CPC · California Plumbing Code

Roof drains, gutters, scuppers and secondary (emergency) drainage

This page orients you to the CPC rules for roof drainage—primary drains, gutters, scuppers and required secondary (emergency) drainage and where the sizing and installation requirements live in the code.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

Overview

This topic covers storm drainage from roofs and roof‑edges — required roof drains and gutters, sizing of leaders/conductors and horizontal storm drains, scupper and overflow requirements, controlled‑flow storage, engineered (siphonic) systems, and testing/installation rules found in Chapter 11 of the California Plumbing Code (notably §1101.12, §1102.0, §1103.0, §1105.0 and §1106.0).

Why it matters: proper design prevents ponding that can overload roof structure, damage roofing, and create safety hazards. The CPC requires primary drainage sized for a 60‑minute, 100‑year design storm (unless the AHJ requires otherwise) and mandates secondary (emergency) drainage where roof perimeter construction can trap water.

Key practical points you’ll find in the CPC: scuppers and open‑sided overflows as an acceptable secondary method (scuppers have minimum opening and sizing rules), secondary roof drains must be set above the roof surface or tied to a separate/combined system per the code, and gutters/leaders/tables for sizing are in Chapter 11 (see Tables 1103.1–1103.3 and controlled‑flow limits in §1105).

In this section

Code references

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

  • CPC § 1101.11 High relevance — show source text

    1101.11 Paved Areas. Where the occupant creates surface water drainage, the sumps, gratings, or floor drains shall be piped to a storm drain or an approved water course. 1101.12 Roof Drainage. Roof drainage shall comply with Section 1101.12.1 and Section 1101.12.2.

    1101.12.1 Primary Roof Drainage. Roof areas of a building shall be drained by roof drains or gutters. The location and sizing of drains and gutters shall be coordinated with the structural design and pitch of the roof. Unless otherwise required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, roof drains, gutters, vertical conductors or leaders, and horizontal storm drains for primary drainage shall be sized based on a storm of 60 minutes duration and 100 year return period. Refer to Table D 101.1 (in Appendix D) for 100 years, 60-minute storms at various locations. 1101.12.2 Secondary Drainage. Secondary (emergency) roof drainage shall be provided by one of the methods specified in Section 1101.12.2.1 or Section 1101.12.2.2.

    1101.12.2.1 Roof Scuppers or Open Side. Secondary roof drainage shall be provided by an opensided roof or scuppers where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped. An open-sided roof or scuppers shall be sized to prevent the depth of ponding water from exceeding that for which the roof was designed as determined by Section 1101.12.1. Scupper openings shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high and have a width equal to the circumference of the roof drain required for the area served, sized in accordance with Table 1103.1.

    1101.12.2.2 Secondary Roof Drain. Secondary roof drains shall be provided. The secondary roof drains shall be located not less than 2 inches (51 mm) above the roof surface. The maximum height of the roof drains shall be a height to prevent the depth of ponding water from exceeding that for which the roof was designed as determined by Section 1101.12.1. The secondary roof drains shall connect to a piping system in accordance with Section 1101.12.2.2.1 or Section 1101.12.2.2.2.

    1101.12.2.2.1 Separate Piping System. The secondary roof drainage system shall be a

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    STORM DRAINAGE

    separate system of piping, independent of the primary roof drainage system. The discharge shall be above grade, in a location observable by the building occupants or maintenance personnel. Secondary roof drain systems shall be sized in accordance with Section 1101.12.1

    based on the rainfall rate for which the primary system is sized. 1101.12.2.2.2 Combined System. The secondary roof drains shall connect to the vertical piping of the primary storm drainage conductor downstream of the last horizontal offset located below the roof. The primary storm drainage system shall connect to the building storm water that connects to an underground public storm sewer. The combined secondary and primary roof drain systems shall be sized in accordance with Section 1103.0 based on double the rain fall rate for the local area.

  • CPC § 1501.1 High relevance — show source text

    ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [BF] or [P] will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. All other code change proposals will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.

    SECTION 1501—GENERAL

    1501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the design, materials, construction and quality of roof assemblies, and rooftop structures.

    SECTION 1502—ROOF DRAINAGE

    [P] 1502.1 General. Design and installation of roof drainage systems shall comply with this section, Section 1611 of this code and Chapter 11 of the California Plumbing Code .

