CPC · California Plumbing Code

What is a 'Listing Agency' and what does 'Listed' labeling require?

Summary: For homeowners — “Listed” means a product appears on a published list from an accredited third‑party agency that tests the product, inspects production regularly, and publishes the conditions of use. A label alone isn’t enough — the AHJ must be able to see the product’s listing and that it’s installed per the listing and manufacturer’s instructions .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

A Listing Agency is an accredited third‑party organization that operates a listing-and-labeling (certification) program — it conducts initial testing, maintains periodic inspection of current production, and publishes a report that a product meets an approved standard. “Listed” (or Listed (Third‑Party Certified)) means a product appears on the listing produced by that agency and the listing states the product complies with identified standards or is suitable for a specified use. The CPC includes these definitions in its definitions chapter, but I could not locate the text of § 218.0 in the uploaded CPC files; the definitions and requirements shown here are taken from the CPC/related code excerpts in the provided materials .

The single most important rule: a “listed” product is only code‑acceptable when it is shown on a credible, accredited listing that includes ongoing inspection and a published statement of conformity — not just a label or manufacturer claim alone. See the CPC definitions and related listed‑compliance rules in the uploaded materials .

Requirements in detail

Who/what qualifies as a Listing Agency

Must be an agency accredited by an independent and authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a listing-and-labeling (certification) system. The system must be accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The definition in the CPC describes this set of activities and accreditation requirements .
Core program components required by the definition:
- Initial product testing to an approved standard.
- Periodic inspection of current production (ongoing factory surveillance).
- A published listing/report describing the scope and conditions of the listing (what the product is safe for and what standard was used) .

What “Listed” (and “Labeled”) means in practice

Listed: the product appears on a list published by a listing agency and the listing states that the product meets specified standards or is tested and suitable for a specified manner of use. The CPC shows both the general “Listed” term and a “Listed (Third‑Party Certified)” explanation that ties the term to ongoing inspection and conformity statements .
Labeled: the product bears a label (mark) of a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body); labeling is the physical mark or tag indicating listing status .

What the listing/label must communicate (decision‑relevant dimensions)

Decision dimension	Required/acceptable value	Code Reference
Who issued the listing	An accredited listing agency (accepted by AHJ)	CPC definitions; see listing & agency description
Evidence of conformity	Listing states compliance with approved standard or tested suitability	CPC definitions (Listed / Third‑Party Certified)
Ongoing factory oversight	Periodic inspection of current production (surveillance)	CPC definitions (Listing Agency program requirements)
Published documentation	Listing/report made available (scope, limits, model numbers, standards)	CPC definitions (annual/published report requirement)
Field marking / label	Product bears label/mark of listing agency and/or markings required by referenced standard	Mechanical Code marking requirement referenced for mechanical products; see

Notes on the table: the CPC definitions in the provided files describe the required program elements (accreditation, testing, surveillance, published listing) — those elements are the practical gatekeepers that let an AHJ accept the listed product for installation in a permitted application .

Interaction with listed‑compliance rules (installation)

Where the code or a referenced standard requires a listed product, the listing must be based on the specified standard (or on an approved listing criteria if no standard is specified). Installation must follow the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions; the listing standard and instructions should be available to the official on request (see listed‑compliance rules in related code sections) .

Exceptions & special cases

State fire marshals and other state agencies may publish their own accepted lists — for SFM‑regulated items, “listed” may also mean acceptance by the State Fire Marshal in lieu of a private listing agency (see cross references in the Building/Residential Code excerpts) .
Some code sections permit the AHJ to accept alternate evidence (test reports, certificates of inspection) when a listing label is not present — but acceptance is not automatic; the AHJ may require documentation or testing to verify equivalency (see building‑code administration language about alternate materials and listed compliance) .
Where a product is “listed for reduced clearances” or other special installation limits, those reduced clearances apply only if the product is installed exactly as listed (label limits and installation instructions govern) — see mechanical/cooking hood examples where the listing‑label sets maximums and clearances .

Common mistakes

Treating a manufacturer’s internal “spec sheet” or self‑affixed mark as equivalent to a third‑party listing. The code requires a published third‑party listing program with periodic inspection — not just manufacturer claim .
Installing a listed product contrary to the listing scope or label limits (e.g., different model, higher capacity, altered clearances). Installation must follow the listing and manufacturer’s instructions; otherwise the AHJ can reject it .
Relying on an out‑of‑date listing or a discontinued surveillance program — a listing must be current and the listing agency must maintain periodic inspection (surveillance) of production .
Confusing “listed” with “tested only.” A single test report is not the same as a listing unless the listing organization provides the periodic surveillance and published listing/report required by the definitions .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A plumbing contractor installs a commercial grease interceptor/clarifier and the local AHJ requires the interceptor to be “listed.”

