CPC · California Plumbing Code

What is a 'Lavatory' and 'Lavatories in sets'?

A lavatory is the hand‑washing fixture defined in § 211.0; “lavatories in sets” are specifically two or three lavatories served by one trap. The CPC assigns different minimum trap sizes and DFU values for single lavatories (1‑1/4" trap, 1.0 DFU) versus lavatory sets (1‑1/2" trap, 2.0 DFU) (see Table 702.1), and imposes faucet flow and waste‑outlet requirements in § 407.0.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

A Lavatory is a plumbing fixture used for washing the hands, arms, face and head — this is the CPC definition in § 211.0. Lavatories in sets are defined in § 211.0 as two or three lavatories that are served by one trap. The code treats a single lavatory and a lavatory set differently for minimum trap size and drainage fixture-unit (DFU) values (see Table 702.1) and imposes separate fixture and water‑use requirements under § 407.0 and its subsections.

The single most important rule: a "lavatory" is the hand‑washing fixture; a "lavatories in sets" arrangement is specifically two or three lavatories sharing a single trap (one trap only).

Requirements in detail

Definitions (controlling text)

  • Lavatory — § 211.0: a plumbing fixture used for washing the hands, arms, face and head.
  • Lavatories in sets — § 211.0: two or three lavatories served by one trap.

Minimum trap size and DFU (decision‑relevant values)

Item Code value (decision‑relevant) Code Reference
Single lavatory — minimum trap size 1‑1/4 inch trap Table 702.1, §702.1
Single lavatory — DFU (private/public/assembly) 1.0 DFU Table 702.1, §702.1
Lavatories in sets (2 or 3 on one trap) — minimum trap size 1‑1/2 inch trap Table 702.1, §702.1
Lavatories in sets — DFU (private/public/assembly) 2.0 DFU Table 702.1, §702.1
Group wash fixture counting Every 20 inches (508 mm) of rim space = 1 lavatory for determining number required per Table 422.1 § 407.1
Public lavatory faucet max flow 0.5 gpm at 60 psi § 407.2.1
Residential lavatory faucet max/min Max 1.2 gpm; Min 0.8 gpm (residential) § 407.2.2
Minimum lavatory waste outlet / tailpiece 1‑1/4 inch diameter § 407.5
Hot‑water limit for public lavatories 120°F (49°C) max § 407.3

Notes:

  • The DFU and trap‑size requirements above come from Table 702.1; use these numbers when sizing traps, trap arms, vents and when calculating total drainage fixture units on branches and stacks.
  • Faucet flow limits and overflow/waste outlet sizing are in the Lavatories chapter (§ 407.0 and subparts) and affect fixture selection and hot‑water controls.

How the "set" concept is used

  • When two or three lavatories share one trap, the assembly is treated as a single trap with the DFU and minimum trap size for lavatories in sets (see Table 702.1). This is not the same as a long multi‑station washfountain: larger group fixtures are treated and counted differently (see § 407.1 for group wash fixture rim‑space conversion).

Exceptions & special cases

  • If more than three wash stations are provided as a continuous group (for example a multi‑station washfountain or group wash fixture), you cannot classify that as a single "lavatories in sets" (which by definition is only two or three fixtures); instead, count lavatory equivalents by rim space — every 20 inches (508 mm) of rim space = 1 lavatory per § 407.1.
  • Lavatory assemblies that include built‑in soap dispensers, automatic faucets, or hand dryers must comply with the listed assembly requirements and standards referenced in § 407.1.
  • Where accessibility or other codes apply (CBC accessibility chapters), additional dimensional and installation requirements (clearance, rim height, knee/toe space, plumbing protection) are imposed — those are in the Building Code accessibility sections rather than § 211.0 (see Related provisions).

If a specific CPC subsection or local amendment affecting lavatory sets is not present in the retrieved text, state so plainly: beyond the definitions in § 211.0 and the lavatory rules in § 407.0 plus Table 702.1, no other CPC provision about different permitted trap counts for sets was found in the provided files.

