CPC · California Plumbing Code
When must a plumbing permit be obtained and what are common exemptions?
If you are installing, altering, replacing, relocating, or reconstructing plumbing, get a written permit first — the California Plumbing Code (State) requires permits for those activities (see **§ 1.8.4.1**). Only a few minor repairs (stopping leaks or clearing stoppages that do not replace or rearrange piping/fixtures) are exempt; when in doubt, contact your local Authority Having Jurisdiction because exemptions are narrow and local rules can require permits.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
A written permit is required before you erect, construct, install, relocate, or alter any plumbing system: that is the State-level rule — § 1.8.4.1 requires a written construction permit from the enforcing agency prior to erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any plumbing system. Local permit and administration provisions (permits, exemptions, annual permits, inspections) are covered in the Division II / Section 105 series of the codes (see the California Building/Plumbing Code administration chapters for permit issuance and exemptions).
The single most important rule: obtain a written plumbing permit before starting any installation, alteration, replacement, relocation, or reconstruction of a plumbing system unless a specific exemption applies. § 1.8.4.1.
Requirements in detail
Core rule (what triggers a permit)
Any installation, alteration, repair, replacement, reconstruction, relocation, or remodel of a plumbing system requires a permit under State administration. See § 1.8.4.1 (State Plumbing Code) and the local permit rules in § 105.0 (permits / administration).
The local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may require construction documents, plan review, and plan-review fees for work that is not exempt (see construction document rules).
Routine exemptions (what commonly does NOT need a permit)
The code lists a small set of specific exempt activities (commonly-cited items are repairs that do not replace or rearrange piping or fixtures). Read these carefully — an otherwise minor repair can become "new work" (and require a permit) if replacement/removal of piping or fixtures occurs.
Decision table (quick reference)
| Work / Decision factor | Permit required? | Key threshold / note | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New plumbing installation or adding fixtures | Yes | Any new installation/alteration needs a permit | § 1.8.4.1 |
| Stopping a leak only (no pipe/fixture removal) | No (exempt) | Repair that does not require removal/replacement of pipe or trap | § 104.2 (Exempt work items 1–2) |
| Clearing stoppages (including removal & re‑installation of a water closet) | No (exempt) — only if no replacement/rearrangement | If the work requires replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures it becomes new work | § 104.2 |
| Replacement of defective trap/drain/vent pipe where removed & replaced | Yes (treated as new work) | Replacement of an entire defective trap/drain/vent = new work → permit required | § 104.2 (exception language) |
| Annual permit for a contractor covering multiple small jobs | Optional (AHJ may allow) | Building official may issue an annual permit in lieu of separate permits (records required) | § 105.1.1 |
| Recycled / reclaimed water supply systems (within building or connected to building plumbing) | Yes | Permits and complete plans required before issuing — see recycled water chapter | § 1505.2 and § 1505.2.1 (plan submittal) |
Notes:
- Exemptions are narrowly drawn and do not authorize unsafe or illegal work. The AHJ can determine whether a repair is “minor” or requires a permit. Exemptions do not allow violations.
Administrative timing & paperwork
Applications must identify the work, site, occupancy, and include construction documents where required (the AHJ may waive documents for simple work). See construction-document requirements for plan submittal. § 104.3.1 and related sections.
Permit expiration / commencement: permits may expire if work not commenced or suspended (local timeframes and extensions are specified in the administration chapters — check § 104.4.3 / local AHJ).
Exceptions & special cases
Retroactive permits: the State allows retroactive permits in certain circumstances (referenced in § 1.8.4.1 — exceptions include retroactive permits issued under Health & Safety Code provisions). AHJ application required.
Minor repairs vs. replacement: a key trap for homeowners/contractors — a simple “repair” (e.g., stopping a leak) is exempt only when it does not require removal and replacement of traps, drain, soil, or vent piping; if you remove and replace those items, the work is treated as new and a permit is required. § 104.2 explains this distinction.
Local rules can be stricter: the AHJ (city/county/building or health agency) may require permits even where a narrow state-level exemption exists; always check with the AHJ. See the Authority Having Jurisdiction provisions in the administrative chapter.
Specialized systems (recycled water, medical gases, industrial interceptors, private sewage systems) frequently require permits and plan review even if small in size — see the specific chapters (example: § 1505.2.1 for recycled water plans).
IMPORTANT: I did not find an explicit text excerpt for § 105.2.1 in the retrieved documents. If you need the exact wording of § 105.2.1, I can retrieve that section from your uploaded code file or confirm with your AHJ. (Do not rely on an assumed subsection text.)
Common mistakes
Treating every “small” repair as exempt. Replacing a trap, a section of soil/vent/drain, or rerouting piping often converts an otherwise “minor” repair into work that requires a permit. See § 104.2 exemption language.
Assuming state guidance overrides local rules. Local AHJs can (and do) require permits and documentation even where a limited exemption exists — always check first with the AHJ.
Skipping plan submittals for systems that obviously require them (e.g., recycled water supply systems must have complete plans and data before permits are issued). See § 1505.2 and § 1505.2.1.
Not keeping records when working under an annual permit — the holder must keep detailed records and the AHJ has access. § 105.1.1.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: Homeowner replaces an existing tank water heater with a new tank water heater and, while doing so, replaces 6 feet of adjacent hot‑water supply and vent piping (removes and replaces piping).
Is a permit required? Yes — because the work includes replacement of piping and alteration of the plumbing system. Per § 1.8.4.1, any installation/alteration/relocation requires a permit; and § 104.2 treats removal-and-replacement of trap/drain/vent as new work (exemption does not apply).
What to submit: Permit application identifying the work, site, use/occupancy, and (depending on AHJ thresholds) construction documents or equipment specifications per § 104.3.1. Plan review fees may be assessed.
Timelines: Begin only after permit issuance. Typical permit-start/expiration rules are in the administration chapters — if work isn’t started within the AHJ’s commencement window or is suspended more than the allowed period, the permit may expire and need reissuance. § 104.4.3 (see AHJ for local timeframes).
Practical advice: Ask the AHJ whether this replacement qualifies for an expedited or simplified plan check; if you are a contractor who does many similar jobs, consider whether an annual permit is available (§ 105.1.1).