The contractor verifies the product: the model is shown on a published list of an accredited listing agency; the listing states compliance with the applicable standard and shows the model number and scope. This satisfies the CPC definition of Listed (Third‑Party Certified) and the AHJ requirement for a listed product (listing includes periodic inspection and published report) .
The product label (nameplate) on the interceptor bears the listing agency mark and model number; installation instructions state the maximum flow rate and permitted orientations. Because the product is installed per the listing and instructions, the AHJ accepts it. If the contractor instead installed a higher‑capacity unit than the listing allowed (e.g., listed max flow = 100 gpm, installed = 150 gpm) the listing would no longer apply and the AHJ could require a new listing or alternative approval .
If the listing agency had ceased surveillance or the model had been removed from the published list, the product would no longer be “listed” and would need new evidence (re‑listing, testing, or AHJ approval) to be acceptable .

Related provisions

Definitions (Labeled / Listed / Listing Agency) — CPC definitions chapter as included in the uploaded files; see CPC definition excerpts .
For listed compliance procedures and AHJ verification: Building Code §104.2.1 (Listed compliance procedures) — appears in the uploaded Building Code excerpts and explains that listing must be germane to the provision and installation must follow the listing and manufacturer’s instructions .
Mechanical Code §302.1 and §302.1.1 (Minimum standards & marking): lists that mechanical system materials must be listed (third‑party certified) and also requires marking/identification on pipe, fittings, devices as required by referenced standards .
Mechanical Code and NFPA references for specific items (e.g., hoods, recirculating systems) that require listing and labeling as part of product acceptance .
NOTE: The uploaded materials did not include a retrievable copy of § 218.0 itself, so I could not quote or cite § 218.0 directly from the supplied files; the above is grounded in the CPC/related code definition excerpts and listed‑compliance sections available in the uploaded files .

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CPC § 17958.2. High relevance — show source text
Limited-Density Owner-Built Rural Dwelling. [HCD 1] “Limited-density owner-built rural dwelling” shall mean any structure consisting of one or more habitable rooms intended or designed to be occupied by one family with facilities for living or sleeping, with use restricted to rural areas desig- nated by local jurisdiction in compliance with the require- ments of Health and Safety Code Section 17958.2. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) Facilities. Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) facilities include tanks, containers, container valves, regulating equipment, meters, appurtenances, or any combination thereof for the storage and supply of liquefied petroleum gas for a building, structure, or premises. Liquid Waste. The discharge from a fixture, appliance, or appurtenance in connection with a plumbing system that does not receive fecal matter.

Listed. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Listed” means all products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h). Listed (Third-Party Certified). Equipment or materials included in a list published by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) that maintains periodic inspection of current production of listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either that the equipment or material complies with approved standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified manner. Listing Agency. An agency accredited by an independent and authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a material and product listing and labeling (certification) system and that are accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which is in the business of listing or labeling. The system includes initial and ongoing product testing, a periodic inspection on current production of listed (certified) products, and that makes available a published report of such listing in which specific information is included that the material or product is in accordance with applicable standards and found safe for use in a specific manner.

[HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Listing Agency” means an agency approved by the department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, materials, equipment, and installa- tions tested by an approved testing agency, and that main- tains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment, and installations, and that, at least annually, makes available a published report of these listings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Sec- tion 17920(i).

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Interceptor (Clarifier). A device designed and installed to separate and retain deleterious, hazardous, or undesirable matter from normal wastes and permit normal sewage or liquid wastes to discharge into the disposal terminal by gravity. Invert. The lowest portion of the inside of a horizontal pipe. Irrigation Field. [BSC-CG & HCD 1] An intended desti- nation for gray water in the receiving landscape, including but not limited to, a drip irrigation system, mulch basin, or other approved method of dispersal for irrigation purposes.

212.0 – J –

Joint, Brazed. A joint obtained by joining of metal parts with alloys that melt at temperatures exceeding 840°F (449°C), but less than the melting temperature of the parts to be joined. **Joint, Compression.
CPC § 17958.2. High relevance — show source text
(3) A plumbing fixture or other waste discharging receptor or device that is not supplied with water sufficient to flush and maintain the fixture or receptor in a clean condition.

