From the Preface
Introduction
Internationally, code officials recognize the need for a modern, up-to-date plumbing code addressing the design and installation of plumbing systems through requirements emphasizing performance. The International Plumbing Code is designed to meet these needs through model code regulations that safeguard the public health and safety in all communities, large and small.

This comprehensive plumbing code, which incorporates approved code changes from the last two code development cycles, establishes minimum regulations for plumbing systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new plumbing designs. Additionally, the International Plumbing Code is designed to be compatible with the BOCA National Codes published by Building Officials and Code Administrators International (BOCA), the Standard Codes published by the Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI), the Uniform Codes published by the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), and all the International Codes published by the International Code Council.

The International Plumbing Code provides many benefits, among which is the model code development process that offers an international forum for plumbing professionals to discuss performance and prescriptive code requirements. This forum provides an excellent arena to debate proposed revisions. This model code also encourages international consistency in the application of provisions.

Development
The first draft of the International Plumbing Code was prepared in 1994 by a development committee appointed by and consisting of representatives of BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI. The intent was to draft a comprehensive set of regulations for plumbing systems consistent with and inclusive of the scope and content of the existing model plumbing codes that incorporates the common plumbing code format established by the Council of American Building Officials. This format establishes the title, scope and sequence of the chapters and does not involve the order or content of the provisions with the chapter.

Technical content of the latest plumbing codes promulgated by BOCA, ICBO, and SBCCI was utilized as the basis for the development of this document. While there were a great many similarities among the three codes, careful consideration was given to identified differences. The development committee followed certain principles as guidance in the resolution of technical differences. The principles were based on the intent to establish provisions consistent with the scope of a plumbing code that adequately protect public health, safety, and welfare; provisions that do not unnecessarily increase construction costs; provisions that do not restrict the use of new materials, products or methods of construction; and provisions that do not give preferential treatment to particular types or classes of materials, products or methods of construction.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Administration; Chapter 2: Definitions; Chapter 3: General Regulations; Chapter 4: Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings; Chapter 5: Water Heaters; Chapter 6: Water Supply and Distribution; Chapter 7: Sanitary Drainage; Chapter 8: Indirect/Special Waste; Chapter 9: Vents; Chapter 10: Traps, Interceptors and Separators; Chapter 11: Storm Drainage; Chapter 12: Special Piping and Storage Systems; Chapter 13: Referenced Standards; Appendix A: Plumbing Permit Fee Schedule; Appendix B: Rates of Rainfall for Various Cities; Appendix C: Gray Water Recycling Systems; Appendix D: Degree Day and Design Temperatures; Appendix E: Sizing of Water Piping System; Appendix F: Structural Safety; Appendix G: Vacuum Drainage System; Index

To view the complete table of contents for the International Plumbing Code, click here .

The 2003 and 2006 editions of the International Plumbing Code looseleaf are also available.