CPC · California Plumbing Code
What materials are permitted for drain, waste, and vent (DWV) piping?
In short: the CPC requires that DWV piping be made from materials listed in Table 701.2 and follow the specific prohibitions and limits in § 701.2 — notably, no galvanized steel or SS‑304 underground (keep ≥6 in aboveground), vitrified clay only belowground (≥12 in), ABS/PVC subject to fire/plenum tests and occupancy/story limits, and copper must be DWV‑weight tube. Consult Table 701.2 and the referenced standards for the exact ASTM/ASME product specifications. file
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Plumbing Code requires that materials used for drain, waste, and vent (DWV) piping comply with the referenced standards listed in Table 701.2 and follow the specific limitations spelled out in § 701.2. Key site- and material‑specific restrictions (for example, prohibitions on certain materials underground, fire/plenum limits for plastics, and marking/weight requirements for metal pipe) are stated directly in § 701.2.
The single most important rule: Materials for DWV must comply with the standards in Table 701.2 and satisfy the specific prohibitions and dimensional/installation limits listed in § 701.2 of the CPC.
Requirements in detail
Governing language
- Materials for drainage piping must be in accordance with the referenced standards in Table 701.2; the table identifies accepted material types and the consensus standards that control them. § 701.2 is the controlling section.
Material-specific limits and mandatory conditions
The CPC both (a) requires compliance with the standards listed in Table 701.2 and (b) imposes specific, non‑negotiable limits in subsection clauses of § 701.2. The table below pulls the decision‑relevant dimensions and limits together with the exact code cross‑references you will apply when choosing materials.
| Material or topic | Decision‑relevant limit or requirement (what to check) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| General — accepted materials | Material must comply with one of the standards referenced in Table 701.2 (see Table for specific ASTM/ASME/IAPMO standards). | § 701.2 |
| Galvanized wrought‑iron / galvanized steel | Prohibited underground; if used, must be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground. | § 701.2(1) |
| Stainless steel (304) | Not permitted underground; must be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground. | § 701.2(5) |
| Vitrified clay pipe & fittings | Not permitted aboveground or where pressurized by pumps/ejectors; shall be kept not less than 12 inches (305 mm) belowground. | § 701.2(3) |
| ABS and PVC (plastic DWV) | Must be installed per the standards in Table 701.2 and the CBC firestop/plenum requirements. Except single‑family dwellings, materials exposed in ducts/plenums must meet flame‑spread ≤ 25 and smoke‑developed ≤ 50 (ASTM E84 or UL 723). Additional jurisdictional limits: ABS/PVC limited to not more than two stories in certain HCD occupancies; ABS/PVC NOT allowed in OSHPD 1–5 occupancies. | § 701.2(2) (and subsections (a) & (b)) |
| Copper or copper‑alloy DWV tube | Tubing must have a weight not less than copper drainage tube type DWV (i.e., use DWV‑rated tube). Also see vent/copper rules in § 903.2 for underground/aboveground weight requirements. | § 701.2(4) and § 903.2 |
| Cast‑iron soil pipe and fittings | Must be listed/tested in accordance with the standards referenced in Table 701.2; cast‑iron products (and stainless couplings used with them) shall be marked with country of origin, manufacturer or trademark, third‑party certifier mark and class. | § 701.2(6) |
| Continuous wastes / tailpieces | Must be constructed from materials specified in § 701.2 for drainage piping. Exposed or accessible continuous wastes are permitted to be seamless drawn brass not less than No. 20 B&S (0.032 in). | § 701.4 |
| Storm drainage conductors | For roof conductors & similar, the code lists acceptable materials (cast‑iron, galvanized steel, copper, lead, Schedule 40 ABS/PVC, stainless 304/316L, etc.) — plastic conductors remain subject to the same plenum/fire limits. | § 1101.4 |
Notes:
- The detailed list of accepted materials and the exact standards (ASTM, ASME, IAPMO, CSA, etc.) is presented in Table 701.2 and in the CPC referenced‑standards tables (see the CPC’s referenced standards which list ASTM F628, ASTM F441, ASME A112.3.1, etc.). Use the Table to verify a given product and standard. file
Joints, fittings and tests you must check
- Fittings and joints must be compatible with the pipe and conform to the standards referenced in Table 701.2; see the CPC chapters on joints (Chapter 7, Sections 705 and 705.x) for material‑specific joint requirements.
