CRC · California Residential Code

Appliances, kitchen faucets and minimum energy-related fixtures (A4.303)

For homeowners: if your jurisdiction adopts Appendix A4, your kitchen faucet must be set to a default of 1.5 gallons per minute (measured at 60 psi) and may briefly boost up to 2.2 gpm, and your home must include at least one ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer (see § A4.303.1 and § A4.303.3) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

  • Kitchen faucets must default to a maximum flow of 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm) at 60 psi, may temporarily boost up to 2.2 gpm at 60 psi, and must return to 1.5 gpm by default (§ A4.303.1) .
  • At least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer must be installed in the dwelling (§ A4.303.3) .

The single most important rule: kitchen faucets in Appendix A4 must default to 1.5 gpm at 60 psi and you must provide at least one ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer in the dwelling.

Requirements in detail

Kitchen faucets (what to specify and verify)

  • Key mandated values:

    • Maximum default flow: 1.5 gpm at 60 psi. (Default means the faucet returns to this flow as installed.) § A4.303.1
    • Temporary increase allowed: up to 2.2 gpm at 60 psi (but only as a temporary boost). § A4.303.1
    • Where complying faucets are unavailable, the code allows aerators or other retrofit means to achieve the reduction (note to § A4.303.1) .

  • How it’s measured: flow rates are stated at 60 psi, so verification or labeling should reference gpm at that pressure. § A4.303.1 .

Minimum appliance requirement

  • At least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer must be installed in the dwelling. This is a minimum-install requirement (not optional credit). § A4.303.3 .

Decision‑relevant table

Item Required / Limit Allowed temporary / note Code Reference
Kitchen faucet — maximum default flow 1.5 gpm at 60 psi May temporarily increase to 2.2 gpm at 60 psi; must default to 1.5 gpm § A4.303.1
Means when compliant faucets unavailable Aerators or other means permitted — § A4.303.1
Appliance (minimum) Install at least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer — § A4.303.3

Verification points for plan reviewers / inspectors

  • Confirm the faucet spec sheet or product label states 1.5 gpm @ 60 psi default and any boost function limits to 2.2 gpm @ 60 psi (§ A4.303.1) .
  • Confirm one installed dishwasher or clothes washer is labeled ENERGY STAR (qualified model) (§ A4.303.3) .
  • If aerators or retrofit devices are used in lieu of compliant faucet assemblies, documentation showing the installed aerator achieves the required flow should be provided per the note in § A4.303.1 .

Exceptions & special cases

  • If no compliant kitchen faucet assembly is commercially available, the code allows use of aerators or other means to meet the flow requirement — see the Note to § A4.303.1 .
  • Appendix A4 is a voluntary/residential appendix. Be aware that other mandatory CRC/CHSC/Chapter 4 provisions may specify different maximums for kitchen faucets in the mandatory sections (for example, Chapter 4 shows 1.8 gpm at 60 psi for kitchen faucets in some mandatory tables) — always check which chapter your jurisdiction has adopted and whether Appendix A4 was adopted locally (§ 4.303.1.4.4) .
  • The appliances requirement in § A4.303.3 is a minimum—if a project has nonresidential components, see cross‑references for nonresidential equipment (see § A5.303.3 in the code note) .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming the temporary boost can be set above 2.2 gpm — the code caps the temporary increase at 2.2 gpm at 60 psi (§ A4.303.1) .
  • Quoting flow measurements without the reference pressure — the code’s gpm limits are defined at 60 psi; verifying at other pressures can lead to incorrect conclusions (§ A4.303.1) .
  • Confusing Appendix A4 values with mandatory Chapter 4 requirements (1.5 gpm vs 1.8 gpm) — always confirm whether your project follows Appendix A4 or the adopted mandatory chapters (§ A4.303.1 and § 4.303.1.4.4) .
  • Installing an appliance that is merely "high efficiency" but not a qualified ENERGY STAR model — the code requires a qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer as the minimum (§ A4.303.3) .

