CPC · California Plumbing Code
When does Chapter 3 (General Regulations) apply?
Chapter 3 applies when you need the Plumbing Code’s cross‑cutting, general installation rules — but not when a later chapter gives a specific rule for that same subject. The key controlling sentence is **§ 301.1**, which says Chapter 3 governs “general requirements, not specific to other chapters, for the installation of plumbing systems.”
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
Chapter 3 (headed by § 301.0) contains the general requirements that apply to the installation of plumbing systems when the subject is not covered by a more specific chapter. The controlling applicability language is in § 301.1: “This chapter shall govern the **general requirements, not specific to other chapters, for the installation of plumbing systems.” § 301.1 .
The single most important rule: Chapter 3 applies when you are dealing with a general plumbing installation requirement that is not already regulated specifically elsewhere in the Plumbing Code (see § 301.1).
Requirements in detail
Core rule (what to check first)
- If the issue is a general requirement for plumbing installation (e.g., basic workmanship, protection of piping, general placement rules), Chapter 3 is the starting place. See § 301.1.
- If the subject is addressed by a specific chapter (for example, fixture rules, drainage, medical gas, special occupancies), that specific chapter’s provisions take precedence for that subject — Chapter 3 is for the remaining, cross‑cutting requirements. See § 301.1.
Note: § 301.0 is the section heading for the chapter; the explicit applicability statement is in § 301.1. The retrieved files show the chapter heading and the applicability sentence in § 301.1.
Decision table — when Chapter 3 applies
| Decision dimension | When Chapter 3 applies | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Subject is a general installation requirement (workmanship, protection, supports/hangers referenced broadly) | Yes — Chapter 3 governs general rules | § 301.1 |
| Subject is specifically covered in another chapter (e.g., fixtures, drainage sizing, medical gas parts) | No — use the specific chapter | § 301.1 |
| Need a minimum standard referenced for general work | Check § 301.2 for minimum standards (Chapter 3 topics) | § 301.2 (TOC) |
| Looking for alternate materials/methods or engineered alternatives that are not chapter‑specific | Chapter 3 includes alternate materials / alternate design pathways | § 301.3 – § 301.5 (TOC) |
(TOC citations above show the related Chapter 3 sections listed in the code index.)
How to apply the rule in practice (stepwise)
- Identify the precise subject (e.g., hangers, pipe protection, freeze protection, minimum workmanship).
- Search the Plumbing Code chapters for a specific section addressing the exact topic.
- If no specific chapter section applies, apply the Chapter 3 general rule(s) per § 301.1.
- When Chapter 3 gives options (minimums, alternates), follow those processes or pursue engineered alternates where permitted (see § 301.3–§ 301.5 in the chapter index).
Exceptions & special cases
- The plain text retrieved for § 301.1 makes clear Chapter 3 is limited to general requirements, not those specific to other chapters. Therefore, if a later chapter contains targeted rules for the same subject, that later chapter’s rules are the controlling authority for that subject — apply Chapter 3 only to the remaining general matters. § 301.1 .
- The chapter index shows other Chapter 3 subsections addressing minimums, alternate methods, flood hazard, alternative engineered design, tall-wood, and occupancy‑specific notes (e.g., one- and two‑family dwellings). These are special-case topics inside Chapter 3; consult those sections when the special topic applies. § 301.2–§ 301.8 (TOC) .
- I did not retrieve the full text of § 301.0 beyond the heading; the retrieval contains the full applicability sentence at § 301.1, which is the operative applicability statement available in the files provided.
Common mistakes
- Misreading Chapter 3 as a blanket rule that overrides chapter‑specific requirements. The code text for § 301.1 says Chapter 3 governs general requirements not specific to other chapters — so don’t ignore a specific chapter’s provision. .
- Assuming Chapter 3 applies to matters of occupancy or specialized systems when those matters are addressed elsewhere (e.g., medical gas, fixtures, drainage). Always check chapter headings and specific section titles first. See Chapter 3 index (TOC) for related topic sections. .
- Failing to check the Chapter 3 subsections for alternate materials/methods or engineered-design allowances (these are present in the chapter index and may permit alternatives). § 301.3–§ 301.5 (TOC) .
Worked example — apply the rule with a concrete scenario
Scenario: You are specifying supports and protection for a long run of 2‑inch copper water pipe that travels through a mixed‑use building. No specific chapter section calls out the exact support detail you want to use.