Common-code references (related provisions)
- § 1.8.4.1 — Permits; written construction permit required (California Plumbing Code — State administration).
- § 104.1 — Permits Required (CPC Division II — permit requirement language and scope).
- § 104.2 — Exempt Work (stopping leaks; clearing stoppages; when replacement becomes new work).
- § 104.3.1 — Construction documents (when plans and engineering calculations are required).
- § 104.4.3 — Permit expiration / time limits on commencement (check local AHJ rules).
- § 105.0 / § 105.1.1 — Annual permits and permit administration (California Building Code / administration chapters).
- § 1505.2 / § 1505.2.1 — Recycled water supply systems: permits and plumbing plan submission requirements.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 104.0 High relevance — show source text
104.0 Permits.
104.1 Permits Required. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm, or corporation to make an installation, alteration, repair, replacement, or remodel a plumbing system regulated by this code except as permitted in Section 104.2, or to cause the same to be done without first obtaining a separate plumbing permit for each separate building or structure. 104.2 Exempt Work. A permit shall not be required for the following:
(1) The stopping of leaks in drains, soil, waste, or vent pipe, provided, however, that a trap, drainpipe, soil, waste, or vent pipe become defective, and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, the same shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be procured and inspection made as provided in this code.
(2) The clearing of stoppages, including the removal and reinstallation of water closets, or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for work to be done in violation of the provisions of the code or other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. 104.3 Application for Permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefore in writing on a form furnished by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for that purpose. Such application shall:
(1) Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
(2) Describe the land upon which the proposed work is to be done by legal description, street address, or similar description that will readily identify and locate the proposed building or work.
(3) Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
(4) Be accompanied by construction documents in accordance with Section 104.3.1.
(5) Be signed by the permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require evidence to indicate such authority.
(6) Give such other data and information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
104.3.1 Construction Documents. Construction documents, engineering calculations, diagrams, and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, with each application for a permit. The construction documents, computations, and specifications shall be prepared by, and the plumbing designed by, a registered design professional. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale with clarity to identify that the intended work to be performed is in accordance with the code.
Exception: The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to waive the submission of construction documents, calculations, or other data where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with the code.
104.3.2 Plan Review Fees. Where a plan or other data is required to be submitted in accordance with Section 104.3.1, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting construction documents for review.
The plan review fees for plumbing work shall be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction.
CPC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text
accordance with the requirements of the code and other pertinent laws and ordinances and that the fees specified in Section 104.5 have been paid, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall issue a permit therefore to the applicant. 104.4.1 Approved Plans or Construction Docu- ments. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction issues the permit where plans are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall endorse in writing or stamp the construction documents “APPROVED.” Such approved construction documents shall not be changed, modified, or altered without authorization from the Authority Having Jurisdiction, and the work shall be done in accordance with approved plans.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to issue a permit for the construction of a part of a plumbing system before the entire construction documents for the whole system have been submitted or approved, provided adequate information and detailed statements have been filed in accordance with the pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit shall be permitted to proceed at the holder’s risk without assurance that the permit for the entire building, structure, or plumbing system will be granted. 104.4.2 Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of construction documents shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, a violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code shall be valid.
The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications, or other data shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans, specifications, and other data or from preventing building operations being carried on thereunder where in violation of this code or of other ordinances of this jurisdiction. 104.4.3 Expiration. A permit issued by the Authority Having Jurisdiction under the provisions of this code shall expire by limitation and become null and void where the work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date of such permit, or where the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned at a time after the work is commenced for a period of 180 days. Before such work is recommenced, a new permit shall first be obtained to do so, and the fee, therefore, shall be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work, provided no changes have been made or will be made in the original construction documents for such work, and provided further that such suspensions or abandonment has not exceeded 1 year. 104.4.3.1 Expiration. [BSC] On or after January 1, 2019, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 12 months after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
days each. The extension shall be requested in writ- ing and justifiable cause demonstrated. (See Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 and 18938.6). **104.4.4 Extensions.
CPC § 104.7.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.7.4 Tests. The building official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.
[A] 104.7.5 Fees. The building official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 109.
[A] 104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
[A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
[A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installation, the building official is authorized to issue an annual permit upon application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified tradespersons in the building, structure or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.
[A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The building official shall have access to such records at all times or such records shall be filed with the building official as designated.
[A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
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CPC § 101.3.2 High relevance — show source text
** No permit for a rainwater catchment system requiring a permit shall be issued until complete plumbing plans, with data satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, have been submitted and approved. No changes or connections shall be made to either the rainfall catchment or the potable water system within a site containing a rainwater catchment water system without approval by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. K 101.3.2 System Changes. No changes or connections shall be made to either the rainwater catchment system or the potable water system within a site containing a rainwater catchment system requiring a permit without approval by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. K 101.4 Product and Material Approval. System components shall be properly identified as to the manufacturer. K 101.4.1 Plumbing Materials and Systems. Pipe, pipe fittings, traps, fixtures, material, and devices used in a potable rainwater system shall be listed or labeled (thirdparty certified) by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) and shall be in accordance with approved applicable recognized standards referenced within this code, and shall be free from defects. Unless otherwise provided for in this appendix, materials, fixtures, or devices used or entering into the construction of plumbing systems, or parts thereof shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction for approval.
K 101.5 Maintenance and Inspection. Potable rainwater catchment systems and components shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with Section K 101.5.1 through Section K 101.5.3.
K 101.5.1 Frequency. Potable rainwater catchment systems and components shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with Table K 101.5.1 unless more
frequent inspection and maintenance are required by the manufacturer.
K 101.5.2 Maintenance Log. A maintenance log for potable rainwater catchment systems shall be maintained by the property owner and be available for inspection. The property owner or designated appointee shall ensure that a record of testing, inspection, and maintenance in accordance with Table K 101.5.1 is maintained in the log. The log will indicate the frequency of inspection, and maintenance of each system. A record of the required water quality tests shall be retained for not less than 2 years.
K 101.5.3 Maintenance Responsibility. The required maintenance and inspection of potable rainwater catchment systems shall be the responsibility of the property owner unless otherwise required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
K 101.6 Operation and Maintenance Manual. An operation and maintenance manual for potable rainwater catchment systems shall be supplied to the building owner by the system designer. The operating and maintenance manual shall include the following:
(1) Detailed diagram of the entire system and the location of system components.