- For plastic pipes in plenums or exposed ducts, the required fire test is ASTM E84 or UL 723 (flame/smoke limits stated above). § 701.2(2).
Exceptions & special cases
- HCD housing (HCD 1 & HCD 2): ABS and PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of residential accommodation. § 701.2(2)(a).
- OSHPD facilities (OSHPD 1–5): ABS and PVC DWV installations are not allowed. § 701.2(2)(b).
- Storm drainage: roof conductors and storm building drains follow the material uses listed in § 1101.4, which references Table 701.2 standards and repeats the plenum/fire limitations for plastic where applicable. § 1101.4.
- Vent piping: § 903.1 echoes underground/aboveground prohibitions for galvanized and SS 304 and repeats plenum/fire rules for plastics; see § 903.1 for vent‑specific constraints.
If a requested material or a specific ASTM/ASME standard for that material is needed (for example, the exact ASTM number for a schedule of PVC DWV), consult Table 701.2 and the CPC referenced‑standards tables; the CPC lists many specific standards (ASTM F628, F441, ASME A112.3.1, etc.) tied to the Table. The uploaded preview shows those standard references but not the full, itemized Table text; consult the official CPC Table 701.2 in your codebook or local AHJ for the product‑level listing. file
Common mistakes
- Installing galvanized steel or stainless 304 underground (code requires these be kept ≥ 6 in (152 mm) aboveground). § 701.2(1) & (5).
- Using ABS/PVC in OSHPD buildings or assuming plastics are unrestricted in plenums — plastics must meet ASTM E84/UL 723 flame/smoke limits and local occupancy limits. § 701.2(2).
- Assuming vitrified clay can be used aboveground or for pumped systems — it is prohibited aboveground and must be ≥ 12 in (305 mm) belowground. § 701.2(3).
- Failing to verify pipe weight/grade for copper DWV (use DWV‑type copper tube, not lighter water tube). § 701.2(4).
- Not using the correct transition couplings or mechanical joints when joining dissimilar materials — joints must comply with the applicable standards in Table 701.2 and Chapter 7 joint sections.
Worked example — selecting soil stack and building sewer for a 3‑story mixed-use building
Scenario: You are specifying the vertical soil stack through a 3‑story mixed commercial/residential building and the underground building sewer to the public sewer.
Step 1 — vertical soil stack through building:
- Because the building is 3 stories and includes occupancies under OSHPD rules, check the ABS/PVC limits first: ABS/PVC are not allowed in OSHPD occupancies and plastics for multi‑story occupancies often face flame‑spread/plenum restrictions. Therefore, do NOT select ABS/PVC for the 3‑story soil stack where OSHPD rules apply — choose a metal or cast‑iron product listed in Table 701.2 (for example, service‑weight cast‑iron soil pipe listed to the cast‑iron standards). See § 701.2(2)(b) and § 701.2(6).
- If you choose cast‑iron soil pipe, confirm the product is listed/tested to the Table 701.2 referenced standard and is properly marked per § 701.2(6).
Step 2 — underground building sewer to public sewer:
- Galvanized steel and galvanized wrought‑iron are prohibited underground; do not specify galvanized for the underground building sewer. § 701.2(1).
- PVC (e.g., ASTM F441/Schedule 40 PVC or other CPC‑referenced PVC standards) is commonly used for underground sewers and appears among the standards referenced to Table 701.2. Verify the exact PVC specification is listed in Table 701.2 and comply with the ASTM standard (referenced standards listing includes ASTM F441 etc.). Confirm bedding and installation per the appropriate ASTM practice (e.g., ASTM D2321 for underground thermoplastic pipe). See referenced‑standards entries tied to Table 701.2. file
Numerical checks pulled from the code:
- Do not place galvanized or SS‑304 below ground; maintain ≥ 6 in (152 mm) clearance aboveground where they are installed aboveground. § 701.2(1) & (5).
