City of New Rochelle, NY Chapter 242 Plumbing and Drainage

[HISTORY: Adopted by the Council of the City of New Rochelle 7-21-1987 by Ord. No. 214-1987. Amendments noted where applicable.]

§ 242-1 Title; scope.

[Amended 3-18-2003 by Ord. No. 63-2003]

This chapter shall be known as the "New Rochelle Plumbing and Drainage Code." It shall incorporate the standards that pertain to plumbing and drainage found in the Plumbing Code of New York State, which shall be referred to in this chapter as the "State Code."

§ 242-2 Applicability of county standards.

The City of New Rochelle and all users of the city's sanitary sewer system shall be subject to all applicable rules and regulations contained in the Westchester County Environmental Facilities Ordinance No. 1, as amended.

§ 242-3 Designation of code enforcement officer.

The Building Official is hereby designated as the code enforcement officer, and he shall be responsible for the enforcement of the New Rochelle Plumbing and Drainage Code. Employees of the Bureau of Buildings, and such others as the Building Official may designate, shall perform inspections, issue orders for the correction of violations and investigate complaints.

§ 242-4 (Reserved) [1]

[1] Editor's Note: Former § 242-4, Examining Board of Plumbers, as amended, was repealed 4-20-2006 by Ord. No. 94-2006.

§ 242-5 Certificates of qualification and registration; misuse of licenses.

[Amended during codification; 12-19-1995 by Ord. No. 274-1995]

A. Qualification and examination.

(1) Qualification. It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the business of plumbing or to install, alter or repair any plumbing system in the City of New Rochelle, New York, or to display a sign or to give other notice setting forth or intending to imply that he is engaged in the business of plumbing, unless he has obtained a Westchester County certificate of qualification, after examination, and has duly registered said certificate with the Plumbing Inspector.

(2) Application and examination. Every person who desires to engage in the business of plumbing shall make written application upon a form to be prescribed and furnished by Westchester County and pay county fees.

(3) Registration. Forthwith, upon the receipt of the county certificate of qualification, the applicant shall register at the office of the Plumbing Inspector.

B. Misuse of licenses. The Plumbing Inspector shall investigate the registration and license of every plumber and shall promptly report to the Westchester County Examining Board of Plumbers any violation of the provisions of law relating to the loaning, renting, selling or transferring of licenses. The Plumbing Inspector shall immediately apply to the Examining Board of Plumbers of Westchester County for the forfeiture of the license and certificate of qualification of any plumber who shall have loaned, rented, sold or transferred such license or sign in violation of law, and the Plumbing Inspector shall summon and have prosecuted such offender as provided by law.

C. Additional penalties. Any person who omits or refuses to comply with or resists or willfully violates any of the rules, orders or sanitary regulations herein, or who obstructs or hinders any inspector or officer in the due performance of his duty hereunder, if a master plumber, shall forfeit any certificate of qualification or registration which he may hold.

§ 242-6 Certificate of qualification required before issuance of permits.

[Amended 12-19-1995 by Ord. No. 274-1995]

No department, officer or employee of the City of New Rochelle having charge or jurisdiction of the city's water mains and/or sewers within the limits of the City shall issue a permit to any person, firm, association or corporation unless such person, firm, association or corporation is the holder of a certificate of qualification issued by the Westchester County Examining Board of Plumbers and is a registered master plumber at the office of the Plumbing Inspector.

§ 242-7 Filing of plans; notification of work.

[Amended 12-19-1995 by Ord. No. 274-1995]

It shall be unlawful to do plumbing and drainage installation except pursuant to approved drawings or approved amendments thereof as provided herein.

A. Plans. The owner or agent shall file a plan with the Bureau of Buildings showing the system of plumbing to be installed, which drawings must be approved by the Plumbing Inspector before work is begun. No modification of the approved drawings shall be permitted unless amended or supplemental drawings covering the proposed change or changes are filed and approved. All such plans shall be submitted in duplicate, and one copy, stamped with the approval of the Plumbing Inspector, shall be kept on the premises where the installation is being carried on.

