Saudi Plumbing Code

SBC 701
Key List of the Saudi Codes: Designations and brief titles

Title Code Req.1 Code &Com.2 Arabic Prov. 3

The General Building Code SBC 201-CR SBC 201-CC SBC 201-AR
Structural – Loading and Forces SBC 301-CR SBC 301-CC SBC 301-AR
Structural – Construction SBC 302- CR SBC 302-AR
Structural – Soil and Foundations SBC 303- CR SBC 303-CC SBC 303-AR
Structural – Concrete Structures SBC 304- CR SBC 304-CC SBC 304-AR
Structural – Masonry Structures SBC 305- CR SBC 305-CC SBC 305-AR
Structural – Steel Structures
Electrical Code SBC 401- CR SBC 401-AR
Mechanical Code SBC 501-CR SBC 501-CC SBC 501-AR
Energy Conservation- Nonresidential SBC 601- CC SBC 601- AR
Energy Conservation-Residential SBC 602- CC SBC 602- AR
Plumbing Code SBC 701- CR SBC 701-CC SBC 701-AR
Private sewage Code SBC 702- CR SBC 702-AR
Fire Code SBC 801- CR SBC 801-CC SBC 801-AR
Existing Buildings Code SBC 901- CR SBC 901-CC SBC 901-AR
Green Construction Code SBC 1001- CR SBC 1001-CC SBC 1001-AR
Residential Building Code* SBC 1101- CR SBC 1101-CC SBC 1101-AR
Fuel Gas Code* SBC 1201- CR SBC 1201-CC SBC 1201-AR
1. CR: Code Requirements without Commentary
2. CC: Code Requirements with Commentary
3. AR: Arabic Code Provisions
* Under Development

COPYRIGHT © 2018
by
The Saudi Building Code National Committee (SBCNC).

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All intellectual property rights of this Saudi Code is owned by the
National Committee of Saudi Building Code as per the regulations of the intellectual property system
in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. No part of this code may be reproduced, distributed or leased in any
form or by any means, including but not limited to publishing on cloud sites, computer networks or
any electronic means of communication, without prior written permission from the National
Committee for the Saudi Building Code. The purchase of an electronic or paper copy does not exempt
the individual or entity from complying with the above limitations.

SBC 701-CR-18 i
 TECHNICAL COMMITTEE (SBC 701):
1 Prof. Saleh F. Magram Chairman
2 Dr. Turki M. Al-aboud Member
3 Prof. Ayman G.Abdelrahman Member
4 Dr. Ahmed E. Aljuaidi Member

REVIEW COMMITTEE:
1 Dr. Naif M. Alabbadi Chairman
2 Dr. Khaled M. Aljammaz Member
3 Dr. Abdulrahman G. Al-enizi Member
4 Eng. Saeed K. Kadasah Member
5 Eng. Tawifik I. Aljrayed Member

TECHNICAL EDITING COMMITTEE:

1 Prof. Ahmed B. Shuraim Chairman
2 Dr. Abdallah M. Al-Shehri Member
3 Eng. Tawifik I. Aljrayed Member
SAUDI BUILDING CODE NATIONAL COMMITTEE (SBCNC):
1 H. E. Dr. Saad O. AlKasabi Chairman EDITORIAL SUPPORT:
2 Dr. Naif M. Alabbadi Vice Chairman
3 Dr. Abdulrahman G. Al-enizi Member Dr. Mohammed A. Othman Dr. Fahid Aslam
4 Engr. Saeed K. Kadasah Member Dr. Fahed Alrshoudi Dr. Yassir M. Abbas
5 Dr. Hassan S. Alhazmi Member Dr. Mubashir Aziz
6 Engr. Badr S. AL-maayoof Member
7 Engr. Fayez A. Alghamdi Member
8 Engr. Mohammed A. Alwaily Member
9 Dr. Bandar S. Alkahlan Member
10 Engr. Ahmad N. Hassan Member
11 Engr. Abdulnasser S. Alabdullatif Member
12 Dr. Hani M. Zahran Member
13 Engr. Khalifa S. Alyahyai Member
14 Dr. Khaled M. Aljammaz Member
15 Dr. Ibrahim O. Habiballah Member
16 Dr. Saeed A. Asiri Member
17 Dr. Abdallah M. Al-Shehri Member
18 Engr. Saad S. Shuail Member

ADVISORY COMMITTEE :

1 Dr. Khaled M. Aljammaz Chairman

2 Eng. Khalifa S. Alyahyai Vice Chairman
3 Dr. Hani M. Zahran Member
4 Prof. Ali A. Shash Member
5 Prof. Ahmed B. Shuraim Member
6 Dr. Khalid M. Wazira Member
7 Dr. Abdulhameed A. Al Ohaly Member
8 Dr. Hamza A. Ghulman Member
9 Engr. Hakam A. Al-Aqily Member
10 Prof. Saleh F. Magram Member
11 Engr. Nasser M. Al-Dossari Member
12 Dr. Waleed H. Khushefati Member
13 Dr. Waleed M. Abanomi Member
14 Dr. Fahad S. Al-Lahaim Member

SBC 701-CR-18 ii
PREFACE

PREFACE
The Saudi Plumbing Code (SBC 701) is a Code that regulates the design and installation of plumbing
systems including the plumbing fixtures in the buildings. SBC 701 addresses general plumbing
regulations, fixture requirements, water heater installations and systems for water distribution, sanitary
drainage, special wastes, venting, storm drainage and medical gases. The purpose of the SBC 701 is
to the establish the minimum acceptable level of safety to protect life and property from the potential
dangers associated with supplying potable water to plumbing fixtures and outlets and the conveyance
of bacteria-laden wastewater from fixtures. In summary, the SBC 701 sets forth the minimum
requirements for providing safe water to a building as well as a safe manner in which liquid-borne
wastes are carried away from a building.
2015 International Plumbing Code (IPC 2015), published by the International Code Council (ICC), is
the base code in the development of this Code. Saudi Building Code National Committee (SBCNC)
has made an agreement with the ICC to use their materials and modify them as per the local
construction needs and regulatory requirements of Saudi Arabia. The ICC is not responsible or liable
in any way to SBCNC or to any other party or entity for any modifications or changes that SBCNC
makes to such documents.
The contents of the current edition of the Code is substantially updated from its 2007 edition. The
writing process of SBC 701-18 followed the methodology approved by the Saudi Building Code
National Committee. Many changes and modifications were made in its base code (IPC 2015) to meet
the local weather, materials, construction and regulatory requirements.
The committees responsible for SBC 701 Code have taken all precautions to avoid ambiguities,
omissions, and errors in the document. Despite these efforts, the users of SBC 701 may find
information or requirements that may be subject to more than one interpretation or may be incomplete.
The SBCNC alone possesses the authority and responsibility for updating, modifying and interpreting
the Code.
It is a common assumption that engineering knowledge is a prerequisite in understanding code
provisions and requirements; thus, the code is oriented towards individuals who possess the
background knowledge to evaluate the significance and limitations of its content and
recommendations. They shall be able to determine the applicability of all regulatory limitations before
applying the Code and must comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
The requirements related to administration and enforcement of this Code are advisory only. SBCNC
and governmental organizations, in charge of enforcing this Code, possess the authority to modify
these administrative requirements.

SBC 701-CR-18 iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1
SECTION 101 GENERAL ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1
SECTION 102 APPLICABILITY---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1
SECTION 103 DEPARTMENT OF PLUMBING INSPECTION ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------2
SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL-----------------------------------------------------------------------------3
SECTION 105 APPROVAL -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3
SECTION 106 PERMITS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4
SECTION 107 INSPECTIONS AND TESTING ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6
SECTION 108 VIOLATIONS -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
SECTION 109 MEANS OF APPEAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
SECTION 110 TEMPORARY EQUIPMENT, SYSTEMS AND USES ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 11
DEFINITIONS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
SECTION 201 GENERAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
SECTION 202 GENERAL DEFINITIONS-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
GENERAL REGULATIONS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
SECTION 301 GENERAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
SECTION 302 EXCLUSION OF MATERIALS DETRIMENTAL TO THE SEWER SYSTEM ----------------------------------------------- 25
SECTION 303 MATERIALS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
SECTION 304 RODENTPROOFING ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 26
SECTION 305 PROTECTION OF PIPES AND PLUMBING SYSTEM COMPONENTS --------------------------------------------------- 26
SECTION 306 TRENCHING, EXCAVATION AND BACKFILL-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
SECTION 307 STRUCTURAL SAFETY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
SECTION 308 PIPING SUPPORT --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
SECTION 309 FLOOD HAZARD RESISTANCE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 30
SECTION 310 WASHROOM AND TOILET ROOM REQUIREMENTS--------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
SECTION 311 TOILET FACILITIES FOR WORKERS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 30
SECTION 312 TESTS AND INSPECTIONS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
SECTION 313 EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCIES --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32
SECTION 314 CONDENSATE DISPOSAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 32
SECTION 315 PENETRATIONS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
SECTION 316 ALTERNATIVE ENGINEERED DESIGN --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
SECTION 401 GENERAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
SECTION 402 FIXTURE MATERIALS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
SECTION 403 MINIMUM PLUMBING FACILITIES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 35
SECTION 404 ACCESSIBLE PLUMBING FACILITIES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42
SECTION 405 INSTALLATION OF FIXTURES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42
SECTION 406 AUTOMATIC CLOTHES WASHERS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
SECTION 407 BATHTUBS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
SECTION 408 BIDETS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
SECTION 409 DISHWASHING MACHINES --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
SECTION 410 DRINKING FOUNTAINS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
SECTION 411 EMERGENCY SHOWERS AND EYEWASH STATIONS--------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
SECTION 412 FLOOR AND TRENCH DRAINS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 45
SECTION 413 FOOD WASTE DISPOSER UNITS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
SECTION 414 GARBAGE CAN WASHERS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
SECTION 415 LAUNDRY TRAYS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
SECTION 416 LAVATORIES (WASH BASINS) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 46
SECTION 417 SHOWERS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 46
SECTION 418 SINKS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 48

SBC 701-CR-18 iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 419 URINALS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48

SECTION 420 WATER CLOSETS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
SECTION 421 WHIRLPOOL BATHTUBS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 49
SECTION 422 HEALTH CARE FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 49
SECTION 423 SPECIALTY PLUMBING FIXTURES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
SECTION 424 FAUCETS AND OTHER FIXTURE FITTINGS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
SECTION 425 FLUSHING DEVICES FOR WATER CLOSETS AND URINALS ------------------------------------------------------------- 51
SECTION 426 MANUAL FOOD AND BEVERAGE DISPENSING EQUIPMENT ---------------------------------------------------------- 52
SECTION 427 FLOOR SINKS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
WATER HEATERS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
SECTION 501 GENERAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
SECTION 502 INSTALLATION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 53
SECTION 503 CONNECTIONS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 54
SECTION 504 SAFETY DEVICES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54
SECTION 505 INSULATION --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
SECTION 601 GENERAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
SECTION 602 WATER REQUIRED ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
SECTION 603 WATER SERVICE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
SECTION 604 DESIGN OF BUILDING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM ---------------------------------------------------------------- 57
SECTION 605 MATERIALS, JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
SECTION 606 INSTALLATION OF THE BUILDING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM ------------------------------------------------- 70
SECTION 607 HOT WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 72
SECTION 608 PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER SUPPLY------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 73
SECTION 609 HEALTH CARE PLUMBING ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 81
SECTION 610 DISINFECTION OF POTABLE WATER SYSTEM ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 82
SECTION 611 DRINKING WATER TREATMENT UNITS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 82
SECTION 612 SOLAR SYSTEMS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 82
SECTION 613 TEMPERATURE CONTROL DEVICES AND VALVES ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 82
SANITARY DRAINAGE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85
SECTION 701 GENERAL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85
SECTION 702 MATERIALS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85
SECTION 703 BUILDING SEWER--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 88
SECTION 704 DRAINAGE PIPING INSTALLATION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 89
SECTION 705 JOINTS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 89
SECTION 706 CONNECTIONS BETWEEN DRAINAGE PIPING AND FITTINGS -------------------------------------------------------- 93
SECTION 707 PROHIBITED JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 94
SECTION 708 CLEANOUTS---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 94
SECTION 709 FIXTURE UNITS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 96
SECTION 710 DRAINAGE SYSTEM SIZING --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 96
SECTION 711 OFFSETS IN DRAINAGE PIPING IN BUILDINGS OF FIVE STORIES OR MORE ---------------------------------------- 99
SECTION 712 SUMPS AND EJECTORS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 100
SECTION 713 HEALTH CARE PLUMBING -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 101
SECTION 714 COMPUTERIZED DRAINAGE DESIGN ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
SECTION 715 BACKWATER VALVES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 104
SECTION 716 VACUUM DRAINAGE SYSTEMS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 104
SECTION 717 REPLACEMENT OF UNDERGROUNDSEWERS BY PIPE-BURSTING METHODS ----------------------------------- 105
INDIRECT/SPECIAL WASTE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 106
SECTION 801 GENERAL ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 106
SECTION 802 INDIRECT WASTES------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 106
SECTION 803 SPECIAL WASTES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107
SECTION 804 MATERIALS, JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107

SBC 701-CR-18 v
TABLE OF CONTENTS

VENTS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108

SECTION 901 GENERAL ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108
SECTION 902 MATERIALS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108
SECTION 903 VENT TERMINALS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 108
SECTION 904 OUTDOOR VENT EXTENSIONS--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 109
SECTION 905 VENT CONNECTIONS AND GRADES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 109
SECTION 906 VENT PIPE SIZING ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 110
SECTION 907 VENTS FOR STACK OFFSETS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 110
SECTION 908 RELIEF VENTS—STACKS OF MORE THAN 10 BRANCH INTERVALS ------------------------------------------------ 112
SECTION 909 FIXTURE VENTS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 112
SECTION 910 INDIVIDUAL VENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 113
SECTION 911 COMMON VENT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 113
SECTION 912 WET VENTING ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 113
SECTION 913 WASTE STACK VENT --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 114
SECTION 914 CIRCUIT VENTING ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 114
SECTION 915 COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT SYSTEM ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 115
SECTION 916 ISLAND FIXTURE VENTING ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 116
SECTION 917 SINGLE STACK VENT SYSTEM ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 116
SECTION 918 AIR ADMITTANCE VALVES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 118
SECTION 919 ENGINEERED VENT SYSTEMS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 119
SECTION 920 COMPUTERIZED VENT DESIGN -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 119
TRAPS, INTERCEPTORS AND SEPARATORS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122
SECTION 1001 GENERAL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122
SECTION 1002 TRAP REQUIREMENTS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122
SECTION 1003 INTERCEPTORS AND SEPARATORS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 123
SECTION 1004 MATERIALS, JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
STORM DRAINAGE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 128
SECTION 1101 GENERAL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 128
SECTION 1102 MATERIALS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 128
SECTION 1103 TRAPS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 131
SECTION 1104 CONDUCTORS AND CONNECTIONS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 131
SECTION 1105 ROOF DRAINS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 131
SECTION 1106 SIZE OF CONDUCTORS, LEADERS AND STORM DRAINS ------------------------------------------------------------ 131
SECTION 1107 SIPHONIC ROOF DRAINAGE SYSTEMS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137
SECTION 1108 SECONDARY (EMERGENCY) ROOF DRAINS --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137
SECTION 1109 COMBINED SANITARY AND STORM PUBLIC SEWER ---------------------------------------------------------------- 137
SECTION 1110 CONTROLLED FLOW ROOF DRAIN SYSTEMS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137
SECTION 1111 SUBSOIL DRAINS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 137
SECTION 1112 BUILDING SUBDRAINS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137
SECTION 1113 SUMPS AND PUMPING SYSTEMS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 138
SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 141
SECTION 1201 GENERAL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 141
SECTION 1202 MEDICAL GASES------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 141
SECTION 1203 OXYGEN SYSTEMS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 141
NON-POTABLE WATER SYSTEMS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 143
SECTION 1301 GENERAL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 143
SECTION 1302 ON-SITE NON-POTABLE WATER REUSE SYSTEMS ------------------------------------------------------------------- 146
SECTION 1303 NON-POTABLE RAINWATER COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS ------------------------------------- 149
SECTION 1304 RECLAIMED WATER SYSTEMS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 152
SUBSURFACE LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS----------------------------------------------------------------------- 155
SECTION 1401 GENERAL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 155