    [P] 1502.2 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers. Where roof drains are required, secondary (emergency overflow) roof drains or scuppers shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason. The installation and sizing of secondary emergency overflow drains, leaders and conductors shall comply with Section 1611 of this code and Chapter 11 of the California Plumbing Code .

    1502.3 Gutters. Gutters and leaders placed on the outside of buildings, other than Group R-3, private garages and buildings of Type V construction, shall be of noncombustible material or not less than Schedule 40 plastic pipe.

    SECTION 1503—WEATHER PROTECTION

    1503.1 General. Roof decks shall be covered with approved roof coverings secured to the building or structure in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Roof coverings shall be designed in accordance with this code, and installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s approved instructions.

    1503.2 Flashing. Flashing shall be installed in such a manner so as to prevent water from entering the wall and roof through joints in copings, through moisture-permeable materials and at intersections with parapet walls and other penetrations through the roof plane.

    1503.2.1 Locations. Flashing shall be installed at wall and roof intersections, at gutters, wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction and around roof openings. Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inch (0.483 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet).

    1503.3 Parapet walls. Parapet walls shall be coped or covered in accordance with Sections 1503.3.1 and 1503.3.2. The top surface of the parapet wall shall provide positive drainage.

    1503.3.1 Fire-resistance-rated parapet walls. Parapet walls required by Section 705.12 shall be coped or covered with weatherproof materials of a width not less than the thickness of the parapet wall such that the fire-resistance rating of the wall is not decreased.

    1503.3.2 Other parapet walls. Parapet walls meeting one of the exceptions in Section 705.12 shall be coped or covered with weatherproof materials of a width not less than the thickness of the parapet wall.

    1503.4 Attic and rafter ventilation. Intake and exhaust vents for ventilation of attic and enclosed rafter assemblies shall be provided in accordance with Section 1202.2 and the vent product manufacturer’s installation instructions.

  • CPC § 1101.7 High relevance — show source text

    (1) They do not serve continuously flowing springs or groundwater.

    (2) The point of discharge is not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from a property line.

    (3) It is impracticable to discharge such drains to a storm drain, to an approved water course, to the front street curb or gutter, or to an alley. 1101.7 Building Subdrains. Building subdrains located below the public sewer level shall discharge into a sump or receiving tank, the contents of which shall be automatically lifted and discharged into the drainage system as required for building sumps. 1101.8 Areaway Drains. Open subsurface space adjacent to a building, serving as an entrance to the basement or cellar of a building, shall be provided with a drain or drains. The areaway drains shall be not less than 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter for areaways at a maximum of 100 square feet (9.29 m [2] ) in area, and shall be discharged in the manner provided for subsoil drains not serving continuously flowing springs or groundwater (see Section 1101.6.1). Areaways exceeding 100 square feet (9.29 m [2] ) shall not drain into subsoil drains.

    The drains for areaways exceeding 100 square feet (9.29 m [2] ) shall be sized in accordance with Table 1103.2.

    1101.9 Window Areaway Drains. Window areaways at a maximum of 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) in area shall be permitted to discharge to the subsoil drains through a 2 inch (50 mm) diameter pipe. However, window areaways exceeding 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) in area shall be handled in the manner provided for entrance areaways (see Section 1101.8). 1101.10 Filling Stations and Motor Vehicle Washing Establishments. Public filling stations and motor vehicle washing establishments shall have the paved area sloped toward sumps or gratings within the property lines. Curbs not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high shall be placed where required to direct water to gratings or sumps.

    1101.11 Paved Areas. Where the occupant creates surface water drainage, the sumps, gratings, or floor drains shall be piped to a storm drain or an approved water course. 1101.12 Roof Drainage. Roof drainage shall comply with Section 1101.12.1 and Section 1101.12.2.

    1101.12.1 Primary Roof Drainage. Roof areas of a building shall be drained by roof drains or gutters. The location and sizing of drains and gutters shall be coordinated with the structural design and pitch of the roof. Unless otherwise required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, roof drains, gutters, vertical conductors or leaders, and horizontal storm drains for primary drainage shall be sized based on a storm of 60 minutes duration and 100 year return period. Refer to Table D 101.1 (in Appendix D) for 100 years, 60-minute storms at various locations. 1101.12.2 Secondary Drainage. Secondary (emergency) roof drainage shall be provided by one of the methods specified in Section 1101.12.2.1 or Section 1101.12.2.2.

