CPC · California Plumbing Code
What is the applicability and scope of the Fuel Gas Piping chapter?
In plain terms: the CPC’s Fuel Gas Piping chapter applies to gas piping inside buildings and on a property when natural gas is delivered at up to 5 psi (or undiluted propane up to 10 psi), and it covers piping starting at the system’s point of delivery (meter or regulator outlet) through every appliance connection; exceptions (portable appliances, supplier distribution equipment, refineries, etc.) are listed in the chapter.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The Fuel Gas Piping chapter applies to installation of fuel-gas piping in or connected with a building, structure, or within the property lines of premises where the system pressure is up to 5 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (natural gas) or 10 psi (undiluted propane). This chapter’s coverage runs from the point of delivery to the appliance connections and defines the point of delivery differently for meter‑served systems and for undiluted LP‑Gas systems. See § 1201.1 and § 1202.1 for the controlling text.
The chapter controls gas piping inside the building and on the property up to 5 psi (natural gas) or 10 psi (undiluted propane); coverage begins at the system’s point of delivery and ends at each appliance connection. § 1201.1, § 1202.1.
Requirements in detail
1) Which piping is covered (what counts as “in or in connection with a building”)
- Coverage applies to fuel gas piping “in or in connection with a building, structure or within the property lines of premises” when the operating pressure is at or below the thresholds in § 1201.1. § 1201.1 is the controlling applicability statement.
2) Pressure thresholds (key numeric limits)
- Natural gas: up to 5 psi (34 kPa).
- Undiluted propane: up to 10 psi (69 kPa).
These numeric thresholds appear in § 1201.1 and determine whether this chapter applies.
3) Where the chapter begins and ends (point of delivery → appliance)
- The chapter’s piping coverage “shall extend from the point of delivery to the appliance connections.” This is the primary coverage rule in § 1202.1.
- How to identify point of delivery:
- For systems other than undiluted LP‑Gas: the outlet of the service meter assembly, or if there is no meter, the outlet of the service regulator or service shutoff valve.
- For undiluted LP‑Gas systems: the outlet of the final pressure regulator (exclusive of line regulators) or, where a meter is installed, the outlet of the meter. See § 1202.1.
4) What “piping system requirements” include
- The chapter contemplates the piping system requirements to include design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation, and maintenance (see the related coverage language). This scope language is captured in the related coverage sections.
Decision‑relevant summary table
| Decision dimension | Key value / test | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Applies to natural gas systems? | If supply ≤ 5 psi (34 kPa) and piping is in/connected to building or on property lines | § 1201.1 |
| Applies to undiluted propane (LP‑Gas)? | If supply ≤ 10 psi (69 kPa) and piping is in/connected to building or on property lines | § 1201.1 |
| Coverage limits | From point of delivery to appliance connections | § 1202.1 |
| Point of delivery (metered systems) | Outlet of service meter assembly (or outlet of service regulator/shutoff where no meter) | § 1202.1 |
| Point of delivery (undiluted LP‑Gas) | Outlet of the final pressure regulator (or meter outlet if installed) | § 1202.1 |
| System elements included | Design, materials, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation, maintenance | Coverage language related to § 1202.* |
Exceptions & special cases
- The chapter explicitly does not apply to a long list of applications (portable LP‑Gas appliances not connected to fixed piping, certain agricultural equipment, industrial gases, refineries, LNG installations, fuel gas piping in electric utility power plants, supplier distribution piping, fuel gas systems on vehicles, etc.). These exclusions are listed in the chapter’s applications/exceptions. (See the chapter Applications / Exceptions language.)
- Special identification for undiluted LP‑Gas: the code treats the final pressure regulator outlet as the point of delivery (not the line regulator), which changes where the chapter’s coverage begins for those systems. § 1202.1.
- Where meter is installed: the meter outlet is the point of delivery. This can affect whether the utility’s equipment is inside the chapter scope. § 1202.1.
Common mistakes
- Misidentifying the point of delivery: treating a line regulator as the point of delivery on undiluted LP‑Gas systems instead of the final pressure regulator. Check § 1202.1.