SBC 701-CR-18 vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1402 SYSTEM DESIGN AND SIZING --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 155

SECTION 1403 INSTALLATION --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 156
REFERENCED STANDARDS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 160
APPENDIX A. PLUMBING PERMIT FEE SCHEDULE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 181
APPENDIX B. RATES OF RAINFALL FOR VARIOUS CITIES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 182
APPENDIX C. STRUCTURAL SAFETY ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 183
SECTION C101 CUTTING, NOTCHING AND BORING IN WOOD MEMBERS -------------------------------------------------- 183
APPENDIX D. DEGREE DAY AND DESIGN TEMPERATURES ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 184
APPENDIX E. SIZING OF WATER PIPING SYSTEM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 185
SECTION E101 GENERAL ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 185
SECTION E102 INFORMATION REQUIRED ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 185
SECTION E103 SELECTION OF PIPE SIZE --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 185
SECTION E201 SELECTION OF PIPE SIZE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 194

SBC 701-CR-18 vii

CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

case, different sections of this code specify different
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION materials, methods of construction or other
requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
SECTION 101 GENERAL
102.2 Existing installations.
101.1 Title.
Plumbing systems lawfully in existence at the time
These regulations shall be known as the Saudi of the adoption of this code shall be permitted to
Plumbing Code (SBC 701) hereinafter referred to as
have their use and maintenance continued if the use,
“this code.”
maintenance or repair is in accordance with the
101.2 Scope. original design and hazard to life, health or property
is not created by such plumbing system.
The provisions of this code shall apply to the
erection, installation, alteration, repairs, relocation, 102.3 Maintenance.
replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of
Plumbing systems, materials and appurtenances,
plumbing systems within this jurisdiction. This
both existing and new, and parts thereof, shall be
code shall regulate non-flammable medical gas,
maintained in proper operating condition in
inhalation anesthetic, vacuum piping, nonmedical
accordance with the original design in a safe and
oxygen systems and sanitary and condensate sanitary condition. Devices or safeguards required
vacuum collection systems. The installation of fuel
by this code shall be maintained in compliance with
gas distribution piping and equipment, fuel-gas-
the edition of the code under which they were
fired water heaters and water heater venting systems
installed.
shall be regulated by the Saudi Fuel Gas Code (SBC
1201). Provisions in the appendices shall not apply The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be
unless specifically adopted. responsible for maintenance of plumbing systems.
To determine compliance with this provision, the
Exception: Detached one and two-family
code official shall have the authority to require any
dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings
plumbing system to be re-inspected.
(townhouses) not more than three stories high with
separate means of egress and their accessory 102.4 Additions, alterations or repairs.
structures shall comply with the SBC 1101. Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs to any
101.3 Intent. plumbing system shall conform to that required for
a new plumbing system without requiring the
The purpose of this code is to establish minimum
existing plumbing system to comply with all the
standards to provide a reasonable level of safety,
requirements of this code. Additions, alterations or
health, property protection and public welfare by
repairs shall not cause an existing system to become
regulating and controlling the design, construction,
unsafe, insanitary or overloaded.
installation, quality of materials, location, operation
and maintenance or use of plumbing equipment and Minor additions, alterations, renovations and
systems repairs to existing plumbing systems shall meet the
provisions for new construction, unless such work
101.4 Severability.
is done in the same manner and arrangement as was
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or in the existing system, is not hazardous and is
phrase of this code is for any reason held to be approved.
unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the
102.5 Change in occupancy.
validity of the remaining portions of this code.
It shall be unlawful to make any change in the
SECTION 102 APPLICABILITY occupancy of any structure that will subject the
102.1 General. structure to any special provision of this code
applicable to the new occupancy without approval
Where there is a conflict between a general of the code official. The code official shall certify
requirement and a specific requirement, the specific that such structure meets the intent of the provisions
requirement shall govern. Where, in any specific of law governing building construction for the

SBC 701-CR-18 1
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

proposed new occupancy and that such change of nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
occupancy does not result in any hazard to the
102.11 Application of references.
public health, safety or welfare.
Reference to chapter section numbers, or to
102.6 Historic buildings.
provisions not specifically identified by number,
The provisions of this code relating to the shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section
construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, or provision of this code.
restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND
structures shall not be mandatory for existing
ENFORCEMENT
buildings or structures identified and classified by
the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings SECTION 103 DEPARTMENT OF
where such buildings or structures are judged by the PLUMBING INSPECTION
code official to be safe and in the public interest of
health, safety and welfare regarding any proposed 103.1 General.
construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, The department of plumbing inspection is hereby
restoration, relocation or moving of buildings. created and the executive official in charge thereof
102.7 Moved buildings. shall be known as the code official.

Except as determined by Section 102.2, plumbing 103.2 Appointment.

systems that are a part of buildings or structures The code official shall be appointed by the chief
moved into or within the jurisdiction shall comply appointing authority of the jurisdiction.
with the provisions of this code for new
103.3 Deputies.
installations.
In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this
102.8 Referenced codes and standards.
jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the
The codes and standards referenced in this code appointing authority, the code official shall have the
shall be those that are listed in Chapter 15 and such authority to appoint a deputy code official, other
codes and standards shall be considered as part of related technical officers, inspectors and other
the requirements of this code to the prescribed employees. Such employees shall have powers as
extent of each such reference and as further delegated by the code official.
regulated in Sections 102.8.1 and 102.8.2.
103.4 Liability.
102.8.1 Conflicts. The code official, member of the board of appeals
Where conflicts occur between provisions of this or employee charged with the enforcement of this
code and the referenced standards, the provisions of code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith
this code shall apply. and without malice in the discharge of the duties
required by this code or other pertinent law or
102.8.2 Provisions in referenced codes and ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered civilly or
standards. criminally liable personally, and is hereby relieved
Where the extent of the reference to a referenced from all personal liability for any damage accruing
code or standard includes subject matter that is to persons or property as a result of any act or by
within the scope of this code, the provisions of this reason of an act or omission in the discharge of
code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the official duties.
provisions in the referenced code or standard.
103.4.1 Legal defense.
102.9 Requirements not covered by code.
Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against
Any requirements necessary for the strength, any officer or employee because of an act
stability or proper operation of an existing or performed by that officer or employee in the lawful
proposed plumbing system, or for the public safety, discharge of duties and under the provisions of this
health and general welfare, not specifically covered code shall be defended by the legal representative
by this code shall be determined by the code of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the
official. proceedings. The code official or any subordinate
102.10 Other laws. shall not be liable for costs in any action, suit or
proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the
The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to provisions of this code.

SBC 701-CR-18 2
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS Where the code official shall have first obtained a
OF THE CODE OFFICIAL proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided
by law to secure entry, no owner, owner’s
104.1 General. authorized agent, occupant or person having charge,
The code official is hereby authorized and directed care or control of any building or premises shall fail
to enforce the provisions of this code. The code or neglect, after proper request is made as herein
official shall have the authority to render provided, to promptly permit entry therein by the
interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and code official for the purpose of inspection and
procedures in order to clarify the application of its examination pursuant to this code.
provisions. Such interpretations, policies and 104.5 Identification.
procedures shall be in compliance with the intent
and purpose of this code. Such policies and The code official shall carry proper identification
procedures shall not have the effect of waiving when inspecting structures or premises in the
requirements specifically provided for in this code. performance of duties under this code.
104.2 Applications and permits. 104.6 Notices and orders.
The code official shall receive applications, review The code official shall issue all necessary notices or
construction documents and issue permits for the orders to ensure compliance with this code.
installation and alteration of plumbing systems, 104.7 Department records.
inspect the premises for which such permits have
been issued, and enforce compliance with the The code official shall keep official records of
provisions of this code. applications received, permits and certificates
issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and
104.3 Inspections. notices and orders issued. Such records shall be
The code official shall make all the required retained in the official records for the period
inspections, or shall accept reports of inspection by required for the retention of public records.
approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such SECTION 105 APPROVAL
inspections shall be in writing and be certified by a
responsible officer of such approved agency or by 105.1 Modifications.
the responsible individual. The code official is Where there are practical difficulties involved in
authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed carrying out the provisions of this code, the code
necessary to report on unusual technical issues that official shall have the authority to grant
arise, subject to the approval of the appointing modifications for individual cases, upon application
authority. of the owner or owner’s authorized agent, provided
104.4 Right of entry. the code official shall first find that special
individual reason makes the strict letter of this code
Where it is necessary to make an inspection to impractical and the modification conforms to the
enforce the provisions of this code, or where the intent and purpose of this code and that such
code official has reasonable cause to believe that modification does not lessen health, life and fire
there exists in any building or upon any premises safety requirements. The details of action granting
any conditions or violations of this code that make modifications shall be recorded and entered in the
the building or premises unsafe, insanitary, files of the plumbing inspection department.
dangerous or hazardous, the code official shall have
the authority to enter the building or premises at all 105.2 Alternative materials, methods and
reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties equipment.
imposed upon the code official by this code. If such The provisions of this code are not intended to
building or premises is occupied, the code official prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit
shall present credentials to the occupant and request any method of construction not specifically
entry. If such building or premises is unoccupied, prescribed by this code, provided that any such
the code official shall first make a reasonable effort alternative has been approved. An alternative
to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or material or method of construction shall be
other person having charge or control of the approved where the code official finds that the
building or premises and request entry. If entry is proposed alternative material, method or equipment
refused, the code official shall have recourse to complies with the intent of the provisions of this
every remedy provided by law to secure entry.

SBC 701-CR-18 3
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

code and is not less than the equivalent of that plumbing system, the installation of which is
prescribed in this code. Where the alternative regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to
material, design or method of construction is not be performed, shall first make application to the
approved, the code official shall respond in writing, code official and obtain the required permit for the
stating the reasons why the alternative was not work.
approved.
106.1.1 Annual permit.
105.2.1 Research reports. Instead of an individual construction permit for
Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the each alteration to an already approved system or
approval of materials or assemblies not specifically equipment or appliance installation, the code
provided for in this code, shall consist of valid official is authorized to issue an annual permit upon
research reports from approved sources. application therefor to any person, firm or
corporation regularly employing one or more
105.3 Required testing.
qualified tradespersons in the building, structure or
Where there is insufficient evidence of compliance on the premises owned or operated by the applicant
with the provisions of this code, or evidence that a for the permit.
material or method does not conform to the
requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate 106.1.2 Annual permit records.
claims for alternate materials or methods, the code The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall
official shall have the authority to require tests as keep a detailed record of alterations made under
evidence of compliance to be made at no expense to such annual permit. The code official shall have
the jurisdiction. access to such records at all times or such records
shall be filed with the code official as designated.
105.3.1 Test methods.
106.2 Exempt work.
Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by
other recognized test standards. In the absence of The following work shall be exempt from the
recognized and accepted test methods, the code requirement for a permit:
official shall approve the testing procedures.
1 The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil,
105.3.2 Testing agency. waste or vent pipe provided, however, that
if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil,
Tests shall be performed by an approved agency.
waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it
105.3.3 Test reports. becomes necessary to remove and replace
Reports of tests shall be retained by the code official the same with new material, such work
for the period required for retention of public shall be considered as new work and a
records. permit shall be obtained and inspection
made as provided in this code.
105.4 Approved materials and equipment.
2 The clearing of stoppages or the repairing
Materials, equipment and devices approved by the of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the
code official shall be constructed and installed in removal and reinstallation of water closets,
accordance with such approval. provided such repairs do not involve or
require the replacement or rearrangement
105.4.1 Material and equipment reuse. of valves, pipes or fixtures.
Materials, equipment and devices shall not be
reused unless such elements have been Exemption from the permit requirements of this
reconditioned, tested, placed in good and proper code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for
working condition and approved. any work to be done in violation of the provisions
of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this
SECTION 106 PERMITS jurisdiction.
106.1 When Required. 106.3 Application for permit.
Any owner, owner’s authorized agent or contractor Each application for a permit, with the required fee,
who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, shall be filed with the code official on a form
move, demolish or change the occupancy of a furnished for that purpose and shall contain a
building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, general description of the proposed work and its
alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any

SBC 701-CR-18 4
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

location. The application shall be signed by the established by statute, or by rules promulgated by
owner or owner’s authorized agent. The permit this code, or by ordinance or by resolution. The full
application shall indicate the proposed occupancy name and address of the applicant shall be stated in
of all parts of the building and of that portion of the the application.
site or lot, if any, not covered by the building or
106.5 Permit issuance.
structure and shall contain such other information
required by the code official. The application, construction documents and other
data filed by an applicant for permit shall be
106.3.1 Construction documents. reviewed by the code official. If the code official
Construction documents, engineering calculations, finds that the proposed work conforms to the
diagrams and other such data shall be submitted in requirements of this code and all laws and
two or more sets with each application for a permit. ordinances applicable thereto, and that the fees
The code official shall require construction specified in Section106.6 have been paid, a permit
documents, computations and specifications to be shall be issued to the applicant.
prepared and designed by a registered design
professional where required by state law. 106.5.1 Approved construction documents.
Construction documents shall be drawn to scale and When the code official issues the permit where
shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, construction documents are required, the
nature and extent of the work proposed and show in construction documents shall be endorsed in writing
detail that the work conforms to the provisions of and stamped “APPROVED.” Such approved
this code. Construction documents for buildings construction documents shall not be changed,
more than two stories in height shall indicate where modified or altered without authorization from the
penetrations will be made for pipes, fittings and code official. Work shall be done in accordance
components and shall indicate the materials and with the approved construction documents.
methods for maintaining required structural safety, The code official shall have the authority to issue a
fire-resistance rating and fire blocking. permit for the construction of a part of a plumbing
Exception: The code official shall have the system before the entire construction documents for
authority to waive the submission of construction the whole system have been submitted or approved,
documents, calculations or other data if the nature provided adequate information and detailed
of the work applied for is such that reviewing of statements have been filed complying with all
construction documents is not necessary to pertinent requirements of this code. The holders of
determine compliance with this code. such permit shall proceed at their own risk without
assurance that the permit for the entire plumbing
106.3.2 Preliminary inspection. system will be granted.
Before a permit is issued, the code official shall be
authorized to inspect and evaluate the systems, 106.5.2 Validity.
equipment, buildings, devices, premises and spaces The issuance of a permit or approval of construction
or areas to be used. documents shall not be construed to be a permit for,
or an approval of, any violation of any of the
106.3.3 Time limitation of application. provisions of this code or any other ordinance of the
An application for a permit for any proposed work jurisdiction. A permit presuming to give authority
shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days to violate or cancel the provisions of this code shall
after the date of filing, unless such application has not be valid.
been pursued in good faith or a permit has been
The issuance of a permit based upon construction
issued; except that the code official shall have the
documents and other data shall not prevent the code
authority to grant one or more extensions of time for
official from thereafter requiring the correction of
additional periods not exceeding 180 days each.
errors in said construction documents and other data
The extension shall be requested in writing and
or from preventing building operations being
justifiable cause demonstrated.
carried on there under where in violation of this
106.4 By whom application is made. code or of other ordinances of this jurisdiction.
Application for a permit shall be made by the person 106.5.3 Expiration.
or agent to install all or part of any plumbing
Every permit issued by the code official under the
system. The applicant shall meet all qualifications
provisions of this code shall expire by limitation

SBC 701-CR-18 5
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

and become null and void if the work authorized by effective date of this code and has not been
such permit is not commenced within 180 days abandoned.
from the date of such permit, or if the work
authorized by such permit is suspended or 106.5.8 Posting of permit.
abandoned at any time after the work is commenced The permit or a copy shall be kept on the site of the
for a period of 180 days. Before such work can be work until the completion of the project.
recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained 106.6 Fees.
and the fee therefore shall be one-half the amount
required for a new permit for such work, provided A permit shall not be issued until the fees prescribed
changes have not been made and will not be made in Section106.6.2 have been paid, and an
in the original construction documents for such amendment to a permit shall not be released until
work, and provided further that such suspension or the additional fee, if any, due to an increase of the
abandonment has not exceeded 1 year. plumbing systems, has been paid.