  • CPC § 1103.1 High relevance — show source text

    (3) Not less than two drains shall be installed in roof areas of 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ) or less, and not less than one additional drain shall be installed for each 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ) of roof area exceeding 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ). (4) Each roof drain shall have a precalibrated, fixed (nonadjustable), and proportional weir (notched) in a standing water collar inside the strainer. No mechanical devices or valves shall be permitted. (5) Pipe sizing shall be based on the pre-calibrated rate of flow (gpm) (L/s) of the pre-calibrated weir for the maximum allowable water depth, and Table 1103.1 and Table 1103.2.

    (6) The height of stones or other granular material above the waterproofed surface shall not be considered in water depth measurement, and the roof surface in the vicinity of the drain shall not be recessed to create a reservoir.

    (7) Roof design, where controlled-flow roof drainage is used, shall be such that the design roof live load is not less than 30 lb/ft [2] (146 kg/m [2] ) to provide a safety factor exceeding the 15 lb/ft [2] (73 kg/m [2] ) represented by the depth of water stored on the roof in accordance with Table 1105.1(1). (8) Scuppers shall be provided in parapet walls. The distance of scupper bottoms above the roof level at the drains shall not exceed the maximum distances specified in Table 1105.1(2).

    (9) Scupper openings shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high and have a width equal to the circumference of

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    STORM DRAINAGE

    the roof drain required for the area served, sized in accordance with Table 1103.1.

    (10)Flashings shall extend above the top of the scuppers.

    (11)At a wall or parapet, 45 degree (0.79 rad) cants shall be installed.

    (12)Separate storm and sanitary drainage systems shall be provided within the building.

    (13)Calculations for the roof drainage system shall be submitted along with the plans to the Authority Having Jurisdiction for approval.

    TABLE 1105.1(1) CONTROLLED-FLOW MAXIMUM ROOF WATER DEPTH

    ROOF RISE*
    (inches)
    MAXIMUM WATER DEPTH AT
    DRAIN
    (inches)

    Flat
    3

    2
    4

    4
    5

    6
    6

    For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm

    • Vertical measurement from the roof surface at the drain to the highest point of the roof surface served by the drain, ignoring a local depression immediately adjacent to the drain.

    TABLE 1105.1(2) DISTANCE OF SCUPPER BOTTOMS ABOVE ROOF

  • CPC § 1502.2 High relevance — show source text

    1||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1502.2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1503.3 – 1503.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1505 – 1507|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1507.3.10||||||||X|X|X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |1507.7.8||||||||X|X|X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |1509 – 1511|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1511.9.6||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |1511.101511.10.1|X|||X|X|||X|X|X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |1512|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1513||||||||X|X|X|X|X||X|X||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified by 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.

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    15 ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 15 provides minimum requirements for the design and construction of roof assemblies and rooftop structures. The criteria address the weather-protective barrier at the roof and, in most circumstances, a fire-resistant barrier. The chapter is largely prescriptive in nature and is based on decades of experience with various traditional materials, but it also recognizes newer products. Section 1511 addresses rooftop structures, which include penthouses, tanks, towers and spires. Rooftop penthouses larger than prescribed in this chapter must be treated as a story under Chapter 5.

    ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [BF] or [P] will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. All other code change proposals will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.

    SECTION 1501—GENERAL

    1501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the design, materials, construction and quality of roof assemblies, and rooftop structures.

    SECTION 1502—ROOF DRAINAGE

    [P] 1502.1 General. Design and installation of roof drainage systems shall comply with this section, Section 1611 of this code and Chapter 11 of the California Plumbing Code .

    [P] 1502.2 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers. Where roof drains are required, secondary (emergency overflow) roof drains or scuppers shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason. The installation and sizing of secondary emergency overflow drains, leaders and conductors shall comply with Section 1611 of this code and Chapter 11 of the California Plumbing Code .

  • CPC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    R903.2.1 Locations. Flashings shall be installed at wall and roof intersections, wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction and around roof openings. A flashing shall be installed to divert the water away from where the eave of a sloped roof intersects a vertical sidewall. Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet).

