CPC · California Plumbing Code

What does 'Water closet' (toilet) include under CPC definitions?

A "water closet" in the California Plumbing Code is any flushing toilet (solids and liquids removed by water) — defined in §225.0 — and public/shared water closets usually must be installed in separate compartments (see §422.6); use the CPC fixture tables (Table 610.3) for sizing and fixture‑unit values.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Plumbing Code (CPC) defines Water Closet as a plumbing fixture in which waste matter is removed by flushing with water — in short, a flushing toilet. The CPC text that contains that definition is § 225.0.

A water closet is simply a flushing toilet: a fixture that disposes of solid and liquid waste by flushing with water. (CPC definition: § 225.0.)

Note: I searched the CPC files you provided and did not find a CPC section numbered § 214.0; that section number does not appear in the retrieved CPC text. I therefore ground the analysis below in the CPC sections that do appear in the files (for example, § 225.0 for the definition and the fixture/compartment rules in the 422 series).

Requirements in detail

Core definition

  • Water Closet — a plumbing fixture (may be used for both solids and liquids) that removes waste by flushing with water. Reference: § 225.0.

What counts as a water closet (practical scope)

  • A conventional floor-mounted toilet, a wall-hung toilet, or any listed fixture whose primary waste removal is by flushing with water meet the definition in § 225.0.
  • Devices that are not flushing fixtures (e.g., dry composting toilets, simple bucket-type fixtures, or nonflushing alternatives) do not meet the CPC definition of a water closet unless they are designed and listed to flush.

Installation and room/compartment treatment (how CPC treats water closets)

  • Public or shared water closets generally must be enclosed in separate compartments (walls/partitions and a door) — see § 422.6. Exceptions include single-occupant lockable toilet rooms and certain daycare layouts.
  • Fixture counts and whether water closets are considered in total required fixtures follow the CPC fixture-count provisions (Chapter 422, Tables, etc.). See § 422.1 and related sections.

Decision‑relevant dimensions/values (quick reference table)

Decision factor Typical code value / threshold Code Reference
Definition: what a water closet is Flushing fixture for solids & liquids § 225.0
Requirement for public water closets to be in compartments Separate compartment with walls/door (public) § 422.6
Exception to compartment requirement Single‑occupant toilet room with lockable door allowed § 422.6 (exceptions)
Fixture unit load examples (sizing supply) Water closet, 1.6 GPF gravity tank = 2.5 WSFU (private/public/assembly columns vary) Table 610.3 (Table heading, see CPC tables)
Flushometer valve fixture unit example Water closet, 1.6 GPF flushometer valve = 5.0 WSFU (example column) Table 610.3

(Use the CPC tables in the water‑supply chapter for precise fixture unit assignments and minimum branch pipe sizes when sizing plumbing: see Table 610.3 and related tables.)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Single‑occupant (single‑use) toilet rooms that can be locked from the inside are permitted to omit an internal partitioned water‑closet compartment — that single room itself serves (exception in § 422.6).
  • Day‑care toilet rooms: where multiple water closets are provided, CPC may permit one without an enclosing compartment as an exception (see exceptions in § 422.6).
  • Some occupancies and retrofit/alteration rules can change fixture counts or installation methods — refer to Chapter 422 (minimum numbers and special occupancy rules) for the precise application.

If you need the vehicle‑specific (e.g., public assembly, private residence, hospital) application of exceptions, point to the particular occupancy and I will pull the exact subsection or table. The CPC files provided do not show a §214.0 to apply as a controlling cross‑reference; therefore exceptions or special cases tied to §214.0 cannot be cited here.

Common mistakes

  • Treating any “toilet‑looking” object as a water closet even if it is non‑flushing. The CPC definition requires flushing action — confirm the fixture is a flushing plumbing fixture. (See § 225.0.)
  • Omitting the required compartment for public or multi‑user toilets because one assumes an open layout is acceptable. For public installations, the CPC expects separate compartments unless a single‑occupant lockable room is provided. (See § 422.6.)
  • Using the wrong fixture‑unit value when sizing water supply. Flushometer vs. gravity tank models have different WSFU values — always use the CPC tables (Table 610.3) for the correct value.