106.5.4 Extensions. 106.6.1 Work commencing before permit

Any permittee holding an unexpired permit shall issuance.
have the right to apply for an extension of the time Any person who commences any work on a
within which the permittee will commence work plumbing system before obtaining the necessary
under that permit when work is unable to be permits shall be subject to 100 percent of the usual
commenced within the time required by this section permit fee in addition to the required permit fees.
for good and satisfactory reasons. The code official
shall extend the time for action by the permittee for 106.6.2 Fee schedule.
a period not exceeding 180 days if there is The fees for all plumbing work shall be as indicated
reasonable cause. A permit shall not be extended in the following:
more than once. The fee for an extension shall be
106.6.3 Fee refunds.
one-half the amount required for a new permit for
such work. The code official shall authorize the refunding of
fees as follows:
106.5.5 Suspension or revocation of permit.
1 The full amount of any fee paid hereunder
The code official shall have the authority to suspend that was erroneously paid or collected.
or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of
this code wherever the permit is issued in error or 2 Not more than [SPECIFY PERCENTAGE]
on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete percent of the permit fee paid where work
information, or in violation of any ordinance or has been done under a permit issued in
regulation or any of the provisions of this code. accordance with this code.
3 Not more than [SPECIFY PERCENTAGE]
106.5.6 Retention of construction documents.
percent of the plan review fee paid where
One set of approved construction documents shall an application for a permit for which a plan
be retained by the code official for a period of not review fee has been paid is withdrawn or
less than 180 days from date of completion of the canceled before any plan review effort has
permitted work, or as required by state or local laws. been expended.
One set of approved construction documents shall The code official shall not authorize the refunding
be returned to the applicant, and said set shall be of any fee paid except upon written application filed
kept on the site of the building or work at all times by the original permittee not later than 180 days
during which the work authorized thereby is in after the date of fee payment.
progress.
SECTION 107 INSPECTIONS AND
106.5.7 Previous approvals. TESTING
This code shall not require changes in the
107.1 General.
construction documents, construction or designated
occupancy of a structure for which a lawful permit The code official is authorized to conduct such
has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully inspections as are deemed necessary to determine
authorized, and the construction of which has been compliance with the provisions of this code.
pursued in good faith within 180 days after the Construction or work for which a permit is required

SBC 701-CR-18 6
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

shall be subject to inspection by the code official, and means for inspections of such work that are
and such construction or work shall remain required by this code.
accessible and exposed for inspection purposes
until approved. Approval as a result of an inspection 107.2.3 Approval required.
shall not be construed to be an approval of a Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated
violation of the provisions of this code or of other in each successive inspection without first obtaining
ordinances of the jurisdiction. Inspections the approval of the code official. The code official,
presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the upon notification, shall make the requested
provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the inspections and shall either indicate the portion of
jurisdiction shall not be valid. It shall be the duty of the construction that is satisfactory as completed, or
the permit applicant to cause the work to remain notify the permit holder or his or her agent wherein
accessible and exposed for inspection purposes. the same fails to comply with this code. Any
Neither the code official nor the jurisdiction shall be portions that do not comply shall be corrected and
liable for expense entailed in the removal or such portion shall not be covered or concealed until
replacement of any material required to allow authorized by the code official.
inspection.
107.2.4 Approved agencies.
107.2 Required inspections and testing. The code official is authorized to accept reports of
The code official, upon notification from the permit approved inspection agencies, provided that such
holder or the permit holder’s agent, shall make the agencies satisfy the requirements as to
following inspections and such other inspections as qualifications and reliability.
necessary, and shall either release that portion of the
construction or shall notify the permit holder or an 107.2.5 Evaluation and follow-up inspection
agent of any violations that must be corrected. The services.
holder of the permit shall be responsible for the Prior to the approval of a closed, prefabricated
scheduling of such inspections. plumbing system and the issuance of a plumbing
permit, the code official shall require the submittal
1 Underground inspection shall be made after of an evaluation report on each prefabricated
trenches or ditches are excavated and plumbing system indicating the complete details of
bedded, piping installed, and before any the plumbing system, including a description of the
backfill is put in place. system and its components, the basis upon which
2 Rough-in inspection shall be made after the the plumbing system is being evaluated, test results
roof, framing, fire blocking, fire stopping, and similar information, and other data as necessary
draft stopping and bracing is in place and for the code official to determine conformance to
all sanitary, storm and water distribution this code.
piping is roughed-in, and prior to the
installation of wall or ceiling membranes. 107.2.5.1 Evaluation service.
The code official shall designate the evaluation
3 Final inspection shall be made after the service of an approved agency as the evaluation
building is complete, all plumbing fixtures agency, and review such agency’s evaluation report
are in place and properly connected, and the for adequacy and conformance to this code.
structure is ready for occupancy.
107.2.1 Other inspections. 107.2.5.2 Follow-up inspection.
Except where ready access is provided to all
In addition to the inspections specified above, the plumbing systems, service equipment and
code official shall be authorized to make or require accessories for complete inspection at the site
other inspections of any construction work to without disassembly or dismantling, the code
ascertain compliance with the provisions of this official shall conduct the frequency of in-plant
code and other laws that are enforced. inspections necessary to ensure conformance to the
107.2.2 Inspection requests. approved evaluation report or shall designate an
independent, approved inspection agency to
It shall be the duty of the holder of the permit or
conduct such inspections. The inspection agency
their duly authorized agent to notify the code
shall furnish the code official with the follow-up
official when work is ready for inspection. It shall
inspection manual and a report of inspections upon
be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to
request, and the plumbing system shall have an

SBC 701-CR-18 7
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

identifying label permanently affixed to the system 2 In any case where plumbing equipment is
indicating that factory inspections have been set up temporarily for exhibition purposes.
performed.
107.4.2 Equipment, material and labor for
107.2.5.3 Test and inspection records. tests.
Required test and inspection records shall be Equipment, material and labor required for testing a
available to the code official at all times during the plumbing system or part thereof shall be furnished
fabrication of the plumbing system and the erection by the permit holder.
of the building, or such records as the code official
designates shall be filed. 107.4.3 Re-inspection and testing.
Where any work or installation does not pass any
107.3 Special inspections.
initial test or inspection, the necessary corrections
Special inspections of alternative engineered shall be made to comply with this code. The work
design plumbing systems shall be conducted in or installation shall then be resubmitted to the code
accordance with Sections 107.3.1 and 107.3.2. official for inspection and testing.
107.3.1 Periodic inspection. 107.5 Approval.
The registered design professional or designated After the prescribed tests and inspections indicate
inspector shall periodically inspect and observe the that the work complies in all respects with this code,
alternative engineered design to determine that the a notice of approval shall be issued by the code
installation is in accordance with the approved official.
construction documents. Discrepancies shall be
brought to the immediate attention of the plumbing 107.5.1 Revocation.
contractor for correction. Records shall be kept of The code official is authorized to, in writing,
all inspections. suspend or revoke a notice of approval issued under
the provisions of this code wherever the notice is
107.3.2 Written report. issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect
The registered design professional shall submit a information supplied, or where it is determined that
final report in writing to the code official upon the building or structure, premise or portion thereof
completion of the installation, certifying that the is in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any
alternative engineered design conforms to the of the provisions of this code.
approved construction documents. A notice of
107.6 Temporary connection.
approval for the plumbing system shall not be
issued until a written certification has been The code official shall have the authority to
submitted. authorize the temporary connection of the building
or system to the utility source for the purpose of
107.4 Testing.
testing plumbing systems or for use under a
Plumbing work and systems shall be tested as temporary certificate of occupancy.
required in Section 312 and in accordance with
107.7 Connection of service utilities.
Sections 107.4.1 through 107.4.3. Tests shall be
made by the permit holder and observed by the code A person shall not make connections from a utility,
official. source of energy, fuel, power, water system or
sewer system to any building or system that is
107.4.1 New, altered, extended or repaired regulated by this code for which a permit is required
systems. until authorized by the code official.
New plumbing systems and parts of existing
systems that have been altered, extended or repaired
SECTION 108 VIOLATIONS
shall be tested as prescribed herein to disclose leaks 108.1 Unlawful acts.
and defects, except that testing is not required in the
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or
following cases:
corporation to erect, construct, alter, repair, remove,
1 In any case that does not include addition demolish or utilize any plumbing system, or cause
to, replacement, alteration or relocation of same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of
any water supply, drainage or vent piping. any of the provisions of this code.
108.2 Notice of violation.

SBC 701-CR-18 8
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

The code official shall serve a notice of violation or 108.6 Abatement of violation.
order to the person responsible for the erection,
The imposition of the penalties herein prescribed
installation, alteration, extension, repair, removal or
shall not preclude the legal officer of the
demolition of plumbing work in violation of the
jurisdiction from instituting appropriate action to
provisions of this code, or in violation of a detail
prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct
statement or the approved construction documents
or abate a violation, or to prevent illegal occupancy
thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate
of a building, structure or premises, or to stop an
issued under the provisions of this code. Such order
illegal act, conduct, business or utilization of the
shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action
plumbing on or about any premises.
or condition and the abatement of the violation.
108.7 Unsafe plumbing.
108.3 Prosecution of violation.
Any plumbing regulated by this code that is unsafe
If the notice of violation is not complied with
or that constitutes a fire or health hazard, insanitary
promptly, the code official shall request the legal
condition, or is otherwise dangerous to human life
counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the
is hereby declared unsafe. Any use of plumbing
appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to
regulated by this code constituting a hazard to
restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to
safety, health or public welfare by reason of
require the removal or termination of the unlawful
inadequate maintenance, dilapidation,
occupancy of the structure in violation of the
obsolescence, fire hazard, disaster, damage or
provisions of this code or of the order or direction
abandonment is hereby declared an unsafe use. Any
made pursuant thereto.
such unsafe equipment is hereby declared to be a
108.4 Violation penalties. public nuisance and shall be abated by repair,
rehabilitation, demolition or removal.
Any person who violates a provision of this code or
fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof 108.7.1 Authority to condemn equipment.
or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building
Whenever the code official determines that any
or structure in violation of the approved
plumbing, or portion thereof, regulated by this code
construction documents or directive of the building
has become hazardous to life, health or property or
official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the
has become insanitary, the code official shall order
provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties
in writing that such plumbing either be removed or
as prescribed by law. Each day that a violation
restored to a safe or sanitary condition. A time limit
continues after due notice has been served shall be
for compliance with such order shall be specified in
deemed a separate offense. The jurisdiction must
the written notice. A person shall not use or
establish penalties for a variety of violations that
maintain defective plumbing after receiving such
may occur. Violations specifically addressed by the
notice.
code include failure to comply with the code,
approved plans or directives of the building official Where such plumbing is to be disconnected, written
notice as prescribed in Section 108.2 shall be given.
108.5 Stop work orders.
In cases of immediate danger to life or property,
Upon notice from the code official, work on any such disconnection shall be made immediately
plumbing system that is being performed contrary without such notice.
to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or
unsafe manner shall immediately cease. Such notice 108.7.2 Authority to disconnect service
shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner utilities.
of the property, or to the owner’s authorized agent, The code official shall have the authority to
or to the person performing the work. The notice authorize disconnection of utility service to the
shall state the conditions under which work is building, structure or system regulated by the
authorized to resume. Where an emergency exists, technical codes in case of an emergency, where
the code official shall not be required to give a necessary, to eliminate an immediate danger to life
written notice prior to stopping the work. Any or property. Where possible, the owner or the
person who shall continue any work in or about the owner’s authorized agent and occupant of the
structure after having been served with a stop work building, structure or service system shall be
order, except such work as that person is directed to notified of the decision to disconnect utility service
perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to
shall be liable to a fine. disconnecting, the owner, the owner’s authorized

SBC 701-CR-18 9
CHAPTER 1 -
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

agent or occupant of the building, structure or experience, 5 years of which shall have
service systems shall be notified in writing, as soon been in responsible charge of work.
as practical thereafter.
4 Registered design professional with
108.7.3 Connection after order to disconnect. electrical engineering experience; or an
electrical contractor with not less than 10
A person shall not make connections from any
years’ experience, 5 years of which shall
energy, fuel, power supply or water distribution
have been in responsible charge of work.
system or supply energy, fuel or water to any
equipment regulated by this code that has been 5 Registered design professional with fire
disconnected or ordered to be disconnected by the protection engineering experience; or a fire
code official or the use of which has been ordered protection contractor with not less than 10
to be discontinued by the code official until the code years’ experience, 5 years of which shall
official authorizes the reconnection and use of such have been in responsible charge of work.
equipment.
109.2.2 Alternate members.
SECTION 109 MEANS OF APPEAL The chief appointing authority shall appoint two
109.1 Aplication for appeal. alternate members who shall be called by the board
chairman to hear appeals during the absence or
Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision
disqualification of a member. Alternate members
of the code official to the board of appeals. An
shall possess the qualifications required for board
application for appeal shall be based on a claim that membership, and shall be appointed for 5 years or
the true intent of this code or the rules legally until a successor has been appointed.
adopted thereunder have been incorrectly
interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully 109.2.3 Chairman.
apply, or an equally good or better form of The board shall annually select one of its members
construction is proposed. The application shall be to serve as chairman.
filed on a form obtained from the code official
within 20 days after the notice was served. 109.2.4 Disqualification of member.
109.2 Membership of board. A member shall not hear an appeal in which that
member has any personal, professional or financial
The board of appeals shall consist of five members interest.
appointed by the chief appointing authority as
follows: one for 5 years, one for 4 years, one for 3 109.2.5 Secretary.
years, one for 2 years and one for 1 year. Thereafter, The chief administrative officer shall designate a
each new member shall serve for 5 years or until a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board.
successor has been appointed. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all
109.2.1 Qualifications. proceedings in the office of the chief administrative
officer.
The board of appeals shall consist of five
individuals, one from each of the following 109.2.6 Compensation of members.
professions or disciplines: Compensation of members shall be determined by
1 Registered design professional who is a law.
registered architect; or a builder or 109.3 Notice of meeting.
superintendent of building construction
with not less than 10 years’ experience, 5 The board shall meet upon notice from the
years of which shall have been in chairman, within 10 days of the filing of an appeal
responsible charge of work. or at stated periodic meetings.
2 Registered design professional with 109.4 Open hearing.
structural engineering or architectural Hearings before the board shall be open to the
experience. public. The appellant, the appellant’s
3 Registered design professional with representative, the code official and any person
mechanical and plumbing engineering whose interests are affected shall be given an
experience; or a mechanical and plumbing opportunity to be heard.
contractor with not less than 10 years’