    R903.2.2 Crickets and saddles. A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney or penetration more than 30 inches (762 mm) wide as measured perpendicular to the slope. Cricket or saddle coverings shall be sheet metal or of the same material as the roof covering.

    Exception: Unit skylights installed in accordance with Section R324.6 and flashed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions shall be permitted to be installed without a cricket or saddle.

    R903.3 Coping. Parapet walls shall be properly coped with noncombustible, weatherproof materials of a width not less than the thickness of the parapet wall.

    R903.4 Roof drainage. Unless roofs are sloped to drain over roof edges, roof drains shall be installed at each low point of the roof.

    R903.4.1 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers. Where roof drains are required, secondary emergency overflow roof drains or scuppers shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason. Overflow drains having the same size as the roof drains shall be installed with the inlet flow line located 2 inches (51 mm) above the low point of the roof, or overflow scuppers having three times the size of the roof drains and having a minimum opening height of 4 inches (102 mm) shall be installed in the adjacent parapet walls with the inlet flow located 2 inches (51 mm) above the low point of the roof served. The installation and sizing of overflow drains, leaders and conductors shall comply with the California Plumbing Code .

    SECTION R904—MATERIALS

    R904.1 Scope. The requirements set forth in this section shall apply to the application of roof covering materials specified herein. Roof assemblies shall be applied in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Installation of roof assemblies shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section R905.

    R904.2 Compatibility of materials. Roof assemblies shall be of materials that are compatible with each other and with the building or structure to which the materials are applied.

    R904.3 Material specifications and physical characteristics. Roof covering materials shall conform to the applicable standards listed in this chapter.

    R904.4 Product identification. Roof covering materials shall be delivered in packages bearing the manufacturer’s identifying marks and approved testing agency labels required. Bulk shipments of materials shall be accompanied by the same information issued in the form of a certificate or on a bill of lading by the manufacturer.

    SECTION R905—REQUIREMENTS FOR ROOF COVERINGS

    R905.1 Roof covering application. Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Unless otherwise specified in this section, roof coverings shall be installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).

  • CPC § 1101.16 High relevance — show source text

    1101.16 Leaders, Conductors, and

    Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1102.0 Roof Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1102.1 Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1102.2 Dome Strainers Required . . . . . . .207

    1102.3 Roof Drain Flashings . . . . . . . . . .207

    1103.0 Size of Leaders, Conductors,

    and Storm Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1103.1 Vertical Conductors and

    Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1103.2 Size of Horizontal Storm

    Drains and Sewers . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1103.3 Size of Roof Gutters . . . . . . . . . . .207

    1103.4 Side Walls Draining onto a Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207

    Table 1103.1 Sizing Roof Drains, Leaders, and Vertical Rainwater Piping . . .208

    1104.0 Values for Continuous Flow . . . . .208

    1104.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208

    1105.0 Controlled-Flow Roof

    Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208

    1105.1 Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208

    Table 1105.1(1) Controlled-Flow Maximum Roof Water Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    Table 1105.1(2) Distance of Scupper Bottoms Above Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

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    1105.2 Setback Roofs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    1106.0 Engineered Storm Drainage System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    1106.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    1106.2 Siphonic Roof Drainage Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    1106.3 Siphonic Roof Drains . . . . . . . . . .209

    1107.0 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    1107.1 Testing Required . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    1107.2 Methods of Testing Storm Drainage Systems . . . . . . . . . . . .209

    Table 1103.2 Sizing of Horizontal Rainwater Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . .210

    Table 1103.3 Size of Gutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211

  • CPC § 1103.4 High relevance — show source text

    area.

    (5) Two opposite walls of differing heights – add 50 percent of the wall area above the top of the lower wall. (6) Walls on three sides – add 50 percent of the area of the inner wall below the top of the lowest wall, plus an allowance for the area of the wall above the top of the lowest wall, in accordance with Section 1103.4(3) and Section 1103.4(5) above. (7) Walls on four sides – no allowance for wall areas below the top of the lowest wall – add for areas above the top of the lowest wall in accordance with Section 1103.4(1), Section 1103.4(3), Section 1103.4(5), and Section 1103.4(6) above.