(4) A defective fixture, trap, pipe, or fitting.

(5) A trap, except where in this code exempted, directly connected to a drainage system, the seal of which is not protected against siphonage and backpressure by a vent pipe.

(6) A connection, cross-connection, construction, or condition, temporary or permanent that would permit or make possible by any means whatsoever for an unapproved foreign matter to enter a water distribution system used for domestic purposes.

(7) The preceding enumeration of conditions to which the term “insanitary” shall apply, shall not preclude the application of that term to conditions that are, in fact, insanitary.

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 37

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

DEFINITIONS

that maintains a periodic inspection program of production of labeled products, installations, equipment, or materials and by whose labeling the manufacturer indicates compliance with appropriate standards or performance in a specified manner.

Lavatories in Sets. Two or three lavatories that are served by one trap. Lavatory. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Lavatory” shall mean a plumbing fixture used for washing the hands, arms, face and head.

Leader. An exterior vertical drainage pipe for conveying storm water from roof or gutter drains. See Downspout. Limited-Density Owner-Built Rural Dwelling. [HCD 1] “Limited-density owner-built rural dwelling” shall mean any structure consisting of one or more habitable rooms intended or designed to be occupied by one family with facilities for living or sleeping, with use restricted to rural areas desig- nated by local jurisdiction in compliance with the require- ments of Health and Safety Code Section 17958.2. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) Facilities. Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) facilities include tanks, containers, container valves, regulating equipment, meters, appurtenances, or any combination thereof for the storage and supply of liquefied petroleum gas for a building, structure, or premises. Liquid Waste. The discharge from a fixture, appliance, or appurtenance in connection with a plumbing system that does not receive fecal matter.

Listed. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Listed” means all products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h). Listed (Third-Party Certified). Equipment or materials included in a list published by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) that maintains periodic inspection of current production of listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either that the equipment or material complies with approved standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified manner. Listing Agency. An agency accredited by an independent and authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a material and product listing and labeling (certification) system and that are accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which is in the business of listing or labeling.
CPC § 2-39 High relevance — show source text
[BS] LIMIT OF MODERATE WAVE ACTION. Line shown on FIRMs to indicate the inland limit of the 1 [1] / 2 -foot (457 mm) breaking wave height during the base flood.

[BS] LIMIT STATE. A condition beyond which a structure or member becomes unfit for service and is judged to be no longer useful for its intended function (serviceability limit state) or to be unsafe (strength limit state).

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 2-39

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DEFINITIONS

[BG] LIMITED VERBAL OR PHYSICAL ASSISTANCE. Describes persons who, because of age, physical limitations, cognitive limitations, treatment or chemical dependency, may not independently recognize, respond or evacuate without limited verbal or physical assistance during an emergency situation. Limited verbal assistance includes prompting, giving and repeating instructions. Limited physical assistance includes assistance with transfers to walking aids or mobility devices and assistance with egress.

[F] LIQUID. A material that has a melting point that is equal to or less than 68°F (20°C) and a boiling point that is greater than 68°F (20°C) at 14.7 pounds per square inch absolute (psia) (101 kPa). When not otherwise identified, the term “liquid” includes both flammable and combustible liquids.

[F] LIQUID STORAGE ROOM. A room classified as a Group H-3 occupancy used for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids in a closed condition.

LIQUIDTIGHT FLOOR. [SFM] A nonpermeable barrier capable of containing hazardous material liquids without degradation.

[F] LIQUID USE, DISPENSING AND MIXING ROOM. A room in which Class I, II and IIIA flammable or combustible liquids are used, dispensed or mixed in open containers.

[A] LISTED. Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the building official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose. Terms that are used to identify listed equipment, products or materials include “listed,” “certified,” “classified” or other terms as determined appropriate by the listing organization.

[HCD 1 & HCD 2] “ Listed” means all products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h).

[SFM] For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, “listed” shall also mean equipment or materials accepted by the state fire marshal as conforming to the provisions of the State Fire Marshal’s regulations and which are included in a list published by the State Fire Marshal.

LISTING AGENCY. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An agency approved by the department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, mate- rials, equipment and installations tested by an approved testing agency, and that maintains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment and installations, and that, at least annually, makes available a published report of these list- ings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(i).
CPC § 212.0 High relevance — show source text
The system includes initial and ongoing product testing, a periodic inspection on current production of listed (certified) products, and that makes available a published report of such listing in which specific information is included that the material or product is in accordance with applicable standards and found safe for use in a specific manner.

[HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Listing Agency” means an agency approved by the department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, materials, equipment, and installa- tions tested by an approved testing agency, and that main- tains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment, and installations, and that, at least annually, makes available a published report of these listings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Sec- tion 17920(i).

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Interceptor (Clarifier). A device designed and installed to separate and retain deleterious, hazardous, or undesirable matter from normal wastes and permit normal sewage or liquid wastes to discharge into the disposal terminal by gravity. Invert. The lowest portion of the inside of a horizontal pipe. Irrigation Field. [BSC-CG & HCD 1] An intended desti- nation for gray water in the receiving landscape, including but not limited to, a drip irrigation system, mulch basin, or other approved method of dispersal for irrigation purposes.

212.0 – J –

Joint, Brazed. A joint obtained by joining of metal parts with alloys that melt at temperatures exceeding 840°F (449°C), but less than the melting temperature of the parts to be joined. Joint, Compression. A multipiece joint with cup-shaped threaded nuts that, when tightened, compress tapered sleeves so that they form a tight joint on the periphery of the tubing they connect. Joint, Flanged. One made by bolting together a pair of flanged ends. Joint, Flared. A metal-to-metal compression joint in which a conical spread is made on the end of a tube that is compressed by a flare nut against a mating flare. Joint, Heat-Fusion. A joint used in some thermoplastic systems to connect the pipe to fittings or pipe lengths directly to one another (butt-fusion). This method of joining pipe to fittings includes socket-fusion, electro-fusion, and saddlefusion. This method of welding involves the application of heat and pressure to the components, allowing them to fuse together forming a bond between the pipe and fitting. Joint, Mechanical. The general form for gas-tight or liquidtight joints obtained by the joining of parts through a positive holding mechanical construction. Joint, Press-Connect. A permanent mechanical joint incorporating an elastomeric seal or an elastomeric seal and corrosion resistant grip ring. The joint is made with a pressing tool and jaw or ring that complies with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Joint, Soldered. A joint obtained by the joining of metal parts with metallic mixtures or alloys that melt at a temperature up to and including 840°F (449°C). Joint, Welded. A gastight joint obtained by the joining of metal parts in the plastic molten state.

213.0 – K –

No definitions.

214.0 – L –

Labeled. Equipment or materials bearing a label of a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body). See Listed (third-party certified).
CPC § 3.2 High relevance — show source text
(1) Materials having a structural base of noncombustible material, with a surfacing not exceeding a thickness of 1 ⁄ 8 of an inch (3.2 mm), that has a flame-spread index not greater than 50.

(2) Materials, in the form and thickness used, having neither a flame-spread index greater than 25 nor evidence of continued progressive combustion, and of such composition that surfaces that would be exposed by cutting through the material on any plane would have neither a flame-spread index greater than 25 nor evidence of continued progressive combustion, where tested in accordance with ASTM E84.

Line Contact Installation. An installation in which a furnace is installed so that building joists, studs, or framing are contacted by the furnace jacket upon the lines formed by the intersection of the jacket sides with the top surface.

Lineset. A set of two refrigerant pipes that extends from the condenser to the evaporator (cooling coil) in direct systems, consisting of a suction line and a liquid line.

2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 41

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

DEFINITIONS

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) Facilities. Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) facilities include tanks, containers, container valves, regulating equipment, meters, appurtenances, or any combination thereof for the storage and supply of liquefied petroleum gas for a building, structure, or premises.

Liquid-Tight. Constructed and performing in a way that prevents the passage of liquid at any temperature. [NFPA 96:3.3.35]

Listed (Third Party Certified). Equipment or materials included in a list published by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) that maintains periodic inspection of current production of listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either that the equipment or material complies with approved standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified manner. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Listed” means all products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional infor- mation, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h).

Listed and Listing. [SFM] “Listed” and “Listing” are terms referring to equipment or materials included in a list published by an approved testing laboratory, inspection agency, or other organization concerned with product evalu- ation that maintains periodic inspection of current produc- tions of listed equipment or materials and which listing states that the material or equipment complies with approved nationally recognized codes, standards, or tests and has been tested or evaluated and found suitable for use in a specific manner. These terms shall also mean equipment or materials accepted by the State Fire Marshal as conforming to the pro- visions of these regulations and which are included in a list published by the State Fire Marshal.