SBC 701-CR-18 10
CHAPTER 1 -

109.4.1 Procedure. The code official is authorized to give permission to

The board shall adopt and make available to the temporarily supply utilities before an installation
public through the secretary procedures under has been fully completed and the final certificate of
which a hearing will be conducted. The procedures completion has been issued. The part covered by the
shall not require compliance with strict rules of temporary certificate shall comply with the
evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant requirements specified for temporary lighting, heat
information be received. or power in the code.
109.5 Postponed hearing. 110.4 Termination of approval.
When five members are not present to hear an The code official is authorized to terminate such
appeal, either the appellant or the appellant’s permit for temporary equipment, systems or uses
representative shall have the right to request a and to order the temporary equipment, systems or
postponement of the hearing. uses to be discontinued.
109.6 Board decision.
The board shall modify or reverse the decision of
the code official by a concurring vote of three
members.
109.6.1 Resolution.
The decision of the board shall be by resolution.
Certified copies shall be furnished to the appellant
and to the code official.
109.6.2 Administration.
The code official shall take immediate action in
accordance with the decision of the board.
109.7 Court review.
Any person, whether or not a previous party of the
appeal, shall have the right to apply to the
appropriate court for a writ of certiorari to correct
errors of law. Application for review shall be made
in the manner and time required by law following
the filing of the decision in the office of the chief
administrative officer.
SECTION 110 TEMPORARY
EQUIPMENT, SYSTEMS AND USES
110.1 General.
The code official is authorized to issue a permit for
temporary equipment, systems and uses. Such
permits shall be limited as to time of service, but
shall not be permitted for more than 180 days. The
code official is authorized to grant extensions for
demonstrated cause.
110.2 Conformance.
Temporary equipment, systems and uses shall
conform to the structural strength, fire safety, means
of egress, accessibility, light, ventilation and
sanitary requirements of this code as necessary to
ensure the public health, safety and general welfare.
110.3 Temporary utilities.

SBC 701-CR-18 11
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 201 GENERAL not otherwise fit together.

201.1 Scope. AIR ADMITTANCE VALVE.
Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following One-way valve designed to allow air to enter the
words and terms shall, for the purposes of this plumbing drainage system when negative
code, have the meanings shown in this chapter. pressures develop in the piping system. The
device shall close by gravity and seal the vent
201.2 Interchangeability. terminal at zero differential pressure (no flow
Words stated in the present tense include the conditions) and under positive internal pressures.
future; words stated in the masculine gender The purpose of an air admittance valve is to
include the feminine and neuter; the singular provide a method of allowing air to enter the
number includes the plural and the plural the plumbing drainage system without the use of a
singular. vent extended to open air and to prevent sewer
gases from escaping into a building.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes.
AIR BREAK (Drainage System).
Where terms are not defined in this code and are
defined in code, such terms shall have the A piping arrangement in which a drain from a
meanings ascribed to them as in those codes. fixture, appliance or device discharges indirectly
into another fixture, receptacle or interceptor at a
201.4 Terms not defined.
point below the flood level rim and above the trap
Where terms are not defined through the methods seal.
authorized by this section, such terms shall have
AIR GAP (Drainage System).
ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context
implies. The unobstructed vertical distance through the
free atmosphere between the outlet of the waste
SECTION 202 GENERAL pipe and the flood level rim of the receptacle into
DEFINITIONS which the waste pipe is discharging.
ACCEPTED ENGINEERING PRACTICE. AIR GAP (Water Distribution System).
That which conforms to accepted principles, tests The unobstructed vertical distance through the
or standards of nationally recognized technical or free atmosphere between the lowest opening from
scientific authorities. any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank,
ACCESS (TO). plumbing fixture or other device and the flood
level rim of the receptacle.
That which enables a fixture, appliance or
equipment to be reached by ready access or by a ALTERNATE ON-SITE NON-POTABLE
means that first requires the removal or WATER.
movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction Non-potable water from other than public
(see “Ready access”). utilities, on-site surface sources and subsurface
ACCESS COVER. natural freshwater sources. Examples of such
water are gray water, on-site reclaimed water,
A removable plate, usually secured by bolts or collected rainwater, captured condensate and
screws, to permit access to a pipe or pipe fitting rejected water from reverse osmosis systems.
for the purposes of inspection, repair or cleaning.
ALTERNATIVE ENGINEERED DESIGN.
ADAPTER FITTING.
A plumbing system that performs in accordance
An approved connecting device that suitably and with the intent of Chapters 3 through 12 and
properly joins or adjusts pipes and fittings that do

SBC 701-CR-18 12
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

provides an equivalent level of performance for water supply from any source except the intended
the protection of public health, safety and source.
welfare. The system design is not specifically
BACKFLOW CONNECTION.
regulated by Chapters 3 through 12.
Any arrangement whereby backflow is possible.
ANCHORS. See “Supports.”
BACKFLOW PREVENTER.
ANTISIPHON. A term applied to valves or
mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage. A backflow prevention assembly, a backflow
prevention device or other means or method to
APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official or
prevent backflow into the potable water supply.
other authority having jurisdiction.
BACKWATER VALVE.
APPROVED AGENCY.
A device or valve installed in the building drain
An established and recognized agency that is
or sewer pipe where a sewer is subject to
regularly engaged in conducting tests or
backflow, and that prevents drainage or waste
furnishing inspection services, where such
from backing up into a lower level or fixtures and
agency has been approved by the code official.
causing a flooding condition.
AREA DRAIN. A receptacle designed to collect
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION.
surface or storm water from an open area.
A reference point, determined in accordance with
ASPIRATOR.
the building code, based on the depth or peak
A fitting or device supplied with water or other elevation of flooding, including wave height,
fluid under positive pressure that passes through which has a 1 percent (100-year flood) or greater
an integral orifice or constriction, causing a chance of occurring in any given year.
vacuum. Aspirators are also referred to as suction
BATHROOM GROUP.
apparatus, and are similar in operation to an
ejector. A group of fixtures consisting of a water closet,
lavatory, bathtub or shower, including or
BACKFLOW.
excluding a bidet, an emergency floor drain or
Pressure created by any means in the water both. Such fixtures are located together on the
distribution system, which by being in excess of same floor level.
the pressure in the water supply mains causes a
BEDPAN STEAMER OR BOILER.
potential backflow condition.
A fixture utilized for scalding bedpans or urinals
Backpressure, low-head.
by direct application of steam or boiling water.
A pressure less than or equal to 30 kPa or the
BEDPAN WASHER AND STERILIZER.
pressure exerted by a 3000 mm column of water.
A fixture designed to wash bedpans and to flush
Backsiphonage.
the contents into the sanitary drainage system.
The backflow of potentially contaminated water Included are fixtures of this type that provide for
into the potable water system as a result of the disinfecting utensils by scalding with steam or hot
pressure in the potable water system falling below water.
atmospheric pressure of the plumbing fixtures,
BEDPAN WASHER HOSE.
pools, tanks or vats connected to the potable
water distribution piping. A device supplied with hot and cold water and
located adjacent to a water closet or clinical sink
Drainage. A reversal of flow in the drainage
to be utilized for cleansing bedpans.
system.
BRANCH. Any part of the piping system except
Water supply system.
a riser, main or stack.
The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or
BRANCH INTERVAL.
substances into the distribution pipes of a potable

SBC 701-CR-18 13
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

A vertical measurement of distance, 2400 mm or A vent that connects to a horizontal drainage

more in developed length, between the branch and vents two traps to a maximum of eight
connections of horizontal branches to a drainage traps or trapped fixtures connected into a battery.
stack. Measurements are taken down the stack
CIRCULATING HOT WATER SYSTEM.
from the highest horizontal branch connection.
A specifically designed water distribution system
BRANCH VENT. A vent connecting one or more
where one or more pumps are operated in the
individual vents with a vent stack or stack vent.
service hot water piping to circulate heated water
BUILDING. Any structure occupied or intended from the water-heating equipment to fixture
for supporting or sheltering any occupancy. supply and back to the water-heating equipment.
BUILDING DRAIN. CISTERN.
That part of the lowest piping of a drainage A small covered tank for storing water for a home
system that receives the discharge from soil, or farm. Generally, this tank stores rainwater to
waste and other drainage pipes inside and that be utilized for purposes other than in the potable
extends 750 mm in developed length of pipe water supply, and such tank is placed
beyond the exterior walls of the building and underground in most cases.
conveys the drainage to the building sewer.
CLEANOUT.
Combined. A building drain that conveys both
An access opening in the drainage system utilized
sewage and storm water or other drainage.
for the removal of obstructions. Types of
Sanitary. A building drain that conveys sewage cleanouts include a removable plug or cap, and a
only. removable fixture or fixture trap.
Storm. A building drain that conveys storm water CODE.
or other drainage, but not sewage.
These regulations, subsequent amendments
BUILDING SEWER. thereto, or any emergency rule or regulation that
the administrative authority having jurisdiction
That part of the drainage system that extends from
has lawfully adopted.
the end of the building drain and conveys the
discharge to a public sewer, private sewer, CODE OFFICIAL.
individual sewage disposal system or other point
The officer or other designated authority charged
of disposal.
with the administration and enforcement of this
Combined. A building sewer that conveys both code, or a duly authorized representative.
sewage and storm water or other drainage.
COLLECTION PIPE.
Sanitary. A building sewer that conveys sewage
Unpressurized pipe used within the collection
only.
system that drains on-site non-potable water or
Storm. A building sewer that conveys storm rainwater to a storage tank by gravity.
water or other drainage, but not sewage.
COMBINATION FIXTURE.
BUILDING SUBDRAIN.
A fixture combining one sink and laundry tray or
That portion of a drainage system that does not a two- or three-compartment sink or laundry tray
drain by gravity into the building sewer. in one unit.
BUILDING TRAP. COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT
SYSTEM.
A device, fitting or assembly of fittings installed
in the building drain to prevent circulation of air A specially designed system of waste piping
between the drainage system of the building and embodying the horizontal wet venting of one or
the building sewer. more sinks, lavatories, drinking fountains or floor
drains by means of a common waste and vent pipe
CIRCUIT VENT.

SBC 701-CR-18 14
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

adequately sized to provide free movement of air two otherwise separate piping systems, one of
above the flow line of the drain. which contains potable water and the other either
water of unknown or questionable safety or
COMBINED BUILDING DRAIN. See
steam, gas or chemical, whereby there exists the
“Building drain, combined.”
possibility for flow from one system to the other,
COMBINED BUILDING SEWER. See with the direction of flow depending on the
“Building sewer, combined.” pressure differential between the two systems
COMMON VENT. (see “Backflow”).

A vent connecting at the junction of two fixture

drains or to a fixture branch and serving as a vent DEMAND RECIRCULATION WATER
for both fixtures. SYSTEM.

CONCEALED FOULING SURFACE. A water distribution system where one or more

pumps prime the service hot water piping with
Any surface of a plumbing fixture that is not heated water upon a demand for hot water.
readily visible and is not scoured or cleansed with
each fixture operation. DEPTH OF TRAP SEAL.

CONDUCTOR. The depth of liquid that would have to be

removed from a full trap before air could pass
A pipe inside the building that conveys storm through the trap.
water from the roof to a storm or combined
building drain. DESIGN FLOOD ELEVATION.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENT. The elevation of the “design flood,” including

wave height, relative to the datum specified on
All of the written, graphic and pictorial the community’s legally designated flood hazard
documents prepared or assembled for describing map. In areas designated as Zone AO, the design
the design, location and physical characteristics flood elevation shall be the elevation of the
of the elements of the project necessary for highest existing grade of the building’s perimeter
obtaining a building permit. The construction plus the depth number (in meter) specified on the
drawings shall be drawn to an appropriate scale. flood hazard map. In areas designated as Zone
CONTAMINATION. AO where a depth number is not specified on the
map, the depth number shall be taken as being
An impairment of the quality of the potable water equal to 600 mm.
that creates an actual hazard to the public health
through poisoning or the spread of disease by DEVELOPED LENGTH.
sewage, industrial fluids or waste. The length of a pipeline measured along the
CRITICAL LEVEL (C-L). centerline of the pipe and fittings.

An elevation (height) reference point that DISCHARGE PIPE. A pipe that conveys the
determines the minimum height at which a discharge from plumbing fixtures or appliances.
backflow preventer or vacuum breaker is DRAIN. Any pipe that carries waste water or
installed above the flood level rim of the fixture water-borne wastes in a building drainage system.
or receptor served by the device. The critical level
is the elevation level below which there is a DRAINAGE FITTING.
potential for backflow to occur. If the critical The type of fitting or fittings utilized in the
level marking is not indicated on the device, the drainage system. Drainage fittings are similar to
bottom of the device shall constitute the critical cast-iron fittings, except that instead of having a
level. bell and spigot, drainage fittings are recessed and
CROSS CONNECTION. tapped to eliminate ridges on the inside of the
installed pipe.
Any physical connection or arrangement between
DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNIT.