- First check the Code for a specific chapter that prescribes support spacing or detailed support type for that exact piping material and situation. If you find a specific section (for example, in the water distribution chapter), follow that.
- If no specific requirement exists for this exact installation, the issue falls under Chapter 3 as a general installation question — apply Chapter 3 requirements for workmanship, protection, hangers/supports and any minimum standards. This follows the applicability rule in § 301.1: Chapter 3 governs general installation requirements not specific to other chapters. § 301.1 .
- If you want to use an alternate hanger or non‑standard method, consult the Chapter 3 alternate-materials/alternate‑method provisions (see § 301.3 in the chapter index) for the process to document and justify the alternate. § 301.3 (TOC) .
(Concrete numeric hanger spacing and material-specific details must be taken from the appropriate specific chapter/tables — those were not quoted here from the retrieved text. Check the water distribution and hangers sections for numeric spacing values.)
Related provisions
- § 301.0 — General (chapter heading)
- § 301.1 — Applicability (controls when Chapter 3 applies)
- § 301.2 — Minimum Standards (Chapter 3 topics)
- § 301.3 — Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction / Equivalency (Chapter 3 index)
- § 301.4 — Flood Hazard Areas (listed in Chapter 3 index)
- § 301.5 — Alternative Engineered Design (listed in Chapter 3 index)
- § 301.6 — Tall Wood (Mass Timber) Buildings (listed in Chapter 3 index)
- § 301.7 — One‑ and Two‑Family Dwellings (listed in Chapter 3 index)
- § 301.8 — OSHPD 1R (listed in Chapter 3 index)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 106.0 Medium relevance — show source text
106.0 Violations and Penalties . . . . . . . . .25
106.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
106.2 Notices of Correction or Violation . . .25
106.3 Penalties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
106.4 Stop Orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
106.5 Authority to Disconnect Utilities in Emergencies . . . . . . . . .26
106.6 Authority to Condemn . . . . . . . . . . .26
107.0 Board of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
107.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
107.2 Limitations of Authority . . . . . . . . . .26
Table 104.5 Plumbing Permit Fees . . . . . . . . . .27
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
201.0 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
201.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
202.0 Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
202.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REGULATIONS . . . . . .47
301.0 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
301.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
301.2 Minimum Standards . . . . . . . . . . . .49
301.3 Alternate Materials and Methods
of Construction Equivalency . . . . . .49
301.4 Flood Hazard Areas . . . . . . . . . . . .49
301.5 Alternative Engineered Design . . . .50
301.6 Tall Wood (Mass Timber) Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
301.7 One- and Two-Family Dwellings . .50
301.8 OSHPD 1R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
302.0 Iron Pipe Size (IPS) Pipe . . . . . . . .50
302.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
303.0 Disposal of Liquid Waste . . . . . . . .50
303.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
304.0 Connections to Plumbing System Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
304.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
305.0 Damage to Drainage System or Public Sewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
CPC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
The 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3A-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
3A-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
3 A PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers [applications listed in Section 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1)].
SECTION 301 A —ADMINISTRATION
301 A .1 Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, repair, addition and change of occupancy of existing structures for applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 [OSHPD 1] regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
California Energy Commission, State Fire Marshal and DSA-AC requirements for existing structures shall be enforced by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
301 A .1.1 Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating. Existing bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating shall comply with ICC 300.
301 A .2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4 A .
301 A .3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings or structures shall comply with one of the methods or categories listed in Section 301 A .3.1, 301 A .3.2 or 301 A .3.3. Section 304A.3.2 applies to all methods or categories. Sections 301 A .3.1 through 301 A .3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other , except when permitted by the enforcement agency.
Exception: Subject to the approval of the enforcement agency, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code .
301 A .3.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 A of this code for existing buildings or structures shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
CPC § 3-1 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 3-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
3-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
PART II— GENERAL SAFETY PROVISIONS
3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 3 provides general requirements for asphalt kettles, combustible waste material, ignition sources, motion picture projection rooms and film, open burning, recreational fires, portable outdoor fireplaces, open flames, powered industrial trucks and equipment, smoking, vacant premises, vehicle impact protection, fueled equipment, indoor displays, general storage, outdoor pallet storage, hazards to firefighters, landscaped roofs, laundry carts, mobile food preparation vehicles, additive manufacturing (3D printing) and artificial combustible vegetation. These are intended to improve premises safety for everyone, including construction workers, tenants, operations and maintenance personnel, and emergency response personnel.
