CPC · California Plumbing Code

Cleanouts and maximum developed lengths for indirect waste runs

Q: When does the 5‑foot limit apply?

The 5‑foot limit in § 801.4 applies to bar and fountain sinks where the sink trap cannot be vented ; in that case the sink drain must discharge through an air gap/air break to a vented receptor and the developed length to that receptor must be ≤ 5 ft .

Q: Do indirect waste runs between 5 and 15 feet need venting?

No—under § 803.3 , indirect waste pipes > 5 ft and < 15 ft must be directly trapped , but those traps need not be vented .

Q: Are cleanouts always required at every elbow?

The CPC requires that angles and changes of direction in indirect waste piping be provided with cleanouts to permit flushing and cleaning (see § 803.3 ). For other DWV piping, Chapter 7 cleanout rules and exceptions (e.g., horizontal runs < 5 ft) may also apply — see § 707.4 .

Q: What minimum pipe size must I use for an indirect waste?

Indirect waste pipes less than 15 ft in length must be not less than the diameter of the drain outlet or tailpiece , and in no case less than 1/2 inch (see § 803.3 ).

Q: Do walk‑in cooler drains have special cleanout rules?

Yes. § 801.3.2 requires cleanouts at 90° turns for walk‑in cooler floor drains; such drains must be trapped and individually vented and discharge through an air gap/air break with receptor elevation limits.

Short answer for a homeowner: certain fixtures that discharge indirectly (like soda fountains and some food equipment) must either be very short runs (bar/fountain sinks ≤5 ft to a vented receptor) or follow trapping and cleanout rules; longer indirect runs (up to 15 ft in many cases) must be trapped and provided with cleanouts so service and cleaning are possible, all per the California Plumbing Code (**§ 801.4** and **§ 803.3**).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Plumbing Code requires that indirect waste piping meet specific maximum developed lengths and that cleanouts be provided at changes of direction so piping can be flushed and cleaned. In particular, § 803.3 sets the sizing, trapping and cleanout requirements for indirect waste piping, and § 801.4 limits the developed length from a bar or fountain sink outlet to the receptor to 5 feet and requires discharge through an air gap or air break where the trap cannot be vented. See § 803.3 and § 801.4 .

The single most important rule: indirect waste runs beyond short distances must be trapped and provided with cleanouts; bar/fountain sink outlets that cannot be vented may only run up to 5 feet to an air-gapped receptor. (See § 803.3 and § 801.4.)

Requirements in detail

Key defined terms (first mention bolded)

Cleanout — an access fitting that permits flushing and mechanical cleaning of a pipe (see cleanout location rules in Chapter 7 and the indirect-waste references in Chapter 8).
Developed length — the measured length of a piping run along its centerline from the fixture outlet to the receptor or other termination; relevant definitions and cross-references appear in the CPC index.
Air gap / Air break — the required separation for an indirect waste discharge into a receptor (see Chapter 8).

Direct (must-follow) provisions

Maximum developed lengths and sizing:
- Indirect waste runs used in many fixtures/equipment have a maximum developed length of 15 feet (unless a specific provision says otherwise). See § 801.3.1 for the 15‑ft maximum on many food‑service and sterile equipment indirect wastes.
- For bar and fountain sinks where the trap cannot be vented, the developed length from the fixture outlet to the receptor shall not exceed 5 feet and the sink must discharge through an air gap or air break into an approved—and vented—receptor. See § 801.4.
Trapping and venting for indirect waste runs (from § 803.3):
- Indirect waste pipes exceeding 5 feet but less than 15 feet in developed length must be directly trapped, but those traps need not be vented. § 803.3 also prohibits combining a vent from indirect waste piping with a sewer‑connected vent; vents from indirect waste piping must extend separately to outside air.
- Indirect waste pipes less than 15 feet in length must be not less than the diameter of the drain outlet or tailpiece, and in no case less than 1/2 inch. § 803.3.
Cleanouts:
- Angles and changes of direction in indirect waste piping shall be provided with cleanouts to permit flushing and cleaning (explicit requirement in § 803.3).
- Specific equipment rules may add cleanout placement requirements—e.g., walk‑in cooler floor drains: cleanouts at 90° turns and accessibly located (see § 801.3.2).