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Project: A small café needs two customer toilets (two water closets) plus staff one water closet. All three are standard 1.6 GPF flushometer valve water closets.

Step 1 — identify fixture unit per fixture:

  • From CPC table entries, a water closet 1.6 GPF with flushometer valve is assigned 5.0 WSFU in the relevant column (example values in Table 610.3).

Step 2 — total water‑supply fixture units:

  • 3 water closets × 5.0 WSFU each = 15.0 WSFU total.

Step 3 — use CPC water‑supply sizing charts or Table 610.3 to select branch/main sizes that accommodate 15 WSFU and any other fixtures (lavatories, kitchen sinks) — follow the CPC sizing method. (See Table 610.3 and related commentary.)

Step 4 — compartment requirement:

  • Because these are public/customer water closets, each must occupy a separate compartment with door and partitions per § 422.6, unless the design uses single‑occupant lockable rooms (exception). Confirm compliance with the compartment rules during layout.

Related provisions

  • CPC definition of Water Closet — § 225.0.
  • Water‑closet compartment rules (public compartment requirement & exceptions) — § 422.6.
  • Fixture count and minimum required fixtures (how many water closets are required by occupancy) — § 422.1 and Chapter 422 tables.
  • Water‑supply fixture units and minimum branch pipe sizes (fixture unit values for water closets) — Table 610.3 (see CPC water‑supply chapter).
  • Additional compartment/fixture layout and accessibility rules are also addressed elsewhere in the code and related standards; when accessibility dimensions are required confirm the applicable Building Code accessibility sections (noted in the CPC commentary and cross‑references).

Code references

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

  • CPC § 2-15 High relevance — show source text

    BATHROOM. For the purposes of Chapters 11A and 11B, a room which includes a water closet (toilet), a lavatory and a bathtub and/or a shower. It does not include single-fixture facilities or those with only a water closet and lavatory. It does include a compartmented bath- room. A compartmented bathroom is one in which the fixtures are distributed among interconnected rooms. A compartmented bathroom is considered a single unit and is subject to the requirements of Chapters 11A and 11B.

    [BS] BEARING WALL STRUCTURE. A building or other structure in which vertical loads from floors and roofs are primarily supported by walls.

    [BS] BED JOINT. The horizontal layer of mortar on which a masonry unit is laid.

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    DEFINITIONS

    BEDRIDDEN PERSON. A person, requiring assistance in turning and repositioning in bed, or being unable to independently transfer to and from bed, except in facilities with appropriate and sufficient care staff, mechanical devices if necessary, and safety precautions as deter- mined in Title 22 regulations, by the Director of Social Services or his or her designated representative. Persons who are unable to independently transfer to and from bed, but who do not need assistance to turn or reposition in bed, shall be considered nonambulatory.

    The Director of Social Services or his or her designated representative shall make the determination of the bedridden status of persons with developmental disabilities, in consultation with the Director of Developmental Services or his or her designated representative.

    The Director of Social Services or his or her designated representative shall make the determination of the bedridden status of all other persons with disabilities who are not developmentally disabled.

    [BE] BLEACHERS. Tiered seating supported on a dedicated structural system and two or more rows high and is not a building element (see “Grandstand”).

    BLENDED TRANSITION. [DSA-AC] A raised pedestrian crossing, depressed corner or similar connection that has a slope of 1:20 or less between a circulation path at the level of the sidewalk or walk and the level of a vehicular way.

    [BG] BOARDING HOUSE. A building arranged or used for lodging for compensation, with or without meals, and not occupied as a single-family unit.

    BOARDING PIER. [DSA-AC] A portion of a pier where a boat is temporarily secured for the purpose of embarking or disembarking.

    BOAT LAUNCH RAMP. [DSA-AC] A sloped surface designed for launching and retrieving trailered boats and other water craft to and from a body of water.

    BOAT SLIP. [DSA-AC] That portion of a pier, main pier, finger pier or float where a boat is moored for the purpose of berthing, embarking or disembarking.

    [F] BOILING POINT. The temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the atmospheric pressure of 14.7 pounds per square inch (psia) (101 kPa) or 760 mm of mercury. Where an accurate boiling point is unavailable for the material in question, or for mixtures which do not have a constant boiling point, for the purposes of this classification, the 20-percent evaporated point of a distillation performed in accordance with ASTM D86 shall be used as the boiling point of the liquid.

