CPC · California Plumbing Code

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

If an indirect waste run is longer than 5 feet but shorter than 15 feet, the California Plumbing Code requires it be directly trapped (but that trap does not have to be vented); any vent for indirect waste must run separately to outdoors and cannot tie into regular sewer vents. Check equipment‑specific sections (walk‑in coolers, sterilizers, condensate drains) because they may require trapping and venting regardless of § 803.3.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Plumbing Code requires that indirect waste pipes follow specific trapping and venting rules based primarily on length and on specific equipment requirements. The controlling rule is § 803.3: indirect waste pipes exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm) but less than 15 feet (4572 mm) must be directly trapped, and those traps need not be vented; vents for indirect waste piping, when provided, must extend separately to outside air and may not combine with sewer‑connected vents. § 803.3.

The single most important rule: if an indirect waste line is longer than 5 feet but less than 15 feet, provide a direct trap — you do not have to vent that trap — and any vent for indirect waste must run by itself to outdoors. § 803.3.

Requirements in detail

Core length-based rule (what triggers a trap and whether it needs venting)

  • If length > 5 ft and < 15 ft — the indirect waste pipe must be directly trapped, but that trap need not be vented. § 803.3.
  • The code does not state in § 803.3 that indirect waste pipes ≤ 5 ft must be trapped; therefore shorter pipes are not covered by that specific trapping trigger and are governed by other applicable provisions or specific-equipment rules. § 803.3.

Venting rules for indirect wastes

  • 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. § 803.3.

Minimum sizing and related installation requirements that affect trapping

  • Indirect waste pipes less than 15 ft in length must be at least the diameter of the drain outlet or tailpiece and in no case less than 1/2 inch (15 mm). This sizing affects which traps and fittings are used. § 803.3.
  • Chapter 8 includes other size/length limits for specific equipment (food equipment, ice machines, condensate) that interact with § 803.3’s trap/venting rule — e.g., some appliance indirect wastes have their own minimum sizes and maximum developed lengths (see § 801.3.1 and § 814.3/814.5).

Quick decision table

Condition / dimension Required action Code Reference
Indirect waste pipe length > 5 ft and < 15 ft Provide a direct trap; trap need not be vented § 803.3
Indirect waste pipe length ≤ 5 ft No specific trap/vent trigger in § 803.3; follow other applicable sections or equipment rules § 803.3
Indirect waste pipe length < 15 ft (sizing rule) Pipe diameter ≥ drain outlet/tailpiece; not less than 1/2 in (15 mm) § 803.3
Venting from indirect waste Must extend separately to outside air; cannot combine with sewer‑connected vent § 803.3
Specific equipment (walk‑in cooler floor drains) Shall be trapped and individually vented regardless of general § 803.3 trap exception § 801.3.2
Condensate/air‑conditioning coils Individual condensate drains shall be trapped per manufacturer or § 814.4; discharge indirectly to trapped and vented receptors § 814.5 / § 814.4

(Note: the table entries are grounded in the CPC text; where § 803.3 is silent, specific equipment sections govern.)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Walk‑in cooler floor drains: even though § 803.3 allows traps without venting for some indirect wastes, walk‑in cooler floor drains must be trapped and individually vented and discharge to a trapped and vented receptor (or full-size air gap under vacuum). § 801.3.2.
  • Sterilizers and some sterile‑processing equipment: Chapter 8 requires an air gap (indirect connection) and limits developed lengths; the Health‑Care Facilities chapter further states that sterilizer indirect waste pipes “shall not require traps” in some cases — consult § 801.6 and § 1303.4.1 for facility‑specific rules. § 801.6, § 1303.4.1.
  • Condensate and HVAC drains: condensate drains are covered in Chapter 8/14 (e.g., § 814.5), and the code requires condensate to connect indirectly to trapped and vented receptors or be trapped per manufacturer instructions — traps and receptors for these wastes have special sizing and material rules. § 814.5 / § 814.3.
  • Interceptors: vent piping on an interceptor may be omitted where the interceptor discharges through a horizontal indirect waste to a secondary interceptor; the secondary interceptor must be trapped and vented. § 902.1 (Vents Not Required for interceptors).