Worked example — one concrete scenario

Scenario: New single‑family remodel installs a replacement kitchen faucet and a dishwasher. The homeowner wants to know compliance and approximate water savings.

  1. Requirement check:

    • Faucet must be set to 1.5 gpm default at 60 psi, with any boost limited to 2.2 gpm (§ A4.303.1) .
    • One dishwasher must be a qualified ENERGY STAR model (§ A4.303.3) .

  2. Example water saving calculation (illustrative):

    • Old faucet flow: 2.2 gpm (unrestricted). New default: 1.5 gpm. Reduction = 0.7 gpm.
    • If the faucet is used 10 minutes/day, daily water saved = 0.7 gpm × 10 min = 7.0 gallons/day. Annual ≈ 2,555 gallons/year. (This shows the practical impact of specifying the Appendix A4 default.)

  3. Compliance actions:

    • Provide product data showing the faucet’s default flow rating (1.5 gpm @ 60 psi) and any boost limitation (≤2.2 gpm @ 60 psi) on plan submittal (§ A4.303.1) .
    • Submit model documentation showing the dishwasher or clothes washer is a qualified ENERGY STAR model for verification (§ A4.303.3) .

Related provisions

  • § A4.303.2 — Alternate water sources for nonpotable applications (installation per California Plumbing Code) .
  • § A4.303.4 — Nonwater urinals and waterless toilets (Appendix A4) .
  • § A4.303.5 — Hot water recirculation systems for one‑ and two‑family dwellings (Appendix A4) .
  • § A5.303.3 — Note cross‑reference for nonresidential dishwashers and clothes washers (see the note to § A4.303.3) .
  • § 4.303.1.4.4 — Chapter 4 kitchen faucet mandatory table (shows 1.8 gpm @ 60 psi in some mandatory provisions) — be sure to confirm which chapter is applicable to your project .

Code references

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

  • CRC § 110.4 High relevance — show source text

    A heat pump pool heater as the primary heating system that meets the sizing requirements of Reference Joint Appendix JA16.3. The control for the heat pump pool heater shall meet the requirements specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 110.4(d). The supplementary heater can be of any energy source; or 3. A heating system that derives at least 60 percent of the annual heating energy from on-site renewable energy or on-site recovered energy; or 4. A combination of a solar pool heating system and heat pump pool heater without any additional supplementary heater; or 5. A pool heating system determined by the Energy Commission Executive Director to use no more energy than the systems specified in Item 1, 2, 3, or 4 above.

    Exception 1 to A4.204.1.2: Portable electric spas compliant with 20 CCR, Section 1605.3(g)(7) of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    Exception 2 to A4.204.1.2: A pool or spa that is heated solely by a solar pool heating system without any supplementary heater.

    Exception 3 to A4.204.1.2: An existing building with inadequate Solar Access Roof Area (SARA) as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 170.2(f) for a solar pool heating system to be installed.

    Exception 4 to A4.204.1.2: Heating systems which are used exclusively for permanent spa applications in existing buildings with gas availability.

    Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4 and 25402.8, Public Resources Code.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-11

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A4-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A4.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

    SECTION A4.301—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.302—DEFINITIONS (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.303—INDOOR WATER USE

    A4.303.1 Kitchen faucets. The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.

    Note: Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction.

    A4.303.2 Alternate water sources for nonpotable applications. Alternate nonpotable water sources are used for indoor potable water reduction. Alternate nonpotable water sources shall be installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

    A4.303.3 Appliances. Install at least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer.

    Note: See Section A5.303.3 for nonresidential dishwashers and clothes washers.

  • CRC § 303.1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-11

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A4-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A4.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

    SECTION A4.301—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.302—DEFINITIONS (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.303—INDOOR WATER USE

    A4.303.1 Kitchen faucets. The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.

    Note: Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction.

    A4.303.2 Alternate water sources for nonpotable applications. Alternate nonpotable water sources are used for indoor potable water reduction. Alternate nonpotable water sources shall be installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

    A4.303.3 Appliances. Install at least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer.