(2) Instructions for operating and maintaining the system.
(3) Details on maintaining the required water quality as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
(4) Details on deactivating the system for maintenance, repair, or other purposes.
(5) Applicable testing, inspection, and maintenance frequencies in accordance with Table K 101.5.1.
(6) A method of contacting the manufacturer(s).
CPC § 104.9.1 High relevance — show source text
ADMINISTRATION
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to repair, add to, alter, relocate, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or to repair, install, add, alter, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit.
[A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing installation, the code official is authorized to issue an annual permit on application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified trade persons in the building, structure, or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.
[A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times, or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.
[A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
Building:
- Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade and not over any basement or story below and that are not part of an accessible route.
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
- Temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
- Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, and not including service systems.
- Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
- Nonfixed and movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height.
Electrical:
Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.
Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for power supply, the installations of towers and antennas.
Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.
Gas:
- Portable heating appliance.
- Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
Mechanical:
- Portable heating appliance.
- Portable ventilation equipment.
- Portable cooling unit.
- Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
- Replacement of any part that does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.
- Portable evaporative cooler.
- Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
CPC § 105.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
[A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installation, the building official is authorized to issue an annual permit upon application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified tradespersons in the building, structure or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.
[A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The building official shall have access to such records at all times or such records shall be filed with the building official as designated.
[A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
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One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does not exceed than 120 square feet (11.15 m [2] ). It is permissible that these structures still be regulated by Section 710A, despite exemption from permit.
Fences, other than swimming pool barriers, not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.
Oil derricks.
Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.
Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity is not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width is not greater than 2:1.
Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.
Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work.
Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep, are not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and are installed entirely above ground.
Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.
Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings.
CPC § 1.8.3.2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, com- mencing with Section 600 for employee housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties.
1.8.3.2.5 Factory-Built Housing Law. Refer to the Factory-Built Housing Law, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6 commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, com- mencing with Section 3000 for factory-built housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties.
1.8.4 Permits, Fees, Applications, and Inspections.
1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any plumbing system.
Exceptions:
1. Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Administration, Division II, Section 104.2 items (1)-(2) of this code.
2. Changes, alterations, or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety, or accessibility as determined by the enforc- ing agency.
3. Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.
Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of other provisions of law or this code.
1.8.4.2 Fees. Subject to other provisions of law, the gov- erning body of any city, county, or city and county may prescribe fees to defray the cost of enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Hous- ing and Community Development. The amount of the fees shall not exceed the amount reasonably necessary to administer or process permits, certificates, forms, or other documents, or to defray the costs of enforcement. For additional information, see State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, Section 17951 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 3, com- mencing with Section 6.
1.8.4.3 Plan Review and Time Limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan check- ing, prohibition of excessive delays, and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan check- ing are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.
1.8.4.3.1 Retention of Plans. The building depart- ment of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, microfilm, or electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.
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CPC § 1.8.3.2.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Mobilehome parks where the Depart- ment of Housing and Community Development is the enforcing agency.
1.8.3.2.3 Special Occupancy Parks Act. Refer to the Special Occupancy Parks Act, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000 for special occupancy park adminis- trative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, vio- lations, inspections, and penalties both within and outside of special occupancy parks.
Exception: Special occupancy parks where the Department of Housing and Community Develop- ment is the enforcing agency.
1.8.3.2.4 Employee Housing Act. Refer to the Employee Housing Act, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations,
Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, com- mencing with Section 600 for employee housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties.
1.8.3.2.5 Factory-Built Housing Law. Refer to the Factory-Built Housing Law, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6 commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, com- mencing with Section 3000 for factory-built housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties.
1.8.4 Permits, Fees, Applications, and Inspections.
1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any plumbing system.
Exceptions:
1. Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Administration, Division II, Section 104.2 items (1)-(2) of this code.
2. Changes, alterations, or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety, or accessibility as determined by the enforc- ing agency.
3. Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.
Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of other provisions of law or this code.
CPC § 1505.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
The provisions in this section_ encompass the installation, construction, alteration, and repair of recycled water supply systems that are within or a part of a building, including a landscape irrigation system that connects to plumbing that is within or a part of a building, and receive reclaimed (recycled) water provided by a water/wastewater util- ity. When dealing with recycled water supply systems, the Authority Having Jurisdiction and Enforcing Agency may include the recycled water purveyor or potable water purveyor in accordance with their respective statutory authority and responsibility as provided on their respective permits for sup- plying water. Plumbing systems using reclaimed (recycled) water that do not enter the interior of a building plumbed with potable water are not encompassed by this section. All reclaimed (recycled) water use, covered and not covered by this code, is subject to applicable provisions of the State Water Resources Control Board’s Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook and the California Code of Regulations: Title 22 and Title 23 .
1505.1.1 Allowed Uses. Allowed uses shall include water closets, urinals, trap primers for floor drains and floor sinks, aboveground and subsurface irrigation, industrial or commercial cooling or air conditioning and other uses as generally allowed in the California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 3 and specifi- cally allowed in the permit for the facility producing or supplying the reclaimed (recycled) water issued by the State Water Resources Control Board or Regional Water Quality Control Board .
1505.1.2 Structures Allowed for Toilet and Urinal Flushing. In accordance with Water Code Section 13553, reclaimed (recycled) water shall be allowed for toilet and urinal flushing in certain structures. These structures include commercial, retail, and office buildings, theaters, auditoriums, condominium projects, schools, hotels, apart-
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ALTERNATE WATER SOURCES FOR NONPOTABLE APPLICATIONS
ments, barracks, dormitories, jails, prisons, reformatories, and other structures as determined by the State Water Resources Control Board.
1505.2 Permit. It shall be unlawful for a person to construct, install, alter, or cause to be constructed, installed, or altered a recycled water supply system within a building or on its premises without first obtaining a permit to do such work from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Prior to commencing the issuance of permits for recy- cled water supply systems pursuant to state requirements relating to recycled water, a city, county, city and county or other local agency shall seek consultation with the State Water Resources Control Board, local public health depart- ment and local recycled water purveyor to ensure that state and local public health concerns are addressed in local stan- dards or ordinances, or in issuing permits.