If you have an installation that falls into a special equipment category, check that equipment’s section — those rules can require trapping and venting even where § 803.3 would otherwise permit an unvented trap.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming every indirect waste trap must be vented. The CPC explicitly allows traps for indirect wastes >5 ft and <15 ft to be unvented. § 803.3.
  • Combining an indirect waste vent with a regular sewer‑connected vent. The code forbids combining those vents — indirect waste vents must run separately to outside air. § 803.3.
  • Forgetting equipment‑specific mandates. Some appliances (walk‑in coolers, condensers, sterilizers, etc.) have independent trap/vent requirements that override the general § 803.3 allowance. See § 801.3.2, § 814.5, § 1303.4.1.
  • Using undersized pipe for indirect wastes: for indirect waste pipes under 15 ft, the code requires the pipe be at least the diameter of the unit outlet and no less than 1/2 inch. § 803.3.

Worked example — ice machine condensate (concrete numbers)

Scenario: An ice‑making machine has an indirect waste discharge; the developed run from unit outlet to receptor is 10 feet. The ice‑maker’s drain outlet is 3/4 inch.

Step 1 — check equipment sizing: Ice‑making machines have a minimum indirect waste size of 3/4 inch and a maximum developed length of 15 feet per § 801.3.1. The 10‑ft run and 3/4‑inch outlet comply with that sizing rule. § 801.3.1.

Step 2 — apply trapping/venting rule: Because the indirect waste run is > 5 ft and < 15 ft, § 803.3 requires the pipe be directly trapped, but the trap need not be vented. So provide a direct trap sized for a 3/4‑inch outlet; you do not have to provide a vent for that trap, but if you do provide a vent it must extend separately to outside air and must not combine with a sewer‑connected vent. § 803.3.

Result: Trap the 10‑ft 3/4‑in ice‑maker indirect waste; venting the trap is not required, but any vent installed must go out on its own. § 801.3.1 and § 803.3.

Related provisions (check these when designing)

  • § 801.2 — Air gap / air break requirements for indirect waste discharge (minimum vertical distance).
  • § 801.3.1 — Size and maximum developed length for many food‑service indirect wastes (1 in. min; 15 ft max; special rule for ice‑makers).
  • § 801.3.2 — Walk‑in cooler floor drains: shall be trapped and individually vented.
  • § 801.6 — Sterilizers: air‑gap requirement and separate piping to receptors.
  • § 814.5 — Condensate point‑of‑discharge: indirect to trapped and vented receptors; traps per manufacturer.
  • § 902.1 — Vent piping permitted to be omitted for primary interceptors discharging indirectly to a secondary interceptor; secondary must be trapped and vented.

If you need an interpretation for a particular appliance or a complex layout (multiple units tying into a common indirect waste, vacuum conditions, or roof/vent routing), check the specific appliance section cited above and consult the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Code references

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

  • CPC § 801.4 High 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 § 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

    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. 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 § 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 § 814.3 High relevance — show source text

    814.3 Condensate Waste Pipe Material and Sizing. Condensate waste pipes from air-cooling coils shall be sized in accordance with the equipment capacity as specified in Table 814.3. The material of the piping shall comply with the pressure and temperature rating of the appliance or equipment and shall be approved for use with the liquid being discharged.