Listing Agency. An agency accredited by an independent and authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a material and product listing and labeling (certification) system and that are accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which is in the business of listing or labeling.
CPC § 1.11 High relevance — show source text
shall not become operative within any city or county unless and until the governing body of the city or county makes an_ express finding that the application of those regulations within the city or county is reasonably necessary because of local conditions and the city or county files a copy of that finding with the department. (b) In adopting ordinances or regulations for limited-density owner-built rural dwellings, a city or county may make such changes or modifications in the requirements contained in Article 8 (commencing with Section 74) of Subchapter 1 of Chapter 1 of Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations that it determines are reasonably necessary because of local conditions, if the city or county files a copy of the changes or modifications and the express findings for the changes or modifications with the department. No change or modification of that type shall become effective or operative for any purpose until the finding and the change or modification has been filed with the department.

LISTED. (HCD 1) All products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h).

[RB] LISTED. (SFM) Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the code official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose. Terms that are used to identify listed equipment, products or materials include “listed,” “certified,” “classified” or other terms as determined appropriate by the listing organization. For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, “listed” shall also mean equipment or materials accepted by the state fire marshal as conforming to the provisions of the State Fire Marshal’s regulations and which are included in a list published by the State Fire Marshal.

LISTING AGENCY. (HCD 1 & HCD 2) An agency approved by the department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, mate- rials, equipment and installations tested by an approved testing agency, and that maintains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment and installations, and that, at least annually, makes available a published report of these list- ings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(i).

[RB] LIVE LOADS. Those loads produced by the use and occupancy of the building or other structure and do not include construction or environmental loads such as wind load, snow load, rain load, earthquake load, flood load or dead load.

[RB] LIVE/WORK UNIT. A dwelling unit or sleeping unit in which a significant portion of the space includes a nonresidential use that is operated by the tenant or building owner.

[MP] LIVING SPACE. Space within a dwelling unit utilized for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, bathing, washing and sanitation purposes.

[MP] LOCAL EXHAUST. An exhaust system that uses one or more fans to exhaust air from a specific room or rooms within a dwelling.

[MP] LOCKING-TYPE TAMPER-RESISTANT CAP. A cap designed to be unlocked by a specially designed tool or key to prevent removal of the cap by means of hand-loosening or by commonly available tools.

2-16 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
CPC § 3.3.35 High relevance — show source text
Liquid-Tight. Constructed and performing in a way that prevents the passage of liquid at any temperature. [NFPA 96:3.3.35]

Listed (Third Party Certified). Equipment or materials included in a list published by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) that maintains periodic inspection of current production of listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either that the equipment or material complies with approved standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified manner. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Listed” means all products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional infor- mation, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h).

Listed and Listing. [SFM] “Listed” and “Listing” are terms referring to equipment or materials included in a list published by an approved testing laboratory, inspection agency, or other organization concerned with product evalu- ation that maintains periodic inspection of current produc- tions of listed equipment or materials and which listing states that the material or equipment complies with approved nationally recognized codes, standards, or tests and has been tested or evaluated and found suitable for use in a specific manner. These terms shall also mean equipment or materials accepted by the State Fire Marshal as conforming to the pro- visions of these regulations and which are included in a list published by the State Fire Marshal.

Listing Agency. An agency accredited by an independent and authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a material and product listing and labeling (certification) system and that are accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which is in the business of listing or labeling. The system includes initial and ongoing product testing, a periodic inspection on current production of listed (certified) products, and that makes available a published report of such listing in which specific information is included that the material or product is in accordance with applicable standards and found safe for use in a specific manner. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “List- ing Agency” means an agency approved by the Department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, materials, equipment, and installations tested by an approved testing agency, and that maintains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment, and installa- tions, and that at least annually makes available a published report of these listings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(i).

Low-Probability Pump. A pump that (a) is permanently sealed to prevent atmospheric release of the pumped fluid, (b) incorporates a static seal to prevent atmospheric release of the pumped fluid, or (c) incorporates not less than two sequential dynamic shaft seals and automatically shuts down

upon failure of any seal to prevent atmospheric release of the pumped fluid. [ASHRAE 15:3]

Lowside. Refers to the parts of a refrigeration system subjected to approximate evaporator pressure.

215.0 – M –

Machinery. The refrigeration equipment forming a part of the refrigeration system, including, but not limited to, the following: compressors, condensers, liquid receivers, evaporators, and connecting piping.
CPC § 1.11 High relevance — show source text
[A] LISTED. Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the building official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose. Terms that are used to identify listed equipment, products or materials include “listed,” “certified,” “classified” or other terms as determined appropriate by the listing organization.