Quick decision table

Situation / parameter	Code requirement (value)	Code Reference
Bar or fountain sink developed length to receptor (when trap cannot be vented)	≤ 5 ft (1524 mm) and must discharge through an air gap/air break to a vented receptor	§ 801.4
Typical indirect waste maximum developed length (food/sterile equipment, etc.)	≤ 15 ft (4572 mm) (where listed in § 801.3.1 & related provisions)	§ 801.3.1
Indirect waste runs >5 ft but <15 ft	Must be directly trapped; trap need not be vented	§ 803.3
Minimum pipe diameter for indirect waste (when <15 ft)	Not less than the drain outlet or tailpiece; not less than 1/2 in (15 mm)	§ 803.3
Cleanouts at changes of direction or angle	Required for angles/changes of direction in indirect waste runs to permit flushing	§ 803.3
Walk‑in cooler floor drains	Cleanouts at 90° turns; trapped and individually vented; receptor flood rim requirements	§ 801.3.2
General cleanout spacing exceptions (for other DWV piping)	Cleanouts may be omitted on horizontal drain lines < 5 ft unless serving sinks/urinals (Chapter 7 cleanout exceptions)	§ 707.4 (exceptions)

Exceptions & special cases

Trapping without venting: An indirect waste run that is > 5 ft and < 15 ft must be trapped but its trap need not be vented under § 803.3. This is an explicit relaxation of normal venting requirements for these short indirect runs.
Bar / fountain sinks: If the sink trap cannot be vented, the sink must discharge through an air gap or air break into an approved receptor that is vented, and the developed length may be no more than 5 ft. If the trap can be vented normally, this special 5‑ft air‑gap requirement does not apply. See § 801.4.
Equipment-specific maximums: Some equipment (sterilizers, certain food‑service devices) have separate statements that the indirect waste pipe shall not exceed 15 ft and must be separately piped to the receptor—consult the specific subsection (e.g., § 801.6, § 801.3.1) for those appliances.
Cleanout omission exceptions in Chapter 7: For general DWV cleanout rules, cleanouts can be omitted on a horizontal drain line less than 5 ft unless that line serves sinks or urinals; consider this when deciding whether a cleanout is required for a short indirect waste branch (see § 707.4 exceptions).

If you have an unusual indirect waste (chemical, high‑temperature, or under vacuum), the code contains specialized requirements elsewhere in Chapter 8 (e.g., full‑size air gaps for vacuumed indirect waste in § 801.3.2).

Common mistakes

Treating the 5‑ft rule in § 801.4 as a general indirect‑waste limit — it specifically applies to bar and fountain sinks where the trap cannot be vented, not to every indirect waste run. See § 801.4.
Forgetting the trap requirement for runs between 5 ft and 15 ft — these must be directly trapped even though the trap may not require venting (per § 803.3).
Omitting cleanouts at changes of direction — § 803.3 requires cleanouts at angles/changes of direction for indirect waste piping to permit flushing. Don’t rely only on general DWV cleanout spacing rules without checking the indirect‑waste text.
Using undersized tubing — the code requires an indirect waste pipe be at least the drain outlet diameter and no less than 1/2 in for many indirect runs (see § 803.3).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A soda fountain in a café produces condensate and ice‑maker overflows. The trap for the fountain cannot be vented because of the counter layout. The drain outlet/tailpiece is 1/2 inch OD and the planned developed run from the fixture outlet to an approved, vented receptor is 4 feet in length. The run includes a single 90° elbow.

Apply the CPC:

Because this is a bar/fountain sink whose trap cannot be vented, § 801.4 applies: the developed length from the fixture outlet to the receptor must be ≤ 5 ft, and the sink must discharge through an air gap/air break into a vented receptor. At 4 ft, the planned run meets § 801.4.
The indirect waste pipe is < 5 ft, so the special 5–15 ft trapping rule of § 803.3 (direct trap required for 5–15 ft runs) does not force a direct trap in addition to the existing trap; however, the piping must still be sized not less than the drain outlet (which is 1/2 in) per § 803.3. Confirm the chosen piping equals or exceeds the drain outlet diameter.
The elbow is a change of direction. § 803.3 requires that angles and changes of direction be provided with cleanouts to permit flushing and cleaning. Therefore provide an accessible cleanout at the elbow (or arrange the piping so the elbow is accessible and a cleanout is installed nearby).

