CPC · California Plumbing Code
What are the workmanship and quality-of-installation requirements?
The California Plumbing Code (§ 309.0) requires that plumbing be designed and installed using accepted engineering practices and in a workmanlike way that follows the CPC, manufacturer instructions, and approved plans; it forbids concealing defects, requires pipe ends to be deburred, mandates a flushing method for dead legs, and defers sound limits to the California Building Code.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Plumbing Code requires that design, construction, and workmanship be performed in accordance with accepted engineering practices and be sufficient to achieve the results intended by the code — see § 309.1. Installations must be performed in a workmanlike manner that follows the CPC, applicable standards, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions, and all plumbing systems must match the construction documents approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction — see § 309.4. The code also forbids concealing material defects with sealants and requires specific practices for burred ends, sound transmission, and dead legs — see § 309.2–309.6.
The single most important rule: plumbing must be designed and installed to accepted engineering standards, visibly and honestly — you cannot hide defects, and installations must follow the approved plans and manufacturer instructions.
Requirements in detail
Core performance requirement
- Accepted engineering practices — design, construction, and workmanship must conform to recognized engineering standards and be of character to secure the results sought by the code (§ 309.1).
Installation standards and documents
- Workmanlike manner — installations must comply with this code, applicable standards, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions; materials must be installed so they do not adversely affect other systems or the building structure; systems must follow construction documents approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (§ 309.4).
Integrity and visible defects
- Concealing imperfections prohibited — it is unlawful to conceal cracks, holes, or other imperfections by welding, brazing, soldering, or by using paint, wax, tar, solvent cement, or other leak‑sealing/repair agents (§ 309.2).
Workmanship on piping ends
- Burred ends — burred ends of pipe and tubing must be reamed to the full bore and chips must be removed prior to completing the joint or test (§ 309.3).
Acoustic considerations
- Sound transmission — plumbing piping systems shall be designed and installed to conform with sound limitations required in the California Building Code (as referenced in the CPC) — see § 309.5. The CPC delegates the specific sound control criteria to the Building Code.
Dead legs
- Dead legs — any portion of piping considered a dead leg (a section that does not circulate or is isolated from normal flow) must have a method of flushing to prevent stagnation or deterioration of water quality (§ 309.6). The CPC requires the flushing method but does not specify a numeric length threshold in § 309.6.
Decision-relevant dimensions / values (quick reference)
| Decision / condition | What the CPC requires | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Overall workmanship standard | Conform to accepted engineering practices and achieve the code’s intended results | § 309.1 |
| Concealing defects | Do not conceal cracks/holes with welding, sealants, or repair agents | § 309.2 |
| Pipe/tube ends | Burred ends must be reamed to the full bore; chips removed | § 309.3 |
| Installation compliance | Install in a workmanlike manner; follow CPC, standards, manufacturer instructions, and approved construction documents | § 309.4 |
| Sound control | Meet sound transmission limits per the California Building Code | § 309.5 |
| Dead legs | Provide a method of flushing for dead legs | § 309.6 |
Note: § 309.6 requires a flushing method but does not state specific lengths, frequencies, or flow rates in this section. For numeric or performance criteria you must consult applicable standards, manufacturer instructions, or the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Exceptions & special cases
- The CPC text for 309.0 does not list specific exceptions to these workmanship rules; instead it sets performance and practice requirements and cross‑references other codes/standards (for example, sound limits go to the California Building Code) — see § 309.5. For any special exception (e.g., alternate flushing technique for a dead leg), the installer must get approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction and document the approved approach in the construction documents (§ 309.4).
- If a manufacturer’s installation instructions are more restrictive than CPC minimums, the more restrictive manufacturer instructions must be followed as required by § 309.4.
Common mistakes
- Attempting to “stop-gap” a visible crack or leak by coating or internal sealants rather than repairing or replacing the defective material — prohibited by § 309.2.
- Failing to ream burred ends or leaving chips inside pipe/tube before joining — creates flow restriction, debris, or joint failure (breach of § 309.3).
- Installing piping that conflicts with manufacturer instructions or approved construction documents (missing the requirement of § 309.4) — common during retrofit or substitution of materials.
- Not providing any means to flush a dead leg, leaving stagnant water that can cause water quality issues or bacterial growth (noncompliance with § 309.6).
- Ignoring building‑code sound requirements for piped systems (PVC chase noise, water hammer, etc.) — CPC explicitly references the California Building Code for sound transmission (§ 309.5).