- Assuming all gas‑related equipment is covered: portable appliances not attached to fixed piping and gas supplier distribution equipment are expressly excluded; review the exceptions list before applying the chapter.
- Forgetting the pressure thresholds: applying chapter rules to higher‑pressure systems (above 5 psi for natural gas or 10 psi for undiluted propane) when those systems may be outside this chapter’s scope. See § 1201.1.
- Confusing service pipe vs. piping covered by the chapter: § 1201.1 excludes “service pipe” from the general applicability language—confirm whether a run is service piping or building piping.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: You are installing gas piping for a new single‑family house served by a utility natural gas line with a meter. The utility delivers gas at low pressure. The service outlet pressure at the meter is measured at 4.5 psi.
Step through the rules:
- Pressure test: 4.5 psi ≤ 5 psi threshold for natural gas, so the chapter applies. See § 1201.1.
- Point of delivery: because a meter is installed, the outlet of the service meter assembly is the point of delivery. Piping subject to the chapter begins at that meter outlet. See § 1202.1.
- Coverage: all piping from that meter outlet to each appliance connection inside the house falls under the chapter’s design/installation/testing/inspection requirements. Verify materials, testing, inspections, and appliance connections per the chapter. (Coverage language summarized in § 1202.*).
If instead the system were undiluted LP‑Gas with a final pressure regulator outlet at the property, the chapter’s coverage would begin at the final pressure regulator outlet, not at any upstream line regulator—see § 1202.1 for that distinction.
Related provisions (quick reference)
- § 1201.1 — Applicability (pressure thresholds; general scope).
- § 1202.1 — Coverage: “from the point of delivery to the appliance connections” and definitions of point of delivery for metered and LP‑Gas systems.
- § 1202.2 — Piping system requirements (design, materials, fabrication, testing, inspection, maintenance).
- § 1202.3 — Applications / exclusions listing items the chapter does not cover (portable appliances, refineries, LNG, supplier distribution equipment, vehicle systems, etc.).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 1201.0 High relevance — show source text
1201.0 General.
1201.1 Applicability. The regulations of this chapter shall govern the installation of fuel gas piping in or in connection with a building, structure or within the property lines of premises up to 5 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (34 kPa) for natural gas and 10 psi (69 kPa) for undiluted propane, other than service pipe. Fuel oil piping systems connected to oil- burning equipment shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 31. Fuel oil piping systems connected to internal com- bustion engines and gas turbines shall be installed in accor- dance with NFPA 37.
1202.0 Coverage of Piping System. 1202.1 General. Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the point of delivery to the appliance connections. For other than undiluted liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) systems, the point of delivery shall be the outlet of the service meter assembly or the outlet of the service regulator or service shutoff valve where no meter is provided. For undiluted LP-Gas systems, the point of delivery shall be considered to be the outlet of the final pressure regulator, exclusive of line gas regulators where no meter is installed. Where a meter is installed, the point of delivery shall be the outlet of the meter.
[NFPA 54:1.1.1.1(A)] 1202.2 Piping System Requirements. Requirements for piping systems shall include design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation, and maintenance. [NFPA 54:1.1.1.1(E)] 1202.3 Applications. This chapter shall not apply to the following items:
(1) Portable LP-Gas appliances and equipment of all types that are not connected to a fixed fuel piping system.
(2) Installation of appliances such as brooders, dehydrators, dryers, and irrigation equipment used for agricultural
purposes.
(3) Raw material (feedstock) applications except for piping to special atmosphere generators.
(4) Oxygen-fuel gas cutting and welding systems.
(5) Industrial gas applications using such gases as acetylene and acetylenic compounds, hydrogen, ammonia, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and nitrogen.
(6) Petroleum refineries, pipeline compressor or pumping stations, loading terminals, compounding plants, refinery tank farms, and natural gas processing plants.
(7) Large integrated chemical plants or portions of such plants where flammable or combustible liquids or gases are produced by chemical reactions or used in chemical reactions.
(8) LP-Gas installations at utility gas plants.
(9) Liquefied natural gas (LNG) installations.
