CPC · California Plumbing Code
When is a permit or inspection required for water heater work?
You must get a permit before installing, removing, or replacing any water heater (CPC §502.1). If you alter vents or chimneys, those parts must be inspected after installation and before being covered (CPC §503.1). A final inspection of the water heater is required once work is complete, and nothing may be concealed until the Authority Having Jurisdiction has approved it (CPC §503.2).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
It is unlawful to install, remove, or replace a water heater without first obtaining a permit from the Authority Having Jurisdiction — see § 502.1.
Chimney or vent work authorized by the permit must be inspected after installation and before any portion is covered or concealed — see § 503.1.
A final water heater inspection is required after the permitted work is installed; no appliance or part may be covered until inspected and approved — see § 503.2.
The single most important rule: obtain a permit before you install, remove, or replace a water heater, and do not cover vents or appliances until inspected and approved. (See § 502.1, § 503.1, § 503.2.)
Requirements in detail
Core duties (short)
- Who must get a permit: any person who will install, remove, or replace a water heater — § 502.1.
- Chimney/vent inspection timing: after the chimney/vent or any authorized part is installed and before it is covered — § 503.1.
- Final inspection timing: after the work authorized by the permit is installed; no part may be covered until inspected and approved — § 503.2.
Decision table — common water‑heater actions
| Work / condition | Permit required? | Inspection required? | When to inspect | Code reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Install a new water heater (any type) | Yes | Yes (final) | Final inspection after installation; do not cover until approved | § 502.1, § 503.2 |
| Replace an existing water heater (remove & set in new unit) | Yes | Yes (final) | Final inspection after replacement; do not conceal appliance/parts | § 502.1, § 503.2 |
| Remove a water heater (for demo or replacement) | Yes | May require final verification | As required by AHJ; if vents/chimneys altered, see vent inspection timing | § 502.1, § 503.1 |
| Modify/extend chimney or vent | Usually part of permit work | Yes (chimney/vent inspection) | After vent/chimney or authorized part installed, before covering | § 503.1, § 503.2 |
| Minor repairs (stopping leaks, clearing stoppages) | Not always required — see exemptions | Typically no inspection required unless AHJ requires it | See exempt-work list (local AHJ may differ) | § 104.2 (exemptions) |
Notes: The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may require additional inspections or plan submittals. The AHJ enforces and schedules inspections under the administration/inspection chapters.
How the inspection rules work (practical points)
- Chimney/vent inspection must be requested after the vent work is installed but before it is concealed (e.g., before drywall or chase is closed). § 503.1.
- Final water heater inspection must be requested after the installed work is completed; the AHJ will make inspections as necessary and will not allow coverage prior to approval. § 503.2.
Exceptions & special cases
- Routine stopping of leaks and clearing stoppages are listed as exempt from permit requirements in the general permit exemptions; however, removing and replacing defective piping or fixtures may be considered new work and require a permit — see § 104.2.
- If work has already begun without a permit, the AHJ may require a special investigation and collection of an investigation fee in addition to the permit fee — see § 104.5.1.
- The AHJ may require additional inspections or conditions (plans, tests, or other evidence) before final approval — see the general inspection/administration provisions; schedule and access requirements are administered by the AHJ.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a like‑for‑like replacement does not need a permit. The code expressly requires a permit to install, remove, or replace a water heater—§ 502.1.
- Covering or concealing a vent, chimney, or appliance part before the required inspection — § 503.1 and § 503.2 prohibit this.
- Not scheduling the inspection or failing to provide access/equipment for testing — the permit holder is responsible for scheduling and providing access under the inspection rules.
- Beginning work without a permit and assuming paying the fee later removes consequences — the AHJ may perform a special investigation and collect additional fees.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A homeowner plans to replace a 40‑gallon gas storage water heater with a new 40‑gallon gas storage unit in the same location and reuse the same vent connector.
What must be done:
- Obtain a permit before starting work — required for replacement per § 502.1.
- If the vent/connector is disturbed, request an inspection of the chimney/vent after the vent components are reinstalled and before any chase or wall is closed — § 503.1.
- Request the final water heater inspection after the new heater is installed and hooked to water/fuel; do not cover or conceal the appliance or its parts until the AHJ inspects and approves — § 503.2.