SBC 701-CR-18 15
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

Drainage (dfu). A measure of the probable polydimethylsiloxane; hydrochlorofluorocarbon,

discharge into the drainage system by various chlorofluorocarbon and carbon refrigerants; and
types of plumbing fixtures. The drainage fixture- FDA approved boiler water additives for steam
unit value for a particular fixture depends on its boilers.
volume rate of drainage discharge, on the time
ESSENTIALLY TOXIC TRANSFER FLUID.
duration of a single drainage operation and on the
average time between successive operations. Soil, waste or gray water and fluids having a
Gosselin rating of 2 or more, including ethylene
DRAINAGE SYSTEM
glycol, hydrocarbon oils, ammonia refrigerants
Piping within a public or private premise that and hydrazine.
conveys sewage, rainwater or other liquid waste
EXISTING INSTALLATION.
to a point of disposal. A drainage system does not
include the mains of a public sewer system or a Any plumbing system regulated by this code that
private or public sewage treatment or disposal was legally installed prior to the effective date of
plant. this code, or for which a permit to install has been
issued.
Building gravity. A drainage system that drains
by gravity into the building sewer. FAUCET.
Sanitary. A drainage system that carries sewage A valve end of a water pipe through which water
and excludes storm, surface and ground water. is drawn from or held within the pipe.
Storm. A drainage system that carries rainwater, FILL VALVE.
surface water, subsurface water and similar liquid A water supply valve, opened or closed by means
waste. of a float or similar device, utilized to supply
DRINKING FOUNTAIN. water to a tank. An anti-siphon fill valve contains
an anti-siphon device in the form of an approved
A plumbing fixture that is connected to the
air gap or vacuum breaker that is an integral part
potable water distribution system and the
of the fill valve unit and that is positioned on the
drainage system. The fixture allows the user to
discharge side of the water supply control valve.
obtain a drink directly from a stream of flowing
water without the use of any accessories. FIXTURE. See “Plumbing fixture.”
EFFECTIVE OPENING. FIXTURE BRANCH. A drain serving two or
more fixtures that discharges to another drain or
The minimum cross-sectional area at the point of
to a stack.
water supply discharge, measured or expressed in
terms of the diameter of a circle or, if the opening FIXTURE DRAIN.
is not circular, the diameter of a circle of The drain from the trap of a fixture to a junction
equivalent cross sectional area. For faucets and with any other drain pipe.
similar fittings, the effective opening shall be
measured at the smallest orifice in the fitting body FIXTURE FITTING.
or in the supply piping to the fitting. Supply fitting.
EMERGENCY FLOOR DRAIN. A fitting that controls the volume, direction of
A floor drain that does not receive the discharge flow or both, of water and is either attached to or
of any drain or indirect waste pipe, and that accessible from a fixture, or is used with an open
protects against damage from accidental spills, or atmospheric discharge.
fixture overflows and leakage. Waste fitting.
ESSENTIALLY NONTOXIC TRANSFER A combination of components that conveys the
FLUID. sanitary waste from the outlet of a fixture to the
Fluids having a Gosselin rating of 1, including connection to the sanitary drainage system.
propylene glycol; mineral oil;

SBC 701-CR-18 16
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

FIXTURE SUPPLY. showers, clothes washers and laundry trays.

The water supply pipe connecting a fixture to a GREASE INTERCEPTOR.
branch water supply pipe or directly to a main
Fats, oils and greases (FOG) disposal system.
water supply pipe.
A plumbing appurtenance that reduces
FLOOD HAZARD AREA.
nonpetroleum fats, oils and greases in effluent by
The greater of the following two areas: separation or mass and volume reduction.
1. The area within a flood plain subject to a 1- Gravity.
percent or greater chance of flooding in
Plumbing appurtenances of not less than 1900 L
any given year.
capacity that are installed in the sanitary drainage
6 The area designated as a flood hazard system to intercept free-floating fats, oils and
area on a community’s flood hazard map grease from waste water discharge. Separation is
or as otherwise legally designated. accomplished by gravity during a retention time
of not less than 30 minutes.
FLOOD LEVEL RIM. The edge of the receptacle
from which water overflows. Hydro-mechanical.
FLOW CONTROL (Vented). Plumbing appurtenances that are installed in the
sanitary drainage system to intercept free floating
A device installed upstream from the interceptor
fats, oils and grease from waste water discharge.
having an orifice that controls the rate of flow
Continuous separation is accomplished by air
through the interceptor and an air intake (vent)
entrainment, buoyancy and interior baffling.
downstream from the orifice that allows air to be
drawn into the flow stream. GREASE-LADEN WASTE.
FLOW PRESSURE. Effluent discharge that is produced from food
processing, food preparation or other sources
The pressure in the water supply pipe near the
where grease, fats and oils enter automatic
faucet or water outlet while the faucet or water
dishwater prerinse stations, sinks or other
outlet is wide open and flowing.
appurtenances.
FLUSH TANK.
GREASE REMOVAL DEVICE, AUTOMATIC
A tank designed with a fill valve and flush valve (GRD).
to flush the contents of the bowl or usable portion
A plumbing appurtenance that is installed in the
of the fixture.
sanitary drainage system to intercept free-floating
FLUSHOMETER TANK. fats, oils and grease from waste water discharge.
A device integrated within an air accumulator Such a device operates on a time- or event-
vessel that is designed to discharge a controlled basis and has the ability to remove
predetermined quantity of water to fixtures for free-floating fats, oils and grease automatically
flushing purposes. without intervention from the user except for
maintenance.
FLUSHOMETER VALVE.
A valve attached to a pressurized water supply GRIDDED WATER DISTRIBUTION
pipe and so designed that when activated it opens SYSTEM.
the line for direct flow into the fixture at a rate
and quantity to operate the fixture properly, and A water distribution system where every water
then gradually closes to reseal fixture traps and distribution pipe is interconnected so as to
avoid water hammer. provide two or more paths to each fixture supply
pipe.
GRAY WATER.
HANGERS. See “Supports.”
Waste discharged from lavatories, bathtubs,
HORIZONTAL BRANCH DRAIN.

SBC 701-CR-18 17
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

A drainage branch pipe extending laterally from steam rooms and similar occupancies.
a soil or waste stack or building drain, with or
Flexible.
without vertical sections or branches, that
receives the discharge from two or more fixture Any joint between two pipes that permits one pipe
drains or branches and conducts the discharge to to be deflected or moved without movement or
the soil or waste stack or to the building drain. deflection of the other pipe.
HORIZONTAL PIPE. Mechanical. See “Mechanical joint.”
Any pipe or fitting that makes an angle of less Slip.
than 45 degrees with a horizontal plane. A type of joint made by means of a washer or a
HOT WATER. Water at a temperature greater special type of packing compound in which one
than or equal to 43°C. pipe is slipped into the end of an adjacent pipe.
HOUSE TRAP. See “Building trap.” LEAD-FREE SOLDER AND FLUX. Containing
not more than 0.2-percent lead.
INDIRECT WASTE PIPE.
LEADER.
A waste pipe that does not connect directly with
the drainage system, but that discharges into the An exterior drainage pipe for conveying storm
drainage system through an air break or air gap water from roof or gutter drains to an approved
into a trap, fixture, receptor or interceptor. means of disposal.
INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM. LOCAL VENT STACK.
A system for disposal of domestic sewage by A vertical pipe to which connections are made
means of a septic tank, cesspool or mechanical from the fixture side of traps and through which
treatment, designed for utilization apart from a vapor or foul air is removed from the fixture or
public sewer to serve a single establishment or device utilized on bedpan washers.
building. MACERATING TOILET SYSTEM.
INDIVIDUAL VENT. An assembly consisting of a water closet and
A pipe installed to vent a fixture trap and that sump with a macerating pump that is designed to
connects with the vent system above the fixture collect, grind and pump wastes from the water
served or terminates in the open air. closet and up to two other fixtures connected to
the sump.
INDIVIDUAL WATER SUPPLY.
MAIN. The principal pipe artery to which
A water supply that serves one or more families,
branches are connected.
and that is not an approved public water supply.
MANIFOLD. See “Plumbing appurtenance.”
INTERCEPTOR.
MECHANICAL JOINT.
A device designed and installed to separate and
retain for removal, by automatic or manual A connection between pipes, fittings, or pipes and
means, deleterious, hazardous or undesirable fittings that is not screwed, caulked, threaded,
matter from normal wastes, while permitting soldered, solvent cemented, brazed, welded or
normal sewage or wastes to discharge into the heat fused. A joint in which compression is
drainage system by gravity. applied along the centerline of the pieces being
joined. In some applications, the joint is part of a
JOINT.
coupling, fitting or adapter.
Expansion. A loop,
MEDICAL GAS SYSTEM.
return bend or return offset that provides for the
The complete system to convey medical gases for
expansion and contraction in a piping system and
direct patient application from central supply
is utilized in tall buildings or where there is a
systems (bulk tanks, manifolds and medical air
rapid change of temperature, as in power plants,

SBC 701-CR-18 18
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

compressors), with pressure and operating venting systems; and public or private water
controls, alarm warning systems, related supply systems.
components and piping networks extending to
PLUMBING APPLIANCE.
station outlet valves at patient use points.
Water or drain-connected devices intended to
MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEM.
perform a special function. These devices have
A system consisting of central-vacuum- their operation or control dependent on one or
producing equipment with pressure and operating more energized components, such as motors,
controls, shutoff valves, alarm-warning systems, controls or heating elements. Such devices are
gauges and a network of piping extending to and manually adjusted or controlled by the owner or
terminating with suitable station inlets at operator, or are operated automatically through
locations where patient suction may be required. one or more of the following actions: a time cycle,
a temperature range, a pressure range, a measured
METER. A measuring device used to collect data
volume or weight.
and indicate water usage.
PLUMBING APPURTENANCE.
NON-POTABLE WATER. Water not safe for
drinking, personal or culinary utilization. A manufactured device, prefabricated assembly
or on-the-job assembly of component parts that is
NUISANCE.
an adjunct to the basic piping system and
Public nuisance as known in common law or in plumbing fixtures. An appurtenance demands no
equity jurisprudence; whatever is dangerous to additional water supply and does not add any
human life or detrimental to health; whatever discharge load to a fixture or to the drainage
structure or premises is not sufficiently system.
ventilated, sewered, drained, cleaned or lighted,
PLUMBING FIXTURE.
with respect to its intended occupancy; and
whatever renders the air, or human food, drink or A receptacle or device that is connected to a water
water supply unwholesome. supply system or discharges to a drainage system
or both. Such receptacles or devices require a
OCCUPANCY. The purpose for which a building
supply of water; or discharge liquid waste or
or portion thereof is utilized or occupied.
liquid-borne solid waste; or require a supply of
OFFSET. A combination of approved bends that water and discharge waste to a drainage system.
makes two changes in direction bringing one
PLUMBING SYSTEM.
section of the pipe out of line but into a line
parallel with the other section. A system that includes the water distribution
pipes; plumbing fixtures and traps; water-treating
ON-SITE NON-POTABLE WATER REUSE
or water-using equipment; soil, waste and vent
SYSTEM.
pipes; and building drains; in addition to their
A water system for the collection, treatment, respective connections, devices and
storage, distribution and reuse of non-potable appurtenances within a structure or premises; and
water generated on site, including but not limited the water service, building sewer and building
to a gray water system. This definition does not storm sewer serving such structure or premises.
include a rainwater harvesting system.
POLLUTION.
OPEN AIR. Outside the structure.
An impairment of the quality of the potable water
PLUMBING. to a degree that does not create a hazard to public
The practice, materials and fixtures utilized in the health but that does adversely and unreasonably
installation, maintenance, extension and affect the aesthetic qualities of such potable water
alteration of all piping, fixtures, plumbing for domestic use.
appliances and plumbing appurtenances, within POTABLE WATER.
or adjacent to any structure, in connection with
Water free from impurities present in amounts
sanitary drainage or storm drainage facilities;

SBC 701-CR-18 19
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

sufficient to cause disease or harmful BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY.

physiological effects and conforming to the
A backflow prevention device consisting of two
bacteriological and chemical quality
independently acting check valves, internally
requirements of the Public Health Service
force-loaded to a normally closed position and
Drinking Water Standards or the regulations of
separated by an intermediate chamber (or zone)
the public health authority having jurisdiction.
in which there is an automatic relief means of
PRIVATE. venting to the atmosphere, internally loaded to a
normally open position between two tightly
In the classification of plumbing fixtures,
closing shutoff valves and with a means for
“private” applies to fixtures in residences and
testing for tightness of the checks and opening of
apartments, and to fixtures in nonpublic toilet
the relief means.
rooms of hotels and motels and similar
installations in buildings where the plumbing REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL.
fixtures are intended for utilization by a family or
An individual who is registered or licensed to
an individual.
practice professional architecture or engineering
PUBLIC OR PUBLIC UTILIZATION. as defined by the statutory requirements of the
professional registration laws of the state or
In the classification of plumbing fixtures,
jurisdiction in which the project is to be
“public” applies to fixtures in general toilet rooms
constructed.
of schools, gymnasiums, hotels, airports, bus and
railroad stations, public buildings, public comfort RELIEF VALVE.
stations, office buildings, stadiums, stores,
Pressure relief valve.
restaurants and other installations where a
number of fixtures are installed so that their A pressure-actuated valve held closed by a spring
utilization is similarly unrestricted. or other means and designed to relieve pressure
automatically at the pressure at which such valve
PUBLIC WATER MAIN.
is set.
A water supply pipe for public utilization
Temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve.
controlled by public authority.
A combination relief valve designed to function
QUICK-CLOSING VALVE.
as both a temperature relief and a pressure relief
A valve or faucet that closes automatically when valve.
released manually or that is controlled by a
Temperature relief valve.
mechanical means for fast-action closing.
A temperature-actuated valve designed to
RAINWATER. Water from natural precipitation.
discharge automatically at the temperature at
READY ACCESS. which such valve is set.
That which enables a fixture, appliance or RELIEF VENT.
equipment to be directly reached without
A vent whose primary function is to provide
requiring the removal or movement of any panel,
circulation of air between drainage and vent
door or similar obstruction and without the use of
systems.
a portable ladder, step stool or similar device.
RIM. An unobstructed open edge of a fixture.
RECLAIMED WATER.
RISER. See “Water pipe, riser.”
Non-potable water that has been derived from the
treatment of waste water by a facility or system ROOF DRAIN.
licensed or permitted to produce water meeting A drain installed to receive water collecting on
the jurisdiction’s water requirements for its the surface of a roof and to discharge such water
intended uses. Also known as “recycled water.” into a leader or a conductor.
REDUCED PRESSURE PRINCIPLE ROUGH-IN.