SECTION 301—GENERAL
301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the occupancy and maintenance of all structures and premises for precautions against fire and the spread of fire and general requirements of fire safety.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.14] Fire Hazard.
No person, including but not limited to the State and its political subdivisions, operating any occupancy subject to California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall permit any fire hazard, as defined in this article, to exist on premises under their control, or fail to take immediate action to abate a fire hazard when requested to do so by the enforcing agency.
Note: “Fire Hazard” as used in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations means any condition, arrangement, or act which will increase, or may cause an increase of, the hazard or menace of fire to a greater degree than customarily recognized as normal by persons in the public service of preventing, suppressing or extinguishing fire; or which may obstruct, delay or hinder, or may become the cause of obstruction, delay or hindrance to the prevention, suppression, or extinguishment of fire.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.19(a) through (g)] Housekeeping.
Every building or portion of a building governed by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be maintained in a neat orderly manner, free from any condition that would create a fire or life hazard or a condition which would add to or contribute to the rapid spread of fire. Provisions shall be made for the proper storage and disposal of waste materials and rubbish consistent with the following:
(a) All basements, cellars, floors, closets, attics, and other similar places not open to continuous observation shall be kept free from combustible litter and rubbish at all times.
Note: Such storage may be permitted in these areas only when protected by approved automatic extinguishing systems or fire-resis- tive separations.
CPC § 301.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
3
301.3.1
301.3.1.1
301.3.1.2
301.4.1
301.7
301.8
303.1_Exception_
304.1_Exception_
310.11
310.12
310.13
310.14
310.15
311.1_ Note_
312.2
312.7
312.11
313.8
321.0
322.0
323.0
||||||||||X||X|X|X|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
301.3
301.3.1
301.3.1.1
301.3.1.2
301.4.1
301.7
301.8
303.1_Exception_
304.1_Exception_
310.11
310.12
310.13
310.14
310.15
311.1_ Note_
312.2
312.7
312.11
313.8
321.0
322.0
323.0
||||||||||X||X||X|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
301.3
301.3.1
301.3.1.1
301.3.1.2
301.4.1
301.7
301.8
303.1_Exception_
304.1_Exception_
310.11
310.12
310.13
310.14
310.15
311.1_ Note_
312.2
312.7
312.11
313.8
321.0
322.0
323.0
||||||||||X||X|X|X|X||||||||||This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 47
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48 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
CHAPTER 3
GENERAL REGULATIONS
301.0 General.
301.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the general requirements, not specific to other chapters, for the installation of plumbing systems. **301.2 Minimum Standards.
CPC § 4.1 Medium relevance — show source text
- 100°F
(16°C-38°C)|1 h|6 h|2 h|12 h|6 h|24 h| |40°F-60°F
(4°C-16°C)|2 h|12 h|4 h|24 h|12 h|48 h| |10°F- 40°F
(-12°C+4°C)|8 h|48 h|16 h|96 h|48 h|8 days| |*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|*If gaps or loose fits are encountered in the system, double these cure times.|
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 467
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
IS 33
FIGURE 1
LOCATION OF THRUST BLOCKS (STANDARD AND METRIC COMBINED) A COMPARISON OF THRUST-BLOCK AREAS (See Section 4.1)
468 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
IS 33
FIGURE 2
THRUST BLOCK BEARING AREA (See Section 5.2.2)
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 469
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
IS 33
Uniform Plumbing Code References for Ductile Iron and PVC Pressure Building Supply and Exterior Cold-Water Piping
The following sections of the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code apply to ductile iron and PVC pressure building supply and exterior cold-water piping.
Chapter 3 General Regulations
309.0 Workmanship
312.0 Protection of Piping, Materials, and Struc tures
313.0 Hangers, Supports, and Anchors
314.0 Trenching, Excavation, and Backfill
Chapter 6 Water Supply and Distribution
604.0 Materials (water piping)
Table 604.1 Materials for Building Supply and Water Distribution Piping and Fittings
605.4 Ductile Iron Pipe and Joints
605.12 PVC Plastic Pipe and Joints
605.16.2 Plastic Pipe to Other Materials
609.0 Installation, Testing, Unions, and Location
Abbreviations
IAPMO International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
UPC Uniform Plumbing Code published by IAPMO
AWWA American Water Works Association
CSA Canadian Standards Association
Applicable Standards.