- Do not use vitrified clay where aboveground or where pressurized; vitrified clay must be ≥ 12 in (305 mm) belowground. § 701.2(3).
Related provisions (quick list)
- § 701.2 — Drainage Piping (controlling section for permitted materials and restrictions).
- § 701.3 — Drainage Fittings (compatibility and diameter requirements).
- § 701.4 — Continuous Wastes (material allowances and exposed brass tailpiece allowance).
- § 705.0 et seq. — Joints and Connections (material‑specific joint rules; review when joining dissimilar materials).
- § 903.1 / § 903.2 — Vent materials and copper tube weight requirements (vent‑specific restrictions; subterranean prohibitions repeated).
- § 1101.4 — Storm drainage material uses (roof conductors, storm piping; repeats many material allowances and plenum/fire limits).
- Table 701.2 — Materials for Drain, Waste, Vent Pipe and Fittings (see the Table for the specific product standards and permitted materials).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 1101.4.2.2 High relevance — show source text
1101.4.2.2 [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] ABS and PVC installations are not allowed.
1101.4.3 Leaders. Leaders installed outside shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 for aboveground drain, waste, and vent pipe; aluminum sheet metal; galvanized steel sheet metal; or copper sheet metal. 1101.4.4 Underground Building Storm Drains. Underground building storm drains shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 for underground drain, waste, and vent pipe. 1101.4.5 Building Storm Sewers. Building storm sewers shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 for building sewer pipe. 1101.4.6 Subsoil Drains. Subsoil drains shall be open jointed, perforated, or both and constructed of materials in conformance with Table 1101.4.6.
TABLE 1101.4.6
MATERIALS FOR SUBSOIL DRAINPIPE AND FITTINGS
MATERIAL REFERENCED STANDARD(S)
PEASTM F667
PVCASTM D2729 Vitrified Clay (Extra strength) ASTM C4, ASTM C700 1101.5 Expansion Joints Required. Expansion joints or sleeves shall be provided where warranted by temperature variations or physical conditions. 1101.6 Subsoil Drains. Subsoil drains shall be provided around the perimeter of buildings having basements, cellars, crawl spaces, or floors below grade. Such subsoil drains shall be permitted to be positioned inside or outside of the footing, shall be of perforated or open-jointed approved drain tile or pipe, not less than 3 inches (80 mm) in diameter, and shall be laid in gravel, slag, crushed rock, approved [3] ⁄ 4 of an inch (19.1 mm) crushed, recycled glass aggregate, or other approved porous material with not less than 4 inches (102 mm) surrounding the pipe. Filter media shall be provided for exterior subsoil piping. Exception: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Subsoil drains are mandatory only when required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction due to geological conditions.
TABLE 1101.4.6
MATERIALS FOR SUBSOIL DRAINPIPE AND FITTINGS
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 205
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STORM DRAINAGE
1101.6.1 Discharge. Subsoil drains shall be piped to a storm drain, to an approved water course, to the front street curb or gutter, to an alley, or the discharge from the subsoil drains shall be conveyed to the alley by a concrete gutter. Where a continuously flowing spring or groundwater is encountered, subsoil drains shall be piped to a storm drain or an approved water course. 1101.6.2 Sump. Where it is not possible to convey the drainage by gravity, subsoil drains shall discharge to an accessible sump provided with an approved automatic electric pump.
CPC § 707.2 High 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 IronASME A112.36.2M, ASTM A888,
CISPI 301, CSA B79,
IAPMO IGC 224
Copper or Copper AlloyASME A112.36.2M, CSA B79
Ductile IronCSA B79
ElastomersCSA 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 SteelCSA 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.