Result: The 4‑ft, 1/2‑inch run with an air gap to a vented receptor and an accessible cleanout at the elbow complies with § 801.4 and the cleanout/size rules referenced in § 803.3.

Related provisions (quick list)

§ 801.3.1 — Size and maximum developed length (15 ft) for many indirect waste pipes (food/beverage equipment).
§ 801.3.2 — Walk‑in cooler floor drains: cleanouts at 90° turns; trapped and individually vented; receptor elevation requirements.
§ 801.6 — Sterilizers: indirect waste connections and the 15‑ft maximum for those devices.
§ 803.1–803.2 — Materials and joint requirements for indirect waste piping.
§ 707.4 — General cleanout spacing and exceptions in Chapter 7 (useful cross‑reference for when cleanouts can be omitted).

If you want, I can produce a one‑page checklist or a dimensioned sketch for a specific fixture/run in your project (showing trap, air gap location, cleanout placement and exact developed length) tied to the exact CPC paragraphs referenced above.

Code references

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

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.

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CHAPTER 8

INDIRECT WASTES

801.0 General.

801.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the materials, design, and installation of indirect waste piping, receptors, and connections; and provisions for discharge and disposal of condensate wastes, chemical wastes, industrial wastes, and clear water wastes.

801.2 Air Gap or Air Break Required. Indirect waste piping shall discharge into the building drainage system through an air gap or air break as set forth in this code. Where a drainage air gap is required by this code, the minimum vertical distance as measured from the lowest point of the indirect waste pipe or the fixture outlet to the flood-level rim of the receptor shall be not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm). 801.3 Food and Beverage Handling Establishments. Establishments engaged in the storage, preparation, selling, serving, processing, or other handling of food and beverage involving the following equipment that requires drainage shall provide indirect waste piping for refrigerators, refrigeration coils, freezers, walk-in coolers, iceboxes, ice-making machines, steam tables, egg boilers, coffee urns and brewers, hot-and-cold drink dispensers, and similar equipment. 801.3.1 Size of Indirect Waste Pipes. Except for refrigeration coils and ice-making machines, the size of the indirect waste pipe shall be not smaller than the drain on the unit, but shall be not smaller than 1 inch (25 mm), and the maximum developed length shall not exceed 15 feet (4572 mm). Indirect waste pipe for ice-making machines shall be not less than the drain on the unit and in no case less than [3] ⁄ 4 of an inch (20 mm). 801.3.2 Walk-In Coolers. For walk-in coolers, floor drains shall be permitted to be connected to a separate drainage line discharging into an outside receptor. The flood-level rim of the receptor shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm) lower than the lowest floor drain. Such floor drains shall be trapped and individually vented. Cleanouts shall be provided at 90 degree (1.57 rad) turns and shall be accessibly located. Such waste shall discharge through an air gap or air break into a trapped and vented receptor, except that a full-size air gap is required where the indirect waste pipe is under vacuum. 801.3.3 Food-Handling Fixtures. Food-preparation sinks, steam kettles, potato peelers, ice cream dipper wells, and similar equipment shall be indirectly connected to the drainage system by means of an air gap.
CPC § 801.3.1 High relevance — show source text
801.3.1 Size of Indirect Waste Pipes. Except for refrigeration coils and ice-making machines, the size of the indirect waste pipe shall be not smaller than the drain on the unit, but shall be not smaller than 1 inch (25 mm), and the maximum developed length shall not exceed 15 feet (4572 mm). Indirect waste pipe for ice-making machines shall be not less than the drain on the unit and in no case less than [3] ⁄ 4 of an inch (20 mm). 801.3.2 Walk-In Coolers. For walk-in coolers, floor drains shall be permitted to be connected to a separate drainage line discharging into an outside receptor. The flood-level rim of the receptor shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm) lower than the lowest floor drain. Such floor drains shall be trapped and individually vented. Cleanouts shall be provided at 90 degree (1.57 rad) turns and shall be accessibly located. Such waste shall discharge through an air gap or air break into a trapped and vented receptor, except that a full-size air gap is required where the indirect waste pipe is under vacuum. 801.3.3 Food-Handling Fixtures. Food-preparation sinks, steam kettles, potato peelers, ice cream dipper wells, and similar equipment shall be indirectly connected to the drainage system by means of an air gap. Bins, sinks, and other equipment having drainage connections and used for the storage of unpackaged ice used for human ingestion, or used in direct contact with ready-to-eat food, shall be indirectly connected to the drainage system by means of an air gap. Each indirect waste pipe from foodhandling fixtures or equipment shall be separately piped to the indirect waste receptor and shall not combine with other indirect waste pipes. The piping from the equipment to the receptor shall be not less than the drain on the unit and in no case less than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (15 mm).