ASME B16.4 Gray Iron Threaded Fittings Classes 125 and 250
ASTM D1785 Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120
ASTM D2241 Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure-Rated Pipe (SDR Series)
- 100°F
CPC § 317-323 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Chapter 3, Sections 317-323-DSA-SS adopts these sections without the use of the DSA-SS acronym.
1.9.2.1.4 Reference to other chapters. For public schools, where reference is made to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 or 22 of the California Building Code, the provisions in Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A of the California Building Code, respectively, shall apply instead.
1.9.2.2 DSA-SS/CC Division of the State Architect- Structural Safety/Community Colleges.
Application— Community Colleges. The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the authority by the Department of General Services to promulgate alternate building standards for application to community colleges, which a community college may elect to use in lieu of standards promulgated by DSA-SS in accordance with Section 1.9.2.1.
Enforcing agency— Division of the State Architect- Structural Safety/Community Colleges [DSA-SS/CC].
The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the authority by the Department of General Services to review and approve the design and oversee construction of community colleges electing to use the alternative building standards as provided in this section.
Authority cited — Education Code Section 81053.
Reference — Education Code Sections 81052, 81053 and 81130 through 81147.
1.9.2.2.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations: 1.1. Sections 4-301 through 4-355, Group 1, and Sections 4-401 through 4-435, Group 2, Chapter 4. 2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: 2.1. Sections 1.1 and 1.9.2.2 of Chapter 1, Division I. 2.2. Sections 102.1, 102.2, 102.3, 102.4, 102.5, 106.1, 107.2.5 and 110.3.6 of Chapter 1, Division II. 3 . Title 24, Part 10, California Code of Regulations: [applies to public elementary and secondary schools, community colleges and state-owned or state-leased essential services building(s)]: 3.1. Sections 1.1 and 1.9.2.1 of Chapter 1, Division I. 3.2. Sections 101.7, 106.2.5 and 109.3.6 of Chapter 1, Division II.
1.9.2.2.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11 and 12, California Code of Regulations.
The provisions of Title 24, Part 10, as adopted and amended by the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety/Community Colleges [DSA-SS/CC], shall apply to the applications listed in Section 1.9.2.2.
CPC § 1326.6 Medium relevance — show source text
1326.6 Station Outlets and Inlets . . . . . . .300
1326.7 Pressure and Vacuum
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.8 Warning Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.9 Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.10 Labeling and Identification . . . . . .300
PART V Dental Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.0 Dental Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.2 Emergency Shutoff Valves (Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide) . . . . .300
1327.3 Warning Systems (Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide) . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.4 Initial Pressure Test . . . . . . . . . . .301
1327.5 Maximum Copper Tube Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
Table 1327.5 Maximum Copper Tube Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
1327.6 Maximum Plastic Pipe Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
Table 1327.6 Maximum Plastic Pipe Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
1327.7 Standing Pressure Tests for Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
1327.8 Verifier Operational Pressure Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .302
CHAPTER 14 FIRESTOP PROTECTION . . . . . .303
1401.0 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
1401.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE xliii
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1402.0 Construction Documents . . . . . . .305
1402.1 Penetrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
1403.0 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
1403.1 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
1404.0 Combustible Piping Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
1404.1 General Requirements . . . . . . . . .305
1404.2 Fire-Resistance Rating . . . . . . . . .305
1404.3 Firestop Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
CPC § 422.1 Medium relevance — show source text
PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
TABLE 422.1 MINIMUM PLUMBING FACILITIES [1]
Each building shall be provided with sanitary facilities, including provisions for persons with disabilities as prescribed by the Department Having Jurisdiction [8] . Table 422.1 applies to new buildings, additions to a building, and changes of occupancy or type in an existing building resulting in increased occupant
load.
For requirements for persons with disabilities, Chapter 11A or 11B of the California Building Code shall be used .
[BSC & DSA-SS] The total occupant load shall be determined in accordance with the California Building Code or Table 4-1 Occupant Load Factor.
Exceptions: (1) [HCD 1-AC & HCD 2] For applications listed in Sections 1.8.2.1.2 and 1.8.2.1.3 regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development, each building shall be provided with sanitary facilities, including provisions for persons with disabilities as prescribed by the Department. Covered mul- tifamily dwellings required to be accessible to persons with disabilities shall comply with Chapter 11A of the California Building Code. Permanent build- ings in mobilehome parks and special occupancy parks required to be accessible by persons with disabilities, shall comply with Chapter 11B of the California Building Code. (2) [HCD 1] For limited density owner-built rural dwelling sanitary facilities, the type, design and number of facilities as required and approved by the local health official shall be provided to the dwelling sites. It shall not be required that such facilities be located within the dwelling.
