2 PEX tubing shall not be exposed to temperatures exceeding 93 ºC (200ºF). 5.4 Exposure to Chemicals

5.4.1 Chemical compatibility (e.g., with common construction materials) shall be verified with the manufacturer prior to direct contact.

5.4.2 In general, petroleum- or solvent-based chemicals (e.g., paints, greases, pesticides, or sealants) shall not be allowed to come in direct contact with PEX tubing or fittings.

6 Thermal Expansion and Contraction

6.1 Horizontal Tubing Runs

Thermal expansion and contraction forces on suspended horizontal runs of PEX tubing that can experience a 22 ºC (40ºF) or greater change in temperature (operating temperature compared to ambient temperature) shall be controlled by a means of mitigating temperature-induced stresses to other parts of the water distribution system. Means for controlling thermal expansion and contraction include

(a) loops; (b) offsets; (c) arms with rigid anchor points; and (d) supporting the tubing with continuous runs of CTS support channels with (i) rigid anchor points installed every 20 m (65 ft); and (ii) proper strapping (e.g., 27 kg (60 lb) straps or equivalent) spaced 1 m (3 ft) and rated for the maximum temperature and UV exposure of the PEX tubing application. 6.2 Vertical Tubing Runs

Thermal expansion and contraction forces on vertical runs of PEX tubing that pass through more than one floor and can experience a 22 ºC (40ºF) or greater change in temperature (operating temperature compared to ambient temperature) shall be controlled by installing

(a) a riser clamp at the top of every other floor; and (b) mid-story guides to maintain the alignment of the vertical tubing. Note: Installing riser clamps isolates expansion and contraction to two-floor intervals allowing the PEX tubing to naturally compensate for the expan- sion and contraction.

6.3 Clearance

Adequate clearance shall be provided between PEX tubing and the building structure (e.g., using bored holes and sleeves) to allow for free longitudinal movement of the tubing.

6.4 Expansion Arms and Expansion Loops

6.4.1 Expansion Arms (See Figure 1)

6.4.1.1 Expansion arms shall be installed as illustrated in Figure 1.

6.4.1.2 The minimum length of expansion arms shall be calculated using the following equation:

LB = C × √ (D × Δ L)

where

LB = length of flexible arm

C = material constant (12 for PEX)

D = nominal outside diameter of tubing

Δ L = thermal expansion length

IS 31

6.4.2 Expansion Loops (See Figure 2) 6.4.2.1 Expansion loops shall be installed at the mid-point between anchors, as illustrated in Figure 2. 6.4.2.2 The minimum length of expansion loops shall be calculated using the equation in Section 6.4.1.2; however, the distance LB shall be divided into three sections, as illustrated in Figure 2.

where

L1 = LB ÷ 5; and L2 = L1 × 2.

7 Hangers and Supports 7.1 Vertical Tubing

Vertical PEX tubing shall

(a) be supported at each floor or as specified by the water-distribution system designer to allow for expansion and contraction; and (b) have mid-story guides. 7.2 Horizontal Tubing

Unless otherwise authorized by the authority having jurisdiction, suspended horizontal runs of PEX tubing

(a) NTS-1 and smaller shall be supported every 0.8 m (32 in), unless continuously supported by metallic CTS or V channels that (i) are supported at intervals not exceeding 1.8 m (6 ft); (ii) have a maximum cantilever, measured from the support to the end of the CTS support channel, of 0.5 m (1.5 ft); and (b) NTS-1-1/4 and larger shall be supported every 1.2 m (4 ft), unless continuously supported by metallic CTS or V channels that (i) are supported at intervals not exceeding 2.4 m (8 ft); and (ii) have a maximum cantilever, measured from the support to the end of the CTS support channel, of 0.5 m (1.5 ft). 7.3 Anchors

Anchors shall be

(a) used to restrict PEX tubing movement; (b) made of materials that provide rigidity to the support system and utilize pipe clamps designed for plastic tubing capable of restraining the tubing; and (c) installed in accordance with Figures 1 or 2, as applicable (i.e., anchor distances and size of arms and offsets). Note: Anchors are typically installed every 20 m (65 ft). See Section 6.

8 Joints and Connections

8.1 Assembly Procedure

The procedure for making joints shall be as specified by the manufacturer.

8.2 Concealed Joints

PEX tubing systems manufactured in accordance with the applicable standards referenced in Section 2 are deemed manufactured joints and may be installed in concealed spaces without the need for access panels.

9 Clearances

9.1 Gas Vents

Except for double-wall B-vents, which require a 25 mm (1 in) clearance, the clearance between gas appliance vents and PEX tubing shall be at least 150 mm (6 in). 9.2 Recessed Light Fixtures

Except when the PEX tubing is protected with fiberglass or closed-cell insulation or the recessed light is IC-rated, the clearance between recessed light fixtures and PEX tubing shall be at least 300 mm (12 in). 9.3 Fluorescent Lighting

When in direct view of the light source, the clearance between fluorescent lighting and PEX tubing shall be at least 1.5 m (5 ft). If the minimum clearance cannot be achieved, the PEX tubing shall be protected with a UV-blocking sleeve.

10 Other Considerations