[HCD 1 & HCD 2] “ Listed” means all products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h).

[SFM] For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, “listed” shall also mean equipment or materials accepted by the state fire marshal as conforming to the provisions of the State Fire Marshal’s regulations and which are included in a list published by the State Fire Marshal.

LISTING AGENCY. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An agency approved by the department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, mate- rials, equipment and installations tested by an approved testing agency, and that maintains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment and installations, and that, at least annually, makes available a published report of these list- ings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(i).

[BS] LIVE LOAD. A load produced by the use and occupancy of the building or other structure that does not include construction or environmental loads such as wind load, snow load, rain load, earthquake load, flood load or dead load.

[BS] LIVE LOAD, ROOF. A load on a roof produced:
1. During maintenance by workers, equipment and materials; or
2. During the life of the structure by movable objects such as planters or other similar small decorative appurtenances that are not occupancy related.
[BG] LIVE/WORK UNIT. A dwelling unit or sleeping unit in which a significant portion of the space includes a nonresidential use that is operated by the tenant or building owner .

[BS] LOAD AND RESISTANCE FACTOR DESIGN (LRFD). A method of proportioning structural members and their connections using load and resistance factors such that no applicable limit state is reached when the structure is subjected to appropriate load combinations. The term “LRFD” is used in the design of steel and wood structures.

[BS] LOAD EFFECTS. Forces and deformations produced in structural members by the applied loads.

[BS] LOAD FACTOR. A factor that accounts for deviations of the actual load from the nominal load, for uncertainties in the analysis that transforms the load into a load effect, and for the probability that more than one extreme load will occur simultaneously.

[BS] LOADS. Forces or other actions that result from the weight of building materials, occupants and their possessions, environmental effects, differential movement and restrained dimensional changes. Permanent loads are those loads in which variations over time are rare or of small magnitude, such as dead loads. All other loads are variable loads (see “Nominal loads”).

LOBBY. [SFM, HCD 1 & HCD 2] An area not defined as a waiting room at the entrance of a building through which persons must pass.
CPC § 8.3.2.5. High relevance — show source text
3. See Health and Safety Code Section 19966 for “Approved” as applied to factory-built housing as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5.

4. See Health and Safety Code Section 18201 for “Approved” as applied to mobilehome parks as referenced in Section 1.8.2.1.3. 5. See Health and Safety Code Section 18862.1 for “Approved” as applied to special occupancy parks as referenced in Section 1.8.2.1.3.

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 2-13

on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

DEFINITIONS

[A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where such organization has been approved by the building official.

[HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Approved agency” shall mean “Listing agency” and “Testing agency.”

[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] This term is synonymous with “laboratory of record” as referenced in Section 4-335 of the California Administra- tive Code.

[BS] APPROVED FABRICATOR. An established and qualified person, firm or corporation approved by the building official pursuant to Chapter 17 of this code.

APPROVED LISTING AGENCY. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Any agency approved by the enforcing agency, unless otherwise provided by law, which is in the business of listing and labeling and which makes available at least an annual published report of such listings in which specific information is included that the product has been tested to recognized standards and found to comply.

[A] APPROVED SOURCE. An independent person, firm or corporation, approved by the building official, who is competent and experienced in the application of engineering principles to materials, methods or systems analyses.

APPROVED TESTING AGENCY. [HCD 1, HCD 2, DSA-AC & OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Any agency, which is determined by the enforcing agency, except as otherwise provided by law, to have adequate personnel and expertise to carry out the testing of systems, materials, types of construction, fixtures or appliances.

[BS] AREA (for masonry).

Gross cross-sectional. The area delineated by the out-to-out specified dimensions of masonry in the plane under consideration.

Net cross-sectional. The area of masonry units, grout and mortar crossed by the plane under consideration based on out-to-out specified dimensions.

[BG] AREA, BUILDING. The area included within surrounding exterior walls, or exterior walls and fire walls, exclusive of vent shafts and courts. Areas of the building not provided with surrounding walls shall be included in the building area if such areas are included within the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above.

[BE] AREA OF REFUGE. An area where persons unable to use stairways can remain temporarily to await instructions or assistance during emergency evacuation.

[BE] AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY. That portion of an indoor or outdoor space where the play or practice of a sport occurs.

[BG] AREAWAY. A subsurface space adjacent to a building open at the top or protected at the top by a grating or guard.
CPC § 17958.2 High relevance — show source text
LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which have been affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, approved agency or other organization concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of the production of such labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the equipment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.