- If the homeowner started the swap immediately (emergency), they should still apply for the permit promptly; if the AHJ discovers work began without permit, a special investigation/fee may apply per § 104.5.1.
Related provisions (read these too)
- § 502.1 — Permits required for water‑heater install/remove/replace.
- § 503.1 — Inspection of chimneys or vents: after installation, before covering.
- § 503.2 — Final water‑heater inspection; no part covered until inspected/approved.
- § 104.2 — Exempt work (minor repairs) — when a permit may not be required.
- § 105.1 / § 105.2 — General inspection requirements, responsibilities, and required inspections.
- § 104.5.1 — Work commenced before permit issuance; special investigation and fees.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 0.293 High relevance — show source text
For SI units: 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW
- Dual purpose water heaters shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
501.2 California Energy Code Water Heating System Requirements. [CEC] See California Energy Code Section 110.3 for additional mandatory requirements for all service water heating systems, and 150.0(n) for additional mandatory requirements for residential service water heating systems.
502.0 Permits.
502.1 General. It shall be unlawful for a person to install, remove, or replace or cause to be installed, removed, or replaced a water heater without first obtaining a permit from the Authority Having Jurisdiction to do so.
TABLE 501.1(1)
WATER HEATERS
For SI units: 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW
- Dual purpose water heaters shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
503.0 Inspection.
503.1 Inspection of Chimneys or Vents. This inspection shall be made after chimneys, vents, or parts thereof, authorized by the permit, have been installed and before such vent or part thereof has been covered or concealed.
503.2 Final Water Heater Inspection. This inspection shall be made after work authorized by the permit has been installed. The Authority Having Jurisdiction will make such inspection as deemed necessary to be assured that the work has been installed in accordance with the intent of this code.
No appliance or part thereof shall be covered or concealed until the same has been inspected and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
504.0 Water Heater Requirements.
504.1 Location. Water heater installations in bedrooms and
bathrooms shall comply with one of the following [NFPA 54:10.27.1]:
(1) Water heater shall be of the direct-vent type. [NFPA 54:10.27.1(2)]
(2) Fuel-burning water heaters shall be permitted to be installed in a closet located in the bedroom or bathroom provided the closet is equipped with a listed, gasketed door assembly and a listed self-closing device. The selfclosing door assembly shall meet the requirements of Section 504.1.1. The door assembly shall be installed with a threshold and bottom door seal and shall meet the requirements of Section 504.1.2. Combustion air for such installations shall be obtained from the outdoors in accor dance with Section 506.4. The closet shall be for the
exclusive use of the water heater.
504.1.1 Self-Closing Doors. Self-closing doors shall swing easily and freely, and shall be equipped with a self-closing device to cause the door to close and latch each time it is opened. The closing mechanism shall not have a hold-open feature.
504.1.2 Gasketing. Gasketing on gasketed doors or frames shall be furnished in accordance with the published listings of the door, frame, or gasketing material manufacturer.
TABLE 501.1(2) FIRST HOUR RATING [1]
CPC § 104.5.2 High relevance — show source text
** Where work for which a permit is required by this code has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit is issued for such work. 104.5.2 Investigation Fees. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee that is required by this code if a permit were to be issued. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt a person from compliance with other provisions of this code, nor from a penalty prescribed by law. 104.5.3 Fee Refunds. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to authorize the refunding of a fee as follows:
(1) The amount paid hereunder that was erroneously paid or collected.
(2) Refunding of not more than a percentage, as determined by this jurisdiction where no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with this code.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not authorize the refunding of a fee paid except upon written application filed by the original permittee not to exceed 180 days after the date of fee payment.
105.0 Inspections and Testing.
105.1 General. Plumbing systems for which a permit is required by this code shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
No plumbing system or portion thereof shall be covered, concealed, or put into use until inspected and approved as prescribed in this code. Neither the Authority Having Jurisdiction nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of material required to permit inspection. Plumbing systems regulated by this code shall not be connected to the water, the energy fuel supply, or the sewer system until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
105.2 Required Inspections. New plumbing work and such portions of existing systems as affected by new work, or changes, shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the requirements of this code and to ensure that the installation and construction of the plumbing system are in accordance with approved plans. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall make the following inspections and other such inspections as necessary. The permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the scheduling of such inspections as follows:
(1) The underground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are excavated and bedded, piping installed, and before backfill is put in place.