Worked example — applying the rule
Scenario: A contractor installs a new domestic cold‑water branch consisting of 1" copper tube that terminates at a future fixture outlet. During cutting and joining, the installer leaves a visible burr inside the tube and later caps the branch with a temporary plug until the fixture is installed.
How to comply with the CPC:
- Before making the joint or capping the branch, the installer must ream the burred end to the full bore and remove chips so the internal diameter is not reduced and no debris is left in the line (§ 309.3).
- The installed branch must be placed in a workmanlike manner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for fittings, and match the approved construction documents; if the temporary cap conceals a defect, it must not be used to hide the issue — repairs must be visible for inspection (§ 309.4, § 309.2).
- If that capped branch creates a length of piping that will remain unused (a dead leg) until the fixture is connected, the contractor must provide a method of flushing that dead leg (for example, install a purge/flush valve or design the temporary connection so the branch can be periodically flushed) per § 309.6. The CPC requires the flushing method but does not specify exact flow rates or frequencies in § 309.6; obtain AHJ direction if a numeric requirement is needed.
Related provisions
- § 310.0 Prohibited Fittings and Practices — related to fittings and prohibited connections that affect workmanship and plumbing performance.
- § 312.0 Protection of Piping, Tubing, Materials, and Structures — covers protection measures during and after installation.
- Manufacturer instructions and applicable installation standards cited elsewhere in the CPC (see the model installation standards and references included in the code).
If you need: I can extract the exact CPC wording for any subsection (309.1–309.6) for review, or produce a short checklist or inspection punch list based on these requirements. Note: § 309.x sets performance and practice requirements but does not provide numeric thresholds for dead‑leg length, flush rates, or sound dB limits — those numeric details must come from referenced standards, manufacturer instructions, or the California Building Code as applicable.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 306.0 High relevance — show source text
306.0 Industrial Wastes.
306.1 Detrimental Wastes. Wastes detrimental to the public sewer system or detrimental to the functioning of the sewage treatment plant shall be treated and disposed of as found necessary and directed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 306.2 Safe Discharge. Sewage or other waste from a plumbing system that is capable of being deleterious to surface or subsurface waters shall not be discharged into the ground or a waterway unless it has first been rendered safe by some acceptable form of treatment in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
307.0 Location.
307.1 System. Except as otherwise provided in this code, no plumbing system, drainage system, building sewer, private sewage disposal system, or parts thereof shall be located in a lot other than the lot that is the site of the building, structure, or premises served by such facilities.
307.2 Ownership. No subdivision, sale, or transfer of ownership of existing property shall be made in such manner that the area, clearance, and access requirements of this code are decreased.
308.0 Prohibited Locations.
308.1 General. Piping, fixtures, appliances, or equipment shall not be so located as to interfere with the normal use thereof or with the normal operation and use of windows, doors, or other required facilities.
309.0 Workmanship.
309.1 Engineering Practices. Design, construction, and workmanship shall be in accordance with accepted engineering practices and shall be of such character as to secure the results sought to be obtained by this code. 309.2 Concealing Imperfections. It is unlawful to conceal cracks, holes, or other imperfections in materials by welding, brazing, or soldering or by using therein or thereon paint, wax, tar, solvent cement, or other leak-sealing or repair agent.
309.3 Burred Ends. Burred ends of pipe and tubing shall be reamed to the full bore of the pipe or tube, and chips shall be removed.
309.4 Installation Practices. Plumbing systems shall be installed in a workmanlike manner which is in accordance with this code, applicable standards, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. All materials shall be installed so as not to adversely affect the systems and equipment or the structure of the building, and in compliance with all laws and other provisions of this code. All plumbing systems shall be in accordance with construction documents approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 309.5 Sound Transmission. Plumbing piping systems shall be designed and installed in conformance with sound limitations as required in the California Building Code .
309.6 Dead Legs. Dead legs shall have a method of flushing.
310.0 Prohibited Fittings and Practices.
310.1 Fittings. No double hub fitting, single or double tee branch, single or double tapped tee branch, side inlet quarter bend, running thread, band, or saddle shall be used as a drainage fitting.
310.2 Drainage and Vent Piping. No drainage or vent piping shall be drilled and tapped for the purpose of making connections thereto, and no cast-iron soil pipe shall be threaded.