Common mistakes

  • Treating any number of hand basins joined to one trap as a "set" — the code term "lavatories in sets" applies only to two or three lavatories sharing one trap (see § 211.0). For longer, continuous fixtures use the group‑wash counting rule in § 407.1.
  • Using the single‑lavatory DFU/trap size for a 2‑ or 3‑fixture set — Table 702.1 requires the larger trap (1‑1/2") and DFU (2.0) for lavatories in sets.
  • Forgetting faucet flow or temperature limits when specifying fixtures for public areas — public lavatory faucets are limited to 0.5 gpm and public hot water must be limited to 120°F per § 407.2.1 and § 407.3.

Worked example — sizing trap and DFU for a two‑lavatory set

Scenario: A designer plans two adjacent hand basins that will share one trap (a two‑fixture set) in a private office restroom.

Step 1 — Identify that configuration: two lavatories served by one trap = Lavatories in sets per § 211.0.
Step 2 — Use Table 702.1: for lavatories in sets the minimum trap size is 1‑1/2 inch and the DFU for private occupancy is 2.0. Use those values when sizing the trap, trap arm and when adding DFUs on the branch/stack.
Step 3 — Select faucets: if this restroom is a common/public area, choose faucets ≤ 0.5 gpm each (§ 407.2.1); if residential, the faucet max is 1.2 gpm (and min 0.8 gpm) per § 407.2.2. Specify a waste outlet / tailpiece ≥ 1‑1/4 inch diameter per § 407.5.

Result: Specify a 1‑1/2" trap and count 2.0 DFU for those two lavatories, select faucets per the applicable flow limits, and provide a waste outlet of at least 1‑1/4".

Related provisions

  • Definitions — § 211.0 (Lavatory; Lavatories in sets).
  • Lavatory application and equipment standards — § 407.1 (group wash fixture counting; standards for lavatories).
  • Lavatory water‑use limits — § 407.2 and subparts (public and residential flow rates).
  • Lavatory waste outlet and overflow — § 407.5 and § 404.2 (overflow rules referenced).
  • Drainage fixture unit and trap sizing table — Table 702.1 (DFU values and minimum trap sizes).
  • Fixture counting for required numbers (referenced) — Table 422.1 (see § 407.1 for how group wash rim space converts to lavatory counts).

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

    (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 § 406.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    60 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

    PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

    406.0 Special Fixtures and Specialties.

    406.1 Water and Waste Connections. Baptisteries, ornamental and lily ponds, aquaria, ornamental fountain basins, and similar fixtures and specialties requiring water, waste connections, or both shall be submitted for approval to the Authority Having Jurisdiction prior to installation.

    406.2 Special Use Sinks. Restaurant kitchen and other special use sinks shall be permitted to be made of approvedtype bonderized and galvanized sheet steel of not less than No. 16 U.S. gauge (0.0635 inches) (1.6 mm). Sheet-metal plumbing fixtures shall be adequately designed, constructed, and braced in an approved manner to accomplish their intended purpose.

    406.3 Special Use Fixtures. Special use fixtures shall be made of one of the following:

    (1) Soapstone

    (2) Chemical stoneware

    (3) Copper-based alloy

    (4) Nickel-based alloy

    (5) Corrosion-resistant steel

    (6) Other materials suited for the intended use of the fixture

    406.4 Zinc Alloy Components. Zinc alloy components shall comply with applicable nationally recognized standards and shall be used in accordance with their listing.

    407.0 Lavatories.

    407.1 Application. Lavatories shall comply with ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, ASME A112.19.12, CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124, CSA B45.8/IAPMO Z403, CSA B45.11/IAPMO Z401 or CSA B45.12/IAPMO Z402. Group wash fixtures shall comply with the requirements of Section 401.2. Every 20 inches (508 mm) of rim space of a group wash fixture shall be considered as one lavatory for determining the number of lavatories required in accordance with Table 422.1. Lavatory assemblies with automatic soap dispensers, faucets, or hand dryers shall comply with IAPMO IGC 127.

    407.2 Water Consumption. The maximum water flow rate of faucets shall comply with Section 407.2.1 through Section 407.2.4 .

    407.2.1 Public Lavatory Faucets . The maximum flow rate for public lavatory faucets shall not exceed 0.5 gpm at 60 psi (1.9 L/m at 414 kPa).

    407.2.2 Residential Lavatory Faucets. [HCD 1] The maximum flow rate of residential lavatory faucets shall not exceed 1.2 gallons (4.54 L) per minute at 60 psi. The minimum flow rate of residential lavatory faucets shall not be less than 0.8 gallons (3.03 L) per minute at 20 psi.