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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 § 5.3.4 High relevance — show source text
5.3.4| |ASTM B241/B241M-2016|Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy
Seamless Pipe and Seamless Extruded Tube|Piping|1208.5.2.4,
1208.5.3.4| |ASTM B251/B251M-2017|Standard Specification for General Requirements for Wrought
Seamless Copper and Copper-Alloy Tube|Piping|Table 604.1,
Table 701.2| |ASTM B280-2020|Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Air Con-
ditioning and Refrigeration Field Service|Piping|1208.5.3.3,
1319.1(1)(b)| |ASTM B302-2017|Standard Specification for Threadless Copper Pipe, Standard
Sizes|Piping|Table 604.1,
Table 701.2| |ASTM B306-2020|Standard Specification for Copper Drainage Tube (DWV)|Piping|Table 701.2, 903.2.3| |ASTM B447-2012a (R2021)|Standard Specification for Welded Copper Tube|Piping|Table 604.1| |ASTM B813-2016|Standard Specification for Liquid and Paste Fluxes for Solder-
ing of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube|Joints|605.1.4, 705.3.3| |ASTM B819-2019|Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Medical
Gas Systems|Piping|1318.4, 1318.5,
1319.1(1)(c),
1319.1.1| |ASTM B828-2016|Standard Practice for Making Capillary Joints by Soldering of
Copper and Copper Alloy Tube and Fittings|Joints|605.1.4, 705.3.3| |ASTM C4-2004 (R2018)|Standard Specification for Clay Drain Tile and Perforated Clay
Drain Tile|Piping|Table 1101.4.6| |ASTM C425-2021|Standard Specification for Compression Joints for Vitrified
Clay Pipe and Fittings|Joints|705.8.1| |ASTM C564-2020a|Standard Specification for Rubber Gaskets for Cast Iron Soil
Pipe and Fittings|Joints|705.2.2| |ASTM C700-2018|Standard Specification for Vitrified Clay Pipe, Extra Strength,
Standard Strength, and Perforated|Piping|Table 701.2,
Table 1101.4.6| |ASTM C1053-2000 (R2015)|Standard Specification for Borosilicate Glass Pipe and Fittings
for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Applications|Piping|811.2| |ASTM C1173-2018|Standard Specification for Flexible Transition Couplings for
Underground Piping Systems|Fittings|705.10| |ASTM C1277-2020|Standard Specification for Shielded Couplings Joining Hubless
Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings|Fixtures|301.2.4, 705.2.2| |ASTM C1460-2021|Standard Specification for Shielded Transition Couplings for
Use With Dissimilar DWV Pipe and Fittings Above Ground|Joints|705.10| |ASTM C1461-2021|Standard Specification for Mechanical Couplings Using Ther-
moplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gaskets for Joining Drain, Waste,California Plumbing Code High relevance — show source text
Copper, and Chromium-Plated Pipe Nipples|Piping, Copper Alloy| |ASTM C14-2020|Standard Specification for Nonreinforced Concrete Sewer, Storm Drain, and Culvert
Pipe|Piping, Non-Metallic| |ASTM C412-2019|Standard Specification for Concrete Drain Tile|Piping, Non-Metallic| |ASTM C443-2021|Standard Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe and Manholes, Using Rubber Gaskets|Joints| |ASTM C444-2021|Standard Specification for Perforated Concrete Pipe|Piping, Non-Metallic| |ASTM C478/C478M-2020|Standard Specification for Circular Precast Reinforced Concrete Manhole Sections|Miscellaneous| |ASTM C1227-2020|Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks|DWV Components| |ASTM C1440-2021|Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for
Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems|Joints| |ASTM D1784-2020|Standard Classification System and Basis for Specifications for Rigid Poly (Vinyl
Chloride) (PVC) Compounds and Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Com-
pounds|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM D2321-2020|Standard Practice for Underground Installation of Thermoplastic Pipe for Sewers and
Other Gravity-Flow Applications|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM D2517-2018|Standard Specification for Reinforced Epoxy Resin Gas Pressure Pipe and Fittings|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM D2657-2007 (R2015)|Standard Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings|Joints| |ASTM D2774-2021a|Standard Practice for Underground Installation of Thermoplastic Pressure Piping|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM D2855-2020|Standard Practice for the Two-Step (Primer and Solvent Cement) Method of Joining
Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) or Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Pipe and
Piping Components with Tapered Sockets|Joints| |ASTM D3122-2015|Standard Specification for Solvent Cement for Styrene-Rubber (SR) Plastic Pipe and
Fittings|Joints| |ASTM D3311-2017 (R2021)|Standard Specification for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Plastic Fittings Patterns|Fittings| |ASTM F402-2018|Standard Practice for Safe Handling of Solvent Cements, Primers, and Cleaners Used
for Joining Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings|Joints| |ASTM F480-2014|Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Well Casing Pipe and Couplings Made in
Standard Dimension Ratios (SDR), SCH 40 and SCH 80|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM F810-2012 (R2018)|Standard Specification for Smoothwall Polyethylene (PE) Pipe for Use in Drainage
and Waste Disposal Absorption Fields|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM F949-2020|Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Corrugated Sewer Pipe with a
Smooth Interior and Fittings|Piping,CPC § 701.0 High relevance — show source text
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CHAPTER 7
SANITARY DRAINAGE
Part I – Drainage Systems.