LABELED. (HCD 1) Labeled means equipment or materials to which has been attached a label, symbol or other identifying mark of an organization, approved by the Department, that maintains a periodic inspection program of production of labeled products, installa- tions, equipment or materials and by whose labeling the manufacturer indicates compliance with appropriate standards or performance in a specified manner.

[RB] LIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION. Construction whose vertical and horizontal structural elements are primarily formed by a system of repetitive wood or cold-formed steel framing members.

LIMITED-DENSITY OWNER-BUILT RURAL DWELLINGS. Any structure consisting of one or more habitable rooms intended or designed to be occupied by one family with facilities for living or sleeping, with use restricted to rural areas designated by local jurisdiction. Notwith- standing other sections of law, the applicable section of Health and Safety Code Section 17958.2 is repeated here for clarification

purposes.

Section 17958.2. (a) Notwithstanding Section 17958, regulations of the department adopted for limited-density owner-built rural dwell- ings, which are codified in Article 8 (commencing with Section 74) of Subchapter 1 of Chapter 1 of Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations, shall not become operative within any city or county unless and until the governing body of the city or county makes an express finding that the application of those regulations within the city or county is reasonably necessary because of local conditions and the city or county files a copy of that finding with the department. (b) In adopting ordinances or regulations for limited-density owner-built rural dwellings, a city or county may make such changes or modifications in the requirements contained in Article 8 (commencing with Section 74) of Subchapter 1 of Chapter 1 of Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations that it determines are reasonably necessary because of local conditions, if the city or county files a copy of the changes or modifications and the express findings for the changes or modifications with the department. No change or modification of that type shall become effective or operative for any purpose until the finding and the change or modification has been filed with the department.

LISTED. (HCD 1) All products that appear in a list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h).

[RB] LISTED. (SFM) Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the code official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose. Terms that are used to identify listed equipment, products or materials include “listed,” “certified,” “classified” or other terms as determined appropriate by the listing organization.
CPC § 301.1 High relevance — show source text
301.1 Applicability. This chapter covers general requirements for heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, miscellaneous heat-producing, and energy-utilizing equipment or appliances. Such equipment or appliances shall comply with the requirements of this code.

301.2 Approval. Equipment or appliance shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for safe use or comply with applicable nationally recognized standards as evidenced by the listing and label of an approved agency. A list of accepted standards is included in Chapter 18. Defective materials or parts shall be replaced in such a manner as not to invalidate an approval.

301.3 Design of Equipment. The installer or contractor shall furnish satisfactory evidence that the appliance is constructed in accordance with the requirements of this code. The permanently attached label of an approved agency shall be permitted to be accepted as such evidence. 301.4 Electrical Connections. For equipment regulated by this code:

(1) Equipment requiring electrical connections of more than 50 volts shall have a positive means of disconnect adjacent to and in sight from the equipment served.

Exception: Other power disconnect means shall be acceptable where in accordance with the California Elec- trical Code .

(2) A 120 volt receptacle shall be located within 25 feet (7620 mm) of the equipment for service and maintenance purposes. The receptacle outlet shall be on the supply side of the disconnect switch. The receptacle need not be located on the same level as the equipment.

(3) Electrical wiring, controls, and connections to equipment and appliances regulated by this code shall be in accordance with the California Electrical Code . 301.5 Oil-Burning Appliances. The tank, piping, and valves for appliances burning oil shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 31.

301.6 Personnel Protection. A metal guard shall be provided around exposed flywheels, fans, pulleys, belts, and moving machinery that are portions of a heating, ventilating, or refrigerating system. 301.7 OSHPD 1R. [OSHPD 1R] For OSHPD 1R, refer to Section 309 of California Existing Building Code for general requirements.

302.0 Materials – Standards and Alternates.

302.1 Minimum Standards. Listed pipe, pipe fittings, appliances, appurtenances, equipment, materials, and devices used in a mechanical system shall be listed (third-party certified) by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment

body) as complying with the approved applicable recognized standards referenced in this code, and shall be free from defects. Unless otherwise provided for in this code, materials, appurtenances, or devices used or entering into the construction of mechanical systems, or parts thereof, shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction for approval prior to being installed.