1505.2.1 Plumbing Plan Submission. No permit for a recycled water supply system shall be issued until complete plumbing plans, with data satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, have been submitted and approved.
CPC § 104.3.1. Medium relevance — show source text
(3) Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
(4) Be accompanied by construction documents in accordance with Section 104.3.1.
(5) Be signed by the permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require evidence to indicate such authority.
(6) Give such other data and information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
104.3.1 Construction Documents. Construction documents, engineering calculations, diagrams, and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, with each application for a permit. The construction documents, computations, and specifications shall be prepared by, and the plumbing designed by, a registered design professional. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale with clarity to identify that the intended work to be performed is in accordance with the code.
Exception: The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to waive the submission of construction documents, calculations, or other data where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with the code.
104.3.2 Plan Review Fees. Where a plan or other data is required to be submitted in accordance with Section 104.3.1, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting construction documents for review.
The plan review fees for plumbing work shall be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction.
The plan review fees specified in this subsection are separate fees from the permit fees specified in Section 104.5.
Where plans are incomplete or changed so as to require additional review, a fee shall be charged at the rate shown in Table 104.5.
104.3.3 Time Limitation of Application. Applications for which no permit is issued within 180 days following the date of application shall expire by limitation, plans and other data submitted for review thereafter, shall be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to exceed the time for action by the applicant for a period not to exceed 180 days upon request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented the action from being taken. No application shall be extended more than once. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. 104.4 Permit Issuance. The application, construction documents, and other data filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Such plans shall be permitted to be reviewed by other departments of this jurisdiction to verify compliance with applicable laws under their jurisdiction. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work described in an application for permit and the plans, specifications, and other data filed therewith are in
CPC § 104.8 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the Board of Appeals, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
[A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to repair, add to, alter, relocate, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or to repair, install, add, alter, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit.
[A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing installation, the code official is authorized to issue an annual permit on application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified trade persons in the building, structure, or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.
[A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times, or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.
[A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
CPC § 713.0 Medium relevance — show source text
Part II – Building Sewers.
713.0 Sewer Required. 713.1 Where Required. A building in which plumbing fixtures are installed and premises having drainage piping thereon shall have a connection to a public or private sewer, except as provided in Section 713.2, and Section 713.4. 713.2 Private Sewage Disposal System. Where no public sewer intended to serve a lot or premises is available in a thoroughfare or right of way abutting such lot or premises, drainage piping from a building or works shall be connected to a private sewage disposal system as approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. See Appendix H. 713.3 Public Sewer. Within the limits prescribed by Section 713.4 hereof, the rearrangement or subdivision into smaller parcels of a lot that abuts and is served by a public sewer shall not be deemed cause to permit the construction of a private sewage disposal system, and plumbing or drainage systems on a smaller parcel or parcels shall connect to the public sewer. 713.4 Public Sewer Availability. The public sewer shall be permitted to be considered as not being available where such public sewer or a building or an exterior drainage facility connected thereto is located more than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a proposed building or exterior drainage facility on a lot or premises that abut and is served by such public sewer.
[HCD 1] For residential occupancies, the public sewer may be considered as not being available by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
713.5 Permit. No permit shall be issued for the installation, alteration, or repair of a private sewage disposal system, or part thereof, on a lot for which a connection with a public sewer is available.
713.6 Lot. On every lot or premises hereafter connected to a public sewer, plumbing, and drainage systems or parts thereof on such lot or premises shall be connected with such public sewer.
713.7 Installation. In cities, counties, or both where the installation of building sewers is under the jurisdiction of a department other than the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the provisions of this code relating to building sewers need not apply.
Exception: Single-family dwellings and buildings or structures accessory thereto, existing and connected to an approved private sewage disposal system prior to the time of connecting the premises to the public sewer shall be permitted, where no hazard, nuisance, or insanitary condition is evidenced, and written permission has been obtained from the Authority Having Jurisdiction, remain connected to such properly maintained private sewage disposal system where there is insufficient grade or fall to permit drainage to the sewer by gravity.
714.0 Damage to Public Sewer or Private Sewage Disposal System.
714.1 Unlawful Practices. It shall be unlawful for a person to deposit, by means whatsoever, into a plumbing fixture, floor drain, interceptor, sump, receptor, or device which is
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SANITARY DRAINAGE
connected to a drainage system, public sewer, private sewer, septic tank, or cesspool, ashes; cinders; solids; rags; flammable, poisonous, or explosive liquids or gases; oils; grease; and whatsoever that is capable of causing damage to the public sewer, private sewer, or private sewage disposal system.
CPC § 312.1. Medium relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- Special inspections and tests are not required for construction of a minor nature or as warranted by conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building official.
- Unless otherwise required by the building official, special inspections and tests are not required for Group U occupancies that are accessory to a residential occupancy including, but not limited to, those listed in Section 312.1.
- Special inspections and tests are not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
- The contractor is permitted to employ the approved agencies where the contractor is also the owner. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. 5. [HCD 1] The provisions of Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 6 and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, commencing with Section 3000, shall apply to the construction and inspection of factory-built housing as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19971.
1704.2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of the construction, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction. Experience or training shall be considered to be relevant where the documented experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection or testing activities for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to qualifications specified in other sections of this code.
The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the design of the project are permitted to act as an approved agency and their personnel are permitted to act as special inspectors for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as special inspectors.
1704.2.2 Access for special inspection. The construction or work for which special inspection or testing is required shall remain accessible and exposed for special inspection or testing purposes until completion of the required special inspections or tests.
1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for permit issuance. This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704.3.
Exception: A statement of special inspections is not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.
1704.2.4 Report requirement. Approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests. The approved agency shall submit reports of special inspections and tests to the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge at frequencies required by the approved construction documents or building official. All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents.
CPC § 11.0 Medium relevance — show source text
11.0 - 1.11.11_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1.13.0||||||||||||||||||||X||||| |Division II - Scope and
Administration||||||||||||||||||||||||| |101.0||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |102.0||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |103.0||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |104.2 Items 1 & 2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |104.3.1||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |104.4.3.1|X|||||||||||||||||||||||| |105.0||||||||||X|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.