    TABLE 814.3

    MINIMUM CONDENSATE PIPE SIZE

    EQUIPMENT CAPACITY IN TONS
    OF REFRIGERATION
    MINIMUM CONDENSATE PIPE
    DIAMETER
    (inches)
    Up to 20 3⁄4


    21 – 40
    1


    41 – 90
    11⁄4

    91 – 125
    11⁄2

    126 – 250
    2

    For SI units: 1 ton of refrigerant = 3.52 kW, 1 inch = 25 mm

    The size of condensate waste pipes is for one unit or a combination of units, or as recommended by the manufacturer. The capacity of waste pipes assumes a [1] ⁄ 8 inch per foot (10.4 mm/m) or 1 percent slope, with the pipe running threequarters full at the following pipe conditions:

    Outside Air – 20% Col2 Room Air – 80% Col4


    DB
    WB
    DB
    WB

    90°F
    73°F 75°F 62.5°F

    For SI units: °C = (°F-32)/1.8

    Condensate drain sizing for other slopes or other conditions shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    Air-conditioning waste pipes, 1¼ of an inch (32 mm) and larger in size, shall be constructed of materials specified in Chapter 7. Condensate waste piping less than 1¼ of an inch (32 mm) in size shall be permitted to be PVC, CPVC, PE, PP, copper, or other rigid materials approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    814.3.1 Cleanouts. Condensate drain lines shall be configured or provided with a cleanout to permit the clearing of blockages and for maintenance without requiring the drain line to be cut. 814.4 Appliance Condensate Drains. Condensate drain lines from individual condensing appliances shall be sized as required by the manufacturer’s instructions. Condensate drain lines serving more than one appliance connecting to a common indirect waste pipe shall have the connections to the indirect waste pipe protected by a sanitary waste valve complying with ASME A112.18.8, condensate trap complying with IAPMO IGC 196, or trap with a trap primer. 814.5 Point of Discharge. Air-conditioning condensate waste pipes shall connect indirectly to the drainage system through an air gap or air break to trapped and vented receptors, dry wells, mop sinks, leach pits, or the tailpiece of plumbing fixtures. An individual condensate drain shall be trapped in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions or in accordance with Section 814.4.

    TABLE 814.3

    MINIMUM CONDENSATE PIPE SIZE

    For SI units: 1 ton of refrigerant = 3.52 kW, 1 inch = 25 mm

  • CPC § 814.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    Condensate drain sizing for other slopes or other conditions shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    Air-conditioning waste pipes, 1¼ of an inch (32 mm) and larger in size, shall be constructed of materials specified in Chapter 7. Condensate waste piping less than 1¼ of an inch (32 mm) in size shall be permitted to be PVC, CPVC, PE, PP, copper, or other rigid materials approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    814.3.1 Cleanouts. Condensate drain lines shall be configured or provided with a cleanout to permit the clearing of blockages and for maintenance without requiring the drain line to be cut. 814.4 Appliance Condensate Drains. Condensate drain lines from individual condensing appliances shall be sized as required by the manufacturer’s instructions. Condensate drain lines serving more than one appliance connecting to a common indirect waste pipe shall have the connections to the indirect waste pipe protected by a sanitary waste valve complying with ASME A112.18.8, condensate trap complying with IAPMO IGC 196, or trap with a trap primer. 814.5 Point of Discharge. Air-conditioning condensate waste pipes shall connect indirectly to the drainage system through an air gap or air break to trapped and vented receptors, dry wells, mop sinks, leach pits, or the tailpiece of plumbing fixtures. An individual condensate drain shall be trapped in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions or in accordance with Section 814.4.

    TABLE 814.3

    MINIMUM CONDENSATE PIPE SIZE

    For SI units: 1 ton of refrigerant = 3.52 kW, 1 inch = 25 mm

    For SI units: °C = (°F-32)/1.8

    184 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

    INDIRECT WASTES

    814.6 Condensate Waste from Air-Conditioning Coils. Where the condensate waste from air-conditioning coils discharges by direct connection to a lavatory tailpiece or to an approved accessible inlet on a bathtub overflow, the connection shall be located in the area controlled by the same person controlling the air-conditioned space. 814.7 Plastic Fittings. Female plastic screwed fittings shall be used with male plastic fittings and plastic threads.

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 185

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

    186 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 9 - VENTS

    (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.)

  • 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.

  • CPC § 811.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    CPVC pipe and fittings shall comply with ASTM F2618. PP pipe and fittings shall comply with ASTM F1412 or CSA B181.3. PVDF pipe and fittings shall comply with ASTM F1673 or CSA B181.3. Chemical-resistant glass pipe and fittings shall comply with ASTM C1053. High-silicon iron pipe and fittings shall comply with ASTM A861.