  • CPC § 105.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    Tightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105.3 Transition joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705.9.4 Various materials . . . . . . . . .605.16, 705.10, 1210.1.3.8

    Vitrified clay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705.8 Welded joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212.0, 605.13.2, 705.7.2, 1208.5.9.1, 1322.1, F 1101.2

    – L –

    LABELED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214.0, 301.2

    LAUNDRY SINKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1001.2

    LAVATORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.0, 422.9, Table 702.1,

    1503.8.2.1, E 501.4

    LAVATORIES IN SETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214.0, Table 702.1

    LAVATORY

    Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214.0

    LAVATORY FAUCETS

    Common and public use areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.2.3 Maximum flow rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.2.1, 407.2.2

    Metering faucet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.2.4

    Public . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.2.1

    Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.2.2

    LAWN SPRINKLERS . . . . . . . . .Table 610.3, Table A 103.1,

    A 103.2, M 102.5

    LEAD

    Allowable lead contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . .604.2, 604.2.1

    Bends and traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .701.5, 906.6 Closet rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .402.6.1

    Flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1102.3.1

  • CPC § 1014.2.1. Medium relevance — show source text

    (2) External flow control, without air intake (vent), directly connected.

    (3) Without external flow control, directly connected.

    (4) Without external flow control, indirectly connected.

    These interceptors comply with the requirements of Table 1014.2.1. Hydromechanical grease interceptors are generally installed inside.

    211.0 – I –

    Indirect-Fired Water Heater. A water heater consisting of a storage tank equipped with an internal or external heat exchanger used to transfer heat from an external source to heat potable water. The storage tank either contains heated potable water or water supplied from an external source, such as a boiler.

    Indirect Waste Pipe. A pipe that does not connect directly to the drainage system but conveys liquid wastes by discharging into a plumbing fixture, interceptor, or receptacle that is directly connected to the drainage system.

    Individual Vent. A pipe installed to vent a fixture trap, and that connects with the vent system above the fixture served or terminates in the open air.

    Industrial Waste. Liquid or water-borne waste from industrial or commercial processes, except domestic sewage.

    Insanitary. A condition that is contrary to sanitary principles or is injurious to health.

    Conditions to which “insanitary” shall apply include the following:

    (1) A trap that does not maintain a proper trap seal.

    (2) An opening in a drainage system, except where lawful that is not provided with an approved liquid-sealed trap.

    (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.

  • CPC § 407.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    407.1 Application. Lavatories shall comply with ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, ASME A112.19.12, CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124, CSA B45.8/IAPMO Z403, CSA B45.11/IAPMO Z401 or CSA B45.12/IAPMO Z402. Group wash fixtures shall comply with the requirements of Section 401.2. Every 20 inches (508 mm) of rim space of a group wash fixture shall be considered as one lavatory for determining the number of lavatories required in accordance with Table 422.1. Lavatory assemblies with automatic soap dispensers, faucets, or hand dryers shall comply with IAPMO IGC 127.

    407.2 Water Consumption. The maximum water flow rate of faucets shall comply with Section 407.2.1 through Section 407.2.4 .

    407.2.1 Public Lavatory Faucets . The maximum flow rate for public lavatory faucets shall not exceed 0.5 gpm at 60 psi (1.9 L/m at 414 kPa).

    407.2.2 Residential Lavatory Faucets. [HCD 1] The maximum flow rate of residential lavatory faucets shall not exceed 1.2 gallons (4.54 L) per minute at 60 psi. The minimum flow rate of residential lavatory faucets shall not be less than 0.8 gallons (3.03 L) per minute at 20 psi.

    407.2.3 Lavatory Faucets in Common and Public Use Areas. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] The maximum flow rate of lavatory faucets, installed in common and public use areas (outside of dwellings or sleeping units) in residen- tial buildings, shall not exceed 0.5 gallons (1.89 L) per minute at 60 psi.

    407.2.4 Metering Faucets. Metered faucets shall deliver a maximum of 0.2 gallons ( 0.76 L) per metering cycle.

    407.2.4.1 Metering Faucets. [BSC-CG & DSA- SS] Metering Faucets shall not deliver more than 0.20 gallons (0.76 L) per cycle in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3 of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen).