701.0 General.
701.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the materials, design, and installation of sanitary drainage systems and building sewers. 701.2 Drainage Piping. Materials for drainage piping shall be in accordance with one of the referenced standards in Table 701.2 except that:
(1) No galvanized wrought-iron or galvanized steel pipe shall be used underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground.
(2) ABS and PVC DWV piping installations shall be installed in accordance with applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 and the firestop protection require- ments in the California Building Code . Except for individual single-family dwelling units, materials exposed within ducts or plenums shall have a flamespread 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.
(a) [HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS and PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of res- idential accommodation.
(b) [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] ABS and PVC installations are not allowed.
(3) No vitrified clay pipe or fittings shall be used aboveground or where pressurized by a pump or ejector. They shall be kept not less than 12 inches (305 mm) belowground.
(4) Copper or copper alloy tube for drainage and vent piping shall have a weight of not less than that of copper or copper alloy drainage tube type DWV.
(5) Stainless steel 304 pipe and fittings shall not be installed underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground.
(6) Cast-iron soil pipe and fittings and the stainless steel couplings used to join these products shall be listed and tested in accordance with standards referenced in Table 701.2. Such pipe and fittings shall be marked with the country of origin, manufacturer’s name or registered trademark as defined in the product standards, the third party certifier’s mark, and the class of the pipe or fitting. 701.3 Drainage Fittings. Materials for drainage fittings shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 of the same diameter as the piping served, and such fittings shall be compatible with the type of pipe used.
CPC § 701.2. High relevance — show source text
(a) [HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS and PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of res- idential accommodation.
(b) [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] ABS and PVC installations are not allowed.
(3) No vitrified clay pipe or fittings shall be used aboveground or where pressurized by a pump or ejector. They shall be kept not less than 12 inches (305 mm) belowground.
(4) Copper or copper alloy tube for drainage and vent piping shall have a weight of not less than that of copper or copper alloy drainage tube type DWV.
(5) Stainless steel 304 pipe and fittings shall not be installed underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground.
(6) Cast-iron soil pipe and fittings and the stainless steel couplings used to join these products shall be listed and tested in accordance with standards referenced in Table 701.2. Such pipe and fittings shall be marked with the country of origin, manufacturer’s name or registered trademark as defined in the product standards, the third party certifier’s mark, and the class of the pipe or fitting. 701.3 Drainage Fittings. Materials for drainage fittings shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 of the same diameter as the piping served, and such fittings shall be compatible with the type of pipe used.
701.3.1 Screwed Pipe. Fittings on screwed pipe shall be of the recessed drainage type. Burred ends shall be reamed to the full bore of the pipe. 701.3.2 Threads. The threads of drainage fittings shall be tapped to allow [1] ⁄ 4 inch per foot (20.8 mm/m) grade. 701.3.3 Type. Fittings used for drainage shall be of the drainage type, have a smooth interior water-way, and be constructed to allow [1] ⁄ 4 inch per foot (20.8 mm/m) grade.