    811.3 Joining Materials. Joining materials shall be of approved type and quality.

    811.4 Access. Where practicable, the piping shall be readily accessible and installed with the maximum of clearance from other services.

    811.5 Permanent Record. The owner shall make and keep a permanent record of the location of piping and venting carrying chemical waste.

    811.6 Chemical Vent. No chemical vent shall intersect

    vents for other services.

    811.7 Discharge. Chemical wastes shall be discharged in a manner approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    811.8 Diluted Chemicals. The provisions of this section about materials and methods of construction shall not apply to installations such as photographic or x-ray darkrooms or research or control laboratories where minor amounts of ade quately diluted chemicals are discharged.

    812.0 Clear Water Wastes.

    812.1 General. Water lifts, expansion tanks, cooling jackets, sprinkler systems, drip or overflow pans, or similar devices that discharge clear wastewater into the building drainage system shall discharge through an indirect waste.

    813.0 Swimming Pools.

    813.1 General. Pipes carrying wastewater from swimming or wading pools, including pool drainage and backwash from filters, shall be installed as an indirect waste. Where a pump is used to discharge pool waste water to the drainage system, the pump discharge shall be installed as an indirect waste.

    814.0 Condensate Waste and Control.

    814.1 Condensate Disposal. Condensate from air washers, air-cooling coils, condensing appliances, and the over

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 183

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

    INDIRECT WASTES

    flow 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 using 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 an approved corrosion-resistant material not smaller than the outlet size in

    accordance with Section 814.3 or Section 814.4 for air-cooling coils or condensing appliances, respectively. Condensate or wastewater shall not drain over a public way.

    814.1.1 Condensate Pumps. Where approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, condensate pumps shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instal lation instructions. Pump discharge shall rise vertically to a point where it is possible to connect to a gravity condensate drain and discharged to an approved disposal point. Each condensing unit shall be provided with a separate sump and interlocked with the equipment to prevent the equipment from operating during a failure. Separate pumps shall be permitted to connect to a single gravity indirect waste where equipped with check valves and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

  • CPC § 1.11.0. Medium relevance — show source text

    This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 179

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

    180 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 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 § 418.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    (3) Laundry rooms in commercial buildings and common laundry facilities in multi-family dwelling buildings. (4) Boiler rooms. 418.4 Food Storage Areas. Where drains are provided in storerooms, walk-in freezers, walk-in coolers, refrigerated equipment, or other locations where food is stored, such drains shall have indirect waste piping. Separate waste pipes shall be run from each food storage area, each with an indirect connection to the building sanitary drainage system. Traps shall be provided in accordance with Section 801.3.2 of this code and shall be vented.

    Indirect drains shall be permitted to be located in freezers or other spaces where freezing temperatures are maintained, provided that traps, where supplied, shall be located where the seal will not freeze. Otherwise, the floor of the freezer shall be sloped to a floor drain located outside of the storage compartment. 418.5 Floor Slope. Floors shall be sloped to floor drains.

    419.0 Food Waste Disposers. 419.1 Application. Food waste disposal units shall comply with UL 430. Residential food waste disposers shall also comply with ASSE 1008. 419.2 Drainage Connection. Approved wye or other directional-type branch fittings shall be installed in continuous wastes connecting or receiving the discharge from a food waste disposer. No dishwasher drain shall be connected to a sink tailpiece, continuous waste, or trap on the discharge side of a food waste disposer. 419.3 Water Supply. A cold water supply shall be provided for food waste disposers. Such connection to the water supply shall be protected by an air gap or backflow prevention device in accordance with Section 603.2.