    407.3 Limitation of Hot Water Temperature for Public Lavatories. Hot water delivered from public-use lavatories shall be limited to a maximum temperature of 120°F (49°C). The maximum temperature shall be regulated by one of the following means:

    (1) A limiting device conforming to either ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70, or

    (2) A water heater conforming to ASSE 1084.

    407.4 Transient Public Lavatories. Self-closing or metering faucets shall be installed on lavatories intended to serve the transient public, such as those in, but not limited to service stations, train stations, airports, restaurants, and convention halls.

  • CPC § 702.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    SANITARY DRAINAGE

    TABLE 702.1 DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNIT VALUES (DFU)

    PLUMBING APPLIANCES, APPURTENANCES, OR FIXTURES MINIMUM SIZE TRAP
    AND TRAP ARM7
    (inches)    		 PRIVATE PUBLIC ASSEMBLY8
    Bathtub or Combination Bath/Shower 11⁄2 2.0 2.0 ––
    Bidet 11⁄4 1.0 –– ––
    Bidet 11⁄2 2.0 –– ––
    Clothes Washer, domestic, standpipe5 2 3.0 3.0 3.0
    Dental Unit, cuspidor 11⁄4 –– 1.0 1.0
    Dishwasher, domestic, with independent drain2 11⁄2 2.0 2.0 2.0
    Drinking Fountain or Water Cooler 11⁄4 0.5 0.5 1.0
    Food Waste Disposer, commercial 2 –– 3.0 3.0
    Floor Drain, emergency 2 –– 0.0 0.0
    Floor Drain (for additional sizes see Section 702.0) 2 2.0 2.0 2.0
    Shower, single-head trap 29 2.0 2.0 2.0
    Multi-head, each additional 2 1.0 1.0 1.0
    Lavatory 11⁄4 1.0 1.0 1.0
    Lavatories in sets 11⁄2 2.0 2.0 2.0
    Washfountain 11⁄2 –– 2.0 2.0
    Washfountain 2 –– 3.0 3.0
    Mobilehome or Manufactured Home, trap_10_ 3 6.0 –– ––
    Receptor, indirect waste1,3 11⁄2 See footnote1,3 See footnote1,3 See footnote1,3
    Receptor, indirect waste1,4 2 See footnote1,4 See footnote1,4 See footnote1,4
    Receptor, indirect waste1 3 See footnote1 See footnote1 See footnote1
    Sinks –– –– –– ––
    Bar 11⁄2 1.0 –– ––
    Bar2 11⁄2 –– 2.0 2.0
    Clinical 3 –– 6.0 6.0
    Commercial with food waste2 11⁄2 –– 3.0 3.0
    Exam Room 11⁄2 –– 1.0 ––
    Special Purpose2 11⁄2 2.0 3.0 3.0
    Special Purpose 2 3.0 4.0 4.0
    Special Purpose 3 –– 6.0 6.0
    Kitchen, domestic2
    (with or without food waste disposer, dishwasher, or both)    		 11⁄2 2.0 2.0 ––
    Laundry2 (with or without discharge from a clothes washer) 11⁄2 2.0 2.0 2.0
    Service or Mop Basin 2 –– 3.0 3.
  • CPC § 1321.8.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    1321.8.4, 1321.12.3, 1322.7 PVC piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .605.12, 705.6, 705.9.4 Screwed joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .310.8, 701.3.1 Slip joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221.0, 402.10,

    605.14, 705.9.1, 1003.2 Soldered joint . . . . . . . .212.0, 605.1.4, 705.3.3, A 107.3 Solvent cement plastic pipe . . . . . . . . .605.2.2, 605.3.1,

    605.12.2, 705.1.2,

    705.6.2, 705.9.4 Stainless steel pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .605.13, 605.16.3,

    705.7, 705.10.4

    Threaded joint . . . . . . . . . . . .605.1.5, 605.2.3, 605.5.2,

    605.11.3, 605.12.3, 605.16.1,

    705.1.3, 705.3.4, 705.4.2, 705.6.3,

    705.10.2, 1208.5.8, 1208.5.9.1,

    1208.5.9.5, 1322.5, A 107.3

    Tightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105.3 Transition joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705.9.4 Various materials . . . . . . . . .605.16, 705.10, 1210.1.3.8