310.3 Waste Connection. No waste connection shall be
made to a closet bend or stub of a water closet or similar fix ture.
CPC § 31-2022 High relevance — show source text
(1) Plot plan drawn to scale, completely dimensioned, showing direction and approximate slope of surface, location of present or proposed retaining walls, drainage channels, water supply lines or wells, paved areas and structures on the plot, number of bedrooms or plumbing fixtures in each structure, and location of the private sewage disposal system with relation to lot lines and
structures.
(2) Details of construction necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements of this appendix together with a full description of the complete installation including
quality, kind, and grade of materials, equipment, construction, workmanship, and methods of assembly and installation.
(3) A log of soil formations and groundwater levels as determined by test holes dug in close proximity to a proposed seepage pit or disposal field, together with a statement of water absorption characteristics of the soil at the proposed site, as determined by approved percolation tests.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 445
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CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX I - INSTALLATION STANDARDS
(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 Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowX X X X Chapter/Section IAPMO IS 31-2022 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.
CPC § 306.0 High relevance — show source text
306.0 Industrial Wastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
306.1 Detrimental Wastes . . . . . . . . . . . .51
306.2 Safe Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
307.0 Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
307.1 System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
307.2 Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
308.0 Prohibited Locations . . . . . . . . . . . .51
308.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
309.0 Workmanship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
309.1 Engineering Practices . . . . . . . . . . .51
309.2 Concealing Imperfections . . . . . . . .51
309.3 Burred Ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
309.4 Installation Practices . . . . . . . . . . . .51
309.5 Sound Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . .51
309.6 Dead Legs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.0 Prohibited Fittings and Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.1 Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.2 Drainage and Vent Piping . . . . . . .51
310.3 Waste Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.4 Use of Vent and Waste Pipes . . . .51
310.5 Obstruction of Flow . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.6 Dissimilar Metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.7 Direction of Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.8 Screwed Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
310.9 Female Plastic Connections . . . . . .52
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
310.10 ABS and PVC Transition Joints . . .52
310.14 Services/Systems and Utilities . . . .52
310.15 Telephone and Data Equipment Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
311.0 Independent Systems . . . . . . . . . . .52
311.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
312.0 Protection of Piping, Tubing, Materials, and Structures . . . . . . . .52
312.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
CPC § 14.1 High relevance — show source text
The approved agency shall verify that proper quality control procedures and tests have been employed for all materials and the manufacturing process, and shall perform visual inspection of the finished product. Each inspected member shall be stamped by the approved agency with an identification mark.
Exception: Special Inspection is not required for non-custom prismatic glued laminated members identified on drawings and sourced from stock or general inventory of 5 [1] / 2 -inch maximum width and 18-inch maximum depth, and with a maximum clear span of 32 feet, manufactured and marked in accordance with ANSI/APA A190.1 Section 14.1 for noncustom members.
1705A.5.6 Manufactured open web trusses. The manufacture of open web trusses shall be continuously inspected by an approved
agency.
The approved agency shall verify that proper quality control procedures and tests have been employed for all materials and the manufacturing process, and shall perform visual inspection of the finished product. Each inspected truss shall be stamped with an identification mark by the approved agency.
1705A.5.7 Timber connectors. The installation of all split ring and shear plate timber connectors, and timber rivets shall be continuously inspected by an approved agency. The approved agency shall furnish the architect, structural engineer and the enforcement agency with a report verifying that the materials, timber connectors and workmanship conform to the approved construction documents.
1705 A .6 Soils. Special inspections and tests of existing site soil conditions, fill placement and load-bearing requirements shall be performed in accordance with this section and Table 1705 A .6. The approved geotechnical report and the construction documents prepared by the registered design professionals shall be used to determine compliance.
Exception: Where Section 1803 does not require reporting of materials and procedures for fill placement, the special inspector shall verify that the in-place dry density of the compacted fill is not less than 90 percent of the maximum dry density at optimum moisture content determined in accordance with ASTM D1557.
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Additional exceptions to soils special inspections and tests are permitted for the following cases when all the following occur: A) no geotechnical report is required; B) the design is permitted to be and is based on Section 1806A.2 and Table 1806A.2; C) cases are identified on the approved construction documents. 1. Deep foundations for the following structures: a. Freestanding sign or scoreboard. b. Telecommunications towers and poles less than 35 feet 0 inches above lowest adjacent grade. c. Poles less than 35 feet 0 inches above lowest adjacent grade for lighting, flags, open mesh fences and similar structures.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
d. Single-story structure with dead load less than 5 psf. e. Covered walkway structure with an apex height less than 10 feet 0 inches above lowest adjacent grade.