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CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION
DIVISION I
CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION
1.1.0 General.
1.1.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Califor- nia Plumbing Code, may be cited as such and will be referred to herein as “this code.” The California Plumbing Code is Part 5 of thirteen parts of the official compilation and publi- cation of the adoption, amendment, and repeal of plumbing regulations to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards Code. This part incorporates by adoption the 2024 Uniform Plumb- ing Code of the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials with necessary California amendments.
1.1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, and energy con- servation; safety to life and property from fire and other haz- ards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
1.1.3 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replace- ment, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, main- tenance, removal, and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the State of California.
CPC § 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
3.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.3.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.3.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.4.1 – 5803.4.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.5.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.5.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.5.1.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.6.1.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.6.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |5809.6.5.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||
- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 58-1
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58-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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58 FLAMMABLE GASES AND FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 58 sets requirements for the storage and use of flammable gases. For safety purposes, there is a limit on the quantities of flammable gas allowed per control area. Exceeding these limitations increases the possibility of damage to both property and individuals. The principal hazard posed by flammable gas is its ready ignitability, or even explosivity, when mixed with air in the proper proportions. Consequently, occupancies storing or handling large quantities of flammable gas are classified as Group H-2 (high hazard) by the California Building Code .
SECTION 5801—GENERAL
5801.1 Scope. The storage and use of flammable gases and flammable cryogenic fluids shall be in accordance with this chapter, NFPA 2 and NFPA 55. Compressed gases shall also comply with Chapter 53 and cryogenic fluids shall also comply with Chapter 55. Flammable cryogenic fluids shall comply with Section 5806. Hydrogen motor fuel-dispensing stations and repair garages and their associated above-ground hydrogen storage systems shall also be designed, constructed and maintained in accordance with Chapter 23. Mobile fueling of hydrogen-fueled vehicles shall comply with Section 5809.
Exceptions:
- Gases used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems (see Section 608).
- Liquefied petroleum gases and natural gases regulated by Chapter 61.
- Fuel-gas systems and appliances regulated under the California Mechanical Code and the California Plumbing Code other than gaseous hydrogen systems and appliances.
- Pyrophoric gases in accordance with Chapter 64.
5801.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5.
California Plumbing Code Medium relevance — show source text
3|24
26
27|39
47
52|22
29
34|39
40
42|72
87
97|41
53
62|55
57
59|117
140
159|69
86
98|71
73
75|213
246
269|105
127
145|94
97
99|304
350
383|148
179
206| |10|1
2
3|24
26
27|42
50
55|22
29
35|38
40
41|80
93
105|42
54
63|55
57
58|130
153
170|71
87
100|74
76
78|232
261
284|108
129
148|101
103
106|324
366
397|153
184
209| |15|1
2
3|24
25
26|48
55
59|23
31
35|38
39
41|93
105
115|44
55
64|54
56
57|154
174
189|74
89
102|72
74
76|277
299
319|114
134
153|100
103
105|384
419
448|164
192
215| |20|1
2
3|24
25
26|52
58
63|24
31
35|37
39
40|102
114
123|46
56
65|53
55
57|172
190
204|77
91
104|71
73
75|313
335
353|119
138
157|98
101
104|437
467
493|173
199
222| |30|1
2
3|24
25
26|54
60
64|25
32
36|37
38
40|111
122
131|48
58
66|52
54
56|192
208
221|82
95
107|69
72
74|357
376
392|127
145
163|96
99
101|504
531
554|187
209
233| |50|1
2
3|23
24
26|51
59
64|25
32
36|36
37
39|116
127
135|51
61
69|51
53
55|209
225
237|89
102
115|67
70
72|405
421
435|143
161
180|92
95
98|582
604
624|213
235
260| |100|1
2CPC § 150.0 Medium relevance — show source text
150.0(s), 160.4(a), 160.5(b), 160.6(c), 160.9(a), 160.9(b), 160.9(c)1, 180.2(b)4B Branch Circuit Conductor 130.5(C), 150.0(tv), 160.6(c), 160.9(a-c) BTU/HR 110.2(D), 110.3(C)1, 110.3(C)3, 110.3(c)6, 110.5(b), 110.8(d)2, 120.2(i), 120.6(a), 120.6(b)2B, 120.6(i), 120.6(j)3, 140.4(a)2, 140.4(e)1, 140.4(k)4, Table 140.4-I, 150.0(n)4, 150.1(c)6, 150.1(c)8, 160.3(a)2H, 160.4(a), 160.4(d), 170.2(c)3-4, Table 170.2-K
Building Cavities 120.4(a), 150.0(m)1, 160.3(b)5A, 160.3(c)2A Commissioning 120.8 Components 110.0, 120.8(g), 140.3(a), 141.0(b)2Q Design 10-103, 10-105, 120.8, 140.10(a), 150.19(c)14, 160.2(a), 160.2(b)2A, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Enclosure air leakage 150.1(b)3 Energy use 140.4(f), 170.2(c)4D Envelope 100.0(b), 100.0(f), 110.7, 120.0, 120.6(h)4, 120.8(b), 120.8(c), 140.3, 140.3(d)2, 141.0(b)2P, 141.1(c)2, Table 150.1-A, 160.1 Facade 130.2(b), 130.2(c)3, Table 140.7-B, 160.5, Table 170.2-S Loads 140.4(f), 140.4(k)4, 140.4(p)4, 170.2(c)4D, 170.2(c)4I, 170.2(c)4N Model 150.1(b)3 Permit 10-103(a), 10-103(b), 10-104(a), 10-105(c), 10-107(a), 10-109(c)2, 10115(a, c), 100.0(a)2, 140.6(a)2C, 150.1(b)3, 150.2(b)1M, 170.1(d), 170.2(e)2B, 180.2(b)5B, Plan 140.3(c), 170.2(b)2 Roof space 140.10(a)1, 150.1(c)14, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Shell 140.3(a)9C, 141.0(b)2O, Q Bureau of Household Goods and
CPC § 104.11.1 Medium relevance — show source text
In the exercise of such power, the fire chief is authorized to prohibit any person, vehicle, vessel or thing from approaching the scene, and is authorized to remove, or cause to be removed or kept away from the scene, any vehicle, vessel or thing that could impede or interfere with the operations of the fire department and, in the judgment of the fire chief, any person not actually and usefully employed in the extinguishing of such fire or in the preservation of property in the vicinity thereof.