  • CPC § 11B-604.8.1 High relevance — show source text

    In addition to_ the toilet compartments required to comply with Section 11B-604.8.1 and urinal compartments required to comply with Section 11B- 605.5, where the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures, toilet compartments complying with Section 11B-604.8.2 shall be provided in the same quantity as the toilet compartments required to comply with Section 11B-604.8.1. At all compartments not required to comply with Section 11B-604.8 or Section 11B-605.5, compartment doors shall be in-swinging and self- closing. All individual compartments shall be identified with a sign complying with Section 11B-216.8.3.

    11B- 213.3.2 Water closets. Where water closets are provided, at least 5 percent but no fewer than one shall comply with Section 11B- 604 .

    11B- 213.3.3 Urinals. Where one or more urinals are provided, at least 10 percent but no fewer than one shall comply with Section 11B- 605 .

    11B- 213.3.4 Lavatories. Where lavatories are provided, at least 10 percent but no fewer than one shall comply with Section 11B- 606 and shall not be located in a toilet or urinal compartment .

    11B- 213.3.5 Mirrors. Where mirrors are provided, at least one shall comply with Section 11B- 603.3.

    11B- 213.3.6 Bathing facilities. Where bathtubs or showers are provided, at least one bathtub complying with Section 11B- 607 or at least one shower complying with Section 11B- 608 shall be provided. Where two or more accessible showers are provided within the same functional area, at least one shower shall be opposite hand from the other or others (that is, one left-hand controls versus right-hand controls). Transfer type shower compartments shall be permitted in transient lodging guest rooms, multibedroom hous- ing units in undergraduate student housing and residential dwelling units; and shall not be permitted at other locations to meet the requirements of Section 11B-213.3.6.

    11B- 213.3.7 Coat hooks and shelves. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in toilet rooms without toilet compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with Section 11B- 603.4. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in toilet compartments, at least one of each type complying with Section 11B- 604.8.3 shall be provided in toilet compartments required to comply with Section 11B- 213.3.1. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in bathing facilities, at least one of each type complying with Section 11B- 603.4 shall serve fixtures required to comply with Section 11B- 213.3.6.

    SECTION 11B- 214—WASHING MACHINES AND CLOTHES DRYERS

    11B- 214.1 General. Where provided, washing machines and clothes dryers shall comply with Section 11B- 214 .

  • CPC § 422.1. High relevance — show source text

    Fixtures located in single use, family or assisted-use, and bathing room facilities shall contribute to the total number of required fixtures in accordance with Section 422.1.

    422.1.3 [DSA-AC] Effective January 1, 1990, in new construction and those existing facilities which occu- pancy type are listed in Tables 422.1 and 4-4 for public use, which apply for permit to undertake construction, structural alterations, repairs or improvement which exceed 50 percent of the square footage of the entire facility, shall install water closets, urinals, lavatories and drinking fountains as stipulated in Tables 422.1 and 4-4 for public use. Community and/or municipal parks with a bleacher capacity not exceeding 500 seats shall be exempt from the requirements of this section and Tables 422.1 and 4-4. Each bathroom shall comply with Part 2, Chapter 11A and 11B of the California Building Code.

    422.1.4 [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] OSHPD facilities shall also comply with requirements of the California Building Code, Sections 1224, 1225, 1226, 1227 and 1228.

    422.2 Separate Facilities. Separate toilet facilities shall be provided for each sex.

    68 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

    422.4.1 Access to Toilet Facilities. In multi-story buildings, accessibility to the required toilet facilities shall not exceed one vertical story. Access to the required toilet facilities for customers shall not pass through areas designated as for employee use only such as kitchens, food preparation areas, storage rooms, closets, or similar spaces. Toilet facilities accessible only to private offices shall not be counted to determine compliance with this section.

    422.5 Toilet Facilities for Workers. Toilet facilities shall be provided and maintained in a sanitary condition for the use of workers during construction. 422.6 Water Closet Compartment. Public water closets shall occupy a separate compartment with walls or partitions and a door enclosing the fixtures to ensure privacy. Partitions for water closets located in separate gender toilet or bathrooms shall comply with the Type B security requirements of IAPMO Z124.10. Partitions for water closets located in all gender toilet or bathrooms shall comply with the Type A security requirements of IAPMO Z124.10.