801.4 Bar and Fountain Sink Traps. Where the sink in a bar, soda fountain, or counter is so located that the trap serving the sink cannot be vented, the sink drain shall discharge through an air gap or air break (see Section 801.3.3) into an approved receptor that is vented. The developed length from the fixture outlet to the receptor shall not exceed 5 feet (1524 mm). 801.5 Connections from Water Distribution System. Indirect waste connections shall be provided for drains, overflows, or relief pipes from potable water pressure tanks, water heaters, boilers, and similar equipment that is connected to the potable water distribution system. Such indirect waste connections shall be made using a water-distribution air gap constructed in accordance with Table 603.3.1.

801.6 Sterilizers. Lines, devices, or apparatus such as stills, sterilizers, and similar equipment requiring waste connections and used for sterile materials shall be indirectly connected using an air gap. Each such indirect waste pipe shall be separately piped to the receptor and shall not exceed 15 feet (4572 mm). Such receptors shall be located in the same room. 801.7 Drip or Drainage Outlets. Appliances, devices, or apparatus not regularly classified as plumbing fixtures, but which have a drip or drainage outlets, shall be permitted to be drained by indirect waste pipes discharging into an open receptor through either an air gap or air break (see Section 801.3.1).
CPC § 316.0 High relevance — show source text
INCREASERS AND REDUCERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .316.0

INDIRECT-FIRED WATER HEATERS . . . . . . . .211.0, 505.4,

603.5.4, 608.7 INDIRECT WASTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chapter 8 Air gap or break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.2 Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .807.0 Approval required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .802.0 Aspirators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .603.5.9, 1303.5

Chemical wastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .811.0

Cleanouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.3.2, 803.3

Clear water wastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .812.0

Condensate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814.1, 814.1.1, 814.5 Food handling fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.3.3 High temperature discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .810.1 Interceptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .902.1 Receptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.4, 804.0 Sterile equipment . . . . . . . . . . . .801.6, 806.0, 1303.4.1 Swimming pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .813.0 Traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.3.2, 803.3, 814.5

Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .803.3

Where required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.2

INDIVIDUAL VENTS . . . . . . . . . . .211.0, Table 703.2, 904.1,

908.2.1

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INDEX

INDUSTRIAL WASTES
CPC § 803.0 High relevance — show source text
803.0 Indirect Waste Piping.

803.1 Materials. Pipe, tube, and fittings conveying indirect waste shall be of such materials and design as to perform their intended function to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

803.2 Copper and Copper Alloys. Joints and connections in copper and copper alloy pipe and tube shall be installed in accordance with Section 705.3.

803.3 Pipe Size and Length. Except as hereinafter provided, the size of indirect waste piping shall be in accordance with other sections of this code applicable to drainage and vent piping. No vent from indirect waste piping shall combine with a sewer-connected vent. Vents from indirect waste piping shall extend separately to the outside air. Indirect waste pipes exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm), but less than 15 feet (4572 mm) in length shall be directly trapped, but such traps need not be vented.