(2) Rough-in inspection shall be made prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.
(3) Final inspection shall be made upon completion of the installation.
105.2.1 Uncovering. Where a drainage or plumbing system, building sewer, private sewage disposal system, or part thereof, which is installed, altered, or repaired, is covered or concealed before being inspected, tested, and approved as prescribed in this code, it shall be uncovered for inspection after notice to uncover the work has been issued to the responsible person by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The requirements of this section shall not be considered to prohibit the operation of plumbing installed to replace existing equipment or fixtures serving an occupied portion of the building in the event a request for inspection of such equipment or fixture has been filed with the Authority Having Jurisdiction not more than 72 hours after such replacement work is completed, and before a portion of such plumbing system is concealed by a permanent portion of the building.
105.2.1.1 Water Supply System. No water supply system or portion thereof shall be covered or concealed until it first has been tested, inspected, and approved.
CPC § 105.2 High relevance — show source text
105.2 Required Inspections. New plumbing work and such portions of existing systems as affected by new work, or changes, shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the requirements of this code and to ensure that the installation and construction of the plumbing system are in accordance with approved plans. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall make the following inspections and other such inspections as necessary. The permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the scheduling of such inspections as follows:
(1) The underground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are excavated and bedded, piping installed, and before backfill is put in place.
(2) Rough-in inspection shall be made prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.
(3) Final inspection shall be made upon completion of the installation.
105.2.1 Uncovering. Where a drainage or plumbing system, building sewer, private sewage disposal system, or part thereof, which is installed, altered, or repaired, is covered or concealed before being inspected, tested, and approved as prescribed in this code, it shall be uncovered for inspection after notice to uncover the work has been issued to the responsible person by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The requirements of this section shall not be considered to prohibit the operation of plumbing installed to replace existing equipment or fixtures serving an occupied portion of the building in the event a request for inspection of such equipment or fixture has been filed with the Authority Having Jurisdiction not more than 72 hours after such replacement work is completed, and before a portion of such plumbing system is concealed by a permanent portion of the building.
105.2.1.1 Water Supply System. No water supply system or portion thereof shall be covered or concealed until it first has been tested, inspected, and approved.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
105.2.1.2 Covering or Using. No plumbing or drainage system, building sewer, private sewer disposal system, or part thereof, shall be covered, concealed, or put into use until it has been tested, inspected, and accepted as prescribed in this code. 105.2.2 Other Inspections. In addition to the inspections required by this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require other inspections to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
105.2.3 Inspection Requests. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by a permit to notify the Authority Having Jurisdiction that such work is ready for inspection. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require that a request for inspection be filed not less than 1 working day before such inspection is desired. Such request shall be permitted to be made in writing or by telephone, at the option of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
CPC § 105.2.1.1 High relevance — show source text
105.2.1.1 Water Supply System. No water supply system or portion thereof shall be covered or concealed until it first has been tested, inspected, and approved.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
105.2.1.2 Covering or Using. No plumbing or drainage system, building sewer, private sewer disposal system, or part thereof, shall be covered, concealed, or put into use until it has been tested, inspected, and accepted as prescribed in this code. 105.2.2 Other Inspections. In addition to the inspections required by this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require other inspections to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
105.2.3 Inspection Requests. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by a permit to notify the Authority Having Jurisdiction that such work is ready for inspection. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require that a request for inspection be filed not less than 1 working day before such inspection is desired. Such request shall be permitted to be made in writing or by telephone, at the option of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
It shall be the duty of the person requesting inspections in accordance with this code to provide access to and means for inspection of such work. 105.2.4 Advance Notice. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by the permit to notify the Authority Having Jurisdiction, orally or in writing that said work is ready for inspection. Such notification shall be given not less than 24 hours before the work is to be inspected. 105.2.5 Responsibility. It shall be the duty of the holder of a permit to make sure that the work will stand the test prescribed before giving the notification.
The equipment, material, and labor necessary for inspection or tests shall be furnished by the person to whom the permit is issued or by whom inspection is requested. 105.2.6 Reinspections. A reinspection fee shall be permitted to be assessed for each inspection or reinspection where such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or where required corrections have not been made.