(10)Fuel gas piping in electric utility power plants.
(11)Proprietary items of equipment, apparatus, or instruments such as gas-generating sets, compressors, and calorimeters.
(12)LP-Gas equipment for vaporization, gas mixing, and gas manufacturing.
(13)LP-Gas piping for buildings under construction or renovations that is not to become part of the permanent building piping system—that is, temporary fixed piping for building heat.
(14)Installation of LP-Gas systems for railroad switch heating.
(15)Installation of LP-Gas and compressed natural gas (CNG) systems on vehicles.
(16)Gas piping, meters, gas pressure regulators, and other appurtenances used by the serving gas supplier in distribution of gas, other than undiluted LP-Gas.
CPC § 1.11.0. High relevance — show source text
This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: † The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 273
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CHAPTER 13
FUEL GAS PIPING
1301.0 Scope of Gas Piping.
1301.1 Applicability. The regulations of this chapter shall govern the installation of fuel gas piping in or in connection with a building, structure or within the property lines of premises up to 5 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (34 kPa) for natural gas and 10 psi (69 kPa) for undiluted propane, other than service pipe.
1302.0 Coverage of Piping System.
1302.1 General. Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the point of delivery to the appliance connections. For other than undiluted liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) systems, the point of delivery shall be the outlet of the service meter assembly or the outlet of the service regulator or service shutoff valve where no meter is provided. For undiluted LP-Gas systems, the point of delivery shall be considered to be the outlet of the final pressure regulator, exclusive of line gas regulators where no meter is installed. Where a meter is installed, the point of delivery shall be the outlet of the meter.
[NFPA 54:1.1.1.1(A)]
1302.2 Piping System Requirements. Requirements for piping systems shall include design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation, and maintenance. [NFPA 54:1.1.1.1(E)]
1302.3 Applications. This chapter shall not apply to the following items:
(1) Portable LP-Gas appliances and equipment of all types that are not connected to a fixed fuel piping system.
(2) Installation of appliances such as brooders, dehydrators, dryers, and irrigation equipment used for agricultural
purposes.
(3) Raw material (feedstock) applications except for piping to special atmosphere generators.
(4) Oxygen-fuel gas cutting and welding systems.
(5) Industrial gas applications using such gases as acetylene and acetylenic compounds, hydrogen, ammonia, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and nitrogen.
(6) Petroleum refineries, pipeline compressor or pumping stations, loading terminals, compounding plants, refinery tank farms, and natural gas processing plants.
(7) Large integrated chemical plants or portions of such plants where flammable or combustible liquids or gases are produced by chemical reactions or used in chemical reactions.
(8) LP-Gas installations at utility gas plants.
(9) Liquefied natural gas (LNG) installations.
(10)Fuel gas piping in electric utility power plants.
(11)Proprietary items of equipment, apparatus, or instruments such as gas-generating sets, compressors, and calorime ters.
(12)LP-Gas equipment for vaporization, gas mixing, and gas manufacturing.
CPC § 1201.1 High relevance — show source text
8_||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1201.1
1211.8||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1201.1
1211.8|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1201.1
1211.8|||X|||||X|X||||||||||||||||This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 213
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CHAPTER 12
FUEL GAS PIPING
1201.0 General.
1201.1 Applicability. The regulations of this chapter shall govern the installation of fuel gas piping in or in connection with a building, structure or within the property lines of premises up to 5 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (34 kPa) for natural gas and 10 psi (69 kPa) for undiluted propane, other than service pipe. Fuel oil piping systems connected to oil- burning equipment shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 31. Fuel oil piping systems connected to internal com- bustion engines and gas turbines shall be installed in accor- dance with NFPA 37.
1202.0 Coverage of Piping System. 1202.1 General. Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the point of delivery to the appliance connections. For other than undiluted liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) systems, the point of delivery shall be the outlet of the service meter assembly or the outlet of the service regulator or service shutoff valve where no meter is provided. For undiluted LP-Gas systems, the point of delivery shall be considered to be the outlet of the final pressure regulator, exclusive of line gas regulators where no meter is installed. Where a meter is installed, the point of delivery shall be the outlet of the meter.