104.11.1 Barricades. The fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge at the scene of an emergency is authorized to place ropes, guards, barricades or other obstructions across any street, alley, place or private property in the vicinity of such operation so as to prevent accidents or interference with the lawful efforts of the fire department to manage and control the situation and to handle fire apparatus.
104.11.2 Obstructing operations. Persons shall not obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment or control of any fire, or actions relative to other emergencies, or disobey any lawful command of the fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge of the emergency, or any part thereof, or any lawful order of a police officer assisting the fire department.
104.11.3 Systems and devices. Persons shall not render a system or device inoperative during an emergency unless by direction of the fire chief or fire department official in charge of the incident.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections 105.1.1 through 105.6.25.
[A] 105.1.1 Permits required. A property owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to conduct an operation or business, or install or modify systems and equipment that are regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the fire code official and obtain the required permit.
105.1.2 Types of permits. There shall be two types of permits as follows:
- Operational permit. An operational permit allows the applicant to conduct an operation or a business for which a permit is required by Section 105.5 for either: 1.1. A prescribed period.
1.2. Until renewed or revoked.
- Construction permit. A construction permit allows the applicant to install or modify systems and equipment for which a permit is required by Section 105.6.
105.1.3 Multiple permits for the same location. Where more than one permit is required for the same location, the fire code offi- cial is authorized to consolidate such permits into a single permit provided that each provision is listed in the permit.
[A] 105.1.4 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacement and repairs must be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next working business day to the fire code official.
[A] 105.1.5 Repairs. Application or notice to the fire code official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures, equipment or systems. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall any repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, fire protection water supply, automatic sprinkler system, fire alarm system or other work affecting fire protection or life safety.
California Plumbing Code Medium relevance — show source text
5
10
15
20|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|38
35
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|73
67
59
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|123
115
105
95
80|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|200
183
170
156
144|163
NA
NA
NA
NA|520
NA
NA
NA
NA|273
252
235
217
202| |30|2
5
10
15
20
30|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|41
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|81
75
66
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|136
127
113
105
88
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|215
196
182
168
155
NA|158
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|578
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|302
279
260
240
223
182| |50|2
5
10
15
20
30|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|91
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|160
149
136
124
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|250
228
212
195
180
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|350
321
301
278
258
NA| |Minimum
internal area of
chimney
(square inches)|Minimum
internalCPC § 90.1 Medium relevance — show source text
In the UEF standard equations, Vr refers to the rated volume in gallons. 2 ASHRAE 90.1 contains a complete specification, including the year version, of the referenced test procedure. 3 Electric instantaneous water heaters with input capacity >40 946 Btu/h (12 kW) and ≤ 200 000 Btu/h (58.6 kW) must comply with the requirements for the 200 000 Btu/h (58.6 kW) if the water heater either: (a) has a storage volume >2 gallons (7.6 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82°C); or (c) uses three phase power. 4 Gas storage water heaters with input capacity >75 000 Btu/h (22 kW) and ≤ 105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) must comply with the requirements for the >105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) if the water heater either: (a) has a storage volume >120 gallons (454 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82.2°C); or (c) uses three-phase power 5 Oil storage water heaters with input capacity >105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) and ≤ 140 000 Btu/h (41.0 kW) must comply with the requirements for the >140 000 Btu/h (41.0 kW) if the water heater either (a) has a storage volume >120 gallons (454 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82.2°C); or (c) uses three-phase power 6 Refer to Section L 503.4.3 for additional requirements for gas storage and instantaneous water heaters and gas hot-water supply boilers. 7 Water heaters or gas pool heaters in this category or subcategory are regulated as consumer products by the USDOE as defined in 10 CFR 430. 8 Where this standard is being applied to a building outside the U.S. and Canada and water heaters in this subcategory are being installed in that building, those water heaters shall meet the local efficiency requirements. If there are no local efficiency standards for residential water heaters, consideration should be given to using the USDOE efficiency requirements shown in Appendix F, Table F-2 of ASHRAE 90.1.
516 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX M - PEAK WATER DEMAND CALCULATOR
(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.)
CPC § 104.9.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.
[A] 104.10 Other agencies. When requested to do so by the code official, other officials of this jurisdiction shall assist and cooperate with the code official in the discharge of the duties required by this code.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 General. Where not otherwise provided in the requirements of the California Building Code or California Fire Code, permits are required in accordance with Sections 105.2 through 105.10.
[A] 105.2 Permits required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.
For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.
Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:
Automobile wrecking yard.
Candles and open flames in assembly areas.
Explosives or blasting agents.
Fireworks.
Flammable or combustible liquids.
Hazardous materials.
Liquefied petroleum gases.
Lumberyards.
Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.
Open burning.
Pyrotechnical special effects material.
Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures.
Tire storage.
Welding and cutting operations.
[A] 105.3 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from the permit requirements of this code or in other Parts of Title 24 shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
The code official is authorized to stipulate conditions for permits. Permits shall not be issued where public safety would be at risk, as determined by the code official.
[A] 105.4 Permit application. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the code enforcement agency for that purpose. Every such application shall:
Identify and describe the work, activity, operation, practice or function to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
Describe the land on which the proposed work, activity, operation, practice or function is to be done by legal description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building, work, activity, operation, practice or function.
Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work, activity, operation, practice or function is intended.
Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computation and specifications and other data as required in Section 106 of this code.
State the valuation of any new building or structure or any addition, remodeling or alteration to an existing building.
Be signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized agent.
Give such other data and information as required by the code official.
[A] 105.4.1 Preliminary inspection. Before a permit is issued, the code official is authorized to inspect and approve the systems, equipment, buildings, devices, premises and spaces or areas to be used.
