scope:

The provisions of this code shall apply to the erection, installation, alteration, repairs, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of plumbing systems within this jurisdiction. This code shall regulate nonflammable medical gas, inhalation anesthetic, vacuum piping, nonmedical oxygen systems and sanitary and condensate vacuum collection systems. The installation of fuel gas distribution piping and equipment, fuel-gas-fired water heaters and water heater venting systems shall be regulated by the International Fuel Gas Code.

Purpose

A plumbing code, as with any other code, is intended for adoption as a legally enforceable document to safeguard health, safety, property and public welfare. A plumbing code cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The official charged with the administration and enforcement of plumbing regulations has a great responsibility, and with this responsibility goes authority. No matter how detailed the plumbing code may be, the code official must, to some extent, exercise judgment in determining compliance. The code official has the responsibility for establishing that the homes in which the citizens of the community reside and the buildings in which they work are designed and constructed to be reasonably free from hazards associated with the presence and use of plumbing appliances, appurtenances, fixtures and systems. The code is intended to establish a minimum acceptable level of safety.