2. Shallow foundations or excavations for:
CPC § 0.63 High relevance — show source text
Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
i. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Panel edges backed with 2-inch nominal or wider framing. Install panels either horizontally or vertically. Space fasteners maximum 6 inches on center along intermediate
framing members for3/8-inch and7/16-inch panels installed on studs spaced 24 inches on center. For other conditions and panel thickness, space fasteners maximum 12 inches
on center on intermediate supports.
c. 3/8-inch panel thickness or siding with a span rating of 16 inches on center is the minimum recommended where applied directly to framing as exterior siding. For grooved
panel siding, the nominal panel thickness is the thickness of the panel measured at the point of fastening.
d. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
e. Values apply to all-veneer plywood. Thickness at point of fastening on panel edges governs shear values.
f. Where panels are applied on both faces of a wall and fastener spacing is less than 6 inches on center on either side, panel joints shall be offset to fall on different framing
members, or framing shall be 3 inches nominal or thicker at adjoining panel edges.
g. In Seismic Design Category D, E or F, where shear design values exceed 350 pounds per linear foot, all framing members receiving edge fastening from abutting panels shall be
not less than a single 3-inch nominal member, or two 2-inch nominal members fastened together in accordance with Section 2306.1 to transfer the design shear value
between framing members. Wood structural panel joint and sill plate nailing shall be staggered at all panel edges. See AWC SDPWS for sill plate size and anchorage
requirements.
h. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
i. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.|CPC § 1705.5.4 High relevance — show source text
||| ||Threaded fasteners.|Verify use of proper installation equipment.|—|X| ||Threaded fasteners.|Verify use of pre-drilled holes where required.|—|X| ||Threaded fasteners.|Inspect screws, including diameter, length, head type, spacing,
installation angle and depth.|—|X| ||Adhesive anchors installed in horizontal or upwardly inclined orientation to resist
sustained tension loads.|Adhesive anchors installed in horizontal or upwardly inclined orientation to resist
sustained tension loads.|X|—| ||Adhesive anchors not defined in preceding cell.|Adhesive anchors not defined in preceding cell.|—|X| ||Bolted connections.|Bolted connections.|—|X| ||Concealed connections.|Concealed connections.|—|X|1705.5.4 Manufactured trusses and assemblies. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] The fabrication of trusses and other assemblages constructed using wood and metal members, or using light metal plate connectors, shall be continuously inspected by an approved agency. The approved agency shall furnish the architect, structural engineer and the enforcement agency with a report that the lumber species, grades and moisture content; type of glue, temperature and gluing procedure; type of metal members and metal plate connectors; and the workmanship conform in every material respect with the duly approved construction documents. Each inspected truss shall be stamped by the approved agency with an identifying mark.
1705.5.5 Structural glued laminated and cross-laminated timber. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Manufacture of all structural glued lami- nated and cross-laminated timber shall be continuously inspected by an approved agency.
The approved agency shall verify that proper quality control procedures and tests have been employed for all materials and the manufacturing process, and shall perform visual inspection of the finished product. Each inspected member shall be stamped by the approved agency with an identification mark.
Exception: Special Inspection is not required for non-custom prismatic glued laminated members identified on drawings and sourced from stock or general inventory of 5 [1] / 2 -inch (140 mm) maximum width and 18-inch (457 mm) maximum depth, and with a maximum clear span of 32 feet (9754 mm), manufactured and marked in accordance with ANSI /APA A190.1 Section 14.1 for noncustom members.
1705.5.6 Manufactured open web trusses. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] The manufacture of open web trusses shall be continuously inspected by an approved agency.
The approved agency shall verify that proper quality control procedures and tests have been employed for all materials and the manufacturing process, and shall perform visual inspection of the finished product. Each inspected truss shall be stamped with an identification mark by the approved agency.
1705.5.7 Timber connectors. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] The installation of all split ring and shear plate timber connectors and timber rivets shall be continuously inspected by an approved agency. The approved agency shall furnish the architect, structural engineer and the enforcement agency with a report verifying that the materials, timber connectors and workmanship conform to the approved construction documents.
CPC § 307.4 High relevance — show source text
(11)Required clearances from combustible surfaces on which or adjacent to which it is permitted to be mounted.