Indirect waste pipes less than 15 feet (4572 mm) in length shall be not less than the diameter of the drain outlet or

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INDIRECT WASTES

tailpiece of the fixture, appliance, or equipment served, and in no case less than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (15 mm). Angles and changes of direction in such indirect waste pipes shall be provided with cleanouts to permit flushing and cleaning.

804.0 Indirect Waste Receptors.

804.1 Standpipe Receptors. Plumbing fixtures or other receptors receiving the discharge of indirect waste pipes shall be approved for the use proposed and shall be of such shape and capacity as to prevent splashing or flooding and shall be located where they are readily accessible for inspection and cleaning. No standpipe receptor for a clothes washer shall extend more than 30 inches (762 mm), or not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above its trap weir. No trap for a clothes washer standpipe receptor shall be installed below the floor, but shall be roughed in not less than 6 inches (152 mm) and not more than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor. No indirect waste receptor shall be installed in a toilet room, closet, cupboard, or storeroom, or in a portion of a building not in general use by the occupants thereof; except standpipes for clothes washers shall be permitted to be installed in toilet and bathroom areas where the clothes washer is installed in the

same room.

805.0 Pressure Drainage Connections. 805.1 General. Indirect waste connections shall be provided for drains, overflows, or relief vents from the water supply system, and no piping or equipment carrying wastes or producing wastes or other discharges under pressure shall be directly connected to a part of the drainage system.

The preceding shall not apply to an approved sump pump or to an approved pressure-wasting plumbing fixture or device where the Authority Having Jurisdiction has been satisfied that the drainage system is adequately sized to accommodate the anticipated discharge thereof.

806.0 Sterile Equipment.

806.1 General. Appliances, devices, or apparatus such as stills, sterilizers, and similar equipment requiring water and waste and used for sterile materials shall be drained through an air gap.

807.0 Appliances.
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.

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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

2 1.5 11.5

2.5 2.5 8

3 2.5 8

4 & larger 3.5 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
CPC § 717.1 Medium relevance — show source text
TABLE 717.1

MAXIMUM/MINIMUM FIXTURE UNIT LOADING

For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m
- See also Appendix H, Private Sewage Disposal Systems. For alternate methods of sizing drainage piping, see Appendix C.
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SANITARY DRAINAGE

719.0 Cleanouts.

719.1 Locations. Cleanouts shall be placed inside the building near the connection between the building drain and the building sewer or installed outside the building at the lower end of the building drain and extended to grade.

Additional building sewer cleanouts shall be installed at intervals not to exceed 100 feet (30 480 mm) in straight runs and for each aggregate horizontal change in direction exceeding 135 degrees (2.36 rad). 719.2 No Additional Cleanouts. Where a building sewer or a branch thereof does not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm) in length and is a straight-line projection from a building drain that is provided with a cleanout, no cleanout will be required at its point of connection to the building drain. 719.3 Building Sewer Cleanouts. Required building sewer cleanouts shall be extended to grade and shall be in accordance with the appropriate sections of cleanouts, Section 707.0, for sizing, construction, and materials. Where building sewers are located under buildings, the cleanout requirements of Section 707.0 shall apply. 719.4 Cleaning. Each cleanout shall be installed so that it opens to allow cleaning in the direction of flow of the soil or waste or at right angles thereto and, except in the case of wye branch and end-of-line cleanouts, shall be installed vertically above the flow line of the pipe. 719.5 Access. Cleanouts installed under concrete or asphalt paving shall be made accessible by yard boxes or by extending flush with paving with approved materials and shall be adequately protected. 719.6 Manholes. Approved manholes shall be permitted to be installed in lieu of cleanouts, where first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The maximum distance between manholes shall not exceed 300 feet (91 440 mm).

The inlet and outlet connections shall be made by the use of a flexible compression joint not less than 12 inches (305 mm) and not exceeding 3 feet (914 mm) from the manhole. No flexible compression joints shall be embedded in the manhole base.