[NFPA 54:1.1.1.1(A)] 1202.2 Piping System Requirements. Requirements for piping systems shall include design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation, and maintenance. [NFPA 54:1.1.1.1(E)] 1202.3 Applications. This chapter shall not apply to the following items:
CPC § 1.11.0. High relevance — show source text
(Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1-AC AC ** SS** ** SS/CC** 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt Entire Chapter X X X X X X X X X X X X Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter/Section This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: † The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 273
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274 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
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CHAPTER 13
FUEL GAS PIPING
1301.0 Scope of Gas Piping.
1301.1 Applicability. The regulations of this chapter shall govern the installation of fuel gas piping in or in connection with a building, structure or within the property lines of premises up to 5 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (34 kPa) for natural gas and 10 psi (69 kPa) for undiluted propane, other than service pipe.
1302.0 Coverage of Piping System.
CPC § 1105.1 High relevance — show source text
Table 1105.1(2) Distance of Scupper Bottoms Above Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1105.2 Setback Roofs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
1106.0 Engineered Storm Drainage System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
1106.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
1106.2 Siphonic Roof Drainage Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
1106.3 Siphonic Roof Drains . . . . . . . . . .209
1107.0 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
1107.1 Testing Required . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
1107.2 Methods of Testing Storm Drainage Systems . . . . . . . . . . . .209
Table 1103.2 Sizing of Horizontal Rainwater Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . .210
Table 1103.3 Size of Gutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211
CHAPTER 12 FUEL GAS PIPING . . . . . . . . . . .213
1201.0 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
1201.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
1202.0 Coverage of Piping System . . . . .215
1202.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
1202.2 Piping System Requirements . . . .215
1202.3 Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
1203.0 Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
1203.1 Inspection Notification . . . . . . . . .215
1203.2 Excavation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215
1203.3 Type of Inspections . . . . . . . . . . .215
1203.4 Inspection Waived . . . . . . . . . . . .216
1204.0 Certificate of Inspection . . . . . . . .216
1204.1 Issuance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216
1204.2 Gas Supplier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216
1204.3 Unlawful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216
1205.0 Authority to Render Gas Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216
1205.1 Authorized Personnel . . . . . . . . . .216
CPC § 1.1.1.2 High relevance — show source text
(1) Portable LP-Gas appliances and equipment of all types that are not connected to a fixed fuel piping system.
(2) Installation of appliances such as brooders, dehydrators, dryers, and irrigation equipment used for agricultural
purposes.
(3) Raw material (feedstock) applications except for piping to special atmosphere generators.
(4) Oxygen-fuel gas cutting and welding systems.
(5) Industrial gas applications using such gases as acetylene and acetylenic compounds, hydrogen, ammonia, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and nitrogen.
(6) Petroleum refineries, pipeline compressor or pumping stations, loading terminals, compounding plants, refinery tank farms, and natural gas processing plants.
(7) Large integrated chemical plants or portions of such plants where flammable or combustible liquids or gases are produced by chemical reactions or used in chemical reactions.
(8) LP-Gas installations at utility gas plants.
(9) Liquefied natural gas (LNG) installations.
(10)Fuel gas piping in electric utility power plants.
(11)Proprietary items of equipment, apparatus, or instruments such as gas-generating sets, compressors, and calorimeters.
(12)LP-Gas equipment for vaporization, gas mixing, and gas manufacturing.
(13)LP-Gas piping for buildings under construction or renovations that is not to become part of the permanent building piping system—that is, temporary fixed piping for building heat.
(14)Installation of LP-Gas systems for railroad switch heating.
(15)Installation of LP-Gas and compressed natural gas (CNG) systems on vehicles.
(16)Gas piping, meters, gas pressure regulators, and other appurtenances used by the serving gas supplier in distribution of gas, other than undiluted LP-Gas.
(17)Building design and construction, except as specified herein.
(18)Fuel gas systems on recreational vehicles manufactured in accordance with NFPA 1192.
(19)Fuel gas systems using hydrogen as a fuel.