    Exceptions:

    (1) Water closet compartments shall not be required in a single-occupant toilet room having a lockable door.

    (2) Toilet rooms in day care facilities having more than one water closets shall be permitted to have one water closet without an enclosing compartment. (3) [BSC & DSA-SS]. Type A Security Requirements of IAPMO Z124.10 in all gender toilet or bathrooms shall not be allowed. Compartments for water closets located in all-gender multi-user bathrooms shall be privacy com- partments, as defined. Each compartment door shall be lockable from the inside of the compartment, with a door locking device that is readily distinguishable as locked _from the outside of the compartment.

  • CPC § 0.79 High relevance — show source text

    Type L Gas Vent. A venting system consisting of listed vent piping and fittings for use with oil-burning appliances listed for use with Type L or with listed gas appli ances.

    Vertical Pipe. A pipe or fitting that is installed in a vertical position or that makes an angle of not more than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) with the vertical.

    225.0 – W –

    Wall-Hung Water Closet. A water closet installed in such a way that no part of the water closet touches the floor.

    Waste. See Liquid Waste and Industrial Waste.

    Waste Pipe. A pipe that conveys only liquid waste, free of fecal matter.

    Water Closet. [HCD 1] “Water Closet” is a plumbing fix- ture (which may be used for both solids and liquids) in which the waste matter is removed by flushing with water.

    Water-Conditioning or Treating Device. A device that conditions or treats a water supply to change its chemical content or remove suspended solids by filtration.

    Water Distribution Pipe. In a building or premises, a pipe that conveys potable water from the building supply pipe to the plumbing fixtures and other water outlets.

    Water Hammer Arrester. A device designed to provide protection against hydraulic shock in the building water supply system.

    Water Heater, Dual Purpose. An appliance intended to be a heat source for both space heating and domestic hot water applications.

    Water Heater or Hot Water Heating Boiler. An appliance designed primarily to supply hot water for domestic or commercial purposes and equipped with automatic controls limiting water temperature to a maximum of 210°F (99°C).

    44 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

    DEFINITIONS

    Water Main (Street Main). A water supply pipe for public or community use.

    Water Station. A designated location intended to provide access to drinking water through a device or appliance.

    Water Supply System. The building supply pipe, the water distribution pipes, and the necessary connecting pipes, fittings, control valves, backflow prevention devices, and all appurtenances carrying or supplying potable water in or adjacent to the building or premises.

    Water/Wastewater Utility. A public or private entity which may treat, deliver or do both functions to reclaimed (recycled) water, potable water, or both to wholesale or retail cus tomers.

    Welder, Pipe. A person who specializes in the welding of pipes and holds a valid certificate of competency from a recognized testing laboratory, based on the requirements of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessels code, Section IX.

    Wet Procedure Locations. The area in a patient care space where a procedure is performed that is normally subject to wet conditions while patients are present, including standing fluids on the floor or drenching of the work area, either of which condition is intimate to the patient or staff. [NFPA 99:3.3.187]

    Wet Vent. A vent that also serves as a drain.

    Whirlpool Bathtub. A bathtub fixture equipped and fitted with a circulating piping system designed to accept, circulate, and discharge bathtub water upon each use.

    226.0 – X –

    No definitions.

    227.0 – Y –

  • CPC § 11.2. High relevance — show source text

    Artificial barricade. An artificial mound or revetment a minimum thickness of 3 feet (914 mm).

    Natural barricade. Natural features of the ground, such as hills, or timber of sufficient density that the surrounding exposures that require protection cannot be seen from the magazine or building containing explosives when the trees are bare of leaves.

    BASE. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] See ASCE 7 Section 11.2.

    [BS] BASE FLOOD. The flood having a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.

    [BS] BASE FLOOD ELEVATION. The elevation of the base flood, including wave height, relative to the National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD), North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) or other datum specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map ( FIRM ).

    [BG] BASEMENT. A story that is not a story above grade plane (see “Story above grade plane”). This definition of “Basement” does not apply to the provisions of Section 1612 for flood loads.