SBC 701-CR-18 20
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

Parts of the plumbing system that are installed between and including two tightly closing shutoff
prior to the installation of fixtures. This includes valves and a test cock.
drainage, water supply, vent piping and the
STACK.
necessary fixture supports and any fixtures that
are built into the structure. A general term for any vertical line of soil, waste,
vent or inside conductor piping that extends
SELF-CLOSING FAUCET.
through at least one story with or without offsets.
A faucet containing a valve that automatically
STACK VENT.
closes upon deactivation of the opening means.
The extension of a soil or waste stack above the
SEPARATOR. See “Interceptor.”
highest horizontal drain connected to the stack.
SEWAGE.
STACK VENTING. A method of venting a
Any liquid waste containing animal or vegetable fixture or fixtures through the soil or waste stack.
matter in suspension or solution, including liquids
STERILIZER.
containing chemicals in solution.
Boiling type.
SEWAGE EJECTOR.
A boiling-type sterilizer is a fixture of a non-
A device for lifting sewage by entraining the
pressure type utilized for boiling instruments,
sewage in a high-velocity jet of steam, air or
utensils or other equipment for disinfection.
water.
These devices are portable or are connected to the
SEWER. plumbing system.
Building sewer. See “Building sewer.” Instrument. A device for the sterilization of
various instruments.
Public sewer.
Pressure (autoclave). A pressure vessel fixture
That part of the drainage system of pipes,
designed to utilize steam under pressure for
installed and maintained by a city, township,
sterilizing.
county, public utility company or other public
entity, and located on public property, in the street Pressure instrument washer sterilizer.
or in an approved dedicated easement of public or
A pressure vessel fixture designed to both wash
community use.
and sterilize instruments during the operating
Sanitary sewer. A sewer that carries sewage and cycle of the fixture.
excludes storm, surface and ground water.
Utensil. A device for the sterilization of utensils
Storm sewer. A sewer that conveys rainwater, as utilized in health care services.
surface water, subsurface water and similar liquid
Water. A device for sterilizing water and storing
wastes.
water.
SLOPE. The fall (pitch) of a line of pipe in
STERILIZER VENT.
reference to a horizontal plane. In drainage, the
slope is expressed as the fall in units vertical per A separate pipe or stack, indirectly connected to
units horizontal (percent) for a length of pipe. the building drainage system at the lower
terminal, that receives the vapors from non-
SOIL PIPE. A pipe that conveys sewage
pressure sterilizers, or the exhaust vapors from
containing fecal matter to the building drain or
pressure sterilizers, and conducts the vapors
building sewer.
directly to the open air. Also called vapor, steam,
SPILLPROOF VACUUM BREAKER. atmospheric or exhaust vent.
An assembly consisting of one check valve force- STORM DRAIN. See “Drainage system, storm.”
loaded closed and an air-inlet vent valve force-
STORM WATER. Natural precipitation,
loaded open to atmosphere, positioned
including snowmelt, that has contacted a surface
downstream of the check valve, and located

SBC 701-CR-18 21
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

at or below grade. requirements of the third-party certification

agency.
STRUCTURE. That which is built or
constructed or a portion thereof. TOILET FACILITY. A room or space that
contains not less than one water closet and one
SUBSOIL DRAIN.
lavatory.
A drain that collects subsurface water or seepage
TRAP.
water and conveys such water to a place of
disposal. A fitting or device that provides a liquid seal to
prevent the emission of sewer gases without
SUMP.
materially affecting the flow of sewage or waste
A tank or pit that receives sewage or liquid waste, water through the trap.
located below the normal grade of the gravity
TRAP SEAL.
system and that must be emptied by mechanical
means. The vertical distance between the weir and
the top of the dip of the trap.
SUMP PUMP. UNSTABLE GROUND.
An automatic water pump powered by an electric Earth that does not provide a uniform bearing for
motor for the removal of drainage, except raw the barrel of the sewer pipe between the joints at
sewage, from a sump, pit or low point. the bottom of the pipe trench.
SUMP VENT. VACUUM. Any pressure less than that exerted
A vent from pneumatic sewage ejectors, or by the atmosphere.
similar equipment, that terminates separately to VACUUM BREAKER.
the open air.
A type of backflow preventer installed on
SUPPORTS. Devices for supporting and securing openings subject to normal atmospheric pressure
pipe, fixtures and equipment. that prevents backflow by admitting atmospheric
SWIMMING POOL. pressure through ports to the discharge side of the
device.
Any structure, basin, chamber or tank containing
an artificial body of water for swimming, diving VENT PIPE. See “Vent system.”
or recreational bathing having a depth of 600 mm VENT STACK.
or more at any point.
A vertical vent pipe installed primarily for the
TEMPERED WATER. Water having a purpose of providing circulation of air to and
temperature range between 29°C and 43°C. from any part of the drainage system.
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION AGENCY. VENT SYSTEM.
An approved agency operating a product or A pipe or pipes installed to provide a flow of air
material certification system that incorporates to or from a drainage system, or to provide a
initial product testing, assessment and circulation of air within such system to protect
surveillance of a manufacturer’s quality control trap seals from siphonage and backpressure.
system.
VERTICAL PIPE. Any pipe or fitting that makes
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFIED. an angle of 45 degrees or more with the
Certification obtained by the manufacturer horizontal.
indicating that the function and performance WALL-HUNG WATER CLOSET.
characteristics of a product or material have been
determined by testing and ongoing surveillance A wall-mounted water closet installed in such a
by an approved third-party certification agency. way that the fixture does not touch the floor.
Assertion of certification is in the form of WASTE.
identification in accordance with the

SBC 701-CR-18 22
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

The discharge from any fixture, appliance, area or but which are not part of the plumbing system.
appurtenance that does not contain fecal matter.
WATER PIPE.
WASTE PIPE.
Riser. A water supply pipe that extends one full
A pipe that conveys only waste. story or more to convey water to branches or to a
group of fixtures.
WASTE RECEPTOR.
Water distribution pipe. A pipe within the
A floor sink, standpipe, hub drain or floor drain
structure or on the premises that conveys water
that receives the discharge of one or more indirect
from the water service pipe, or from the meter
waste pipes.
when the meter is at the structure, to the points of
WATER COOLER. utilization.
A drinking fountain that incorporates a means of Water service pipe. The pipe from the water main
reducing the temperature of the water supplied to or other source of potable water supply, or from
it from the potable water distribution system. the meter when the meter is at the public right of
WATER DISPENSER. way, to the water distribution system of the
building served.
A plumbing fixture that is manually controlled by
the user for the purpose of dispensing potable WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM.
drinking water into a receptacle such as a cup, The water service pipe, water distribution pipes,
glass or bottle. Such fixture is connected to the and the necessary connecting pipes, fittings,
potable water distribution system of the premises. control valves and all appurtenances in or
This definition also includes a free-standing adjacent to the structure or premises.
apparatus for the same purpose that is not
WELL.
connected to the potable water distribution
system and that is supplied with potable water Bored.
from a container, bottle or reservoir.
A well-constructed by boring a hole in the ground
WATER-HAMMER ARRESTOR. with an auger and installing a casing.
A device utilized to absorb the pressure surge Drilled.
(water hammer) that occurs when water flow is
A well-constructed by making a hole in the
suddenly stopped in a water supply system.
ground with a drilling machine of any type and
WATER HEATER. installing a casing and screen.
Any heating appliance or equipment that heats Driven.
potable water and supplies such water to the
A well-constructed by driving a pipe in the
potable hot water distribution system.
ground. The drive pipe is usually fitted with a
WATER MAIN. well point and screen.
A water supply pipe or system of pipes, installed Dug.
and maintained by a city, township, county,
A well-constructed by excavating a large-
public utility company or other public entity, on
diameter shaft and installing a casing.
public property, in the street or in an approved
dedicated easement of public or community use. WHIRLPOOL BATHTUB.
WATER OUTLET. A plumbing appliance consisting of a bathtub
fixture that is equipped and fitted with a
A discharge opening through which water is
circulating piping system designed to accept,
supplied to a fixture, into the atmosphere (except
circulate and discharge bathtub water upon each
into an open tank that is part of the water supply
use.
system), to a boiler or heating system, or to any
devices or equipment requiring water to operate YOKE VENT.

SBC 701-CR-18 23
CHAPTER 2 -Definitions

A pipe connecting upward from a soil or waste

stack to a vent stack for the purpose of preventing
pressure changes in the stacks.

SBC 701-CR-18 24
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

GENERAL REGULATIONS

provided that they are indirectly connected to the

SECTION 301 GENERAL plumbing system and comply with Section
301.1 Scope. 1003.4.
The provisions of this chapter shall govern the 301.7 Conflicts.
general regulations regarding the installation of
In instances where conflicts occur between this
plumbing not specific to other chapters. code and the manufacturer’s installation
301.2 System installation. instructions, the more restrictive provisions shall
apply.
Plumbing shall be installed with due regard to
preservation of the strength of structural members SECTION 302 EXCLUSION OF
and prevention of damage to walls and other MATERIALS DETRIMENTAL TO THE
surfaces through fixture usage. SEWER SYSTEM
301.3 Connections to drainage system. 302.1 Detrimental or dangerous materials.
Plumbing fixtures, drains, appurtenances and Ashes, cinders or rags; flammable, poisonous or
appliances used to receive, or discharge liquid explosive liquids or gases; oil, grease or any other
waste or sewage shall be directly connected to the insoluble material capable of obstructing,
sanitary drainage system of the building or damaging or overloading the building drainage or
premises, in accordance with the requirements of sewer system, or capable of interfering with the
this code (SBC 701). This section shall not be normal operation of the sewage treatment
construed to prevent indirect waste systems processes, shall not be deposited, by any means,
required by Chapter 8. into such systems.
Exception: Bathtubs, showers, lavatories, clothes 302.2 Industrial wastes.
washers and laundry trays shall not be required to
discharge to the sanitary drainage system where Waste products from manufacturing or industrial
such fixtures discharge to an approved system in operations shall not be introduced into the public
accordance with Chapters 13 and 14. sewer until it has been determined by the code
official or other authority having jurisdiction that
301.4 Connections to water supply. the introduction thereof will not damage the
Every plumbing fixture, device or appliance public sewer system or interfere with the
requiring or using water for its proper operation functioning of the sewage treatment plant.
shall be directly or indirectly connected to the SECTION 303 MATERIALS
water supply system in accordance with the
provisions of this code. 303.1 Identification.
301.5 Pipe, tube and fitting sizes. Each length of pipe and each pipe fitting, trap,
fixture, material and device utilized in a plumbing
Unless otherwise indicated, the pipe, tube and system shall bear the identification of the
fitting sizes specified in this code are expressed manufacturer and any markings required by the
in nominal or standard sizes as designated in the applicable referenced standards.
referenced material standards.
303.2 Installation of materials.
301.6 Prohibited locations.
All materials used shall be installed in strict
Plumbing systems shall not be located in an accordance with the standards under which the
elevator shaft or in an elevator equipment room. materials are accepted and approved. In the
Exception: Floor drains, sumps and sump pumps absence of such installation procedures, the
shall be permitted at the base of the shaft, manufacturer’s instructions shall be followed.

SBC 701-CR-18 25
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

Where the requirements of referenced standards that will withstand any reaction from the lime and
or manufacturer’s installation instructions do not acid of concrete, cinder or other corrosive
conform to minimum provisions of this code, the material. Sheathing or wrapping shall allow for
provisions of this code shall apply. movement including expansion and contraction
of piping. The wall thickness of the material shall
303.3 Plastic pipe, fittings and components.
be not less than 0.65 mm.
All plastic pipe, fittings and components shall be
305.2 Stress and strain.
third-party certified as conforming to NSF 14.
Piping in a plumbing system shall be installed so
303.4 Third-party certification.
as to prevent strains and stresses that exceed the
All plumbing products and materials shall be structural strength of the pipe. Where necessary,
listed by a third-party certification agency as provisions shall be made to protect piping from
complying with the referenced standards. damage resulting from expansion, contraction
Products and materials shall be identified in and structural settlement.
accordance with Section 303.1.
305.3 Pipes through foundation walls.
SECTION 304 RODENTPROOFING Any pipe that passes through a foundation wall
304.1 General. shall be provided with a relieving arch, or a pipe
sleeve pipe shall be built into the foundation wall.
Plumbing systems shall be designed and installed
The sleeve shall be two pipe sizes greater than the
in accordance with Sections 304.2 through 304.4
pipe passing through the wall.
to prevent rodents from entering structures.
305.4 Freezing.
304.2 Strainer plates.
Water, soil and waste pipes shall not be installed
All strainer plates on drain inlets shall be
outside of a building, in attics or crawl spaces,
designed and installed so that all openings are not
concealed in outside walls, or in any other place
greater than 13 mm in least dimension.
subjected to freezing temperatures unless
304.3 Meter boxes. adequate provision is made to protect such pipes
from freezing by insulation or heat or both.
Meter boxes shall be constructed in such a
Exterior water supply system piping shall be
manner that rodents are prevented from entering
installed not less than 150 mm below the frost line
a structure by way of the water service pipes
and not less than 300 mm below grade.
connecting the meter box and the structure.
304.4 Openings for pipes. 305.4.1 Sewer depth.
Building sewers that connect to private sewage
In or on structures where openings have been
disposal systems shall be installed not less than
made in walls, floors or ceilings for the passage
500 mm below finished grade at the point of
of pipes, the annular space between the pipe and
septic tank connection. Building sewers shall be
the sides of the opening shall be sealed with
installed not less than 300 mm below grade.
caulking materials or closed with gasketing
systems compatible with the piping materials and 305.5 Waterproofing of openings.
locations.
Joints at the roof and around vent pipes shall be
SECTION 305 PROTECTION OF made water tight by the use of lead, copper,
PIPES AND PLUMBING SYSTEM galvanized steel, aluminum, plastic or other
COMPONENTS approved flashings or flashing material. Exterior
wall openings shall be made water tight.
305.1 Corrosion.
305.6 Protection against physical damage.
Pipes passing through concrete or cinder walls
and floors or other corrosive material shall be In concealed locations where piping, other than
protected against external corrosion by a cast-iron or galvanized steel, is installed through
protective sheathing or wrapping or other means holes or notches in studs, joists, rafters or similar

SBC 701-CR-18 26
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

members less than 40 mm from the nearest edge the installation level of the bottom of the pipe, and
of the member, the pipe shall be protected by steel the trench shall be backfilled to the installation
shield plates. Such shield plates shall have a level of the bottom of the pipe with sand tamped
thickness of not less than 1.463 mm (No. 16 in place so as to provide uniform load-bearing
gage). Such plates shall cover the area of the pipe support for the pipe between joints. The pipe,
where the member is notched or bored, and shall including the joints, shall not rest on rock at any
extend not less than 50 mm above sole plates and point.
below top plates.
306.2.3 Soft load-bearing materials.
305.7 Protection of components of plumbing
If soft materials of poor load-bearing quality are
system.
found at the bottom of the trench, stabilization
Components of a plumbing system installed shall be achieved by over excavating not less than
along alleyways, driveways, parking garages or two pipe diameters and backfilling to the
other locations exposed to damage shall be installation level of the bottom of the pipe with
recessed into the wall or otherwise protected in an fine gravel, crushed stone or a concrete
approved manner. foundation. The concrete foundation shall be
bedded with sand tamped into place so as to
SECTION 306 TRENCHING, provide uniform load-bearing support for the pipe
EXCAVATION AND BACKFILL between joints.
306.1 Support of piping. 306.3 Backfilling.
Buried piping shall be supported throughout its Backfill shall be free from discarded construction
entire length. material and debris. Loose earth free from rocks,
306.2 Trenching and bedding. broken concrete and frozen chunks shall be
placed in the trench in 150 mm layers and tamped
Where trenches are excavated such that the in place until the crown of the pipe is covered by
bottom of the trench forms the bed for the pipe, 300 mm of tamped earth. The backfill under and
solid and continuous load-bearing support shall beside the pipe shall be compacted for pipe
be provided between joints. Bell holes, hub holes support. Backfill shall be brought up evenly on
and coupling holes shall be provided at points both sides of the pipe so that the pipe remains
where the pipe is joined. Such pipe shall not be aligned. In instances where the manufacturer’s
supported on blocks to grade. In instances where instructions for materials are more restrictive than
the materials manufacturer’s installation those prescribed by the code, the material shall be
instructions are more restrictive than those installed in accordance with the more restrictive
prescribed by the code, the material shall be requirement.
installed in accordance with the more restrictive
requirement. 306.4 Tunneling.