(20)Construction of appliances. {NFPA 54:1.1.1.2}
1203.0 Inspection.
1203.1 Inspection Notification. Upon completion of the installation, alteration, or repair of gas piping, and prior to the use thereof, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be notified that such gas piping is ready for inspection.
1203.2 Excavation. Excavations required for the installation of underground piping shall be kept open until the piping has been inspected and approved. Where such piping is covered or concealed before such approval, it shall be exposed upon the direction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
1203.3 Type of Inspections. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall make the following inspections and either shall approve that portion of the work as completed or shall notify the permit holder wherein the same fails to be in accordance with this code.
1203.3.1 Rough Piping Inspection. This inspection shall be made after gas piping authorized by the permit has been installed and before such piping has been covered or concealed or fixture or appliance has been attached thereto. This inspection shall include a determination that the gas piping size, material, and installation meet the requirements of this code.
1203.3.2 Final Piping Inspection. This inspection shall be made after piping authorized by the permit has been installed, and after portions, thereof that are to be covered or concealed are so concealed, and before fixture, appliance, or shutoff valve has been attached thereto.
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CPC § 1220.1 High relevance — show source text
1220.1 Use of Chemical Additives
and Corrosive Fluids. . . . . . . . . . . 269
1220.2 Types of Tube Fasteners . . . . . . . 269
1220.3 Spacing of Tube Fasteners . . . . . 269
1220.4 Snow and Ice Melt Controls . . . . . 269
Table 1220.4.2 Maximum Loop Lengths for Snow and Ice Melt Systems . . . . . 270
1220.5 Hydronic Makeup Air Units . . . . . . 270
1221.0 Piping Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
1221.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
1221.2 Embedded Piping Materials and Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
1221.3 Pressure Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
1221.4 System Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
1221.5 Condensate Drainage. . . . . . . . . . 271
1221.6 Hydronic Fluid Disposal . . . . . . . . 271
1221.7 Clearance to Combustibles . . . . . 271
CHAPTER 13 FUEL GAS PIPING . . . . . . . . . . . 273
1301.0 Scope of Gas Piping . . . . . . . . . . 275
1301.1 Applicability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
1302.0 Coverage of Piping System . . . . . 275
1302.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
1302.2 Piping System Requirements . . . . 275
1302.3 Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
1303.0 Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
1303.1 Inspection Notification . . . . . . . . . 275
1303.2 Excavation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
1303.3 Type of Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . 275
1303.4 Inspection Waived . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
1304.0 Certificate of Inspection . . . . . . . . 276
1304.1 Issuance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
1304.2 Gas Supplier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
1304.3 Unlawful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
1305.0 Authority to Render Gas Service . . 276
1305.1 Authorized Personnel . . . . . . . . . . 276
1305.2 Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
1306.0 Authority to Disconnect. . . . . . . . . 276
CPC § 4.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1101.4.2.1, 1104.4.2.2
AIR GAPS
Backflow prevention . . . . . . 603.2, Table 603.2, 603.3.1, Table 603.3.1, 603.4.4
Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203.0
Discharge from drinking
water treatment units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 611.2
AIR TANK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .710.11
ALTERATIONS AND REPAIRS
Fuel gas piping . . . . . . . . . . . .1203.1, 1213.1.2, 1213.4.2
Health care facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1301.5
Plumbing systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102.4, 301.2.5 ALTERNATE MATERIALS, DESIGN,
AND METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301.3
ALTERNATE WATER SOURCE
Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203.0
For nonpotable applications . . .Chapter 15, Chapter 16 For special water features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .L 406.1
Future connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1504.9.1
Identification of piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .601.3.3 Nonpotable rainwater catchment system . . . . . . . . . . .Table 1601.5, 1602.4
Potable rainwater
catchment system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .K 102.2 ANODELESS RISER, DEFINITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203.0
APPLIANCES
Automatically operated . . . . . . . . . . . .509.3.4, 509.5.7.1 Categorized vent diameter/area, definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203.0 Connections to building fuel gas piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1212.0
Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203.0
Direct-vent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206.0, 509.2.6, 509.5.10.1,
509.8.1, 509.12
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CPC § 302.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text
E 302.7.1 Approval. Regenerating water-conditioning equipment shall be listed and labeled by an approved listing agency.