    [BS] BASEMENT (for flood loads). The portion of a building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides. This definition of “Basement” is limited in application to the provisions of Section 1612.

    [BS] BASIC WIND SPEED, V. The wind speed used for design, as determined in Chapter 16.

    BATHER. A person using a pool and adjoining deck areas for the purpose of water sports such as diving, swimming, wading or related activities.

    BATHROOM. For the purposes of Chapters 11A and 11B, a room which includes a water closet (toilet), a lavatory and a bathtub and/or a shower. It does not include single-fixture facilities or those with only a water closet and lavatory. It does include a compartmented bath- room. A compartmented bathroom is one in which the fixtures are distributed among interconnected rooms. A compartmented bathroom is considered a single unit and is subject to the requirements of Chapters 11A and 11B.

    [BS] BEARING WALL STRUCTURE. A building or other structure in which vertical loads from floors and roofs are primarily supported by walls.

    [BS] BED JOINT. The horizontal layer of mortar on which a masonry unit is laid.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 2-15

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    DEFINITIONS

    BEDRIDDEN PERSON. A person, requiring assistance in turning and repositioning in bed, or being unable to independently transfer to and from bed, except in facilities with appropriate and sufficient care staff, mechanical devices if necessary, and safety precautions as deter- mined in Title 22 regulations, by the Director of Social Services or his or her designated representative. Persons who are unable to independently transfer to and from bed, but who do not need assistance to turn or reposition in bed, shall be considered nonambulatory.

    The Director of Social Services or his or her designated representative shall make the determination of the bedridden status of persons with developmental disabilities, in consultation with the Director of Developmental Services or his or her designated representative.

  • CPC § 11A-9 High relevance — show source text

    2. Clear space at fixtures. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space required for any fixture. Required clear floor space, clearance at fixtures, and turning space shall be permitted to overlap.

    3. Accessible water closet compartment. Accessible water closet compartments shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) wide minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, 56 inches (1422 mm) deep minimum for wall hung water closets and 59 inches (1499 mm) deep minimum for floor mounted water closets measured perpendicular to the rear wall. (See Figure 11A-9A(c).)

    Water closet fixtures located in accessible water closet compartments shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum to 18 inches (457 mm) maxi- mum from the side wall or partition.

    In ambulatory accessible toilet compartments specified in Item 6 of this section, the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. (See Figure 11A-9A (d).)

    Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1422 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

    A minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) deep and 60 inches (1524 mm) wide clear maneuvering space shall be provided in front of the water closet if the compartment has an end-opening door (facing the water closet). A minimum 60 inches (1524 mm) deep and 60 inches (1524 mm) wide clear maneuvering space shall be provided in a compartment with the door located at the side. (See Figure 11A-9A.)

    4. Grab bars. Grab bars shall be provided on the side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall. Grab bars shall comply with this section and Section 1127A.4.

    The side wall grab bar shall be 42 inches (1067 mm) long minimum, located 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the rear wall and extend 54 inches (1372 mm) minimum from the rear wall. The front end of the side grab bar shall be positioned 24 inches (610 mm) minimum in front of the water closet.

    The rear wall grab bar shall be 36 inches (914 mm) long minimum and extend from the centerline of the water closet 12 inches (305 mm) minimum on one side and 24 inches (610 mm) minimum on the other side.

    Exceptions:

    1. The rear grab bar shall be permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum, centered on the water closet, when wall space does not permit a length of 36 inches (914 mm) minimum due to the location of a recessed fixture adja- cent to the water closet.

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    HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

  • CPC § 1127A.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    Where located in_ the front partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (102 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. Where located in the side wall or partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (102 mm) maximum from the front wall or partition.

    6. Ambulatory accessible compartments. When six or more toilet compartments are provided within a multiple-accommo- dation toilet room, or when the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures, at least one compartment shall comply with Section 1127A.2.1, Items 2 and 3. At least one additional ambulatory compartment shall have a depth of 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum, and a width of 35 inches (890 mm) minimum and 37 inches (940 mm) maximum.

    The ambulatory accessible compartment shall have a self-closing door, which shall not swing into the minimum required compartment area. Grab bars, complying with Sections 1127A.4.2, 1127A.4.3, 1127A.4.4 and 1127A.4.5, shall be installed on each compartment side wall. (See Figure 11A-9A (d).)