701.4 Continuous Wastes. Continuous wastes and fixture tailpieces shall be constructed from the materials specified in Section 701.2 for drainage piping, provided, however, that such connections where exposed or accessible shall be permitted to be of seamless drawn brass not less than No. 20 B & S Gauge (0.032 inches) (0.8 mm). 701.5 Lead. (See Chapter 17) Sheet lead shall comply with the following:
(1) For safe pans – not less than 4 pounds per square foot (lb/ft [2] ) (19 kg/m [2] ) or [1] ⁄ 16 of an inch (1.6 mm) thick. (2) For flashings or vent terminals – not less than 3 lb/ft [2] (15 kg/m [2] ) or 0.0472 of an inch (1.2 mm) thick. (3) Lead bends and lead traps shall be not less than [1] ⁄ 8 of an inch (3.2 mm) in wall thickness. 701.6 Caulking Ferrules. Caulking ferrules shall be manufactured from copper or copper alloy and shall be in accordance with Table 701.6.
701.7 Soldering Bushings. Soldering bushings shall be of copper or copper alloy and shall be in accordance with Table 701.7.
TABLE 701.6
CAULKING FERRULES
CPC § 1101.3 High relevance — show source text
1101.3 Storm Water Drainage to Sanitary Sewer Pro- hibited. Storm water shall not be drained into sewers intended for sanitary drainage. 1101.4 Material Uses. Pipe, tube, and fittings conveying rainwater shall be of such materials and design as to perform their intended function to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Conductors within a vent or shaft shall be of cast-iron, galvanized steel, wrought iron, copper, copper alloy, lead, Schedule 40 ABS DWV, Schedule 40 PVC DWV, stainless steel 304 or 316L [stainless steel 304 pipe and fittings shall not be installed underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground], or other approved materials, and changes in direction shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 706.0. ABS and PVC DWV piping installations shall be installed in accordance with applicable standards referenced in Chapter 17 and 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.
[HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS or PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of residential accommo- dation.
[OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] ABS and PVC installations are not allowed.
1101.4.1 Copper and Copper Alloys. Joints and connections in copper and copper alloy pipe and tube shall be installed in accordance with Section 705.3.
1101.4.2 Conductors. Conductors installed aboveground in buildings shall comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 for aboveground drain, waste, and vent pipe. Conductors installed aboveground level shall be of seamless copper water tube, Type K, L, or M; Schedule 40 copper pipe or Schedule
40 copper alloy pipe; Type DWV copper drainage tube; service weight cast-iron soil pipe or hubless cast-iron soil pipe; standard weight galvanized steel pipe; stainless steel 304 or 316L [stainless steel 304 pipe and fittings shall not be installed underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground], or Schedule 40 ABS or Schedule 40 PVC plastic pipe. 1101.4.2.1 [HCD 1] ABS or PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of res- idential accommodation.
1101.4.2.2 [OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] ABS and PVC installations are not allowed.
CPC § 701.2 High relevance — show source text
2(2)||||||||||||||||||||||||| |701.2(2)(a)||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |701.2(2)(b)||||||||||X||X|X|X|X|||||||||| |Table 702.1_& Footnote 10_||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |705.1.2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |705.6.2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |705.9.4||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |Table 707.2,_ Footnote 1_||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |710.3||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |713.4||||X||||||||||||||||||||| |717.2|||||||||||||||||||X|||||| |724.0|||||||||||||||||||X|||||| |725.0|||||||||||||||||||X|||||| |726.0|||||||||||||||||||X|||||| |727.0||||||||||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.
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CHAPTER 7
SANITARY DRAINAGE
Part I – Drainage Systems.
701.0 General.
701.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the materials, design, and installation of sanitary drainage systems and building sewers. 701.2 Drainage Piping. Materials for drainage piping shall be in accordance with one of the referenced standards in Table 701.2 except that:
(1) No galvanized wrought-iron or galvanized steel pipe shall be used underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground.
(2) ABS and PVC DWV piping installations shall be installed in accordance with applicable standards referenced in Table 701.2 and the firestop protection require- ments in the California Building Code . Except for individual single-family dwelling units, materials exposed within ducts or plenums shall have a flamespread 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.
(a) [HCD 1 & HCD 2] ABS and PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of res- idential accommodation.