This provision shall not be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to be in accordance with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the job is ready for inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees shall be permitted to be assessed where the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector, for failure to provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
To obtain reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefore in writing upon a form furnished for that purpose and pay the reinspection fee in accordance with Table 104.5.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of the work will be performed until the required fees have been paid. 105.3 Testing of Systems. Plumbing systems shall be tested and approved in accordance with this code or the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Tests shall be conducted in the presence of the Authority Having Jurisdiction or the Authority Having Jurisdiction’s duly appointed representative.
CPC § 105.2.6 High relevance — show source text
The equipment, material, and labor necessary for inspection or tests shall be furnished by the person to whom the permit is issued or by whom inspection is requested. 105.2.6 Reinspections. A reinspection fee shall be permitted to be assessed for each inspection or reinspection where such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or where required corrections have not been made.
This provision shall not be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to be in accordance with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the job is ready for inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees shall be permitted to be assessed where the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector, for failure to provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
To obtain reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefore in writing upon a form furnished for that purpose and pay the reinspection fee in accordance with Table 104.5.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of the work will be performed until the required fees have been paid. 105.3 Testing of Systems. Plumbing systems shall be tested and approved in accordance with this code or the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Tests shall be conducted in the presence of the Authority Having Jurisdiction or the Authority Having Jurisdiction’s duly appointed representative.
No test or inspection shall be required where a plumbing system, or part thereof, is set up for exhibition purposes and has no connection with a water or drainage system. In cases where it would be impractical to provide the required water or air tests, or for minor installations and repairs, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to make such inspection as deemed advisable in order to be assured that the work has been performed in accordance with the intent of this code. Joints and connections in the plumbing system shall be gastight and watertight for the pressures required by the test. 105.3.1 Defective Systems. An air test shall be used in testing the sanitary condition of the drainage or plumbing system of building premises where there is reason to believe that it has become defective. In buildings or premises condemned by the Authority Having Jurisdiction because of an insanitary condition of the plumbing system, or part thereof, the alterations in such system shall be in accordance with the requirements of this code. 105.3.2 Retesting. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work will not pass the test, necessary corrections shall be made, and the work shall be resubmitted for test or inspection. 105.3.3 Approval. Where prescribed tests and inspections indicate that the work is in accordance with this code, a certificate of approval shall be issued by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to the permittee on demand. 105.4 Connection to Service Utilities. No person shall make connections from a source of energy or fuel to a plumbing system or equipment regulated by this code and for which a permit is required until approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. No person shall make connection from a watersupply line nor shall connect to a sewer system regulated by this code and for which a permit is required until approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to authorize temporary connection of the plumbing equipment to the source of energy or fuel for the purpose of testing the equipment.
106.0 Violations and Penalties.
CPC § 104.0 High relevance — show source text
104.0 Permits.
104.1 Permits Required. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm, or corporation to make an installation, alteration, repair, replacement, or remodel a plumbing system regulated by this code except as permitted in Section 104.2, or to cause the same to be done without first obtaining a separate plumbing permit for each separate building or structure. 104.2 Exempt Work. A permit shall not be required for the following:
(1) The stopping of leaks in drains, soil, waste, or vent pipe, provided, however, that a trap, drainpipe, soil, waste, or vent pipe become defective, and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, the same shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be procured and inspection made as provided in this code.
(2) The clearing of stoppages, including the removal and reinstallation of water closets, or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for work to be done in violation of the provisions of the code or other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. 104.3 Application for Permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefore in writing on a form furnished by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for that purpose. Such application shall:
(1) Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
(2) Describe the land upon which the proposed work is to be done by legal description, street address, or similar description that will readily identify and locate the proposed building or work.
(3) Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
(4) Be accompanied by construction documents in accordance with Section 104.3.1.
(5) Be signed by the permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require evidence to indicate such authority.
(6) Give such other data and information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
104.3.1 Construction Documents. Construction documents, engineering calculations, diagrams, and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, with each application for a permit. The construction documents, computations, and specifications shall be prepared by, and the plumbing designed by, a registered design professional. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale with clarity to identify that the intended work to be performed is in accordance with the code.
Exception: The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to waive the submission of construction documents, calculations, or other data where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with the code.
104.3.2 Plan Review Fees. Where a plan or other data is required to be submitted in accordance with Section 104.3.1, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting construction documents for review.
The plan review fees for plumbing work shall be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction.