    Note: See Section A5.303.3 for nonresidential dishwashers and clothes washers.

    A4.303.4 Nonwater urinals and waterless toilets. Nonwater urinals or composting toilets are installed.

    Where approved, nonwater urinals with drain cleansing action (formerly hybrid urinals), as defined in Chapter 2, shall be considered nonwater urinals.

    A4.303.5 Hot water recirculation systems. One- and two-family dwellings shall be equipped with a demand hot water recirculation system, as defined in Chapter 2. The demand hot water recirculation system shall be installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code, California Energy Code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    SECTION A4.304—OUTDOOR WATER USE

    A4.304.1 Rainwater catchment systems. An approved rainwater catchment system is designed and installed to use rainwater generated by at least 65 percent of the available roof area. Rainwater catchment systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

    A4.304.2 Potable water elimination. When landscaping is provided and as allowed by local ordinance, a water efficient landscape irrigation design that eliminates the use of potable water beyond the initial requirements for plant installation and establishment shall be provided. Methods used to accomplish the requirements of this section shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Standards Code and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

    1. Use of captured rainwater.
    2. Use of recycled water.
    3. Water treated for irrigation purposes and conveyed by a water district or public entity.
    4. Use of graywater.
    5. Use of drought tolerant plants.

    A4.304.3 Landscape water meters. For new water service connections, landscaped irrigated areas less than 5,000 square feet shall be provided with separate submeters or metering devices for outdoor potable water use.

  • CRC § 4.303.3 High relevance — show source text

    ** Submeters shall be
    installed to measure water usage of individual rental dwelling units in
    accordance with the_California Plumbing Code.||||||| |4.303.3Plumbing fixtures and fittings required in Section 4.303.1
    shall be installed in accordance with the_California Plumbing Code,
    and shall meet the applicable referenced standards.||||||| |A4.303.1The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed
    1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily
    increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2
    gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate
    of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.
    **Note:**Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other
    means may be used to achieve reduction.||||||| |4.303.1.4.3 Metering faucets in residential buildings shall not deliver
    more than 0.2 gallons per cycle.||||||| |A4.303.2Alternate water source for nonpotable applications.
    Alternate nonpotable water sources are used for indoor potable water
    reduction. Alternate nonpotable water sources shall be installed in
    accordance with the_California Plumbing Code._||||||| |A4.303.3 Install at least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or
    clothes washer.||
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |A4.303.4Nonwater urinals or waterless toilets are installed.||||||| |A4.303.5One- and two-family dwellings shall be equipped with a
    demand hot water recirculation system.||||||| |Outdoor Water Use||||||| |4.304.1 Residential developments shall comply with a local water
    efficient landscape ordinance or the current California Department of
    Water Resources’ Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
    (MWELO), whichever is more stringent.||||||| |A4.304.1A rainwater capture, storage and re-use system is designed
    and installed.||||||| |A4.304.2A landscape design is installed, which does not utilize
    potable water.||||||| |A4.304.3 For new water service connections, landscaped irrigated
    areas less than 5,000 square feet shall be provided with separate
    submeters or metering devices for outdoor potable water use.

  • CRC § 4.303.1 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

    FEATURE OR MEASURE LEVELS
    APPLICANT TO SELECT ELECTIVE MEASURES    		 Col3 Col4 VERIFICATIONS
    ENFORCING AGENCY TO SPECIFY
    VERIFICATION METHOD    		 Col6 Col7
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Prerequisites and electives1 Prerequisites and electives1 Enforcing
    Agency