TYPE OF
OCCUPANCY2WATER CLOSETS
(FIXTURES PER PERSON)3Col3 URINALS
(FIXTURES
PER
PERSON)4LAVATORIES
(FIXTURES PER PERSON)5Col6 BATHTUBS
OR
SHOWERS
(FIXTURES
PER
PERSON)DRINKING
FOUNTAINS/
FACILITIES
(FIXTURES
PER
PERSON)OTHER6, 7 A-1 Assembly occupancy
(fixed or permanent seat-
ing)- theaters, concert
halls, and auditoriumsMale
1: 1-100
2: 101-200
3: 201-400Female
1: 1-25
2: 26-50
3: 51-100
4: 101-200
6: 201-300
8: 301-400Male
1: 1-200
2: 201-300
3: 301-400
4: 401-600Male
1: 1-200
2: 201-400
3: 401-600
4: 601-750Female
1: 1-100
2: 101-200
4: 201-300
5: 301-500
6: 501-750–– 1: 1-250
2: 251-500
3: 501-7501 service
sink or
laundry sinkA-1 Assembly occupancy
(fixed or permanent seat-
ing)- theaters,CPC § 10-8 Medium relevance — show source text
000|10-8|12-6|9-8|10-0|9-0|8-2|7-7|6-4|6-2| |24|2-#4
1-#6|60,000|12-11|15-2|11-9|12-2|11-0|9-11|9-3|7-8|7-6| |24|2-#5|40,000|15-2|17-9|13-9|14-3|12-10|11-7|10-10|9-0|8-9| |24|2-#5|60,000|18-4|21-6|16-7|17-3|15-6|14-0|13-1|10-4|10-0| |24|2-#6|40,000|18-0|21-1|16-4|16-11|14-10|12-9|11-8|9-2|8-11| |24|2-#6|60,000|21-7|25-4|19-2|20-4|17-2|14-9|13-4|10-4|10-0| |24|Center distance_A_k, l|Center distance_A_k, l|4-6|6-2|3-8|4-0|3-3|2-8|2-3|1-7|1-6| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. See Table R608.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R608.8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or1/2 inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth,D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire length of the
lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth,D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall be not less than the least
amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at not more than_d_/2.
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.05.CPC § 1325.7 Medium relevance — show source text
1325.7 Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .299
1325.8 Station Outlets and Inlets . . . . . . .299
1325.9 Pressure and Vacuum
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .299
1325.10 Warning Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .299
1325.11 Category 2 Distribution . . . . . . . . .299
1325.12 Labeling and Identification . . . . . .299
1325.13 Performance Criteria and Testing — Gas, Medical–Surgical Vacuum, and WAGD . . . . . . . . . . .299
PART IV Category 3 Piped Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.0 Category 3 Piped Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.2 Nature of Hazards of Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . .300
1326.3 Medical Air Supply Systems . . . . .300
1326.4 Medical–Surgical Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.5 Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.6 Station Outlets and Inlets . . . . . . .300
1326.7 Pressure and Vacuum
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.8 Warning Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.9 Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1326.10 Labeling and Identification . . . . . .300
PART V Dental Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.0 Dental Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.2 Emergency Shutoff Valves (Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide) . . . . .300
1327.3 Warning Systems (Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide) . . . . . . . . . . . .300
1327.4 Initial Pressure Test . . . . . . . . . . .301
1327.5 Maximum Copper Tube Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
Table 1327.5 Maximum Copper Tube Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
1327.6 Maximum Plastic Pipe Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
Table 1327.6 Maximum Plastic Pipe Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
CPC § 1.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[BSC] This is an example of a state agency acronym used to identify an adoption or amendment by the agency. The acronyms will appear at California Amendments and in the Matrix Adoption Tables. Sections 1.2 through 1.14 in Chapter 1, Division 1 of this code, explain the used acronyms, the application of state agency adoptions to building occupancies or building features, the enforcement agency as designated by state law (may be the state adopting agency or local building or fire official), the authority in state law for the state agency to make the adoption, and the specific state law being implemented by the agency’s adoption. The following acronyms are used in Title 24 to identify the state adopting agency making an adoption.