720.0 Sewer and Water Pipes. 720.1 General. Building sewers or drainage piping of clay or materials that are not approved for use within a building shall not be run or laid in the same trench as the water pipes unless the following requirements are met:

(1) The bottom of the water pipe, at points, shall be not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the top of the sewer or drain line.

(2) The water pipe shall be placed on a solid shelf excavated at one side of the common trench with a clear horizontal distance of not less than 12 inches (305 mm) from the sewer or drain line.

(3) Water pipes crossing sewer or drainage piping constructed of clay or materials that are not approved for use within a building shall be laid not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the sewer or drainpipe.
CPC § 707.0 Medium relevance — show source text
DRAINAGE SYSTEM

Cleanouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .707.0, 719.0 Change in direction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706.0 Damage to public sewer or private sewage disposal system . . . . . . . . . . . . .305.1, 714.0 Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206.0

Fixture units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Table 702.1

Gutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1010.5.1

Independent systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .311.0 Indirect waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chapter 8

Joints and connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705.0

Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .701.2, Table 701.2, 715.0

Obstruction of flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .310.5

Piping (OSHPD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .310.9 Sizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .702.0, Table 702.1, 703.0, Table 703.2, 717.0, Table 717.1 Slope of piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .708.1 Sumps and ejectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .710.0 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .712.0, 723.0 Waste detrimental to . . . . . . . . . . . .306.0, 811.1, 1012.1 DRINKING FOUNTAINS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206.0, 415.0,

809.0, E 501.8 DUCTILE IRON PIPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Table 604.1, 605.4 DURHAM SYSTEM, DEFINITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206.0

– E –

EARTHQUAKE-ACTUATED GAS

SHUTOFF VALVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1211.8

EFFECTIVE GROUND-FAULT

NPS	SIZE OF CLEANOUT (inches)	THREADS PER INCH
1.5	1.5	11.5
2	1.5	11.5
2.5	2.5	8
3	2.5	8
4 & larger	3.5	8

CPC § 707.2 Medium relevance — show source text

For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm

707.2 Approved. Each cleanout fitting and each cleanout plug or cap shall be of an approved type. A list of approved standards for cleanouts are referenced in Table 707.2.

TABLE 707.2 CLEANOUT MATERIALS FOR DRAIN, WASTE, AND VENT

MATERIAL	STANDARD
ABS_1_	ASTM D2661, CSA B79, IAPMO IGC 78, IAPMO IGC 224
Cast Iron	ASME A112.36.2M, ASTM A888, CISPI 301, CSA B79, IAPMO IGC 224
Copper or Copper Alloy	ASME A112.36.2M, CSA B79
Ductile Iron	CSA B79
Elastomers	CSA B79, IAPMO PS 90
Polyethylene (PE)	CSA B79
Polypropylene (PP)	CSA B79
PVC_1_	ASTM D2665, CSA B79, IAPMO IGC 78, IAPMO IGC 224
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF)	CSA B79
Stainless Steel	CSA B79

1 [HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS and PVC installations are limited to not more

than two stories of areas of residential accommodation.

707.3 Watertight and Gastight. Cleanouts shall be designed to be watertight and gastight. 707.4 Location. Each horizontal drainage pipe shall be provided with a cleanout at its upper terminal, and each run of piping, that is more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) in total developed length, shall be provided with a cleanout for each 100 feet (30 480 mm), or fraction thereof, in length of such piping. An additional cleanout shall be provided in a drainage line for each aggregate horizontal change in direction exceeding 135 degrees (2.36 rad). A cleanout shall be installed above the fixture connection fitting, serving each urinal, regardless of the location of the urinal in the building.

TABLE 707.1

CLEANOUTS

For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm

TABLE 707.2 CLEANOUT MATERIALS FOR DRAIN, WASTE, AND VENT

1 [HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS and PVC installations are limited to not more

than two stories of areas of residential accommodation.

172 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

SANITARY DRAINAGE

Exceptions:

(1) Cleanouts shall be permitted to be omitted on a horizontal drain line less than 5 feet (1524 mm) in length unless such line is serving sinks or urinals.