E 302.7.2 Installation. Regenerating units shall discharge the effluent of regeneration into a trap not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 2 inches (40 mm) in diameter connected to the manufactured home park drainage system. An approved air gap shall be installed on the discharge line a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) above the ground.
E 302.8 Testing. Installations shall be tested and inspected in accordance with Chapter 3 of this code.
E 401.0 Fuel Supply.
E 401.1 Fuel Gas Piping Systems. All fuel gas piping systems serving manufactured homes, accessory buildings, or structures and communities shall be designed and constructed in accordance with any applicable provisions of NFPA 54 and NFPA 58. NFPA 31 shall apply to oil fuel-burning systems and shall conform to the criteria of the Authority Having Jurisdiction. [NFPA 501A:4.1.1.1 – 4.1.1.2]
E 401.2 Gas Supply Connections. Gas supply connections at sites, where provided from an underground gas supply piping system, shall be located and arranged to permit attachment to a manufactured home occupying the site.
For the installation of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) storage systems, the provisions of NFPA 58 shall be followed. [NFPA 501A:4.1.2.1 – 4.1.2.2]
E 401.3 Location of Gas Supply Connection. The gas supply to the manufactured home shall be located within 4 feet (1219 mm) of the manufactured home stand.
Exception: The requirement of Section E 401.3 shall not apply to gas supply connections for manufactured homes located on all-weather wood, concrete, or concrete block foundation systems or on foundations constructed in accordance with the local building code or, in the absence of a local code, with a recognized model building code. [NFPA 501A:4.1.3]
E 401.4 Recreational Vehicle Park Fuel Gas Equip- ment and Installations. Fuel gas equipment and installations shall comply with this appendix, except as otherwise permitted or required by this code.
E 402.0 Single and Multiple Manufactured Home Site Fuel Supply Systems.
E 402.1 Underground Installations. Underground gas piping system installations shall comply with any applicable building code, Section E 402.2 and Section E 402.2.1. [NFPA 501A:4.2.1]
E 402.2 Open-Ended Gastight Conduit. Underground gas piping shall not be installed beneath that portion of a manufactured home site reserved for the location of a manufactured home or manufactured home accessory building or structure unless installed in the open-ended gastight conduit of Section E 402.2.1. [NFPA 501A:4.2.1.1]
E 402.2.1 Requirements. The open-ended gastight conduit shall conform to the requirements in the following:
(1) The conduit shall be not less than Schedule 40 pipe that is approved for underground installation beneath buildings.
(2) The interior diameter of the conduit shall be not less than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (15 mm) larger than the outside diameter of the gas piping.
CMC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text
Materials for piping and tubing must meet the working temperature and pressure of the system. In addition, materials must be compatible with the transfer medium to prevent deformation, bursting, or any chemical action between the material and the transfer medium. The allowable joining methods for piping or tubing are provided for application and enforcement purposes.
Chapter 13 Fuel Gas Piping. Chapter 13 regulates gas piping systems in a building, structure or within the property lines of buildings up to 5 psi. Gas piping systems must supply the minimum volume of gas required by each gas appliance to perform their proper operation under working conditions without exceeding the maximum pressure specified by each manufacturer. Because of the hazards associated with fuel gas, it is important to ensure the gas system has been inspected and tested, and that it is safe to turn on the gas supply to the building.
Chapter 14 Process Piping. Chapter 14 regulates process piping that typically is found in refineries. Process piping is considered the piping or tubing portion that transports liquid or gas, which is used directly in research, laboratory, or production process. This chapter may be used with another chapter of the code. For example, refrigeration piping, fuel gas piping, or fuel oil piping may need to comply with this chapter for process piping and the applicable chapter for materials, design, and installation.