CPC § 7.5 Medium relevance — show source text
7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
2025 CWUIC—continued Col2 Adopted
Yes/NoIWUIC
SectionCBC
SectionCFC
SectionTitle 14,
Division 1.5
SectionTitle 19,
Division 1
SectionGov Code
SectionPRC
SectionHSC
SectionSection Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Chapter 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration 105.10 Revocation of permits Y 106 Construction
documentsY 106.1 General Y 107.1 106.2 Information on plans
and specificationsY 106.3 Site plan Y 106.4 Vegetation manage-
ment_compliance_Y 701A.5 106.5 Fire protection plan Y 106.6 Other data and
substantiationN 106.7 Vicinity plan Y 106.8 Retention of plans Y 1.11.3.5 106.9 Examination of
documentsN 106. CPC § 1305.2.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text
2, 1305.2.3.3, 1305.2.4.1, 1305.2.5, 1305.2.5.1, 1305.2.6, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.9, 1305.2.9.1, 1305.2.10, 1305.2.10.1, 1305.2.11, 1305.2.11.1, 1305.2.12.1, 1305.2.13, Table 1305.2.15, 1305.2.15.1, 1305.2.16.1, 1305.2.17, 1305.2.17.1, 1305.2.18, 1305.2.18.1, 1305.2.19, Table 1305.2.19, 1305.2.20, 1305.2.20.1, 1307.1.1, 1401.2, 1402.1, 1402.2, 1402.2.1, 1402.3, 1402.4, 1402.5, 1402.6, 1501.5, 1504.1.1, 1504.1.4.1, 1504.1.7, 1509.1, 1509.3, 1510.1
CEC — 25 : California Energy Code
302.2, 702.7, 708.1, 809.1, 907.1, 1104.1
CFC—25: California Fire Code
101.2.2, 101.4.2, 301.3.1, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 802.2.1, 802.2.3, 803.2.3, 803.4.1.1, 803.4.1.2, 803.4.1.3, 803.4.1.4, 803.4.1.5, 803.4.1.6, Table 804.5.1.1(1), 904.1.5, 1011.6.1.1, 1303.1.2, 1305.2.8.1, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, 1401.2, 1501.1, 1501.5, 1502.1, 1502.1.1, 1502.2, 1502.3, 1504.1, 1507.1, 1507.2
CMC—25: California Mechanical Code
302.2, 702.7, 807.1, 902.1.1, 1008.1, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.8.1
CPC—25: California Plumbing Code
302.2, 408.1, 702.7, 1009.1, 1009.2, 1009.3, 1009.5, 1302.1.6, 1503.1
CPC § 101.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
CFC—25: California Fire Code
101.2.2, 101.4.2, 301.3.1, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 802.2.1, 802.2.3, 803.2.3, 803.4.1.1, 803.4.1.2, 803.4.1.3, 803.4.1.4, 803.4.1.5, 803.4.1.6, Table 804.5.1.1(1), 904.1.5, 1011.6.1.1, 1303.1.2, 1305.2.8.1, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, 1401.2, 1501.1, 1501.5, 1502.1, 1502.1.1, 1502.2, 1502.3, 1504.1, 1507.1, 1507.2
CMC—25: California Mechanical Code
302.2, 702.7, 807.1, 902.1.1, 1008.1, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.8.1
CPC—25: California Plumbing Code
302.2, 408.1, 702.7, 1009.1, 1009.2, 1009.3, 1009.5, 1302.1.6, 1503.1
16-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
REFERENCED STANDARDS
CRC—25: California Residential Code
101.2, 101.4.1, 104.3.1, 109.3.3, 109.3.10, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 401.3, 402.1, 405.2.6, 502.2, 502.3, 502.4, 503.2, 503.3, 503.11, 505.2, 505.3, 507.3, 701.3, 702.4, 702.5, 706.2, 708.1, 805.2, 806.4, 809.1, 906.2, 907.1, 1011.2.1, 1103.1, 1103.2, 1103.3, 1104.1, 1201.4, 1302.1.2, 1302.1.3, 1302.1.3, 1303.1.3, 1401.2, 1402.1, 1402.2, 1402.2.1, 1402.3, 1402.4, 1402.5, 1402.6
ICC 300—2023: ICC Standard on Bleachers, Folding and Telescopic Seating and Grandstands
301.1.1, 401.1.1, 1401.1.1
ICC A117.1—2017: Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities
CPC § 1323.13.3 Medium relevance — show source text
2, 1323.13.3| |1326.4 - 1326.10|1326.5 - 1326.11| |1505.6 - 1505.14|1505.5 - 1505.13| |Figure 1505.10|Figure 1505.9| |1506.6 - 1506.13|1506.5 - 1506.12| |1603.3 - 1603.4|1603.4 - 1603.5| |Table 1603.4|Table 1603.5| |1603.5 - 1603.19|1603.6 - 1603.20| |1603.20|1503.2.4| |L 402.9 - L 402.11|L 402.8 - L 402.10| |L 404.9 - L 404.12|L 404.8 - L 404.11| |L 411.5, L 411.6|L 411.2, L411.3| |L 411.7|L 411.4| |L 411.9 - L 411.12|L 411.5 - L 411.8|
xxii 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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Uniform Plumbing Code – 2024 Edition:
The Uniform Plumbing Code is the most widely adopted plumbing code in the world. The 2024 edition contains complete “turnkey” requirements for the installation and maintenance of plumbing systems, all in one easy to use book.
Uniform Plumbing Code Illustrated Training Manual:
The UPC Illustrated Training Manual is an excellent reference for anyone involved in the plumbing industry. It contains an extensive definitions section and several hundred comprehensive technical diagrams and illustrations. It serves as a textbook, and it also is useful as a valuable tool for explaining the intent and use of the Code.
Uniform Plumbing Code Study Guide:
This book is the perfect complement to the UPC Illustrated Training Manual. Alone, it constitutes a complete self-study course for learning the UPC. It has hundreds of questions, general practice exams, and plumbing math, pipe sizing exercises and fitting identification. A big help in getting you ready for a certification exam!
Guide to Important Code Questions to the Uniform Plumbing Code:
An excellent reference for learning and understanding plumbing code changes and identifies code changes between editions. It is a useful tool for preparing code change proposals.
Uniform Mechanical Code – 2024 Edition:
The Uniform Mechanical Code contains complete requirements for the installation and maintenance of heating, ventilating, cooking and refrigeration systems.