    1104.0 Values for Continuous Flow.

    1104.1 General. Where there is a continuous or semi-continuous discharge into the building storm drain or building storm sewer, as from a pump, ejector, air-conditioning plant, or similar device, 1 gpm (0.06 L/s) of such discharge shall be computed as being equivalent to 24 square feet (2.2 m [2] ) of roof area, based upon a rate of rainfall of 4 inches per hour (in/h) (102 mm/h).

    1105.0 Controlled-Flow Roof Drainage. 1105.1 Application. Instead of sizing the storm drainage system in accordance with Section 1103.0, the roof drainage shall be permitted to be sized by controlled flow and storage of the storm water on the roof, provided the following conditions are met:

    (1) The water from a 25-year frequency storm shall not be stored on the roof exceeding 24 hours. (2) During the storm, the water depth on the roof shall not exceed the depths specified in Table 1105.1(1). (3) Not less than two drains shall be installed in roof areas of 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ) or less, and not less than one additional drain shall be installed for each 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ) of roof area exceeding 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ). (4) Each roof drain shall have a precalibrated, fixed (nonadjustable), and proportional weir (notched) in a standing water collar inside the strainer. No mechanical devices or valves shall be permitted. (5) Pipe sizing shall be based on the pre-calibrated rate of flow (gpm) (L/s) of the pre-calibrated weir for the maximum allowable water depth, and Table 1103.1 and Table 1103.2.

    (6) The height of stones or other granular material above the waterproofed surface shall not be considered in water depth measurement, and the roof surface in the vicinity of the drain shall not be recessed to create a reservoir.

    (7) Roof design, where controlled-flow roof drainage is used, shall be such that the design roof live load is not less than 30 lb/ft [2] (146 kg/m [2] ) to provide a safety factor exceeding the 15 lb/ft [2] (73 kg/m [2] ) represented by the depth of water stored on the roof in accordance with Table 1105.1(1). (8) Scuppers shall be provided in parapet walls. The distance of scupper bottoms above the roof level at the drains shall not exceed the maximum distances specified in Table 1105.1(2).

  • CPC § 2.4 High relevance — show source text

    The vent terminal shall be directed downward and covered with a [3] ⁄ 32 of an inch (2.4 mm) mesh screen to prevent the entry of vermin and insect.

    K 105.11 Pumps. Pumps serving rainwater catchment systems shall be listed for potable water use. Pumps supplying water to water closets, urinals, and trap primers shall be capable of delivering not less than the minimum residual pressure required by the highest and most remote outlet served. Where the water pressure in the rainwater supply system within the building exceeds 80 psi (552 kPa), a pressure reducing valve reducing the pressure to 80 psi (552 kPa) or less to water outlets in the building shall be installed in accordance with this code.

    K 105.12 Roof Drains. Primary and secondary roof drains, conductors, leaders, overflows, and gutters shall be designed and installed in accordance with this code.

    K 106.0 Freeze Protection.

    K 106.1 General. Tanks and piping installed in locations subject to freezing shall be provided with an approved means of freeze protection. K 106.2 Roof Washer or Pre-Filtration System. Collected rainwater shall pass through a roof washer or pre-filtration system before the water enters the rainwater storage tank. Roof washer systems shall comply with Section K 106.2.1 through Section K 106.2.4.

    K 106.2.1 Size. The roof washer shall be sized to direct rainwater containing debris that has accumulated on the collection surface away from the storage tank. ARCSA/ASPE/ANSI 63 contains additional guidance on acceptable methods of sizing roof washers.

    K 106.2.2 Debris Screen. The inlet to the roof washer shall be provided with a debris screen or other approved means that protects the roof washer from the intrusion of debris and vermin. Where the debris screen is installed, the debris screen shall be corrosion resistant and shall have openings not larger than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (12.7 mm). K 106.2.3 Drain Discharge. Water drained from the roof washer, or pre-filter shall be diverted away from the storage tank and discharged to a disposal area that does not cause property damage or erosion. Roof washer drainage shall not drain over a public way. K 106.2.4 Automatic Drain. Roof washing systems shall be provided with an automatic means of self-draining between rain events.