    Vitrified clay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705.8 Welded joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212.0, 605.13.2, 705.7.2, 1208.5.9.1, 1322.1, F 1101.2

    – L –

    LABELED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214.0, 301.2

    LAUNDRY SINKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1001.2

    LAVATORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407.0, 422.9, Table 702.1,

    1503.8.2.1, E 501.4

    LAVATORIES IN SETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214.0, Table 702.1

    LAVATORY

  • CPC § 1127A.2.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    1127A.2.4 Accessible urinals. When urinals are provided, at least one shall comply with the following: 1. Height and wall projection . Urinals shall be floor mounted (stall type) or wall hung. The rim of the wall hung urinals shall be 17 inches (432 mm) maximum above the finish floor. Urinals (floor mounted and wall hung) shall be13 [1] / 2 inches (343 mm) deep minimum measured from the outer face of the rim to the back of the fixture.

    2. Flush controls. Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic. Hand operated controls shall be operable with one hand, shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist and shall be mounted no more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N). Electronic automatic flushing controls are preferable. 3. Clear floor space. A clear floor space 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be provided in front of the urinal to allow forward approach. The clear floor space shall comply with Section 1138A.1.4.

    1127A.3 Accessible lavatories. When common use lavatories are provided for residents or guests, at least one, and not less than 1 percent of all lavatories, shall comply with the following: 1. Location. Lavatories shall be installed with the centerline of the fixture a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) horizontally from an adjoining wall, partition or fixture. The top of the fixture rim shall be a maximum of 34 inches (864 mm) above the finished floor. 2. Floor space. A clear floor space at least 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be provided in front of accessible lavatories to allow forward approach. Such clear floor space shall adjoin or overlap an accessible route or another clear floor

    space.

    3. Knee and toe space. A clear and obstructed knee and toe space, complying with Section 1138A.2, shall be provided under- neath the lavatory. The knee and toe space shall be centered on the fixture. The clear floor space required by Item 2 shall not extend into the knee and toe space more than 19 inches (483 mm). (See Figure 11A-9D.) 4. Finished floor. The finished floor beneath the lavatory shall be extended to the wall.

    5. Plumbing protection. Water supply and drain pipes under lavatories shall be insulated or otherwise covered to protect against contact. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under lavatories.

    6. Lavatory faucet controls. Faucet controls and operation mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2N). Lever operated, push type and electronically controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs. Hand oper- ated metering faucets are allowed if the faucet remains open for at least 10 seconds.

    1127A.4 Grab bars, tub and shower seats, fasteners and mounting devices.

  • CPC § 11B-809.10.8 Medium relevance — show source text

    11B-809.10.8 Lavatories, vanities, mirrors and towel bars. Bathrooms or powder rooms required to comply with Section 11B- 809.10 shall provide lavatories complying with this section . Where mirrors or towel bars are provided, no less than one of each shall comply with this section.

    11B-809.10.8.1 Location. Lavatories without base cabinets shall be installed with the centerline 18 inches (457 mm) minimum from an adjoining wall or fixture to allow for forward approach. Lavatories with base cabinets shall be installed with the centerline 24 inches (610 mm) minimum from an adjoining wall or fixture to allow for a parallel approach. The top of the lavatory rim shall be 34 inches (864 mm) maximum above the finished floor.

    11B-809.10.8.2 Floor space. A floor space 30 inches (762 mm) minimum by 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum shall be provided centered on the lavatory.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11B-127

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

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    11B-809.10.8.3 Cabinets . Cabinets shall be removable without the use of specialized knowledge and/or tools. The finished floor shall extend to the wall under the lavatory.

    11B-809.10.8.4 Knee and toe clearance. Knee and toe clearance shall be provided and comply with Section 11B-306.

    11B-809.10.8.5 Plumbing protection. Plumbing protection shall comply with Section 11B-809.9.7.

    11B-809.10.8.6 Controls. Faucet controls and operating mechanisms shall comply with Section 11B-309.4.

    11B-809.10.8.7 Mirrors and towel bars. Where mirrors are provided the bottom edge of the reflective surface shall be 40 inches (1016 mm) maximum above the finish floor. Where towel bars are provided, they shall be installed 40 inches (1016 mm) maximum above the finish floor to the top of the bar.