An appliance shall be accompanied by clear and complete installation instructions, including required clearances from combustible other than mounting or adjacent surfaces, and temperature rating of field-installed wiring connections exceeding 140°F (60°C). 307.4 Absorption Units. Absorption units shall bear a permanent and legible factory-applied nameplate on which shall
appear:
(1) The name or trademark of the manufacturer.
(2) The model number or equivalent.
(3) The serial number.
(4) The amount of refrigerant.
(5) The refrigerant designation.
(6) Hourly rating in Btu/h (kW).
(7) The type of fuel approved for use with the unit.
(8) Cooling capacity Btu/h (kW).
(9) Required clearances from combustible surfaces on which or adjacent to which it is permitted to be mounted.
(10)The symbol of an approved agency certifying compliance of the equipment with recognized standards.
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GENERAL REGULATIONS
308.0 Improper Location.
308.1 General. Piping or equipment shall not be so located as to interfere with the normal use thereof or with the normal operation and use of windows, doors, or other required facilities.
309.0 Workmanship.
309.1 Engineering Practices. Design, construction, and workmanship shall comply with accepted engineering practices and shall be of such character as to secure the results sought to be obtained by this code.
309.2 Concealing Imperfections. It shall be unlawful to conceal cracks, holes, or other imperfections in materials by welding, brazing, or soldering, by using therein or thereon paint, wax, tar, solvent cement, other leak-sealing or repair agent.
309.3 Installation Practices. Mechanical systems shall be installed in a manner that is in accordance with this code, applicable standards, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. All mechanical systems shall be in accordance with construction documents approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
310.0 Condensate Wastes and Control.
310.1 Condensate Disposal. Condensate from air washers, air-cooling coils, condensing appliances, and the overflow from evaporative coolers and similar water-supplied equipment or similar air-conditioning equipment shall be collected and discharged to an approved plumbing fixture or disposal area. Where discharged into the drainage system, equipment shall drain by means of an indirect waste pipe. The waste pipe shall have a slope of not less than [1] ⁄ 8 inch per foot (10.4 mm/m) or 1 percent slope and shall be of approved corrosion-resistant material not smaller than the outlet size in
accordance with Section 310.3 or Section 310.4 for air-cooling coils or condensing appliances, respectively. Condensate or wastewater shall not drain over a public way.
CPC § 4.9 High relevance — show source text
As the auger is withdrawn at a steady rate or in increments not to exceed 1 foot (305 mm), concreting or grouting pumping pressures shall be measured and maintained high enough at all times to offset hydrostatic and lateral earth pressures. Concrete or grout volumes shall be measured to ensure that the volume of concrete or grout placed in each element is equal to or greater than the theoretical volume of the hole created by the auger. Where the installation process of any element is interrupted or a loss of concreting or grouting pressure occurs, the element shall be redrilled to 5 feet (1524 mm) below the elevation of the tip of the auger when the installation was interrupted or concrete or grout pressure was lost and reformed. Augered cast-in-place elements shall not be installed within six diameters center to center of an element filled with concrete or grout less than 12 hours old, unless approved by the building official. If the concrete or grout level in any completed element drops due to installation of an adjacent element, the element shall be replaced.
1810 A .4.9 Socketed drilled shafts. The rock socket and pipe or tube casing of socketed drilled shafts shall be thoroughly cleaned of foreign materials before filling with concrete. Steel cores shall be bedded in cement grout at the base of the rock socket.
1810 A .4.10 Micropiles. Micropile deep foundation elements shall be permitted to be formed in holes advanced by rotary or percussive drilling methods, with or without casing. The elements shall be grouted with a fluid cement grout. The grout shall be
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SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS
pumped through a tremie pipe extending to the bottom of the element until grout of suitable quality returns at the top of the element. The following requirements apply to specific installation methods:
For micropiles grouted inside a temporary casing, the reinforcing bars shall be inserted prior to withdrawal of the casing. The casing shall be withdrawn in a controlled manner with the grout level maintained at the top of the element to ensure that the grout completely fills the drill hole. During withdrawal of the casing, the grout level inside the casing shall be monitored to verify that the flow of grout inside the casing is not obstructed.
For a micropile or portion thereof grouted in an open drill hole in soil without temporary casing, the minimum design diameter of the drill hole shall be verified by a suitable device during grouting.
For micropiles designed for end bearing, a suitable means shall be employed to verify that the bearing surface is properly cleaned prior to grouting.