CPC § 422.1 High relevance — show source text
422.1 Fixture Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
422.2 Separate Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
422.3 Fixture Requirements for Special Occupancies . . . . . . . . . . .68
422.4 Toilet Facilities Serving Employees and Customers . . . . . .68
422.5 Toilet Facilities for Workers . . . . . .69
422.6 Water Closet Compartment . . . . . .69
422.7 Urinal Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
422.8 Cosmetology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
422.9 Cosmetology Establishments . . . . .69
422.10 Commissaries Serving Mobile Food Preparation Units . . . . . . . . .69
422.11 Employee Lavatories in Food Establishments . . . . . . . . . . .69
Table 422.1 Minimum Plumbing Facilities . . . . .70
Table 4-1 Occupant Load Factor
[BSC and DSA-SS] . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Table 4-2 Minimum Plumbing Facilities
[OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] . . . . . . . . .76
CHAPTER 5 WATER HEATERS . . . . . . . . . . . .81
501.0 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
501.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Table 501.1(1) Water Heaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
501.2 California Energy Code Water Heating System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
502.0 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
502.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
503.0 Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
503.1 Inspection of Chimneys or Vents . . .83
503.2 Final Water Heater Inspection . . . .83
504.0 Water Heater Requirements . . . . . .83
504.1 Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Table 501.1(2) First Hour Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
504.2 Vent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
504.3 Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
504.4 Pressure-Limiting Devices . . . . . . .84
504.5 Temperature-Limiting Devices . . . .84
504.6 Temperature, Pressure, and Vacuum Relief Devices . . . . . . . . .84
504.7 Lead Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
CPC § 103.3 High relevance — show source text
103.3 Applications and Permits. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require the submission of plans, specifications, drawings, and such other information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction, prior to the commencement of, and at a time during the progress of, work regulated by this code.
The issuance of a permit upon construction documents shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said construction documents or from preventing construction operations being carried on thereunder where in violation of this code or of other pertinent ordinance or from revoking a certificate of approval where issued in error.
103.3.1 Licensing. Provision for licensing shall be determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 103.4 Right of Entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the Authority Having Jurisdiction has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon premises a condition or violation of this code that makes the building or premises unsafe, insanitary, dangerous, or hazardous, the Authority
Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to enter the building or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction by this code, provided that where such building or premises is occupied, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. Where such building or premises is unoccupied, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. Where entry is refused, the Authority Having Jurisdiction has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have first obtained an inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner, occupant, or person having charge, care or control of a building or premises shall fail or neglect, after a request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry herein by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
104.0 Permits.
104.1 Permits Required. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm, or corporation to make an installation, alteration, repair, replacement, or remodel a plumbing system regulated by this code except as permitted in Section 104.2, or to cause the same to be done without first obtaining a separate plumbing permit for each separate building or structure. 104.2 Exempt Work. A permit shall not be required for the following:
(1) The stopping of leaks in drains, soil, waste, or vent pipe, provided, however, that a trap, drainpipe, soil, waste, or vent pipe become defective, and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, the same shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be procured and inspection made as provided in this code.
(2) The clearing of stoppages, including the removal and reinstallation of water closets, or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for work to be done in violation of the provisions of the code or other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. 104.3 Application for Permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefore in writing on a form furnished by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for that purpose. Such application shall:
CPC § 104.4.5 High relevance — show source text
** A permittee holding an unexpired permit shall be permitted to apply for an extension of the time within which work shall be permitted to commence under that permit where the permittee is unable to commence work within the time required by this section. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to extend the time for action by the permittee for a period not exceeding 180 days upon written request by the permittee showing that circumstances beyond the control of the permittee have prevented the action from being taken. No permit shall be extended more than once. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration, the permittee shall pay a new full permit fee. 104.4.5 Suspension or Revocation. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted, with written notification, to suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code where the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information supplied or in violation of other ordinance or regulation of the jurisdiction.
104.4.6 Retention of Plans. One set of approved construction documents and computations shall be retained by the Authority Having Jurisdiction until final approval of the work covered therein.
One set of approved construction documents, computations, and manufacturer’s installation instructions shall be returned to the applicant and said set shall be kept on the site of the building or work at times during which the work authorized thereby is in progress.