    All    		 Installer or
    Designer

    All    		 Third
    party

    All
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2
    WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
    Indoor Water Use
    4.303.1Plumbing fixtures (water closets and urinals) and fittings
    (showerheads, faucets and pre-rinse spray valves) installed in
    residential buildings shall comply with the prescriptive requirements
    of Sections 4.303.1.1 through 4.303.1.4.5.
    4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily building and dwelling units in
    mixed-use residential/commercial buildings. Submeters shall be
    installed to measure water usage of individual rental dwelling units in
    accordance with the_California Plumbing Code._
    4.303.3Plumbing fixtures and fittings required in Section 4.303.1
    shall be installed in accordance with the_California Plumbing Code,_
    and shall meet the applicable referenced standards.
    A4.303.1The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed
    1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily
    increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2
    gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate
    of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.
    **Note:**Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other
    means may be used to achieve reduction.
    4.303.1.4.3 Metering faucets in residential buildings shall not deliver
    more than 0.2 gallons per cycle.
    A4.303.2Alternate water source for nonpotable applications.
    Alternate nonpotable water sources are used for indoor potable water
    reduction. Alternate nonpotable water sources shall be installed in
    accordance with the_California Plumbing Code._
    **A4.303.
  • CRC § 4.303.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    Note: The effective flush volume of dual flush toilets is defined as the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush.

    4.303.1.2 Urinals. The effective flush volume of wall-mounted urinals shall not exceed 0.125 gallons per flush. The effective flush volume of all other urinals shall not exceed 0.5 gallons per flush.

    4.303.1.3 Showerheads.

    4.303.1.3.1 Single showerhead. Showerheads shall have a maximum flow rate of not more than 1.8 gallons per minute at 80 psi. Showerheads shall be certified to the performance criteria of the US EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads.

    4.303.1.3.2 Multiple showerheads serving one shower. When a shower is served by more than one showerhead, the combined flow rate of all showerheads and/or other shower outlets controlled by a single valve shall not exceed 1.8 gallons per minute at 80 psi, or the shower shall be designed to allow only one shower outlet to be in operation at a time.

    Note: A hand-held shower shall be considered a showerhead.

    4.303.1.4 Faucets.

    4.303.1.4.1 Residential lavatory faucets. The maximum flow rate of residential lavatory faucets shall not exceed 1.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi. The minimum flow rate of residential lavatory faucets shall not be less than 0.8 gallons per minute at 20 psi.

    4.303.1.4.2 Lavatory faucets in common and public use areas. The maximum flow rate of lavatory faucets installed in common and public use areas (outside of dwellings or sleeping units) in residential buildings shall not exceed 0.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.

    4.303.1.4.3 Metering faucets. Metering faucets when installed in residential buildings shall not deliver more than 0.2 gallons per cycle.

    4.303.1.4.4 Kitchen faucets. The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 psi.

    Note: Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction.

    4.303.1.4.5 Pre-rinse spray valves. When installed, commercial pre-rinse spray valves shall meet the requirements in the California Plumbing Code, Section 420.3.

    4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily buildings and dwelling units in mixed-use residential/commercial buildings. Submeters shall be installed to measure water usage of individual rental dwelling units in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

    4.303.3 Standards for plumbing fixtures and fittings. Plumbing fixtures and fittings shall be installed in accordance with the Cali- fornia Plumbing Code, and shall meet the applicable standards referenced in Table 1701.1 of the California Plumbing Code.

    SECTION 4.304—OUTDOOR WATER USE

    4.304.1 Outdoor potable water use in landscape areas. Residential developments shall comply with a local water efficient landscape ordinance or the current California Department of Water Resources’ Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), whichever is more stringent.

  • CRC § 1.8 High relevance — show source text

    [HCD 1]**_ The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa). Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons (8.32 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa), and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa) in com- pliance with Chapter 4, Division 4.3 or Chapter 5, Divi- sion 5.3 of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), as applicable. Note: Where faucets meeting the maximum flow rate of 1.8 gpm (6.81 L) are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction. 420.3 Pre-Rinse Spray Valve. Commercial food service pre-rinse spray valves shall have a maximum flow rate in accordance with Table 420.3 and shall be equipped with an integral automatic shutoff.