302.1.1 Marking. Each length of pipe and each pipe fitting, material, and device used in a mechanical system shall have cast, stamped, or indelibly marked on it any markings required by the applicable referenced standards and listing agency, and the manufacturer’s mark or name, which shall readily identify the manufacturer to the end user of the product. Where required by the approved standard that applies, the product shall be marked with the weight and the quality of the product. Materials and devices used or entering into the construction of mechanical systems, or parts thereof, shall be marked and identified in a manner satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Such marking shall be done by the manufacturer. Field markings shall not be acceptable.
CPC § 215.0 High relevance — show source text
** An agency accredited by an independent and authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a material and product listing and labeling (certification) system and that are accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which is in the business of listing or labeling. The system includes initial and ongoing product testing, a periodic inspection on current production of listed (certified) products, and that makes available a published report of such listing in which specific information is included that the material or product is in accordance with applicable standards and found safe for use in a specific manner. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “List- ing Agency” means an agency approved by the Department that is in the business of listing and labeling products, materials, equipment, and installations tested by an approved testing agency, and that maintains a periodic inspection program on current production of listed products, equipment, and installa- tions, and that at least annually makes available a published report of these listings. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(i).

Low-Probability Pump. A pump that (a) is permanently sealed to prevent atmospheric release of the pumped fluid, (b) incorporates a static seal to prevent atmospheric release of the pumped fluid, or (c) incorporates not less than two sequential dynamic shaft seals and automatically shuts down

upon failure of any seal to prevent atmospheric release of the pumped fluid. [ASHRAE 15:3]

Lowside. Refers to the parts of a refrigeration system subjected to approximate evaporator pressure.

215.0 – M –

Machinery. The refrigeration equipment forming a part of the refrigeration system, including, but not limited to, the following: compressors, condensers, liquid receivers, evaporators, and connecting piping.

Machinery Room. [SFM] Machinery Room is a room in which a refrigeration system is permanently installed and operated but not including evaporators located in a cold stor- age room, refrigerator box, air-cooled space or other enclosed space. Closets solely contained within, and opening only into, a room shall not be considered machinery rooms, but shall be considered a part of the machinery rooms in which they are contained or open into. It is not the intent of this definition to cause the space in which unit or self-con- tained systems of Group I refrigerants are locate to be clas- sified as machinery rooms.

Mechanical System. A set of components, devices, appliances, and equipment intended to perform a function(s) for which the system is designed, as regulated by this code.

Mechanical Ventilation. Ventilation provided by mechanically powered equipment, such as motor-driven fans and blowers, but not by devices such as wind-driven turbine ventilators and mechanically operated windows. [ASHRAE 62.1:3]

Mid-Story Guide. A support designed to keep piping in alignment, located mid-way between floors or a floor and ceiling.

216.0 – N –

Natural Ventilation. Ventilation provided by thermal, wind, or diffusion effects through doors, windows, or other intentional openings in the building. [ASHRAE 62.1:3]

Noncombustible Material. As applied to building construction material, means a material that in the form in which it is used is either one of the following:
CPC § 103.1 High relevance — show source text
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

[A] 103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

[A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the fire code official.

SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE FIRE CODE OFFICIAL

[A] 104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
1-14 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

[A] 104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the fire code official.

[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the fire code official is authorized to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a technical opinion and report.

[A] 104.2.2.1 Cost. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

[A] 104.2.2.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the fire code official. The fire code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

[A] 104.2.2.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon to identify and propose necessary recommendations.

Frequently asked questions

What if a product has a label but no published listing?

A physical label alone is not sufficient. The code’s concept of “listed” requires that the product appear on a published list from an accredited listing agency that maintains periodic inspection/surveillance; absent that, the AHJ may require tests or other evidence of conformity .

Can the AHJ accept a test report instead of a listing?

Yes — the AHJ may accept alternate evidence (test reports, certificates, or technical opinion) when justified, but acceptance is discretionary and the AHJ may require a qualified technical report or re‑testing to confirm equivalency with code requirements .

Does “listed” mean the product can be installed anywhere?

No. Listings are specific in scope. You must install the product exactly as the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions allow (including capacity/clearances). A listing that limits use (for example, reduced clearance) only applies when installed per the labeling and instructions .

How often must a listing agency publish its listings or reports?

The CPC definition in the uploaded material describes that an approved listing agency maintains periodic inspection and makes available a published report of listings; some excerpts mention annual availability of published reports as part of the “Listing Agency” definition .

Where do I look to confirm a listing?

Confirm by checking the listing agency’s published list/report for the model number and scope, and verify the product carries the label/mark matching that listing. If in doubt, request the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions for review by the AHJ .

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Approval, listing and agency-related definitions

California Plumbing Code