CPC § 1701.2 High relevance — show source text
Plastic| |ASTM D2657-2007 (R2015)|Standard Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings|Joints| |ASTM D2774-2021a|Standard Practice for Underground Installation of Thermoplastic Pressure Piping|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM D2855-2020|Standard Practice for the Two-Step (Primer and Solvent Cement) Method of Joining
Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) or Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Pipe and
Piping Components with Tapered Sockets|Joints| |ASTM D3122-2015|Standard Specification for Solvent Cement for Styrene-Rubber (SR) Plastic Pipe and
Fittings|Joints| |ASTM D3311-2017 (R2021)|Standard Specification for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Plastic Fittings Patterns|Fittings| |ASTM F402-2018|Standard Practice for Safe Handling of Solvent Cements, Primers, and Cleaners Used
for Joining Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings|Joints| |ASTM F480-2014|Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Well Casing Pipe and Couplings Made in
Standard Dimension Ratios (SDR), SCH 40 and SCH 80|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM F810-2012 (R2018)|Standard Specification for Smoothwall Polyethylene (PE) Pipe for Use in Drainage
and Waste Disposal Absorption Fields|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM F949-2020|Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Corrugated Sewer Pipe with a
Smooth Interior and Fittings|Piping, Plastic| |ASTM F1476-2007 (R2019)|Standard Specification for Performance of Gasketed Mechanical Couplings for Use in
Piping Applications|Joints| |ASTM F1499-2017|Standard Specification for Coextruded Composite Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe
(DWV)|Piping, Plastic|354 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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REFERENCED STANDARDS
TABLE 1701.2 (continued) STANDARDS, PUBLICATIONS, PRACTICES, AND GUIDES
DOCUMENT NUMBER DOCUMENT TITLE APPLICATION ASTM F1743-2017 Standard Practice for Rehabilitation of Existing Pipelines and Conduits by Pulled-in-
Place Installation of Cured-in-Place Thermosetting Resin Pipe (CIPP)Piping, Plastic ASTM F1924-2019 Standard Specification for Plastic Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter
Controlled Polyethylene Gas Distribution Pipe and TubingFittings ASTM F1948-2020 Standard Specification for Metallic Mechanical Fittings for Use on Outside Diameter
Controlled Thermoplastic Gas Distribution Pipe and TubingFittings ASTM F2165-2019 Standard Specification for Flexible Pre-Insulated Piping Piping, Plastic ASTM F2206-2019 Standard Specification for Fabricated Fittings of Butt-Fused Polyethylene (PE) DWV Components ASTM F2306/F2306M-
2021Standard Specification for 12 to 60 in. CPC § 901.1 High 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 § 4.2.1 High relevance — show source text
4|X|||X|X|||||X||X|X|X|X|||||||||| |1101.4.2.1||||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1101.4.2.2||||||||||X||X|X|X|X|||||||||| |1101.6_ Exception_||||X|X||||||||||||||||||||
This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 203
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204 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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CHAPTER 11
STORM DRAINAGE
1101.0 General.
1101.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the materials, design, and installation of storm water drainage systems. 1101.2 Where Required. Roofs, paved areas, yards, courts, courtyards, vent shafts, light wells, or similar areas having rainwater, shall be drained into a separate storm sewer system, or into a combined sewer system where a separate storm sewer system is not available, or to some other place of disposal satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. In the case of one- and two-family dwellings, storm water shall be permitted to be discharged on flat areas, such as streets or lawns, so long as the storm water shall flow away from the building and away from adjoining property, and shall not create a nuisance. 1101.3 Storm Water Drainage to Sanitary Sewer Pro- hibited. Storm water shall not be drained into sewers intended for sanitary drainage. 1101.4 Material Uses. Pipe, tube, and fittings conveying rainwater shall be of such materials and design as to perform their intended function to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Conductors within a vent or shaft shall be of cast-iron, galvanized steel, wrought iron, copper, copper alloy, lead, Schedule 40 ABS DWV, Schedule 40 PVC DWV, stainless steel 304 or 316L [stainless steel 304 pipe and fittings shall not be installed underground and shall be kept not less than 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground], or other approved materials, and changes in direction shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 706.0. ABS and PVC DWV piping installations shall be installed in accordance with applicable standards referenced in Chapter 17 and 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.