Uniform Mechanical Code Illustrated Training Manual:
Contains technical diagrams and illustrations that demonstrate the intent and use of the UMC. A great reference for everyone involved in Mechanical HVACR design and installation.
Uniform Mechanical Code Study Guide:
CPC § 304.8 Medium relevance — show source text
NA|15
14
14
13
13|26
25
24
23
22|37
35
34
32
31|78
75
72
69
66|141
135
129
124
119|223
212
203
195
188|464
442
423
407
392| |1600
1700
1800
1900
2000|1600
1700
1800
1900
2000|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|12
12
11
11
11|21
20
20
19
19|30
29
28
27
27|64
62
60
58
57|115
112
108
105
102|182
176
170
166
161|378
366
355
345
335|For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW, 1 inch water column = 0.249 kPa Notes: 1 Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products. 2 Table entries are rounded to 3 significant digits. 3 NA means a flow of less than 10 000 Btu/h (2.93 kW).
264 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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FUEL GAS PIPING
|TABLE 1215.2(30) SEMI-RIGID COPPER TUBING [NFPA 54: TABLE 6.3.
CPC § 304.8 Medium relevance — show source text
77
74
71
68|142
135
129
124
120|201
192
183
176
170|429
409
392
376
363|772
737
705
678
653|1220
1160
1110
1070
1030|2540
2420
2320
2230
2140| |1600
1700
1800
1900
2000|1600
1700
1800
1900
2000|16
15
15
14
14|33
31
30
30
29|66
64
62
60
59|116
112
108
105
102|164
159
154
149
145|350
339
329
319
310|630
610
592
575
559|994
962
933
906
881|2070
2000
1940
1890
1830|For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m [3] /h, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa
Notes: 1 Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products. 2 Table entries are rounded to 3 significant digits.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 247
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FUEL GAS PIPING
CPC § 103 Medium relevance — show source text
FLOW
GPMFIXTURE UNITS Col3 FLOW
GPMFLUSH VALVE
TANKSFLUSHOMETER
VALVES1 0 — 2 1 — 3 3 — 4 4 — 5 6 — 6 7 — 7 8 — 8 10 — 9 12 — 10 13 — 11 15 — 12 16 — 13 18 — 14 20 — 15 21 — 16 23 — 17 24 — 18 26 — 19 28 — 20 30 — 21 32 — 22 34 5 23 36 6 24 39 7 25 42 8 26 44 9 27 46 10 28 49 11 29 51 12 30 54 13 31 56 14 32 58 15 33 60 16 34 63 18 35 66 20 36 69 21 37 74 23 38 78 25 39 83 26 40 86 28 41 90 30 42 95 31 FLOW
GPMFIXTURE UNITS Col3 FLOW
GPMFLUSH VALVE
TANKSFLUSHOMETER
VALVES43 99 33 44 103 35 45 107 37 46 111 39 47 115 42 48 119 44 49 123 46 50 127 48 51 130 50 52 135 52 53 141 54 54 146 57 55 151 60 56 155 63 57 160 66 58 165 69 59 170 73 60 175 76 62 185 82 64 195 88 66 205 95 68 215 102 70 225 108 72 236 116 74 245 124 76 254 132 78 264 140 80 275 148 82 284 158 84 294 168 86 305 176 88 315 186 90 325 195 92 337 205 94 348 214 96 359 223 98 370 234 100 380 245 105 406 270 110 431 295 115 455 329 120 479 365 558 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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USEFUL TABLES
AREAS AND CIRCUMFERENCES OF CIRCLES
CPC § 82.2 Medium relevance — show source text
(b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82.2°C); or (c) uses three-phase power 5 Oil storage water heaters with input capacity >105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) and ≤ 140 000 Btu/h (41.0 kW) must comply with the requirements for the >140 000 Btu/h (41.0 kW) if the water heater either (a) has a storage volume >120 gallons (454 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82.2°C); or (c) uses three-phase power 6 Refer to Section L 503.4.3 for additional requirements for gas storage and instantaneous water heaters and gas hot-water supply boilers. 7 Water heaters or gas pool heaters in this category or subcategory are regulated as consumer products by the USDOE as defined in 10 CFR 430. 8 Where this standard is being applied to a building outside the U.S. and Canada and water heaters in this subcategory are being installed in that building, those water heaters shall meet the local efficiency requirements. If there are no local efficiency standards for residential water heaters, consideration should be given to using the USDOE efficiency requirements shown in Appendix F, Table F-2 of ASHRAE 90.1.
516 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX M - PEAK WATER DEMAND CALCULATOR
(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-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 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 Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter/Section M 101.1 X Table M 102.1 X
Frequently asked questions
When exactly is a permit NOT required?
Small repairs that do not involve removal or replacement of traps, drains, soil/vent piping, valves or fixtures (for example: stopping a leak that can be repaired in place, or clearing a stoppage where no replacement/rearrangement occurs) are commonly exempt. See § 104.2 for the exemption language.
If I replace a fixture (toilet or sink), do I need a permit?
If replacement is simple (like swapping an identical fixture without altering piping) an AHJ may treat that as exempt maintenance — but if you remove and replace trap, drain, or rearrange piping, the code treats that as new work and a permit is required. See § 104.2.
Can I get a single permit for all work I do in a building during a year?
Possibly. The building code authorizes an annual permit for a business or person regularly performing work on a property; the permittee must keep detailed records and the AHJ may require filing them. § 105.1.1.
Are there special rules for recycled (reclaimed) water systems?
Yes — recycled water supply systems that are within or part of a building require a permit and complete plumbing plans before a permit will be issued; see § 1505.2 and § 1505.2.1.
What if the AHJ wants a permit even for an item I think is exempt?
The code explicitly allows the AHJ to require permits, and exemptions do not authorize code violations. Always confirm with the AHJ before starting work. § 1.8.4.1 and the administration chapters emphasize this.
More in California Plumbing Code
- Administration
- Definitions
- General Regulations
- Plumbing Fixtures and Fixture Fittings
- Water Heaters
- Water Supply and Distribution
- Sanitary Drainage (Drain, Waste, and Vent)
- Indirect Wastes
- Vents
- Traps and Interceptors
- Storm Drainage
- Fuel Gas Piping
- Health Care Facilities — Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Systems
- Alternate Water Sources and Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems
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