(2) Cleanouts shall be permitted to be omitted on a horizontal drainage pipe installed on a slope of 72 degrees (1.26 rad) or less from the vertical angle (one-fifth bend).

CPC § 610.3 Medium relevance — show source text
610.3, 610.12.1,

L 501.0, L 502.0, L 503.0 HOUSE DRAINS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(see Building drain) HOUSE SEWERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(see Building sewer)

– I –

IDENTIFICATION

Cast-iron soil pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .701.2 Copper tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .604.4 Fuel gas piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1208.7.5 Medical gas and medical vacuum systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1318.5,

1323.13 – 1323.13.3,

1323.14, 1323.15 Piping, fittings, traps, and fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301.2.1 Potable and nonpotable water lines . . . . . . . . . . .615.0 Water, nonpotable and potable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .601.3

INCREASERS AND REDUCERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .316.0

INDIRECT-FIRED WATER HEATERS . . . . . . . .211.0, 505.4,

603.5.4, 608.7 INDIRECT WASTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chapter 8 Air gap or break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.2 Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .807.0 Approval required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .802.0 Aspirators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .603.5.9, 1303.5

Chemical wastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .811.0

Cleanouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801.3.2, 803.3

Clear water wastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .812.0
CPC § 801.4 Medium relevance — show source text
The piping from the equipment to the receptor shall be not less than the drain on the unit and in no case less than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (15 mm).

801.4 Bar and Fountain Sink Traps. Where the sink in a bar, soda fountain, or counter is so located that the trap serving the sink cannot be vented, the sink drain shall discharge through an air gap or air break (see Section 801.3.3) into an approved receptor that is vented. The developed length from the fixture outlet to the receptor shall not exceed 5 feet (1524 mm). 801.5 Connections from Water Distribution System. Indirect waste connections shall be provided for drains, overflows, or relief pipes from potable water pressure tanks, water heaters, boilers, and similar equipment that is connected to the potable water distribution system. Such indirect waste connections shall be made using a water-distribution air gap constructed in accordance with Table 603.3.1.

801.6 Sterilizers. Lines, devices, or apparatus such as stills, sterilizers, and similar equipment requiring waste connections and used for sterile materials shall be indirectly connected using an air gap. Each such indirect waste pipe shall be separately piped to the receptor and shall not exceed 15 feet (4572 mm). Such receptors shall be located in the same room. 801.7 Drip or Drainage Outlets. Appliances, devices, or apparatus not regularly classified as plumbing fixtures, but which have a drip or drainage outlets, shall be permitted to be drained by indirect waste pipes discharging into an open receptor through either an air gap or air break (see Section 801.3.1).

802.0 Approvals. 802.1 General. No plumbing fixtures served by indirect waste pipes or receiving discharge therefrom shall be installed until first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

803.0 Indirect Waste Piping.

803.1 Materials. Pipe, tube, and fittings conveying indirect waste shall be of such materials and design as to perform their intended function to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

803.2 Copper and Copper Alloys. Joints and connections in copper and copper alloy pipe and tube shall be installed in accordance with Section 705.3.

803.3 Pipe Size and Length. Except as hereinafter provided, the size of indirect waste piping shall be in accordance with other sections of this code applicable to drainage and vent piping. No vent from indirect waste piping shall combine with a sewer-connected vent. Vents from indirect waste piping shall extend separately to the outside air. Indirect waste pipes exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm), but less than 15 feet (4572 mm) in length shall be directly trapped, but such traps need not be vented.

Indirect waste pipes less than 15 feet (4572 mm) in length shall be not less than the diameter of the drain outlet or

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 181

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

INDIRECT WASTES

tailpiece of the fixture, appliance, or equipment served, and in no case less than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (15 mm). Angles and changes of direction in such indirect waste pipes shall be provided with cleanouts to permit flushing and cleaning.

804.0 Indirect Waste Receptors.

**804.1 Standpipe Receptors.
CPC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text
An acceptable air supply for combustion and ventilation is necessary for the proper operation of fuel-burning appliances. A shortage of combustion air can result in incomplete combustion and the production of poisonous gases, such as carbon monoxide or appliance overheating. Ventilation air provides cooling for the appliance casing and internal controls. Inadequate ventilation of the space in which an appliance is installed can result in increased surrounding temperatures that stress the appliance itself or other appliances in the vicinity.

xiv 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

FORMAT OF THE UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE

Chapter 6 Water Supply and Distribution.