    TABLE 420.3

    COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

    PRODUCT CLASS BY SPRAY FORCE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE,
    GPM

    Product Class 1 (≤ 5.0 ounces-force)    		 1.00


    Product Class 2 (> 5.0 ounces-force and
    ≤ 8.0 ounces-force)    		 1.20

    Product Class 3 (> 8.0 ounces-force)    		 1.28

    For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N

    420.4 Waste Outlet. Kitchen and laundry sinks shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 2 inches (40 mm) in diameter. Service sinks shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter. Fixture tailpieces shall be constructed from the materials specified in Section 701.2 for drainage piping. Waste outlets shall be provided with an approved strainer.

    421.0 Floor Sinks.

    421.1 Application. Floor sinks shall comply with ASME A112.6.7.

    421.2 Strainers. The waste outlet of a floor sink shall be provided with an approved strainer or grate that is removable and accessible.

    422.0 Minimum Number of Required Fixtures. 422.1 Fixture Count. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided for the type of building occupancy and in the minimum number shown in Table 422.1. The total occupant load and occu

    TABLE 420.3

    COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

    For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N

    <

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 67

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

    PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

    Exceptions [Not adopted for OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] : (1) Residential installations.

  • California Residential Code Medium relevance — show source text

    INPUT RATING LIMITS IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR**| |VENT
    HEIGHT
    _H _
    (feet)|CONNECTOR
    RISE
    _R _
    (feet)|FAN|FAN|NAT|FAN|FAN|NAT|FAN|FAN|NAT| |VENT
    HEIGHT
    _H _
    (feet)|CONNECTOR
    RISE
    _R _
    (feet)|Min|Max|Max|Min|Max|Max|Min|Max|Max| |6|2
    4
    6|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA|NA
    NA
    NA| |8|2
    4
    6|NA
    471
    478|NA
    2737
    3018|NA
    1800
    2180|NA
    560
    568|NA
    3319
    3665|NA
    2180
    2640|NA
    662
    669|NA
    3957
    4373|NA
    2590
    3130| |10|2
    4
    6|NA
    486
    494|NA
    2887
    3169|NA
    1890
    2290|NA
    581
    589|NA
    3502
    3849|NA
    2280
    2760|NA
    686
    694|NA
    4175
    4593|NA
    2710
    3270| |15|2
    4
    6|NA
    523
    533|NA
    3197
    3470|NA
    2060
    2510|NA
    624
    634|NA
    3881
    4216|NA
    2490
    3030|NA
    734
    743|NA
    4631
    5035|NA
    2960
    3600| |20|2
    4
    6|NA
    554
    567|NA
    3447
    3708|NA
    2180
    2650|NA
    661
    671|NA
    4190
    4511|NA
    2630
    3190|NA
    772
    785|NA
    5005
    5392|NA
    3130
    3790| |30|2
    4
    6|NA
    619
    632|NA
    3840
    4080|NA
    2365
    2875|NA
    728
    741|NA
    4861
    4976|NA
    2860
    3480|NA
    847
    860|NA
    5606
    5961|NA
    3410
    4150| |50|2
    4

  • CRC § 302.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    L 302.0 Disposal of Liquid Waste.

    L 302.1 Disposal. It shall be unlawful for a person to cause, suffer, or permit the disposal of sewage, human excrement, or other liquid wastes, in a place or manner, except through and by means of an approved drainage system, installed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this code. L 302.2 Connections to Plumbing System Required. Equipment and appliances, used to receive or discharge liquid wastes or sewage, shall be connected properly to the drainage system of the building or premises, in accordance with the requirements of this code.

    500 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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

    APPENDIX L

    L 303.0 Abandonment.

    L 303.1 General. An abandoned system or part thereof covered under the scope of this appendix shall be disconnected from remaining systems, drained, plugged, and capped in an approved manner.

    L 401.0 Water Conservation and Efficiency. L 401.1 Scope. The provisions of this section establish the means of conserving potable and nonpotable water used in and around a building.

    L 402.0 Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures and Fittings. L 402.1 General. The maximum water consumption of fixtures and fixture fittings shall comply with the flow rates specified in Table L 402.1, and Section L 402.2 through Section L 402.10.