    11B-809.11 Washing machines and clothes dryers. Where washing machines and clothes dryers are provided in residential dwelling units with adaptable features, one of each type shall be provided.

    11B-809.12 Electrical receptacles, controls and switches. Electrical receptacles on branch circuits of 30 amperes or less, communica- tion system receptacles, controls and switches shall be located as follows:

    1. Where there is no obstruction, 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum measured from the top of the receptacle box and 15 inches (381 mm) minimum measured from the bottom of the receptacle box to the finish floor.

    2. Where the reach is over an obstruction, electrical receptacles, controls and switches shall comply with Sections 11B-308.3 and 11B-309.2.

  • CPC § 1134A.8 Medium relevance — show source text

    1134A.8 Lavatories, vanities, mirrors and towel fixtures. Bathrooms or powder rooms required to be accessible shall have at least one accessible lavatory. Where mirrors and towel fixtures are provided, at least one of each shall be accessible.

    1. Location. Vanities and lavatories shall be installed with the centerline of the fixture a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) horizon- tally from an adjoining wall or fixture to allow for forward approach. When parallel approach is provided, lavatories shall be installed with the centerline of the fixture a minimum of 24 inches (610 mm) horizontally from an adjoining wall or fixture. The top of the fixture rim shall be a maximum of 34 inches (864 mm) above the finished floor. 2. Floor space. A clear maneuvering space at least 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be provided at lavatories and shall be centered on the lavatory.

    3. Cabinets. Cabinets under lavatories are acceptable provided the bathroom has space to allow a parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair and the lavatory cabinets are designed with adaptable knee and toe space. 4. Knee and toe space. Knee and toe space shall be provided by one of the following: 4.1. The space beneath the lavatory shall be left clear and unobstructed; 4.2. Any cabinet beneath the lavatory shall be removable without the use of specialized knowledge or specialized tools; or

    4.3. Doors to the cabinet beneath the lavatory shall be removable or openable to provide the required unobstructed knee and toe space.

    The knee and toe space shall be centered on the fixture, and shall comply with Section 1138A.2. The clear floor space required by Item 2 shall not extend into the knee and toe space more than 19 inches (483 mm). (See Figure 11A-9D.) 5. Finished floor. The finished floor beneath the lavatory shall be extended to the wall.

    6. Plumbing protection. Water supply and drain pipes under lavatories shall be insulated or otherwise covered to protect against contact. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under lavatories.

    7. Lavatory faucet controls. Faucet controls and operation mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N). Lever operated, push-type and electroni- cally controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs. Self-closing valves are allowed if the faucet remains open for at least 10 seconds.

    8. Mirrors and towel fixtures. Where mirrors or towel fixtures are provided they shall be mounted with the bottom edge no higher than 40 inches (1016 mm) from the floor.

    SECTION 1135A —LAUNDRY ROOMS

    1135A.1 General. If clothes washing machines and clothes dryers are provided in covered multifamily dwelling units, one of each type of appliance shall be provided. Where front-loading clothes washers are not provided, management shall provide assistive devices, on request of the occupant, to permit the use of top-loading clothes washers.

    11A-36 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

  • CPC § 4.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    0|4.5|4.1|4.1| |Each Additional1⁄2 Bath|0.5|0.1|0.4|0.4| |Each Additional Bathroom Group|1.0|0.5|0.8|0.8| |Other Groups of Fixtures|Other Groups of Fixtures|Other Groups of Fixtures|Other Groups of Fixtures|Other Groups of Fixtures| |Bathroom Group (1.6 GPF Flushometer Value)|6.0|2.5|4.0|1.7| |Kitchen Group (Sink and Dishwasher)|2.0|2.0|1.5|1.5| |Laundry Group (Sink and Clothes Washer)|5.0|5.0|3.0|3.0|

    Notes: 1 A bathroom group, for this table, consists of one water closet, up to two lavatories, and either one bathtub or one shower. 2 A half-bath or powder room, for this table, consists of one water closet and one lavatory. 3 Multi-unit dwellings with individual water heaters use the same WSFU as for individual dwellings.

    C 304.2 Size of Building Drain and Building Sewer. The maximum number of drainage fixture units allowed on the building drain or building sewer of a given size shall be in accordance with Table C 304.2. The size of a building drain or building sewer serving a water closet shall be not less than 3 inches (80 mm).