Chapter 15 Solar Energy Systems. Chapter 15 refers the user to the Uniform Solar, Hydronics and Geothermal Code (USHGC) for solar energy system requirements. The USHGC contains comprehensive design, installation, and construction requirements for all types of solar thermal systems, such as drainback, thermosiphon, open-loop, and closed-loop systems. The USHGC also addresses installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems including array circuit(s), inverter(s), and controller(s) for such systems.
Chapter 16 Stationary Power Plants. This chapter provides minimum requirements for stationary fuel cell power plants. A fuel cell is a device that produces electricity by a chemical reaction. Fuel cells have been used mostly for satellites. However, the costs of fuel cells have decreased to a point where they are now economically attainable. With the increase in electricity costs, fuel cells are being considered as an alternative for producing electricity.
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FORMAT OF THE UNIFORM MECHANICAL CODE
Chapter 17 Geothermal Energy Systems and Ambient Temperature Loops. Chapter 17 regulates the design, installation, construction, and location of geothermal energy systems and ambient temperature loops (ATLs). This chapter provides the minimum safety requirements for various types of geothermal systems, including building systems coupled with a ground-heat exchangers, submerged heat exchangers using water-based fluid as a heat transfer medium, and groundwater (well). For ease of use and clarification on the applicability of geothermal provisions, Chapter 17 is divided into five parts pertaining to general provisions for all types of geothermal systems, closed-loop systems, open-loop systems, direct-exchange (DX) systems, and ambient temperature loops. For district ambient temperature loops, including those utilizing multiple hybrid systems, Part I through Part V are applicable.
In order to properly design a geothermal system, it is important to know the seasonal variation in the soil temperature, as well as the soil’s inherent capability to store and transmit heat, namely its heat capacity and thermal conductivity. In addition, a properly designed heat pump distribution system is essential for the distribution of geothermal energy.
CPC § 5.9.2 Medium relevance — show source text
(1) Check valves.
(2) Three-way valves (of the type that completely closes one side before starting to open the other side).
(3) Reverse flow indicators controlling positive shutoff valves.
(4) Normally closed air-actuated positive shutoff pressure regulators. [NFPA 54:5.9.2] 1308.11 Low-Pressure Protection. A protective device shall be installed between the meter and the appliance or equipment if the operation of the appliance or equipment is such that it could produce a vacuum or a dangerous reduction in gas pressure at the meter. Such protective devices include, but are not limited to, mechanical, diaphragm-operated, or electrically operated low-pressure shutoff valves. [NFPA 54:5.10]
1308.12 Shutoff Valves. Shutoff valves shall be selected in
accordance with Table 1308.12. Shutoff valves of size 1 inch
(25 mm) National Pipe Thread and smaller shall be listed and labeled. Where used outdoors, such use shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. [NFPA 54:5.11]
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), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
FUEL GAS PIPING
Exceptions: (1) A regulator and vent limiting means combination listed as complying with CSA/ANSI Z21.80/CSA 6.22, shall not be required to be vented to the outdoors.
(2) A listed gas appliance regulator factory equipped with a vent limiting device is not required to be vented to the outdoors.
(2) Materials for vent piping shall be in accordance with Section 1308.4 through Section 1308.4.10.5. (3) The vent terminus shall be designed to prevent the entry of water, insects, and other foreign matter that could cause blockage. (4) Vent piping shall be installed to minimize static loads and bending moments placed on the regulators and gas pressure control devices.
(5) Vents shall terminate not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a possible source of ignition. (6) At locations where a vent termination could be submerged during floods or snow accumulations, an antiflood-type breather vent fitting shall be installed, or the vent terminal shall be located above the height of the expected floodwaters or snow.
(7) Vent piping from pressure regulators and gas pressure controls shall not be connected to a common manifold that serves a bleed line from a diaphragm-type gas valve.
[NFPA 54:5.14]
1309.0 Excess Flow Valve.
1309.1 General. Where automatic excess flow valves are installed, they shall be listed in accordance with ANSI Z21.93/CSA 6.30 and shall be sized and installed in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. [NFPA 54:5.12]
1310.0 Gas Piping Installation. 1310.1 Piping Underground. Underground gas piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance from any other underground structure to avoid contact therewith, to allow maintenance, and to protect against damage from proximity to other structures. Underground plastic piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance or shall be insulated from any source of heat so as to prevent the heat from impairing the serviceability of the pipe.