306.2.1 Over excavation. Where pipe is to be installed by tunneling, jacking

or a combination of both, the pipe shall be
Where trenches are excavated below the protected from damage during installation and
installation level of the pipe such that the bottom from subsequent uneven loading. Where earth
of the trench does not form the bed for the pipe, tunnels are used, adequate supporting structures
the trench shall be backfilled to the installation shall be provided to prevent future settling or
level of the bottom of the pipe with sand or fine caving.
gravel placed in layers not greater than 150 mm
in depth and such backfill shall be compacted SECTION 307 STRUCTURAL SAFETY
after each placement. 307.1 General.
306.2.2 Rock removal. In the process of installing or repairing any part
Where rock is encountered in trenching, the rock of a plumbing and drainage installation, the
shall be removed to not less than 75 mm below finished floors, walls, ceilings, tile work or any

SBC 701-CR-18 27
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

other part of the building or premises that must be edge of the footing or wall.
changed or replaced shall be left in a safe
307.6 Piping materials exposed within
structural condition in accordance with the
plenums.
requirements of the SBC 201, and the SBC 301
through SBC 305. Piping materials exposed within plenums shall
comply with the provisions of SBC 501.
307.2 Cutting, notching or bored holes.
A framing member shall not be cut, notched or
SECTION 308 PIPING SUPPORT
bored in excess of limitations specified in the 308.1 General.
SBC 201, and the SBC 301 through SBC 305.
Plumbing piping shall be supported in accordance
307.3 Penetrations of floor/ceiling with this section.
assemblies and fire-resistance-rated
308.2 Piping seismic supports.
assemblies.
Where earthquake loads are applicable in
Penetrations of floor/ceiling assemblies and
accordance with SBC 301, plumbing piping
assemblies required to have a fire-resistance
supports shall be designed and installed for the
rating shall be protected in accordance with SBC
seismic forces in accordance with the SBC 301.
201, the SBC 301 through SBC 305, and the SBC
801. 308.3 Materials.
307.4 Alterations to trusses. Hangers, anchors and supports shall support the
piping and the contents of the piping. Hangers
Truss members and components shall not be cut,
and strapping material shall be of approved
drilled, notched, spliced or otherwise altered in
material that will not promote galvanic action.
any way without written concurrence and
approval of a registered design professional. 308.4 Structural attachment.
Alterations resulting in the addition of loads to
Hangers and anchors shall be attached to the
any member (e.g., HVAC equipment, water
building construction in an approved manner.
heater) shall not be permitted without verification
that the truss is capable of supporting such 308.5 Interval of support.
additional loading. Pipe shall be supported in accordance with Table
307.5 Protection of footings. 308.5.
Trenching installed parallel to footings and walls Exception: The interval of support for piping
shall not extend into the bearing plane of a footing systems designed to provide for
or wall. The upper boundary of the bearing plane expansion/contraction shall conform to the
is a line that extends downward, at an angle of 45 engineered design in accordance with Section
degrees from horizontal, from the outside bottom 316.1.

SBC 701-CR-18 28
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

TABLE 308.5 HANGER SPACING

MAXIMUM MAXIMUM
PIPING MATERIAL HORIZONTAL VERTICAL
SPACING (m) SPACING (m)
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipe 1.2 3.0b
Aluminum tubing 3.0 4.5
Brass pipe 3.0 3.0
Cast-iron pipe 1.5a 4.5
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe and tubing,
3.6 3.0b
25 mm and smaller
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe and tubing,
1.2 3.0b
32 mm and larger
Copper or copper-alloy pipe 3.6 3.0
Copper or copper-alloy tubing, 32 mm diameter and
1.8 3.0
smaller
Copper or copper-alloy tubing, 38 mm diameter and
3.0 3.0
larger
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe 0.8 3.0b
Cross-linked polyethylene/ aluminum/cross-linked
0.8 1.2
polyethylene (PEX-AL- PEX) pipe
Lead pipe Continuous 1.2
Polyethylene/aluminum/ polyethylene (PE-AL-PE)
0.8 1.2
pipe
Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) pipe 0.8 3.0b
Polypropylene (PP) pipe or
0.8 3.0b
tubing 25 mm and smaller
Polypropylene (PP) pipe or tubing, 32 mm and larger 1.2 3.0b
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe 1.2 3.0b
Stainless steel drainage systems 3.0 3.0b
Steel pipe 3.6 4.5
a. The maximum horizontal spacing of cast-iron pipe hangers shall be increased to 3.0 m where
3.0 m lengths of pipe are installed.
b. For sizes 50 mm millimeters and smaller, a guide shall be installed midway between required
vertical supports. Such guides shall prevent pipe movement in a direction perpendicular to the
axis of the pipe

308.6 Sway bracing. than two pipe sizes. Braces, blocks, rodding and
other suitable methods as specified by the
Rigid support sway bracing shall be provided at
coupling manufacturer shall be utilized.
changes in direction greater than 45 degrees for
pipe sizes 100 mm and larger. 308.8 Expansion joint fittings.
308.7 Anchorage. Expansion joint fittings shall be used only where
necessary to provide for expansion and
Anchorage shall be provided to restrain drainage
contraction of the pipes. Expansion joint fittings
piping from axial movement.
shall be of the typical material suitable for use
308.7.1 Location. with the type of piping in which such fittings are
For pipe sizes greater than 100 mm, restraints installed.
shall be provided for drain pipes at all changes in 308.9 Parallel water distribution systems.
direction and at all changes in diameter greater

SBC 701-CR-18 29
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

Piping bundles for manifold systems shall be resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and
supported in accordance with Table 308.5. stresses, including the effects of buoyancy,
Support at changes in direction shall be in during the occurrence of flooding up to such
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. elevation.
Where hot water piping is bundled with cold or
309.3 Coastal high-hazard areas and
hot water piping, each hot water pipe shall be
coastal A zones.
insulated.
Structures located in coastal high-hazard areas
SECTION 309 FLOOD HAZARD and coastal A zones shall meet the requirements
RESISTANCE of Section 309.2. The plumbing systems, pipes
309.1 General. and fixtures shall not be mounted on or penetrate
through walls intended to break away under flood
Plumbing systems and equipment in structures loads.
erected in flood hazard areas shall be constructed
in accordance with the requirements of this SECTION 310 WASHROOM AND
section and the SBC 201 and the SBC 301. TOILET ROOM REQUIREMENTS
309.2 Flood hazard. 310.1 Light and ventilation.
For structures located in flood hazard areas, the Washrooms and toilet rooms shall be illuminated
following systems and equipment shall be located and ventilated in accordance with the SBC 201
and installed as required by 1612 of SBC 201. and the SBC 501.
1 Water service pipes. 310.2 Location of fixtures and
compartments.
2 Pump seals in individual water supply
systems where the pump is located below The location of plumbing fixtures and the
the design flood elevation. requirements for compartments and partitions
shall be in accordance with Section 405.3.
3 Covers on potable water wells shall be
sealed, except where the top of the casing 310.3 Interior finish.
well or pipe sleeve is elevated to not less
Interior finish surfaces of toilet rooms shall
than 300 mm above the design flood
comply with the with the SBC 201.
elevation.
4 Sanitary drainage piping.
SECTION 311 TOILET FACILITIES
FOR WORKERS
5 Storm drainage piping.
311.1 General.
6 Manhole covers shall be sealed, except
where elevated to or above the design Toilet facilities shall be provided for construction
flood elevation. workers and such facilities shall be maintained in
a sanitary condition. Construction worker toilet
7 Other plumbing fixtures, faucets, fixture facilities of the nonsewer type shall conform to
fittings, piping systems and equipment. ANSI Z4.3.
8 Water heaters. SECTION 312 TESTS AND
9 Vents and vent systems. INSPECTIONS
Exception: The systems listed in this section are 312.1 Required tests.
permitted to be located below the elevation The permit holder shall make the applicable tests
required by Section 1612 of SBC 201 for utilities prescribed in Sections 312.2 through 312.10 to
and attendant equipment, provided that the determine compliance with the provisions of this
systems are designed and installed to prevent code. The permit holder shall give reasonable
water from entering or accumulating within their advance notice to the code official when the
components and the systems are constructed to plumbing work is ready for tests. The equipment,

SBC 701-CR-18 30
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

material, power and labor necessary for the test shall be made by forcing air into the system
inspection and test shall be furnished by the until there is a uniform gauge pressure of 34.5 kPa
permit holder and he or she shall be responsible or sufficient to balance a 250 mm column of
for determining that the work will withstand the mercury. This pressure shall be held for a test
test pressure prescribed in the following tests. All period of not less than 15 minutes. Any
plumbing system piping shall be tested with adjustments to the test pressure required because
either water or, for piping systems other than of changes in ambient temperatures or the seating
plastic, by air. After the plumbing fixtures have of gaskets shall be made prior to the beginning of
been set and their traps filled with water, the the test period.
entire drainage system shall be submitted to final
312.4 Drainage and vent final test.
tests. The code official shall require the removal
of any cleanouts if necessary to ascertain whether The final test of the completed drainage and vent
the pressure has reached all parts of the system. systems shall be visual and in sufficient detail to
determine compliance with the provisions this
312.1.1 Test gauges. code. Where a smoke test is utilized, it shall be
Gauges used for testing shall be as follows: made by filling all traps with water and then
introducing into the entire system a pungent,
1 Tests requiring a pressure of 69 kPa or
thick smoke produced by one or more smoke
less shall utilize a testing gauge having
machines. When the smoke appears at stack
increments of 0.69 kPa or less.
openings on the roof, the stack openings shall be
2 Tests requiring a pressure of greater than closed and a pressure equivalent to 248.8 Pa shall
69 kPa but less than or equal to 690 kPa be held for a test period of not less than 15
shall utilize a testing gauge having minutes.
increments of 6.9 kPa or less.
312.5 Water supply system test.
3 Tests requiring a pressure of greater than
Upon completion of a section of or the entire
690 kPa shall utilize a testing gauge
water supply system, the system, or portion
having increments of 14 kPa or less.
completed, shall be tested and proved tight under
312.2 Drainage and vent water test. a water pressure not less than the working
A water test shall be applied to the drainage pressure of the system; or, for piping systems
system either in its entirety or in sections. If other than plastic, by an air test of not less than
applied to the entire system, all openings in the 344 kPa. This pressure shall be held for not less
piping shall be tightly closed, except the highest than 15 minutes. The water utilized for tests shall
opening, and the system shall be filled with water be obtained from a potable source of supply. The
to the point of overflow. If the system is tested in required tests shall be performed in accordance
sections, each opening shall be tightly plugged with this section and Section 107.
except the highest openings of the section under 312.6 Gravity sewer test.
test, and each section shall be filled with water,
Gravity sewer tests shall consist of plugging the
but no section shall be tested with less than a 3000
end of the building sewer at the point of
mm head of water. In testing successive sections,
connection with the public sewer, filling the
at least the upper 3000 mm of the next preceding
building sewer with water, testing with not less
section shall be tested so that no joint or pipe in
than a 3000 mm head of water and maintaining
the building, except the uppermost 3000 mm of
such pressure for 15 minutes.
the system, shall have been submitted to a test of
less than a 3000 mm head of water. This pressure 312.7 Forced sewer test.
shall be held for not less than 15 minutes. The
Forced sewer tests shall consist of plugging the
system shall then be tight at all points.
end of the building sewer at the point of
312.3 Drainage and vent air test. connection with the public sewer and applying a
pressure of 35 kPa greater than the pump rating,
Plastic piping shall not be tested using air. An air
and maintaining such pressure for 15 minutes.

SBC 701-CR-18 31
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

312.8 Storm drainage system test. Equipment efficiencies shall be in accordance

with the SBC 601 and SBC 602.
Storm drain systems within a building shall be
tested by water or air in accordance with Section SECTION 314 CONDENSATE
312.2 or 312.3. DISPOSAL
312.9 Shower liner test. 314.1 Fuel-burning appliances.
Where shower floors and receptors are made Liquid combustion byproducts of condensing
water tight by the application of materials appliances shall be collected and discharged to an
required by Section 417.5.2, the completed liner approved plumbing fixture or disposal area in
installation shall be tested. The pipe from the accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
shower drain shall be plugged water tight for the Condensate piping shall be of approved
test. The floor and receptor area shall be filled corrosion-resistant material and shall not be
with potable water to a depth of not less than 50 smaller than the drain connection on the
mm measured at the threshold. Where a threshold appliance. Such piping shall maintain a horizontal
of at least 50 mm high does not exist, a temporary slope in the direction of discharge of not less than
threshold shall be constructed to retain the test one-eighth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-
water in the lined floor or receptor area to a level percent slope).
not less than 50 mm deep measured at the
threshold. The water shall be retained for a test 314.2 Evaporators and cooling coils.
period of not less than 15 minutes, and there shall Condensate drain systems shall be provided for
not be evidence of leakage. equipment and appliances containing evaporators
312.10 Inspection and testing of backflow or cooling coils. Condensate drain systems shall
prevention assemblies. be designed, constructed and installed in
accordance with Sections 314.2.1 through
Inspection and testing shall comply with Sections 314.2.5.
312.10.1 and 312.10.2.
314.2.1 Condensate disposal.
312.10.1 Inspections. Condensate from all cooling coils and
Annual inspections shall be made of all backflow evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan
prevention assemblies and air gaps to determine outlet to an approved place of disposal. Such
whether they are operable. piping shall maintain a horizontal slope in the
direction of discharge of not less than one-eighth
312.10.2 Testing.
unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent
Reduced pressure principle, double check, slope). Condensate shall not discharge into a
pressure vacuum breaker, reduced pressure street, alley or other areas so as to cause a
detector fire protection, double check detector nuisance.
fire protection, and spill-resistant vacuum breaker
backflow preventer assemblies and hose 314.2.2 Drain pipe materials and sizes.
connection backflow preventers shall be tested at Components of the condensate disposal system
the time of installation, immediately after repairs shall be cast iron, galvanized steel, copper, cross-
or relocation and at least annually. The testing linked polyethylene, polyethylene, ABS, CPVC
procedure shall be performed in accordance with or PVC or polypropylene pipe or tubing. All
one of the following standards: ASSE 5013, components shall be selected for the pressure and
ASSE 5015, ASSE 5020, ASSE 5047, ASSE temperature rating of the installation. Joints and
5048, ASSE 5052, ASSE 5056, CSA B64.10 or connections shall be made in accordance with the
CSA B64.10.1. applicable provisions of Chapter 7 relative to the
SECTION 313 EQUIPMENT material type. Condensate waste and drain line
size shall be not less than 20 mm internal
EFFICIENCIES
diameter and shall not decrease in size from the
313.1 General. drain pan connection to the place of condensate