CPC § 23500-3 High relevance — show source text
7_| |ANSI/AAMI/ISO 23500-3|Preparation and Quality Management of Fluids for
Haemodialysis and Related Therapies—Part 3: Water for
Haemodialysis and Related Therapies.|Miscellaneous|614.7| |ARCSA|ARCSA|ARCSA|ARCSA| |ARCSA/ASPE/ANSI 63-
2020|Rainwater Catchment Systems|Miscellaneous|1602.1| |ASME|ASME|ASME|ASME| |ASME A112.1.2-2012
(R2017)|Air Gaps in Plumbing Systems (For Plumbing Fixtures and
Water-Connected Receptors)|Fittings|Table 603.2| |ASME A112.1.3-2000
(R2019)|Air Gap Fittings for Use with Plumbing Fixtures, Appliances,
and Appurtenances|Fittings|Table 603.2| |ASME A112.3.1-2007
(R2017)|Stainless Steel Drainage Systems for Sanitary DWV, Storm,
and Vacuum Applications, Above- and Below-Ground|Piping|418.1, Table 701.2,
705.7.2, 1102.1| |ASME A112.3.4-2018/CSA
B45.9-2018
|Macerating Toilet Systems and Waste-Pumping Systems for
Plumbing Fixtures|Fixtures|710.13| |ASME A112.4.1-2009
(R2019)|Water Heater Relief Valve Drain Tubes|Appliances|608.5(2)| |ASME A112.4.2-2021/CSA
B45.16-2021|Personal Hygiene Devices for Water Closets|Fixtures|411.4| |ASME A112.4.4-2017|Plastic Push-Fit Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Fittings|Fittings|Table 701.2| |ASME A112.4.14-
2017/CSA B125.14-2017|Manually Operated Valves for Use in Plumbing Systems|Valves|606.1| |ASME A112.6.1M-1997
(R2017)|Floor-Affixed Supports for Off-the-Floor Plumbing Fixtures
for Public Use|Fixtures|402.4| |ASME A112.6.2-2017|Framing-Affixed Supports (Carriers) for Off-the-Floor Plumb-
ing Fixtures|Fixtures|402.4| |ASME A112.6.3-2019|Floor and Trench Drains|Fixtures|418.1| |ASME A112.6.4-2003
(R2012)|Roof, Deck, and Balcony Drains|Fixtures|1102.1| |ASME A112.6.7-2010
(R2019)|Sanitary Floor Sinks|Fixtures|421.1| |ASME A112.6.9-2005
(R2019)|Siphonic Roof Drains|DWV Components|1106.3| |ASME A112.14.1-2003
(R2017)|Backwater Valves|Valves|710.6| |ASME A112.14.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use galvanized steel for an underground building sewer?
No. Galvanized wrought‑iron or galvanized steel is not permitted underground; it must be kept at least 6 inches (152 mm) aboveground if used. § 701.2(1).
Are ABS and PVC allowed in multi‑story buildings?
Not universally. ABS and PVC installations must meet the Table 701.2 standards and fire/plenum rules in the CBC; HCD 1/2 limit plastics to ≤ two stories in certain residential occupancies, and ABS/PVC are not allowed in OSHPD 1–5. § 701.2(2) (and subsections).
Where do I find the exact ASTM/ASME standard a product must meet?
Consult Table 701.2 and the CPC referenced‑standards tables (Chapter 17) — the CPC ties each material to the specific ASTM/ASME/IAPMO/CSA standard that products must meet. file
Can I use vitrified clay aboveground or for pumped systems?
No. Vitrified clay pipe and fittings are prohibited aboveground and where pressurized by pumps/ejectors; the code requires them to be kept not less than 12 inches (305 mm) belowground. § 701.2(3).
Do cast‑iron fittings need to be marked?
Yes. Cast‑iron soil pipe and fittings and stainless couplings used with them must be listed/tested per Table 701.2 and marked with country of origin, manufacturer/trademark, third‑party certifier’s mark, and class of the pipe or fitting. § 701.2(6).
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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