    TABLE L 402.1

    MAXIMUM FIXTURE AND FIXTURE FITTINGS FLOW RATES

    FIXTURE TYPE FLOW RATE


    Showerheads    		 2.0 gpm at 80 psi1


    Kitchen faucets residential4    		 1.8 gpm at 60 psi


    Lavatory faucets residential5    		 1.5 gpm at 60 psi


    Lavatory faucets other than
    residential    		 0.5 gpm at 60 psi

    Metering faucets    		 0.25 gallons/cycle


    Metering faucets for wash
    fountains    		 One 0.25 gallons/cycle fixture fit-
    ting for each 20 inches rim space


    Wash fountains    		 One 2.2 gpm at 60 psi fixture fit-
    ting for each 20 inches rim space

    Water Closets    		 1.28 gallons/flush2

    Urinals    		 0.5 gallons/flush3


    Commercial Pre-Rinse
    Spray Valves    		 See Section L 402.9

    For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L

    Notes: 1 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L

  • CRC § 101.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    [A] 101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes specified in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.

    [A] 101.4.1 Gas. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code and/or the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories.

    [A] 101.4.2 Mechanical. The provisions of the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation, alterations, repairs and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and other energy-related systems.

    [A] 101.4.3 Plumbing. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage system and all aspects of a medical gas system. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to private sewage disposal systems.

    [A] 101.4.4 Property maintenance. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to existing structures and premises; equipment and facilities; light, ventilation, space heating, sanitation, life and fire safety hazards; responsibilities of owners, operators and occupants; and occupancy of existing premises and structures.

    [A] 101.4.5 Fire prevention. The provisions of the California Fire Code shall apply to matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises from the hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices; from conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; and from the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression, automatic sprinkler systems and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.

    [A] 101.4.6 Energy. The provisions of the California Energy Code shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 101.4.7 Existing buildings. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to matters governing the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of existing buildings.

    [OSHPD 1] The provisions of Chapters 2, 3A, 4A and 5A of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to all matters governing the repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, additions and relocation of existing structures and portions thereof under OSHPD jurisdic- tion. All references to Chapters 3, 4 and 5 of the California Existing Building Code shall be replaced by equivalent provisions in Chapters 3A, 4A and 5A.

  • CRC § 101.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION

    SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    [A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”

    [A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

    Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the California Residential Code .

    [A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.

    [A] 101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, health and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

    [A] 101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes specified in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.

    [A] 101.4.1 Gas. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code and/or the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories.

    [A] 101.4.2 Mechanical. The provisions of the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation, alterations, repairs and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and other energy-related systems.

    [A] 101.4.3 Plumbing. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage system and all aspects of a medical gas system. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to private sewage disposal systems.

    [A] 101.4.4 Property maintenance. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to existing structures and premises; equipment and facilities; light, ventilation, space heating, sanitation, life and fire safety hazards; responsibilities of owners, operators and occupants; and occupancy of existing premises and structures.

  • CRC § 4.303.1.4.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    4.303.1.4.3 Metering faucets. Metering faucets when installed in residential buildings shall not deliver more than 0.2 gallons per cycle.

    4.303.1.4.4 Kitchen faucets. The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 psi.

    Note: Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction.

    4.303.1.4.5 Pre-rinse spray valves. When installed, commercial pre-rinse spray valves shall meet the requirements in the California Plumbing Code, Section 420.3.

    4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily buildings and dwelling units in mixed-use residential/commercial buildings. Submeters shall be installed to measure water usage of individual rental dwelling units in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

    4.303.3 Standards for plumbing fixtures and fittings. Plumbing fixtures and fittings shall be installed in accordance with the Cali- fornia Plumbing Code, and shall meet the applicable standards referenced in Table 1701.1 of the California Plumbing Code.

    SECTION 4.304—OUTDOOR WATER USE

    4.304.1 Outdoor potable water use in landscape areas. Residential developments shall comply with a local water efficient landscape ordinance or the current California Department of Water Resources’ Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), whichever is more stringent.

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    Notes:

    1. The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) is located in the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Chapter 2.7, Division 2.