Subsequent micropiles shall not be drilled near elements that have been grouted until the grout has had sufficient time to harden.
Micropiles shall be grouted as soon as possible after drilling is completed.
For micropiles designed with a full-length casing, the casing shall be pulled back to the top of the bond zone and reinserted or some other suitable means employed to ensure grout coverage outside the casing.
1810 A .4.11 Helical piles. Helical piles shall be installed to specified embedment depth and torsional resistance criteria as determined by a registered design professional. The torque applied during installation shall not exceed the manufacturer’s rated maximum installation torque resistance of the helical pile.
CPC § 309.0 High relevance — show source text
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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)
ASTM D2466 Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40
ASTM D2467 Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
ASTM F1970 Special Engineered Fittings, Appurtenances or Valves for use in Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) or Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Systems
AWWA C110 Ductile Iron and Gray-Iron Fittings
AWWA C111 Rubber-Gasket Joints for Ductile-Iron Pressure Pipe and Fittings
AWWA C151 Ductile-Iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast
AWWA C153 Ductile-Iron Compact Fitting
AWWA C900 Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe and Fabricated Fittings, 4 in. through 12 in. (100 mm through 300 mm)
AWWA C904 Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pressure Tubing, ½ in. through 3 In. (13 mm through 76 mm), for Water Service
AWWA C907 Injection-Molded Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Fittings, 4 In, through 12 in (100 mm through 300 mm) for Water, Wastewater and Reclaimed Water Service
IAPMO/
ANSI UPC-1 Uniform Plumbing Code
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CPC § 305.6 High relevance — show source text
305.6 Outdoor Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
306.0 Automatic Control Devices . . . . . . . 55
306.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
306.2 Building Automation Systems . . . . 56
2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
307.0 Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
307.1 Fuel-Burning Appliances . . . . . . . . 56
307.2 Electric Heating Appliances . . . . . . 56
307.3 Heat Pump and Electric Cooling Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
307.4 Absorption Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
308.0 Improper Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
308.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
309.0 Workmanship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
309.1 Engineering Practices. . . . . . . . . . . 57
309.2 Concealing Imperfections . . . . . . . . 57
309.3 Installation Practices. . . . . . . . . . . . 57
310.0 Condensate Wastes and Control . . 57
310.1 Condensate Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . 57
310.2 Condensate Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
310.3 Condensate Waste Pipe Material and Sizing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Table 310.3 Minimum Condensate Pipe Size. . . 57
310.4 Appliance Condensate Drains . . . . 58
310.5 Point of Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
310.6 Condensate Waste from
Air-Conditioning Coils . . . . . . . . . . . 58
310.7 Female Plastic Connections . . . . . . 58
311.0 Heating or Cooling Air System . . . . 58
311.1 Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
311.2 Air Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
311.3 Prohibited Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
311.4 Return-Air Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . 58
311.5 California Energy Code Requirements for Residential
Air Filtration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
312.0 Plumbing Connections . . . . . . . . . . 59
312.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
CPC § 31-2022 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 453
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454 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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"The information contained in this appendix is not part of this American National Standard (ANS) and has not been processed in accordance with ANSI's requirements for an ANS. As such, this appendix may contain material that has not been subjected to public review or a consensus process. In addition, it does not contain requirements necessary for conformance to the standard."
The following IAPMO Installation Standard is included here for the convenience of the users of the Uniform Plumbing Code. It is not considered as a part of the Uniform Plumbing Code unless formally adopted as such. This Installation Standard is an independent, stand-alone document published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and is printed herein by the expressed written permission of IAPMO.
INSTALLATION STANDARD FOR PEX TUBING SYSTEMS
FOR HOT- AND COLD-WATER DISTRIBUTION
IAPMO IS 31-2022
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency, or referenced in the adopting ordinance.
1 Scope
1.1 General
1.1.1 This Standard specifies requirements for the installation of SDR 9 CTS crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing and fittings, including cold-expansion, crimp, press, and mechanical compression fittings, intended for hot- and cold-water distribution systems within buildings.