CPC § 1.1. Medium relevance — show source text
3 This document is not in the printed manual and is available only in the online version of the Greenbook on www.pge.com/greenbook.
2022 – 2023 C−4
GAS DESIGN STANDARD
GAS TRENCH DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
A-03
Publication Date: 08/19/2020 Effective Date: 11/16/2020 Rev. 0a
Purpose and Scope
This gas design standard (GDS) provides general trench requirements for Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E or Company) gas transmission and distribution facilities. It includes dimensions, acceptable materials to place in the trench, and damage prevention requirements. This GDS does not apply to pipe installed with trenchless construction methods.
1 General Information
1.1. PG&E has an obligation to repair and pave public streets and roads to the same conditions as found. PG&E trenches must meet the requirements of the local permitting agency unless the requirements are determined to be arbitrary, unreasonable, or pose a potential risk to the integrity of the facilities or safety of the public and PG&E crews during construction and routine maintenance.
1.2. Due to the large number of local permitting agencies within the PG&E service territory, it is outside of the scope of this GDS to address all possible local agency trench and backfill requirements. When this GDS differs from local agency requirements it is the responsibility of the local leadership, design and asset engineering and corrosion services teams to evaluate the agency requirements and/or coordinate with the local agency to develop a local trench design that is acceptable to both PG&E and the local
agency.
1.3. This GDS provides the recommended minimum requirements for trench configuration and backfill requirements. The project team, responsible asset engineer and corrosion services should evaluate each location and determine if a site specific trench design is required and has final authority to approve any deviation from the Issued for Construction (IFC) drawings.
1.4. For joint trench requirements refer to Utility Standard S5453, “Joint Trench.”
1.5. For required cover and clearances refer to Gas Design Standard A-04, “Cover and Clearance Requirements for Transmission Lines, Distribution Mains, and Service Lines.”
PG&E Internal Information “PG&E” refers to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation.
©2020 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved.
Page 1 of 12
Gas Trench Design and Construction A-03
Publication Date: 08/19/2020 Effective Date: 11/16/2020 Rev. 0a
2 Trench Configuration
2.1. A typical gas only trench is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Typical Gas Only Trench Configuration
2.2. Basic Trench Design Construction and Terminology
Frequently asked questions
What if the utility provides piping inside the property—does the chapter apply?
The chapter generally covers piping from the point of delivery (meter outlet or regulator outlet) to appliances. Gas supplier distribution equipment and certain supplier appurtenances are excluded—check § 1202.1 and the chapter applications/exclusions.
Is a portable LP grill covered?
No — portable LP‑Gas appliances that are not connected to a fixed fuel piping system are excluded from the chapter’s scope. See the chapter’s exceptions.
Which is the point of delivery for undiluted LP‑Gas?
For undiluted LP‑Gas the point of delivery is the outlet of the final pressure regulator (exclusive of line regulators); if a meter is installed, the meter outlet is the point of delivery. See § 1202.1.
Do higher‑pressure systems (above 5 psi natural gas) fall under this chapter?
No — the chapter’s applicability in § 1201.1 is limited to natural gas systems up to 5 psi (34 kPa) and undiluted propane up to 10 psi (69 kPa). Systems above those pressures are not covered here and need the appropriate code/chapter.
Does the chapter require inspection and testing?
Yes — the chapter contemplates inspection and testing as part of the piping system requirements; see the chapter coverage language and the inspection sections following these coverage provisions.
More in California Plumbing Code
- Administration
- Definitions
- General Regulations
- Plumbing Fixtures and Fixture Fittings
- Water Heaters
- Water Supply and Distribution
- Sanitary Drainage (Drain, Waste, and Vent)
- Indirect Wastes
- Vents
- Traps and Interceptors
- Storm Drainage
- Fuel Gas Piping
- Health Care Facilities — Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Systems
- Alternate Water Sources and Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems
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