    420.0 Sinks.

    420.1 Application. Sinks shall comply with ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124, CSA B45.8/IAPMO Z403, or CSA B45.12/IAPMO Z402. Moveable sink systems shall comply with ASME A112.19.12. Sink assemblies with automatic soap dispensers, faucets, or hand dryers shall comply with IAPMO IGC 127. 420.2 Water Consumption. Sink faucets shall have a maximum flow rate of not more than 2.2 gpm at 60 psi (8.3 L/m at 414 kPa).

    Exceptions: (1) Clinical sinks (2) Laundry sinks (3) Service sinks

    420.2.1 Kitchen Faucets. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] Kitchen faucets shall have a maximum flow rate of not more than 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa). Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons (8.3 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa), and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa) in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3 of the California Green Building Stan- dards Code (CALGreen). _**420.2.2 Kitchen Faucets.

  • CPC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text

    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. This method is often preferred to prevent splashing. In addition, health care facilities and special wastes must be protected from contamination that may result from the connection to the drainage system. The waste must be treated to prevent any damage to the piping or sewage treatment process. Waste receptors are sized and designed to prevent splashing and allow for peak discharge conditions.

    Chapter 9 Vents.

    Chapter 9 regulates the material, design, and installation of vents. A vent system is a pipe or pipes installed in a drainage system that provide a flow of air to and from the system to ventilate it, provide a circulation of air to eliminate trap siphonage, and reduce back-pressure and vacuum surge. In addition, vents provide the rapid and silent flow of waste without exposing occupants of the building to any sewer gases. Proper installation of vents is crucial, as a telltale sign that there is a problem in the drain and vent system is related to the elevation of the horizontal portion of the venting. Venting is not limited to sanitary drainage systems. Venting methods are applicable to other drainage systems such as those for chemical waste, graywater waste, and clear water waste. Sizing the venting system is directly tied to the design of the drainage system. For example, the velocities in the drainage system and its peak flow rates affect the diameters in the venting system. Where the vertical distance between a fixture outlet and trap is excessive, velocities in the entire drainage system will be greater than those in the vent sizing table. All venting methods in this chapter are categorized as either dry vents or wet vents. Vent stacks, stack vents, branch vents, island vents, relief vents, and individual vents are dry vents. Wet vents (horizontal or vertical), circuit vents, combination drain and vents are versions of “wet venting” in which the vent is wetted by drainage flow.

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE xv

  • CPC § 901.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    901.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the materials, design, and installation of plumbing vent systems. 901.2 Vents Required. Each plumbing fixture trap, except as otherwise provided in this code, shall be protected against siphonage and backpressure, and air circulation shall be ensured throughout all parts of the drainage system by means of vent pipes installed in accordance with the requirements of this chapter and as otherwise required by this code. 901.3 Trap Seal Protection. The vent system shall be designed to prevent a trap seal from being exposed to a pressure differential that exceeds 1 inch water column (0.24 kPa) on the outlet side of the trap.

    902.0 Vents Not Required.

    902.1 Interceptor. Vent piping shall be permitted to be omitted on an interceptor where such interceptor acts as a primary settling tank and discharges through a horizontal indirect waste pipe into a secondary interceptor. The second interceptor shall be properly trapped and vented. 902.2 Bars, Soda Fountains, and Counter. Traps serving sinks that are part of the equipment of bars, soda fountains, and counters need not be vented where the location and construction of such bars, soda fountains, and counters are such as to make it impossible to do so. Where such conditions exist, said sinks shall discharge using approved indirect waste pipes into a floor sink or other approved type of recep tor.

    903.0 Materials.

    903.1 Applicable Standards. Vent pipe and fittings shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2, except that:

    (1) No galvanized steel or 304 stainless steel pipe shall be installed underground and shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground.

    (2) ABS and PVC DWV piping installations shall be in accordance with the firestop protection requirements in the California Building Code . Except for individual single-family dwelling units, materials exposed within ducts or plenums shall have a flame-spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 50 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Plastic piping installed in plenums shall be tested in accordance with all requirements of ASTM E84 or UL 723. Mounting methods, supports and sample sizes of materials for testing that are not specified in ASTM E84 or UL 723 shall be prohibited.