    K 106.3 Roof Gutters. Gutters shall maintain a minimum slope and be sized in accordance with this code. K 106.4 Drains, Conductors, and Leaders. The design and size of rainwater drains, conductors, and leaders shall comply with this code. K 106.5 Size of Potable Water Piping. Potable rainwater system distribution piping shall be sized in accordance with this code for sizing potable water piping.

    K 107.0 Cleaning. K 107.1 General. The interior surfaces of tanks and equipment shall be clean before they are put into service.

  • CPC § 1.2. Medium relevance — show source text

    R902.3 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems installed as the roof covering shall be tested, listed and labeled for fire classification in accordance with UL 7103 [SFM] Section R902.1 through R902.1.2. Class A, B or C BIPV products shall be installed where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line.

    R902.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be tested, listed and identified with a fire classification in accordance with UL 2703. Listed systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listing. Class A, B or C photovoltaic panel systems

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    ROOF ASSEMBLIES

    and modules shall be installed in jurisdictions designated by law as requiring their use or where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line.

    SECTION R903—WEATHER PROTECTION

    R903.1 General. Roof decks shall be covered with approved roof coverings secured to the building or structure in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Roof assemblies shall be designed and installed in accordance with this code and the approved manufacturer’s instructions such that the roof assembly shall serve to protect the building or structure.

    R903.2 Flashing. Flashings shall be installed in a manner that prevents moisture from entering the wall and roof through joints in copings, through moisture permeable materials and at intersections with parapet walls and other penetrations through the roof plane.

    R903.2.1 Locations. Flashings shall be installed at wall and roof intersections, wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction and around roof openings. A flashing shall be installed to divert the water away from where the eave of a sloped roof intersects a vertical sidewall. Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet).

    R903.2.2 Crickets and saddles. A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney or penetration more than 30 inches (762 mm) wide as measured perpendicular to the slope. Cricket or saddle coverings shall be sheet metal or of the same material as the roof covering.

    Exception: Unit skylights installed in accordance with Section R324.6 and flashed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions shall be permitted to be installed without a cricket or saddle.

    R903.3 Coping. Parapet walls shall be properly coped with noncombustible, weatherproof materials of a width not less than the thickness of the parapet wall.

    R903.4 Roof drainage. Unless roofs are sloped to drain over roof edges, roof drains shall be installed at each low point of the roof.

    R903.4.1 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers. Where roof drains are required, secondary emergency overflow roof drains or scuppers shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason.

  • CPC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text

    ), 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 10 Traps and Interceptors.

    Chapter 10 regulates the material, design, and installation of traps, interceptors, and separators. Traps are required on drainage type plumbing fixtures and must be self-scouring without interior partitions. Interceptors, on the other hand, are designed to control what goes down a drain. Interceptors are used to keep harmful substances from entering the sanitary drainage system, such as grease, sand, oil and other materials. The retained materials need periodic removal to maintain efficiency and function of the separating device. The capacity of an interceptor is based on retention and flow rate. There are many types of interceptors that are used at beauty salons, hospitals, meat, fish or foul packaging, refineries, repair garages, gas stations, car washing facilities, various plants, factories, and processing sites. The designer of the building is responsible for locating interceptors with the expectation for the frequency of maintenance, ease of cleaning and floor space for equipment.

    Chapter 11 Storm Drainage.

    Chapter 11 regulates the removal of stormwater from roofs, yards, paved areas, and similar areas. The objective of storm drainage systems is to provide a conduit or channel through which runoff will be carried from a point of collection to a point of disposal; this protects the property and the public from the uncontrolled flow of runoff and ensures that drains and inlets are adequately sized to receive the volume of runoff that flows to the drains. For the purpose of system design, it’s necessary to specify the duration of a selected storm. All methods used to determine volumes and peak flow use historical data. Drain location must be coordinated with the architectural design of the building. When selecting the type of roof drain to use, the roof construction and its thickness, along with the intended use of the roof, are required. Where the roof perimeter extends above the roof in such a manner that water is entrapped and causes ponding, or if any portion of the roof is designed so water can pond, secondary drainage is required. Where secondary drainage is required, scuppers, or a secondary system of roof drains and pipes, are installed to prevent the accumulation of excessive rainwater.

    Chapter 12 Fuel Gas Piping.