Legend of Acronyms of Adopting State Agencies
BSC California Building Standards Commission (see Section 1.2)
BSC-CG California Building Standards Commission-CALGreen (see Section 1.2.2)
BSCC Board of State and Community Corrections (see Section 1.3)
SFM Office of the State Fire Marshal (see Section 1.11)
HCD 1 Department of Housing and Community Development (see Section 1.8.2.1.1)
HCD 2 Department of Housing and Community Development (see Section 1.8.2.1.3)
HCD 1/AC Department of Housing and Community Development (see Section 1.8.2.1.2)
DSA-AC Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance (see Section 1.9.1)
DSA-SS Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety (see Section 1.9.2)
DSA-SS/CC Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety/Community Colleges (see Section 1.9.2.2)
OSHPD 1 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.1)
OSHPD 1R Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.1)
OSHPD 2 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.2)
OSHPD 3 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.3)
OSHPD 4 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.4)
OSHPD 5 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.5)
OSHPD 6 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.6)
DPH Department of Public Health (see Section 1.7)
AGR Department of Food and Agriculture (see Section 1.6)
CEC California Energy Commission (see Section 100 in Part 6, the California Energy Code)
CA Department of Consumer Affairs (see Section 1.4): Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Board of Examiners in Veterinary Medicine Board of Pharmacy Acupuncture Board Bureau of Household Goods & Services Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB)
SL State Library (see Section 1.12)
SLC State Lands Commission (see Section 1.14)
DWR Department of Water Resources (see Section 1.13 of Chapter 1 of the California Plumbing Code in Part 5 of Title 24)
CPC § 3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
301 A .3.2 Nonconforming buildings . Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings or structures designed in accordance with the Pre-1973 building code complying with Section 304A.3.1 and the applicable requirements herein shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301 A .3.3 Performance- based method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings or structures complying with Sections 304A.3.4 and 304A.3.5 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301 A .4 Moved structures . Structures moved into or within the jurisdiction shall comply with the provisions of the California Building Code for new structures.
301A.5 Reserved.
301A.6 Peer review requirements. Peer review requirements shall comply with California Building Code Section 1617A.1.41.
301A.7 Earthquake monitoring instruments for existing buildings. Earthquake monitoring instrumentation of existing buildings shall comply with Section 313A.
301A.8 Compliance alternatives for services/systems and utilities . Compliance alternatives for services/systems and utilities shall comply with Section 310A.
301A.9 Compliance alternatives for means of egress. Means of egress through existing buildings shall comply with Section 311A.
301A.10 Removal of hospital buildings from general acute care services. Removal of hospital buildings from General Acute Care Services shall comply with Section 312A.
SECTION 302 A —GENERAL PROVISIONS
302 A .1 Dangerous conditions. The code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.
302 A .2 Additional codes. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and struc- tures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in the California Fire Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code and California Electrical Code. Where provisions of the other codes conflict with provisions of this chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall take precedence.
302 A .2.1 Additional codes in health care. In existing Group I-2 occupancies, ambulatory health care facilities, outpatient clinics and hyperbaric facilities, alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall also comply with NFPA 99.
302 A .3 Existing materials and equipment. Materials and equipment already in use in a building in compliance with requirements or approvals in effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be permitted to remain in use unless determined by the code official to be unsafe in accordance with California Building Code Section 116.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3A-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
Frequently asked questions
When I find a rule in Chapter 3 and a different rule in another chapter which applies?
Apply the chapter‑specific rule for that topic; Chapter 3 is for general requirements not specific to other chapters. See § 301.1.
Does Chapter 3 apply to maintenance or only installation?
The retrieved applicability language in § 301.1 explicitly references the installation of plumbing systems; for maintenance/operations check the specific chapters or enforcement guidance.
Where are the Chapter 3 minimum standards and alternates located?
The chapter index lists § 301.2 (Minimum Standards) and § 301.3–§ 301.5 (Alternate methods / engineered design). Consult those subsections for minimums and alternate procedures.
I want to use an alternate material not in another chapter — does Chapter 3 cover that?
Chapter 3 includes an alternate‑materials/alternate‑methods pathway in its index (see § 301.3) — follow that section’s process to propose equivalency or engineered alternatives.
The file you showed doesn’t quote § 301.0 fully — is anything missing?
The retrieved files show the Chapter 3 heading for § 301.0, but the explicit applicability sentence is contained in § 301.1, which is available in the retrieved text. I have noted where full § 301.0 text was not present in the retrieved snippets.
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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