    1127A.2.2 Single-accommodation toilet facilities. Single-accommodation toilet facilities shall comply with the following:

    Note: See Figures 11A-9A and 11A-9B. 1. Wheelchair clearance. There shall be sufficient space in the toilet room for a wheelchair measuring 30 inches (762 mm) wide by 48 inches (1219 mm) long to enter the room and permit the door to close. There shall be in the room a clear turning space of at least 60 inches (1524 mm) in diameter or a T-shaped space complying with Section 1138A.1.3. Required clear floor space, clearance at fixtures and turning space shall be permitted to overlap. 2. Encroachment of doors. Doors shall not encroach into the turning space specified in Item 1 of this section by more than 12 inches (305 mm).

    3. Accessible water closet. A water closet fixture located in a single-accommodation toilet facility shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum to 18 inches (457 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1422 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance. A minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) deep and 60 inches (1524 mm) wide clear maneuvering space shall be provided in front of the water closet.

  • CPC § 207.0 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 31

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

    DEFINITIONS

    as otherwise provided by statute, to have adequate personnel and expertise to carry out the testing of systems, materials, and construction fixtures or appliances. Area Drain. A receptor designed to collect surface or storm water from an open area. Aspirator. A fitting or device supplied with water or other fluid under positive pressure that passes through an integral orifice or constriction, causing a vacuum. Authority Having Jurisdiction. The organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, installations, or procedures. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be a federal, state, local, or other regional department or an individual such as a plumbing official, mechanical official, labor department official, health department official, building official, or others having statutory authority. In the absence of statutory authority, the Authority Having Jurisdiction may be some other responsible party. This definition shall include the Authority Having Jurisdiction’s duly authorized representative.

    [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Authority Having Jurisdiction” shall mean “Enforcing Agency” as defined in Section 207.0 of this code.

    204.0 – B –

    Backflow. The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances into the distributing pipes of a potable supply of water from sources other than its intended source. See Backpressure Backflow and Backsiphonage. Backflow Connection. An arrangement whereby backflow

    can occur.

    Backflow Preventer. A backflow prevention device, an assembly, or another method to prevent backflow into the potable water system. Backpressure Backflow. Backflow due to an increased pressure above the supply pressure, which may be due to pumps, boilers, gravity, or other sources of pressure. Backsiphonage. The flowing back of used, contaminated, or polluted water from a plumbing fixture or vessel into a water supply pipe due to a pressure less than atmospheric in such pipe. See Backflow. Backwater Valve. A device installed in a drainage system to prevent reverse flow.

    Bathroom. A room equipped with a shower, bathtub, or combination bath/shower.

    Bathroom, Half. A room equipped with only a water closet and lavatory. Bathroom Group. Any combination of fixtures, not to exceed one water closet, two lavatories, either one bathtub or one combination bath/shower, and one shower, and may include a bidet and an emergency floor drain. Battery of Fixtures. A group of two or more similar, adjacent fixtures that discharge into a common horizontal waste or soil branch.

    Bedpan Steamer. A fixture that is used to sterilize bedpans by way of steam.

    Body Spray. A shower device for spraying water onto a bather from other than the overhead position.

    Boiler Blowoff. An outlet on a boiler to permit emptying or discharge of sediment.

  • CPC § 604.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 11B- 604 — WATER CLOSETS AND TOILET COMPARTMENTS

    11B- 604.1 General. Water closets and toilet compartments shall comply with Sections 11B- 604.2 through 11B- 604.8.

    Exception: Water closets and toilet compartments for children's use shall be permitted to comply with Section 11B- 604.9.

    11B- 604.2 Location. The water closet shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches ( 432 mm ) minimum to 18 inches ( 457 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition, except that the water closet shall be 17 inches ( 432 mm) minimum and 19 inches ( 483 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition in the ambulatory accessible toilet compartment specified in Section 11B- 604.8.2. Water closets shall be arranged for a left-hand or right-hand approach.

    FIGURE 11B -604.2—WATER CLOSET LOCATION

    11B- 604.3 Clearance. Clearances around water closets and in toilet compartments shall comply with Section 11B- 604.3.