    Chapter 12 regulates the installation of gas piping in a building, structure or within the property lines of buildings up to 5 psi. Gas piping systems must supply the minimum volume of gas required by each gas appliance to perform their proper operation under working conditions without exceeding the maximum pressure specified by each manufacturer. Because of the hazards associated with fuel gas, it is important to ensure the gas system has been inspected and tested, and that it is safe to turn on the gas supply to the building.

    Chapter 13 Health Care Facilities and Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Systems.

    Chapter 13 regulates the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, performance, and safe practices for medical gas and vacuum systems located in health care facilities. This chapter addresses the installation and maintenance of health care fixtures, devices, and equipment. The purpose of medical gas and medical vacuum systems is to provide safe and sufficient flows at required pressures to the medical gas outlet or vacuum inlet terminals. System design and layout should allow convenient access by the medical staff to outlet and inlet terminals, valves, and equipment during patient care or emergencies, as safety is of primary concern.

    Chapter 14 Firestop Protection.

  • CPC § 702.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    702.7 Materials and methods. New work shall comply with the materials and methods requirements in the California Building Code, California Energy Code, California Mechanical Code and California Plumbing Code, as applicable, that specify material standards, detail of installation and connection, joints, penetrations and continuity of any element, component or system in the building.

    SECTION 703—FIRE PROTECTION

    703.1 General. Alterations shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of fire protection provided.

    703.2 Fire alarm and detection.

    703.2.1 Replacement devices, combinations of devices, appliances, and equipment shall be listed and approved.

    703.2.2 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code, C.C.R. Title 24, Part 9.

    703.3 Construction in existing buildings. On-site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the Cali- fornia Building Code, C.C.R. Title 24, Part 2, and California Fire Code, C.C.R. Title 24, Part 9.

    SECTION 704—MEANS OF EGRESS

    704.1 General. Alterations shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of protection provided for the means of egress.

    704.2 Casework. Addition, alteration or reconfiguration of nonfixed and movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height shall maintain the required means of egress path.

    704.3 Locking arrangements in educational occupancies. In Group E occupancies, Group B educational occupancies and Group I4 occupancies, egress doors with locking arrangements designed to keep intruders from entering the room shall comply with Section 1010.2.7 of the California Building Code .

    SECTION 705—REROOFING

    [BS] 705.1 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 15 of the California Building Code .

    Exceptions:

    1. Roof replacement or roof recover of existing low-slope roof coverings shall not be required to meet the minimum design slope requirement of [1] / 4 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in Section 1507 of the California Building Code for roofs that provide positive roof drainage and meet the requirements of Sections 1608.3 and 1611.2 of the Cali- fornia Building Code .
    2. Recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall not be required to meet the requirement for secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers in Section 1502 of the California Building Code for roofs that provide for positive roof drainage and meet the requirements of Sections 1608.3 and 1611.2 of the California Building Code . For the purposes of this exception, existing secondary drainage or scupper systems required in accordance with this code shall not be removed unless they are replaced by secondary drains or scuppers designed and installed in accordance with Section 1502 of the California Building Code .

    [BS] 705.2 Roof replacement. Roof replacement shall include the removal of all existing layers of roof coverings down to the roof deck.

Frequently asked questions

When is secondary (emergency) drainage required?

Secondary (emergency) drainage is required where the roof perimeter or parapet extends above the roof such that water can be entrapped (i.e., ponding would occur if primary drains were blocked or overwhelmed). See §1101.12.2 in the CPC and the CBC requirement for secondary drains/scuppers at §1502.2.

How must scuppers and secondary drains be sized and located?

Scuppers must have a minimum 4‑inch (102 mm) opening height and a width equal to the circumference of the roof drain required for the served area (sized per Table 1103.1). Secondary roof drains, when used, must have their inlet/flow line located at least 2 inches (51 mm) above the roof surface and be sized per the same rainfall basis as the primary system (or per the combined‑system rules). See §1101.12.2.1, §1101.12.2.2 and related sizing tables.

Can secondary drains tie into the primary drainage system?

Yes — the CPC allows either a separate secondary piping system (discharging above grade and observable) or a combined connection to the primary vertical conductor downstream of the last horizontal offset; combined systems must be sized per the code’s combined‑rate provisions. See §1101.12.2.2.1 and §1101.12.2.2.2.

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