    MWELO and supporting documents, including a water budget calculator, are available at: https://www.water.ca.gov/

    SECTION 4.305—WATER REUSE SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

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    4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 4.4 – MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY

    SECTION 4.401—GENERAL

    4.401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall outline means of achieving material conservation and resource efficiency through protection of buildings from exterior moisture; construction waste diversion; employment of techniques to reduce pollution through recycling of materials; and building commissioning or testing, adjusting and balancing.

    SECTION 4.402—DEFINITIONS

    4.402.1 Definitions. Reserved.

    SECTION 4.403 —FOUNDATION SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.405—MATERIAL SOURCES (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.406—ENHANCED DURABILITY AND REDUCED MAINTENANCE

  • CRC § 203.1.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    In addition, a minimum of two of
    the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through
    A4.203.1.2.8 will be required to be met.
    · Roof Deck Insulation or Ducts in Conditioned Space.
    · High-performance Walls.
    · Compact Hot Water Distribution System.
    · Drain Water Heat Recovery.
    · High Performance Vertical Fenestration.
    · Heat Pump Water Heater Demand Management.
    · Battery Storage System Controls.
    · **Heat Pump Space and Water Heating.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.3 Consultation with local electric service provider.**Local
    jurisdictions considering adoption of reduced EDR targets based on
    using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems larger than required by the
    California Energy Code shall consult with the local electric service
    provider to ensure that that PV system sizing required to comply with
    the EDR targets will be acceptable to the local electric service
    provider.||2|2||||

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    APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

    FEATURE OR MEASURE LEVELS
    APPLICANT TO SELECT ELECTIVE MEASURES    		 Col3 Col4 VERIFICATIONS
    ENFORCING AGENCY TO SPECIFY
    VERIFICATION METHOD    		 Col6 Col7
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Prerequisites and electives1 Prerequisites and electives1 Enforcing
    Agency

    All    		 Installer or
    Designer

    All    		 Third
    party

    All
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2
    WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
    Indoor Water Use
    4.303.1Plumbing fixtures (water closets and urinals) and fittings
    (showerheads, faucets and pre-rinse spray valves) installed in
    residential buildings shall comply with the prescriptive requirements
    of Sections 4.303.1.1 through 4.303.1.4.5.
    4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily building and dwelling units in
    **mixed-use residential/commercial buildings.

Frequently asked questions

Do these Appendix A4 requirements apply everywhere in California?

No — Appendix provisions only apply if the local jurisdiction has adopted Appendix A4. Also check whether the mandatory Chapter 4 provisions are in effect for your project; Chapter 4 contains related mandatory fixture rules (for example, a different kitchen faucet maximum is shown in § 4.303.1.4.4) .

Can a faucet be factory‑set to 2.2 gpm if it defaults to 1.5 gpm?

Yes — the code permits a temporary increase up to 2.2 gpm at 60 psi, but the default setting must be 1.5 gpm at 60 psi (§ A4.303.1) .

Is an "ENERGY STAR‑like" or manufacturer‑rated high‑efficiency washer acceptable?

No — the code requires a qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer as the minimum per § A4.303.3. Provide the ENERGY STAR model documentation at plan review for verification .

If I cannot source a compliant faucet, what proof is acceptable for using an aerator?

The code note allows aerators or other means where complying faucets are unavailable. Provide manufacturer data or test results showing the installed aerator reduces the flow to the required 1.5 gpm at 60 psi default (or equivalent retrofit documentation) per the note to § A4.303.1 .

Where should I look for installation rules (piping, traps) for these fixtures?

Installation and piping are governed by the California Plumbing Code; Appendix A4 references that installations must follow the Plumbing Code where applicable (see § A4.303.2 and related notes) .

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Related in the CRC

A4 scope & definitions for residential energy measures

Performance approach for newly constructed low-rise residences (A4.203)

When CALGreen energy provisions are voluntary vs. locally adopted mandatory

CALGreen (Appendix A4) — Residential voluntary energy measures

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