    11B- 604.3.1 Size. Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches ( 1524 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches ( 1422 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. A minimum 60 inches (1524 mm) wide and 48 inches (1219 mm) deep maneuvering space shall be provided in front of the water closet.

    Exception: In residential dwelling units complying with Section 11B-233.3.1.1, maneuvering space in front of the water closet shall be a minimum 60 inches (1524 mm) wide and 36 inches (914 mm) deep.

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

    FIGURE 11B -604.3.1—SIZE OF CLEARANCE AT WATER CLOSETS

    11B- 604.3.2 Overlap. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

    Exception: In residential dwelling units, a lavatory complying with Section 11B- 606 shall be permitted on the rear wall 26 inches (660 mm) minimum from the water closet centerline to allow for the installation of a grab bar where the clearance at the water closet is 66 inches ( 1676 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall.

    FIGURE 11B -604.3.2 (EXCEPTION)—OVERLAP OF WATER CLOSET CLEARANCE IN RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNITS

  • CPC § 1127A.2. High relevance — show source text

    7. Toilet facilities. Toilet facilities shall comply with Section 1127A.2.

    8. Laundry facilities. Laundry facilities shall comply with Section 1127A.10.

    9. Storage facilities. Storage facilities shall comply with Section 1127A.11.

    10. Fixed or built-in seating, tables and counters. Fixed or built-in seating, tables and counters shall comply with Section 1127A.12.

    1127A.2 Toilet facilities. When common use toilet facilities are provided for residents or guests, at least one percent of the total number of fixtures but not less than one of each type shall comply with this section.

    1127A.2.1 Multiple-accommodation toilet facilities. Multiple-accommodation toilet facilities shall have the following:

    Note: (See Figures 11A-9A and 11A-9B.)

    1. Wheelchair turning space. Turning space of sufficient size to inscribe a circle with a diameter not less than 60 inches (1524 mm) or a T-shaped space shall be provided within the toilet facility. The wheelchair turning space shall comply with Section 1138A.1.3. Other than the door to the accessible water closet compartment, a door, in any position, may encroach into this space by not more than 12 inches (305 mm).

    2. Clear space at fixtures. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space required for any fixture. Required clear floor space, clearance at fixtures, and turning space shall be permitted to overlap.

    3. Accessible water closet compartment. Accessible water closet compartments shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) wide minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, 56 inches (1422 mm) deep minimum for wall hung water closets and 59 inches (1499 mm) deep minimum for floor mounted water closets measured perpendicular to the rear wall. (See Figure 11A-9A(c).)

    Water closet fixtures located in accessible water closet compartments shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum to 18 inches (457 mm) maxi- mum from the side wall or partition.

    In ambulatory accessible toilet compartments specified in Item 6 of this section, the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. (See Figure 11A-9A (d).)

    Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1422 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

  • CPC § 213.2.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. Where multiple single user toilet rooms are clustered at a single location, 50 percent, but no fewer than one, of the single user toilet rooms for each use at each cluster shall comply with Section 11B- 603 .

    11B- 213.2.1 Unisex ( single-user or family) toilet and unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms. Unisex (single-user or family) toilet rooms shall contain not more than one lavatory, and not more than two water closets without urinals or one water closet and one urinal. Unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms shall contain one shower or one shower and one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet. Doors to unisex (single-user or family) toilet rooms and unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms shall have privacy latches.

    11B-213.2.2 Unisex (Patient) toilet rooms in medical care and long-term care facilities. Common-use unisex toilet rooms for exclusive patient use not located within patient bedrooms shall contain a lavatory and one water closet.

    11B-213.2.3 Unisex (Patient) bathing rooms in medical care and long-term care facilities. Common-use unisex bathing rooms for exclusive patient use not located within patient bedrooms shall contain one shower or one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet.

    11B-213.2.4 Multi-user all-gender toilet facilities. Where multi-user all-gender toilet facilities are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B-213.3.1.

    11B- 213.3 Plumbing fixtures and accessories. Plumbing fixtures and accessories provided in a toilet room or bathing room required to comply with Section 11B- 213.2 shall comply with Section 11B- 213.3.