1.1.2 This Standards applies to
(a) SDR 9 CTS PEX tubing complying with ASTM F876 and pressure-rated in accordance with PPI TR-3; and (b) PEX fitting systems complying with (i) ASTM F877, for mechanical compression fittings and metal or plastic insert fittings with stainless steel press sleeves; (ii) ASTM F1807 or ASTM F2159, for metal or plastic insert fittings with copper crimp rings; (iii) ASTM F1960, for cold expansion fittings with PEX reinforced rings; or (iv) ASTM F2080, for cold expansion fittings with metal compression sleeves. 1.2 Terminology
In this Standard,
(a) “shall” is used to express a requirement, i.e., a provision that the user is obliged to satisfy to comply with the Standard; (b) “should” is used to express a recommendation, but not a requirement; (c) “may” is used to express an option or something permissible within the scope of the Standard; and (d) “can” is used to express a possibility or a capability. Notes accompanying sections of the Standard do not specify requirements or alternative requirements; their purpose is to separate explanatory or informa
tive material from the text. Notes to tables and figures are considered part of the table or figure and can be written as requirements.
1.3 Units of Measurement
SI units are the primary units of record in global commerce. In this Standard, the inch/pound units are shown in parentheses. The values stated in each measurement system are equivalent in application, but each unit system is to be used independently. All references to gallons are to U.S. gallons.
2 Reference Publications
CPC § 4.6 Medium relevance — show source text
Considerations are soil density; clearance from obstacles, utilities, and structures; location of bends, and water service locations. Excavations and shoring shall be in accordance with jurisdictional safety requirements. (c) Set Up Fuse the proper length of polyethylene pipe in accordance with ASTM F2620, or ASTM D3261 and fuse the end to a small length that is attached to the pulling head. A rod pusher cable is pushed through the damaged host pipe and attached to the pulling cable, which is then drawn through the pipe. The clevis end of the cable is attached to the pulling head. The pulling equipment is then set up according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
(d) Pulling Pull the pulling head through. Once the pull is done, complete the connection to the existing piping.
4.6 Cleanouts
4.6.1 Plug Each cleanout fitting for cast-iron pipe shall consist of a cast-iron or brass body and an approved plug. Each cleanout for galvanized wrought-iron, galvanized steel, copper, or brass pipe shall consist of a brass plug as specified in Table 1, or a standard weight brass cap, or an approved ABS or PVC plastic plug, or an approved stainless-steel cleanout or plug. Plugs shall have raised square heads or approved countersunk rectangular slots. 4.6.2 Approved Each cleanout fitting and each cleanout plug, or cap shall be of an approved type.
452 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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IS 26
4.6.3 Watertight and Gastight
Cleanouts shall be designed to be watertight and gastight.
5 Testing and Inspection Requirements
5.1 Media
The piping of the building sewer shall be tested with water. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require the removal of cleanouts, etc., to ascertain whether the pressure has reached all parts of the system.
5.2 Water Test
The system shall be tested by plugging the end of the building sewer at its points of connection to the public sewer or private sewage disposal system and completely filling the building sewer with water from the lowest to the highest point thereof.
5.3 Inspections
The completed piping shall be internally inspected by camera unless waived by the Administrative Authority.
TABLE 1
CLEANOUTS (See Section 4.6.1)
NPS SIZE OF CLEANOUT
(inches)THREADS PER INCH 1.5 1.5 11.5
21.5 11.5
2.52.5 8
32.5 8
4 & larger3.5 8 Note: For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm
Uniform Plumbing Code References
The following sections of the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code apply.
105.2 Required Inspections
105.2.2 Other Inspections
105.3 Testing of Systems
301.2 Minimum Standards
309.0 Workmanship
312.0 Protection of Piping, Materials, and Structures
Frequently asked questions
What does “workmanlike manner” mean in the CPC?
It means installations must follow accepted engineering practices, be properly executed (neat, complete, functional), comply with the CPC and applicable standards, and follow manufacturer instructions and approved construction documents (§ 309.1, § 309.4).
Can I patch a crack with sealant instead of replacing the part?
No. The CPC forbids concealing cracks, holes, or other imperfections by welding, brazing, soldering, paint, wax, tar, solvent cement, or other leak‑sealing/repair agents (§ 309.2).
What exactly must I do with burred pipe ends?
You must ream burred ends to the full bore of the pipe or tube and remove all chips before completing the joint (§ 309.3).
Are there numerical limits for how long a dead leg can be?
Not in § 309.6; the section requires a method of flushing dead legs but does not specify numeric length/flow criteria in this text. For numeric thresholds consult applicable standards, manufacturer guidance, or your Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Does sound control for plumbing come from the CPC?
The CPC requires plumbing piping systems to meet sound transmission limits as required in the California Building Code — see § 309.5 for the cross‑reference.
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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