SBC 701-CR-18 32
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

disposal. Where the drain pipes from more than 2 A separate overflow drain line shall be
one unit are manifolded together for condensate connected to the drain pan provided with
drainage, the pipe or tubing shall be sized in the equipment. Such overflow drain shall
accordance with Table 314.2.2. discharge to a conspicuous point of
disposal to alert occupants in the event of
TABLE 314.2.2
a stoppage of the primary drain. The
CONDENSATE DRAIN SIZING
overflow drain line shall connect to the
MINIMUM
drain pan at a higher level than the
EQUIPMENT CONDENSATE
primary drain connection.
CAPACITY PIPE DIAMETER
(mm) 3 An auxiliary drain pan without a separate
Up to 20 tons of drain line shall be provided under the
20 mm coils on which condensate will occur.
refrigeration
Over 20 tons to 40 Such pan shall be equipped with a water-
25 mm level detection device conforming to UL
tons of refrigeration
Over 40 tons to 90 508 that will shut off the equipment
32 mm served prior to overflow of the pan. The
tons of refrigeration
Over 90 tons to 125 auxiliary drain pan shall be constructed
38 mm in accordance with Item 1 of this section.
tons of refrigeration
Over 125 tons to 4 A water-level detection device
250 tons of 50 mm conforming to UL 508 shall be provided
refrigeration that will shut off the equipment served in
the event that the primary drain is
314.2.3 Auxiliary and secondary drain
blocked. The device shall be installed in
systems.
the primary drain line, the overflow drain
In addition to the requirements of Section line or in the equipment-supplied drain
314.2.1, where damage to any building pan, located at a point higher than the
components could occur as a result of overflow primary drain line connection and below
from the equipment primary condensate removal the overflow rim of such pan.
system, one of the following auxiliary protection
methods shall be provided for each cooling coil Exception: Fuel-fired appliances that
or fuel fired appliance that produces condensate: automatically shut down operation in the event of
a stoppage in the condensate drainage system.
1 An auxiliary drain pan with a separate
drain shall be provided under the coils on 314.2.3.1 Water-level monitoring devices.
which condensation will occur. The On down-flow units and all other coils that do not
auxiliary pan drain shall discharge to a have a secondary drain or provisions to install a
conspicuous point of disposal to alert secondary or auxiliary drain pan, a water-level
occupants in the event of a stoppage of monitoring device shall be installed inside the
the primary drain. The pan shall have a primary drain pan. This device shall shut off the
depth of not less than 38 mm, shall be not equipment served in the event that the primary
less than 75 mm larger than the unit or the drain becomes restricted. Devices installed in the
coil dimensions in width and length and drain line shall not be permitted.
shall be constructed of corrosion-
resistant material. Galvanized sheet 314.2.3.2 Appliance, equipment and
metal pans shall have a thickness of not insulation in pans.
less than 0.6010 mm (No. 24 gage) Where appliances, equipment or insulation are
galvanized sheet metal. Nonmetallic pans subject to water damage when auxiliary drain
shall have a thickness of not less than 1.6 pans fill such portions of the appliances,
mm. equipment and insulation shall be installed above
the flood level rim of the pan. Supports located

SBC 701-CR-18 33
CHAPTER 3 -GENERAL REGULATIONS

inside of the pan to support the appliance or the intent of the provisions of this code and shall
equipment shall be water resistant and approved. provide an equivalent level of quality, strength,
effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and
314.2.4 Traps. safety. Material, equipment or components shall
Condensate drains shall be trapped as required by be designed and installed in accordance with the
the equipment or appliance manufacturer. manufacturer’s instructions.

314.2.4.1 Ductless mini-split system traps. 316.1.2 Submittal.

Ductless mini-split equipment that produces The registered design professional shall indicate
condensation shall be provided with an in-line on the permit application that the plumbing
check valve located in the drain line or a trap. system is an alternative engineered design. The
permit and permanent permit records shall
314.2.5 Cleanouts. indicate that an alternative engineered design was
Condensate drain lines shall be configured to part of the approved installation.
permit the clearing of blockages and performance
of maintenance without requiring the drain line to 316.1.3 Technical data.
be cut. The registered design professional shall submit
sufficient technical data to substantiate the
SECTION 315 PENETRATIONS
proposed alternative engineered design and to
315.1 Sealing of annular spaces. prove that the performance meets the intent of this
code.
The annular space between the outside of a pipe
and the inside of a pipe sleeve or between the 316.1.4 Construction documents.
outside of a pipe and an opening in a building
The registered design professional shall submit to
envelope wall, floor, or ceiling assembly
the code official two complete sets of signed and
penetrated by a pipe shall be sealed in an
sealed construction documents for the alternative
approved manner with caulking material, foam
engineering design. The construction documents
sealant or closed with a gasketing system. The
shall include floor plans and a riser diagram of the
caulking material, foam sealant or gasketing
work. Where appropriate, the construction
system shall be designed for the conditions at the
documents shall indicate the direction of flow, all
penetration location and shall be compatible with
pipe sizes, grade of horizontal piping, loading and
the pipe, sleeve and building materials in contact
location of fixtures and appliances.
with the sealing materials. Annular spaces created
by pipes penetrating fire-resistance-rated 316.1.5 Design approval.
assemblies or membranes of such assemblies Where the code official determines that the
shall be sealed or closed in accordance with
alternative engineered design conforms to the
Section 714 of the SBC 201.
intent of this code, the plumbing system shall be
SECTION 316 ALTERNATIVE approved. If the alternative engineered design is
ENGINEERED DESIGN not approved, the code official shall notify the
registered design professional in writing, stating
316.1 Alternative engineered design. the reasons thereof.
The design, documentation, inspection, testing
316.1.6 Inspection and testing.
and approval of an alternative engineered design
plumbing system shall comply with Sections The alternative engineered design shall be tested
316.1.1 through 316.1.6. and inspected in accordance with the
requirements of Sections 107 and 312.
316.1.1 Design criteria.
An alternative engineered design shall conform to

SBC 701-CR-18 34
CHAPTER 4 -FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

conform to ASTM B 152 and shall not weigh less

SECTION 401 GENERAL than 3.7 kg/m2.
401.1 Scope.
402.4 Sheet lead.
This chapter shall govern the materials, design
Sheet lead for pans shall not weigh less than 19.5
and installation of plumbing fixtures, faucets and
kg/m2 and shall be coated with an asphalt paint or
fixture fittings in accordance with the type of
other approved coating.
occupancy, and shall provide for the minimum
number of fixtures for various types of SECTION 403 MINIMUM PLUMBING
occupancies. FACILITIES
401.2 Prohibited fixtures and connections. 403.1 Minimum number of fixtures.
Water closets having a concealed trap seal or an Plumbing fixtures shall be provided in the
unventilated space or having walls that are not minimum number as shown in Table 403.1, based
thoroughly washed at each discharge in on the actual use of the building or space. Uses
accordance with SASO 1258/1998; SASO not shown in Table 403.1 shall be considered
1473/1999; ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 shall individually by the code official. The number of
be prohibited. Any water closet that permits occupants shall be determined by the SBC 201.
siphonage of the contents of the bowl back into Occupancy classification shall be determined in
the tank shall be prohibited. Trough urinals shall accordance with the SBC 201.
be prohibited.
403.1.1 Fixture calculations.
401.3 Water conservation.
To determine the occupant load of each sex, the
The maximum water flow rates and flush volume total occupant load shall be divided in half. To
for plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings shall determine the required number of fixtures, the
comply with Section 604.4. fixture ratio or ratios for each fixture type shall be
applied to the occupant load of each sex in
SECTION 402 FIXTURE MATERIALS
accordance with Table 403.1. Fractional numbers
402.1 Quality of fixtures. resulting from applying the fixture ratios of Table
Plumbing fixtures shall be constructed of 403.1 shall be rounded up to the next whole
approved materials, with smooth, impervious number. For calculations involving multiple
surfaces, free from defects and concealed fouling occupancies, such fractional numbers for each
surfaces, and shall conform to standards cited in occupancy shall first be summed and then
this code. All porcelain enameled surfaces on rounded up to the next whole number.
plumbing fixtures shall be acid resistant. Exception: The total occupant load shall not be
402.2 Materials for specialty fixtures. required to be divided in half where approved
statistical data indicates a distribution of the sexes
Materials for specialty fixtures not otherwise of other than 50 percent of each sex.
covered in this code shall be of stainless steel,
soapstone, chemical stoneware or plastic, or shall 403.1.2 Family or assisted-use toilet and
be lined with lead, copper-base alloy, nickel- bath fixtures.
copper alloy, corrosion-resistant steel or other Fixtures located within family or assisted-use
material especially suited to the application for toilet and bathing rooms required by Section
which the fixture is intended. 1109.2.1 of the SBC 201 are permitted to be
402.3 Sheet copper. included in the number of required fixtures for
either the male or female occupants in assembly
Sheet copper for general applications shall and mercantile occupancies.

SBC 701-CR-18 35
CHAPTER 4 -FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

Table 403.1 Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixturesa

(See Sections 403.1.1 And 403.2)
Water
Drinking
closets
fountain
(urinals: see Lavatories Bathtubs/
No. Classification Occupancy Description (see Other
section showers
section
419.2)
410)
Male Female Male Female
Theaters and
other buildings
1
for the 1 per 1 per 1 per
A-1d 1 per 200 — service
performing arts 125 65 500
sink
and motion
pictures
Dance halls and
1
buildings 1 per 1 per 1 per
1 per 75 — service
for similar 40 40 500
sink
A-2d purposes
Restaurants, 1
1 per 1 per 1 per
banquet halls 1 per 200 — service
75 75 500
and food courts sink
Auditoriums
without
permanent
1 Assembly
seating, art
galleries, 1
1 per 1 per 1 per
exhibition halls, 1 per 200 — service
125 65 500
museums, sink
lecture halls,
libraries,
A-3d arcades and
gymnasiums
Passenger
1
terminals and 1 per 1 per 1 per
1 per 750 — service
transportation 500 500 1,000
sink
facilities
Places of
1
worship and 1 per 1 per 1 per
1 per 200 — service
other religious 150 75 1,000
sink
services
(continued)

SBC 701-CR-18 36
CHAPTER 4 -FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

TABLE 403.1 —continued

Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixturesa
(See Sections 403.1.1 And 403.2)
Water closets Drinkin
(urinals: see Lavatories g
Bathtubs
Classificatio Occupanc section 419.2) fountai
No. Description / Other
n y n (see
Mal Femal showers
Male Female section
e e
410)
Coliseums, 1 per 75
1 per 40
arenas, for the
for the
skating rinks, first
first
pools and 1,500
1,520
tennis courts and 1 per 1 1
and 1 per 1 per 1 per
A-4 for indoor 120 for per — servic
60 for the 150 1,000
sporting the 200 e sink
remainde
events and remainde
r
activities r
exceedin
1 exceedin
g 1,520
(cont. Assembly g 1,500
) Stadiums, 1 per 75 1 per 40
amusement for the for the
parks, first1,500 first
bleachers and 1 per 1,520
1 1
and 120 for and 1 per 1 per 1 per
A-5 per — servic
grandstands the 60 for the 150 1,000
200 e sink
for outdoor remainde remainde
sporting r r
events and exceedin exceedin
activities g 1,500 g 1,520
Buildings for
the
transaction
of business,
1 per 40 for
professional
the
services,
first 80 and
other 1 per 25 for the first
1 1
services 50 and 1 per 50 for 1 per
2 Business B per 80 for — servic
involving the remainder 100
the e sinke
merchandise exceeding 50
remainder
, office
exceeding
buildings,
80
banks, light
industrial
and similar
uses
Educational 1
1 per
3 Educational E facilities 1 per 50 1 per 50 — servic
100
e sink

SBC 701-CR-18 37
CHAPTER 4 -FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

Structures in
which
occupants
are engaged
(see 1
Factory and F-1 and F- in work 1 per
4 1 per 100 1 per 100 Section servic
industrial 2 fabricating, 400
411) e sink
assembly or
processing
of products
or materials
Residential 1
1 per
I-1 care 1 per 10 1 per 10 1 per 8 servic
100
e sink
Hospitals, 1
ambulatory servic
1 per 1 per
nursing 1 per roomc 1 per 15 e sink
roomc 100
home care per
recipient floor
Employees,
I-2 other than 1 per
1 per 25 1 per 35 — —
residential 100
careb
Visitors,
other than 1 per
1 per 75 1 per 100 — —
residential 500
5 Institutional
care
Prisonsb 1
1 per
1 per cell 1 per cell 1 per 15 servic
100
e sink
Reformitorie
s, detention 1
I-3 1 per
centers, and 1 per 15 1 per 15 1 per 15 servic
100
correctional e sink
centersb
Employeesb 1 per
1 per 25 1 per 35 — —
100
Adult day
1
care and 1 per
I-4 1 per 15 1 per 15 1 servic
child day 100
e sink
care
(continued)

SBC 701-CR-18 38
CHAPTER 4 -FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

TABLE 403.1 —continued

Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixturesa
(See Sections 403.1.1 and 403.2)
Water
closets Drinking
(urinals: see Lavatories Bathtubs fountain
No Classificatio Occupanc
Description section / (see Other
. n y
419.2) showers section410
Mal Femal Mal Femal )
e e e e
Retail
stores,
service
stations,
shops, 1 per 1 service
6 Mercantile M 1 per 500 1 per 750 —
salesrooms, 1,000 sinke
markets
and
shopping
centers
Hotels,
motels, 1 per 1 per 1 per
1 service
R-1 boarding sleeping sleeping sleeping —
sink
houses unit unit unit
(transient)
Dormitories,
and
1 service
R-2 boarding 1 per 10 1 per 10 1 per 8 1 per 100
sink
houses (not
transient)
1 kitchen
sink per
dwelling
unit; 1
7 Residential auto-
1 per matic
Apartment 1 per 1 per
R-2 dwelling — clothes
house dwelling unit dwelling unit
unit washer
con-
nection
per 20
dwelling
units
Congregate
living
facilities 1 service
R-3 1 per 10 1 per 10 1 per 8 1 per 100
with 16 or sink
fewer
persons

SBC 701-CR-18 39
CHAPTER 4 -FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

1 kitchen
sink per
One- and
dwelling
two-family
unit; 1
dwellings
1 per automatic
and lodging 1 per 1 per
R-3 dwelling — clothes
houses dwelling unit dwelling unit
unit washer
with five or
connectio
fewer
n per
guestrooms
dwelling
unit
Congregate
living
facilities 1 service
R-4 1 per 10 1 per 10 1 per 8 1 per 100
with 16 or sink
fewer
persons
Structures
for the
storage of
goods,
warehouses
See
S-1 , store- 1 per 1 service
8 Storage 1 per 100 1 per 100 Section
S-2 house and 1,000 sink
411
freight
depots. Low
and
Moderate
Hazard.

a. The fixtures shown are based on one fixture being the minimum required for the number of persons indicated or any
fraction of the number of persons indicated. The number of occupants shall be determined by the by the SBC 201.
b. Toilet facilities for employees shall be separate from facilities for inmates or care recipients.
c. A single-occupant toilet room with one water closet and one lavatory serving not more than two adjacent patient
sleeping units shall be permitted provided that each patient sleeping unit has direct access to the toilet room and
provision for privacy for the toilet room user is provided.
d. The occupant load for seasonal outdoor seating and entertainment areas shall be included when determining the
minimum number of facilities required.
e. For business and mercantile occupancies with an occupant load of 15 or fewer, service sinks shall not be required.
3 Separate facilities shall not be required
403.2 Separate facilities.
in mercantile occupancies in which the
Where plumbing fixtures are required, separate maximum occupant load is 100 or
facilities shall be provided for each sex. fewer.
Exceptions: 403.2.1 Family or assisted-use toilet
1 Separate facilities shall not be required facilities serving as separate
for dwelling units and sleeping units. facilities.
2 Separate facilities shall not be required Where a building or tenant space requires a
in structures or tenant spaces with a separate toilet facility for each sex and each
total occupant load, including both toilet facility is required to have only one water
employees and customers, of 15 or closet, two family or assisted-use toilet
fewer. facilities shall be permitted to serve as the
required separate facilities. Family or assisted
use toilet facilities shall not be required to be

SBC 701-CR-18 40