    11B- 213.3.1 Toilet compartments and urinal compartments. Where only toilet compartments are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B-213.3.1.1. Where both toilet and urinal compartments are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B-213.3.1.2.

    11B-213.3.1.1 Toilet compartments. Where toilet compartments are provided, at least five percent of the toilet compartments, or five percent of the combination of toilet compartments and urinals, but no fewer than one toilet compartment shall comply

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11B-19

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

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

    with Section 11B- 604.8.1. In addition to the compartments required to comply with Section 11B- 604.8.1, where six or more toilet compartments are provided, or where the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures, toilet compart- ments complying with Section 11B-604.8.2 shall be provided in the same quantity as the toilet compartments required to comply with Section 11B-604.8.1.

    _**11B-213.3.1.2 Toilet rooms with toilet compartments and urinal compartments.

  • CPC § 420.4 High relevance — show source text

    420.4 Waste Outlet. Kitchen and laundry sinks shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 2 inches (40 mm) in diameter. Service sinks shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter. Fixture tailpieces shall be constructed from the materials specified in Section 701.2 for drainage piping. Waste outlets shall be provided with an approved strainer.

    421.0 Floor Sinks.

    421.1 Application. Floor sinks shall comply with ASME A112.6.7.

    421.2 Strainers. The waste outlet of a floor sink shall be provided with an approved strainer or grate that is removable and accessible.

    422.0 Minimum Number of Required Fixtures. 422.1 Fixture Count. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided for the type of building occupancy and in the minimum number shown in Table 422.1. The total occupant load and occu

    TABLE 420.3

    COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

    For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N

    <

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 67

    ), 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

    Exceptions [Not adopted for OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] : (1) Residential installations. (2) In occupancies with a total occupant load of 10 or less, including customers and employees, one toilet facility, designed for use by no more than one person at a time, shall be permitted for use by both sexes. (3) In business and mercantile occupancies with a total occupant load of 50 or less including customers and employees, one toilet facility, designed for use by no more than one person at a time, shall be permitted for use by both sexes. (4) Separate facilities shall not be required where rooms have fixtures designed for use by both sexes and the water closets are installed in privacy compartments. Urinals shall be located in a privacy compartment [BSC & DSA-SS] , as defined, or separate private area and be visually separated from the remainder of the room. Water closet and urinal compartments shall comply with sections 422.6 and 422.7 respectively. 422.2.1 Single Use Facilities. Single use toilet facilities, bathing facilities, and family or assisted use toilet facilities shall be identified with signage indicating use by either sex. 422.2.2 Family or Assisted-Use Toilet Facilities. Where a separate toilet facility is required for each sex, and each toilet facility is required to have only one water closet, two family or assisted-use toilet facilities shall be permitted in place of the required separate toilet facilities. 422.3 Fixture Requirements for Special Occupancies. Additional fixtures shall be permitted to be required where unusual environmental conditions or referenced activities are encountered. In food preparation areas, fixture requirements shall be permitted to be dictated by health codes. 422.3.1 [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6] Separate toilet facil- ities shall be provided for the use of patients, staff per- sonnel and visitors.

Frequently asked questions

Is a wall‑hung toilet a "water closet" under the CPC?

Yes. Any listed plumbing fixture whose waste is removed by flushing with water (including wall‑hung units) meets the water closet definition in § 225.0.

Do urinals count as water closets?

No. Urinals are a different fixture category in the CPC and are sized/treated separately in the fixture tables; they are not the same as a water closet under § 225.0. Use the CPC tables for urinal fixture unit values.

Can a single multi‑user restroom omit partitions for the water closets?

Not for public multi‑user restrooms — the CPC requires public water closets to occupy separate compartments (see § 422.6), with limited exceptions for single‑occupant lockable rooms and certain daycare arrangements.

Where do I find the fixture unit value for a specific toilet model?

Consult the CPC water‑supply fixture unit tables (for example, Table 610.3) — the tables list values for gravity‑tank vs. flushometer valves and public vs. private applications.

You referenced § 214.0 earlier — where is it?

I could not find § 214.0 in the CPC materials you provided; it does not appear in the retrieved CPC text. The definition and rules above are grounded in sections that are present in the provided files (notably § 225.0 and Chapter 422 sections).

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