    903.1.1 [HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS or PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of resi- dential accommodation.

    903.1.2 [HCD 1] All malleable iron vents shall be gal- vanized.

    903.1.3 [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] ABS and PVC instal- lations are not allowed.

    903.2 Use of Copper or Copper Alloy Tubing. Copper or copper alloy tube for underground drainage and vent piping shall have a weight of not less than that of copper or copper alloy drainage tube type DWV. 903.2.1 Aboveground. Copper or copper alloy tube for aboveground drainage and vent piping shall have a weight of not less than that of copper or copper alloy drainage tube type DWV. 903.2.2 Prohibited Use. Copper or copper alloy tube shall not be used for chemical or industrial wastes as

    defined in Section 811.0.

  • CPC § 809.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    809.0 Drinking Fountains.

    809.1 General. Drinking fountains shall be permitted to be installed with indirect wastes through an air break.

    810.0 Steam and Hot Water Drainage Condensers and Sumps.

    810.1 High-Temperature Discharge. No steam pipe shall be directly connected to plumbing or drainage system, nor shall water having a temperature above 140°F (60°C) be discharged under pressure directly into a drainage system. Pipes from boilers shall discharge by means of indirect waste piping as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction or the boiler manufacturer’s recommendations. Such pipes shall be permitted to be indirectly connected by discharging into an open or closed condenser or an intercepting sump of an approved type that will prevent the entrance of steam or such water under pressure into the drainage system. Closed condensers or sumps shall be provided with a vent that shall be taken off the top and extended separately, full size above the roof. Condensers and sumps shall be properly trapped at the outlet with a deep seal trap extending to within 6 inches (152 mm) of the bottom of the tank. The top of the deep seal trap shall have a [3] ⁄ 4 of an inch (19.1 mm) opening located at the highest point of the trap to serve as a siphon breaker. Outlets shall be taken off from the side in such a manner as to allow

    a waterline to be maintained that will permanently occupy not

    182 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

    INDIRECT WASTES

    less than one-half the capacity of the condenser or sump. Inlets shall enter above the waterline. Wearing plates or baffles shall be installed in the tank to protect the shell. The sizes of the blowoff line inlet, the water outlets, and the vent shall be as shown in Table 810.1. The contents of condensers

    receiving steam or hot water under pressure shall pass through an open sump before entering the drainage system.

    TABLE 810.1

    PIPE CONNECTIONS IN BLOWOFF

    CONDENSERS AND SUMPS (inches)

    BOILER BLOWOFF WATER OUTLET VENT
    3⁄4* 3⁄4* 2


    1
    1 21⁄2


    11⁄4
    11⁄4 3

    11⁄2
    11⁄2 4

    2
    2 5

    21⁄2
    21⁄2 6

    For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm

    • To be used only with boilers of 100 square feet (9.29 m [2] ) of heating surface or less.

Frequently asked questions

Do all indirect waste pipes need a trap?

Not always. The CPC specifically requires a direct trap for indirect waste pipes exceeding 5 ft and less than 15 ft; those traps need not be vented per § 803.3. Other equipment sections may independently require traps.

If I provide a vent for an indirect waste trap, can it tie into the building sewer vent system?

No. § 803.3 states an indirect waste vent shall not combine with a sewer‑connected vent and must extend separately to the outside air.

What is the minimum pipe diameter for an indirect waste?

For indirect waste pipes less than 15 ft in length, the pipe must be at least the diameter of the device’s drain outlet or tailpiece and in no case less than 1/2 inch (15 mm) per § 803.3.

Are there cases where traps must be vented even if § 803.3 says vents aren’t required?

Yes — specific equipment rules (for example, walk‑in cooler floor drains under § 801.3.2) require traps to be vented. Always check the appliance/equipment section.

Where does the indirect waste have to terminate?

Indirect waste piping must discharge through an air gap or air break into an approved receptor and meet the sizing/location rules in Chapter 8 (see § 801.2 and related sections).

More in California Plumbing Code

Ask about the CPC

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Plumbing Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the CPC