Chapter 6 regulates the design, material, and installation of water supply and distribution systems, including residential fire sprinklers. The water supply and distribution system is designed to achieve the correct water pressure and flow rates and avoid cross-connections. For fixtures to perform properly, an acceptable supply of potable water is essential to their operation and use. Cross-connections and backflow are ranked as the highest priority because of the long history of recognized health risks posed by cross-connections, outbreaks, or cases of waterborne disease. Piping materials and components are evaluated for their possible effect on the potable water with which they are in contact. The intent is to control the potential adverse health effects produced by indirect additives, products, and materials that come in contact with potable water. When selecting materials for water supply and distribution systems, consider water pressure, water temperature, compatibility with the water supply, durability, support, and sustainability.

In addition, this chapter regulates the design, location, materials, and installation of multipurpose and stand-alone sprinkler systems that do not include the use of antifreeze. Where systems are installed as a portion of the water distribution system under the requirements of this chapter and are not provided with a fire department connection, backflow protection for the water supply system is not required.

Chapter 7 Sanitary Drainage.

This chapter regulates the design and installation of sanitary drainage systems to ensure they will work as intended. Drainage piping should not be oversized nor undersized, and constructed of approved materials to guard against fouling, deposit of solids, clogging, and with cleanouts so arranged that the pipes may be readily cleaned. The purpose of the sanitary drainage system is to remove effluent discharged from plumbing fixtures and other equipment to an approved point of disposal, such as a public sanitary system or private sewage disposal system.

The basics of a sanitary drainage system include public and private sewage disposal; selection of materials; installation of the building drain and sewer; joining methods for pipe and fittings; drainage fixture units for sizing the drainage system; sumps and ejectors; vent sizing and length of vents; and testing.

Chapter 8 Indirect Wastes.

Chapter 8 regulates indirect waste connections that are required for plumbing fixtures and plumbing appliances dealing with food preparation, dishwashing, potable liquids, and similar equipment. An indirect connection prevents sewage from backing up into a fixture or appliance, thus providing protection against potential health hazards. The waste pipe discharges through an air gap or air break into a waste receptor or standpipe. The protection in the form of an air gap is necessary when the contamination is a potential health hazard or cross connection with the potable water system. Where there is no possibility of contaminating the potable water (nonpotable discharge), the indirect waste pipe may connect in the form of an air break.

Frequently asked questions

When does the 5‑foot limit apply?

The 5‑foot limit in § 801.4 applies to bar and fountain sinks where the sink trap cannot be vented; in that case the sink drain must discharge through an air gap/air break to a vented receptor and the developed length to that receptor must be ≤ 5 ft.

Do indirect waste runs between 5 and 15 feet need venting?

No—under § 803.3, indirect waste pipes > 5 ft and < 15 ft must be directly trapped, but those traps need not be vented.

Are cleanouts always required at every elbow?

The CPC requires that angles and changes of direction in indirect waste piping be provided with cleanouts to permit flushing and cleaning (see § 803.3). For other DWV piping, Chapter 7 cleanout rules and exceptions (e.g., horizontal runs < 5 ft) may also apply — see § 707.4.

What minimum pipe size must I use for an indirect waste?

Indirect waste pipes less than 15 ft in length must be not less than the diameter of the drain outlet or tailpiece, and in no case less than 1/2 inch (see § 803.3).

Do walk‑in cooler drains have special cleanout rules?

Yes. § 801.3.2 requires cleanouts at 90° turns for walk‑in cooler floor drains; such drains must be trapped and individually vented and discharge through an air gap/air break with receptor elevation limits.

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Related in the CPC

What materials and minimum sizes are allowed for indirect waste piping?

When must indirect waste pipes be trapped and/or vented?

Indirect waste piping: materials, sizing, traps and venting

California Plumbing Code