104.5 Fees. Fees shall be assessed in accordance with the provisions of this section and as set forth in the fee schedule, Table 104.5. The fees are to be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction. 104.5.1 Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance. Where work for which a permit is required by this code has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit is issued for such work. 104.5.2 Investigation Fees. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee that is required by this code if a permit were to be issued. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt a person from compliance with other provisions of this code, nor from a penalty prescribed by law. 104.5.3 Fee Refunds. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to authorize the refunding of a fee as follows:
(1) The amount paid hereunder that was erroneously paid or collected.
(2) Refunding of not more than a percentage, as determined by this jurisdiction where no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with this code.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not authorize the refunding of a fee paid except upon written application filed by the original permittee not to exceed 180 days after the date of fee payment.
105.0 Inspections and Testing.
105.1 General. Plumbing systems for which a permit is required by this code shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
No plumbing system or portion thereof shall be covered, concealed, or put into use until inspected and approved as prescribed in this code. Neither the Authority Having Jurisdiction nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of material required to permit inspection. Plumbing systems regulated by this code shall not be connected to the water, the energy fuel supply, or the sewer system until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
CPC § 507.2 High relevance — show source text
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507.2|||X|X|X|||X|||||||||||||||||This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
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CHAPTER 5
WATER HEATERS
501.0 General.
501.1 Applicability. The regulations of this chapter shall govern the construction, location, and installation of fuel-burning and other types of water heaters heating potable water, together with chimneys, vents, and their connectors. The minimum capacity for storage water heaters shall be in accordance with the first-hour rating listed in Table 501.1(2). A list of accepted water heater appliance standards is referenced in Table 501.1(1). Listed appliances shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Unlisted water heaters shall be permitted in accordance with Section 504.3.2.
Water heaters shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s installation instructions. The final installation shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
TABLE 501.1(1)
WATER HEATERS
TYPE* STANDARD
Electric, Household StorageUL 174
Oil-Fired Storage TankUL 732
Gas-Fired, 75 000 Btu/h or less,
StorageCSA/ANSI Z21.10.1/CSA 4.1
Gas-Fired, Above 75 000 Btu/h,
Storage and InstantaneousCSA/ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3
Electric, Commercial StorageUL 1453 Solid Fuel-Fired UL 2523
Electric InstantaneousUL 499 For SI units: 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW
- Dual purpose water heaters shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
501.2 California Energy Code Water Heating System Requirements. [CEC] See California Energy Code Section 110.3 for additional mandatory requirements for all service water heating systems, and 150.0(n) for additional mandatory requirements for residential service water heating systems.
502.0 Permits.
502.1 General. It shall be unlawful for a person to install, remove, or replace or cause to be installed, removed, or replaced a water heater without first obtaining a permit from the Authority Having Jurisdiction to do so.
TABLE 501.1(1)
WATER HEATERS
For SI units: 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW
- Dual purpose water heaters shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
503.0 Inspection.
CPC § 2.7 Medium relevance — show source text
[HCD 1] Irrigation design plans shall meet the requirements of the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
Exceptions:
(1) A person registered or licensed to perform plumbing design work is not required to design rainwater catchment systems used for irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 360 gallons (1363 L).
(2) A person registered or licensed to perform plumbing design work is not required to design rainwater catchment systems for single family dwellings where outlets, piping, and system components are located on the exterior of the building.
1601.3 Permit. It shall be unlawful for a person to construct, install, alter, or cause to be constructed, installed, or altered a nonpotable rainwater catchment system in a building or on a premise without first obtaining a permit to do such work from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Exceptions:
(1) A permit is not required for exterior rainwater catchment systems used for outdoor non-spray irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 5000 gallons (18 927 L) where the tank is supported directly upon grade and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1 and it does not require electrical power or a makeup water supply connection. (2) [HCD 1 & HCD 2] A permit is not required for exterior rainwater catchment systems used for spray irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 360 gallons (1363 L). 1601.4 Component Identification. System components shall be properly identified as to the manufacturer.
1601.5 Maintenance and Inspection. Rainwater catchment systems and components shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with with the manufacturer’s recommendations and/or as required by the enforcing agency .