    C 304.3 Size of Horizontal Branch or Vertical Stack. The maximum number of drainage fixture units allowed on a horizontal branch or vertical soil or waste stack of a given size shall be in accordance with Table C 304.3. Stacks shall

    be sized based on the total accumulated connected load at each story or branch interval.

    C 304.3.1 Horizontal Stack Offsets. Horizontal

    stack offsets shall be sized in accordance with Table C 304.2 as required for building drains.

    C 304.3.2 Vertical Stack Offsets. Vertical stack off sets shall be sized in accordance with Table C 304.3 as required for stacks.

    C 304.4 Horizontal Stack Offset and Horizontal Branch

    Connections. Horizontal branch connections shall not connect to a horizontal stack offset or within 2 feet (610 mm) above or below the offset where such horizontal offset is located more than four branch intervals below the top of the stack.

    C 401.0 Vent System Sizing. C 401.1 Size of Vents. The size of vent piping shall be determined from the developed length and the total number of drainage fixture units connected in accordance with Table C 401.1. Vents shall be not less than one-half the required size of the drainage pipe size served as determined by Table C 304.3 for horizontal fixture branches and stacks nor less than 1 [1] ⁄ 4 inches

    (32 mm) in diameter. The drainage system shall be vented by not less than one vent pipe which shall be not less than one-half the size of the required building drain and which shall extend from the building drain or extension of building drain to the outdoors. Vents shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 9. C 401.2 Vent Stack. A vent stack shall be required for a drainage stack that extends five or more branch intervals above the building drain or horizontal branch. The developed length of the vent stack shall be measured from the lowest connection of a branch vent to the termination outdoors.

  • CPC § 407.2.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    407.2.3 Lavatory Faucets in Common and Public Use Areas. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] The maximum flow rate of lavatory faucets, installed in common and public use areas (outside of dwellings or sleeping units) in residen- tial buildings, shall not exceed 0.5 gallons (1.89 L) per minute at 60 psi.

    407.2.4 Metering Faucets. Metered faucets shall deliver a maximum of 0.2 gallons ( 0.76 L) per metering cycle.

    407.2.4.1 Metering Faucets. [BSC-CG & DSA- SS] Metering Faucets shall not deliver more than 0.20 gallons (0.76 L) per cycle in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3 of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen).

    407.3 Limitation of Hot Water Temperature for Public Lavatories. Hot water delivered from public-use lavatories shall be limited to a maximum temperature of 120°F (49°C). The maximum temperature shall be regulated by one of the following means:

    (1) A limiting device conforming to either ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70, or

    (2) A water heater conforming to ASSE 1084.

    407.4 Transient Public Lavatories. Self-closing or metering faucets shall be installed on lavatories intended to serve the transient public, such as those in, but not limited to service stations, train stations, airports, restaurants, and convention halls.

    407.5 Waste Outlet. Lavatories shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 4 inches (32 mm) in diameter. Continuous wastes and fixture tailpieces shall be constructed from the materials specified in Section 701.4. Waste outlets shall be provided with an approved stopper or strainer.

    407.6 Overflow. Where overflows are provided, they shall be installed in accordance with Section 404.2.

    408.0 Showers.

    408.1 Application. Manufactured shower receptors and shower bases shall comply with ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/CSAB45.4, CSA B45.12/IAPMO Z402, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Prefabricated shower enclosures shall comply with IAPMO IGC 154.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly counts as a "lavatory" under the CPC?

A lavatory is the hand‑washing fixture used for washing hands, arms, face and head as defined in § 211.0.

How many lavatories can share one trap and still be a "set"?

By definition "lavatories in sets" are two or three lavatories sharing one trap (see § 211.0). More than three is treated as a group fixture and counted differently.

What trap size do I specify for a two‑lavatory set?

Specify a 1‑1/2 inch minimum trap for lavatories in sets per Table 702.1.

What DFU value do I assign for a single lavatory vs. a lavatory set?

Single lavatory = 1.0 DFU; lavatories in sets (2 or 3 on one trap) = 2.0 DFU (Table 702.1).

Are faucet flow rates regulated for lavatories?

Yes — public lavatory faucets are limited to 0.5 gpm at 60 psi; residential lavatory faucets have a max 1.2 gpm / min 0.8 gpm (see § 407.2).

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