TABLE 1601.5 MINIMUM ALTERNATE WATER SOURCE TESTING, INSPECTION, AND MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY
DESCRIPTION MINIMUM FREQUENCY
Inspect and clean filters and
screens, and replace (where
necessary).Every 3 months
Inspect and verify that
disinfection, filters, and water
quality treatment devices and
systems are operational and
maintaining minimum water
quality requirements as
determined by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction.In accordance with manufac-
turer’s instructions and the
Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Inspect and clear debris from
rainwater gutters, downspouts,
and roof washers.Every 6 months
Inspect and clear debris from
the roof or another above-
ground rainwater collection
surfaces.Every 6 months
Remove tree branches and
vegetation overhanging a roof
or other aboveground rainwater
collection surfaces.As needed
Inspect pumps and verify
operation.After initial installation and
every 12 months thereafter
Inspect valves and verify
operation.After initial installation and
every 12 months thereafter
Inspect pressure tanks and
verify operation.CPC § 110.3 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 110.3—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE WATER-HEATING SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT
(a) Certification by manufacturers. Any service water- heating system or equipment may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified that the system or equipment complies with all of the requirements of this subsection for that system or equipment.
- Temperature controls for service water-heating systems. Service water-heating systems shall be equipped with automatic temperature controls capable of adjustment from the lowest to the highest acceptable temperature settings for the intended use as listed in Table 3, Chapter 50 of the ASHRAE Handbook, HVAC Applications Volume or Table 613.1 of the Cali- fornia Plumbing Code for healthcare facilities. Exception to Section 110.3(a)1: Residential occupancies.
(b) Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations as required by Section 110.1, subject to the following:
If more than one standard is listed in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, the equipment shall meet all the standards listed; and
If more than one test method is listed in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, the equipment shall comply with the applicable standard when tested with each test method; and
Where equipment can serve more than one function, such as both heating and cooling, or both space heating and water heating, it shall comply with all the requirements applicable to each function; and
Where a requirement is for equipment rated at its “maximum rated capacity” or “minimum rated capacity,” the capacity shall be as provided for and allowed by the controls, during steady-state operation.
(c) Installation. Any service water-heating system or equipment may be installed only if the system or equipment complies with all of the applicable requirements of this subsection for the system or equipment.
- Outlet temperature controls. On systems that have a total capacity greater than 167,000 Btu/hr, outlets that require higher than service water temperatures as listed in the ASHRAE Handbook, Applications Volume, shall have separate remote heaters, heat exchangers or boosters to supply the outlet with the higher temperature. Exception to Section 110.3(c)1: Systems covered by California Plumbing Code Section 613.0 shall instead follow the requirements of that section.
- Controls for hot water distribution systems. Service hot water systems with circulating pumps or with electrical heat trace systems shall be capable of automatically turning off the system. Exception to Section 110.3(c)2: Systems serving healthcare facilities.
- Insulation. Unfired service water heater storage tanks and backup tanks for solar water-heating systems shall have: A. External insulation with an installed R -value of at least R-3.5; or
B. Internal and external insulation with a combined R -value of at least R-16; or
C. The heat loss of the tank surface based on an 80°F water-air temperature difference shall be less than 6.5 Btu per hour per square foot. 4. Water heating recirculation loops serving multiple dwelling units, high-rise residential, hotel/motel, and nonresiden- tial occupancies. A water heating recirculation loop is a type of hot water distribution system that reduces the time needed to deliver hot water to fixtures that are distant from the water heater, boiler or other water heating equipment. The recirculation loop is comprised of a supply portion, connected to branches that serve multiple dwelling units, guest rooms, or fixtures and a return portion that completes the loop back to the water heating equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I always need a permit to replace my old water heater with the same size and type?
Yes. The CPC says it is unlawful to install, remove, or replace a water heater without first obtaining a permit from the Authority Having Jurisdiction — § 502.1.
Can I close the wall around a vent or chimney before an inspector comes?
No. Chimney or vent parts authorized by the permit must be inspected after installation and before they are covered or concealed — § 503.1.
If I fixed a small leak, do I need a permit?
Minor repairs like stopping leaks or clearing stoppages may be exempt, but removal and replacement of defective piping or fixtures that constitute new work will generally require a permit — see § 104.2.
I replaced a heater in an emergency. Do I still have to get a permit?
Yes — you still must obtain the permit. If work was done before permit issuance, the AHJ may require a special investigation and fees under § 104.5.1.
Who schedules inspections and what notice is needed?
The permittee (or authorized agent) is responsible for scheduling inspections and providing access; the AHJ may require notice (often not less than 1 working day) — see the inspection scheduling and responsibility rules.
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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