B. Notification of plumbing. No work shall be started until the master plumber has filed a notification card, prescribed and furnished by the Department of Development, with the Plumbing Inspector. Repairs and replacements of plumbing and drainage may be made without the filing of drawings in the Bureau of Buildings, but said exemption from the filing of drawings for repairs and replacements shall not be construed to include any case where new, or replacements for, vertical and/or horizontal lines of soil, waste or vent pipes are proposed. In any event, however, notification cards shall be filed and permits issued before starting the work. Said repairs and replacements shall comply in all respects with the weight, quality, materials, arrangements and venting as provided in this code. The provisions of this code shall apply to all extensions, alterations and other work to be done in connection with plumbing or house drains in old buildings the same as in new buildings, except minor repairs, which shall be construed as meaning repairs to the existing plumbing system known to the trade as "jobbing."

C. Installation of oil burners. No plumbing work in connection with the installation or operation of oil burners or incidental thereto shall be performed by other than a plumber duly licensed by the County of Westchester.

D. Exceptions. The provisions of this code shall not apply to the City (public) systems of sewerage and sewage treatment, plans of which have been approved by the New York State Department of Health.

§ 242-8 Fees.

[Amended during codification; 12-19-1995 by Ord. No. 274-1995]

The Bureau of Buildings shall make the charges as set forth in Chapter 133, Fees, for the following, after approval of plans by the Plumbing Inspector and filing of notification of plumbing to be installed:

A. There shall be a fee for permit to proceed and inspection of a certificate of approval for six fixtures or waste-discharging outlets or fewer, and an additional fee for each additional fixture or waste-discharging outlet exceeding six.

B. There shall be a fee for the replacement of fixtures and repairs and sewer cappings and the issuance of a certificate of approval therefor.

C. There shall be a fee for inspection and testing of each gas piping system and issuance of a certificate of the same and on buildings wherein other plumbing is being done and filed for and where gas piping is being installed.

§ 242-9 Powers and duties of Plumbing Inspector.

A. The office of the Plumbing Inspector shall be open to the public daily, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

B. The Plumbing Inspector shall receive and carry with him at all times a suitable badge or other official means of identification for the purpose of inspection and examination of all premises where plumbing is being installed or repairs are being made.

C. In the discharge of his duties, the Plumbing Inspector shall have the authority at any reasonable hour to enter any premises or building in which plumbing work is being installed.

D. The Plumbing Inspector shall require the submission of and shall examine plans and applications for permits. If the same are found to comply with the provisions of this code, he shall issue permits for the work specified in such applications.

E. The Plumbing Inspector shall collect all fees for permits issued as provided by this code and shall issue receipts therefor. He shall transfer all fees collected by him to the proper authority provided by law to receive such funds.

F. The Plumbing Inspector shall make all inspections and tests as provided for in this code, and, upon the satisfactory completion and final test of the plumbing system, he shall issue a certificate of approval for any work approved by him.

G. The Plumbing Inspector shall condemn and reject all work done or being done or materials used or being used which do not in all respects comply with the provisions of this code. He shall endeavor to compel an immediate correction of the conditions by the issuance of a notice of violation therefor; and, failing in this, he shall report the facts and circumstances to the Corporation Counsel for appropriate action. The Plumbing Inspector shall investigate complaints by an owner as to unsatisfactory or inadequate work on the part of any plumber. All complaints shall be made in writing by said owner with a direct statement of facts thereof.

H. The Plumbing Inspector shall keep a record of applications filed, permits issued, certificates of approval of completed work issued and reports of notices and orders issued.

I. The Plumbing Inspector shall make a monthly report to the Director of Public Works of permits issued, certificates of approval issued and all other business transactions of his office, including the number of inspections made.

J. The Plumbing Inspector shall maintain an official register of all persons, firms or corporations lawfully entitled to carry on or engage in the business of plumbing or to labor at the trade of plumbing to whom a plumber's certificate of qualification has been issued in accordance with the provisions of § 242-5A of this code.

K. The Plumbing Inspector shall cause the arrest and prosecution of all persons unlicensed to do plumbing work who violate the provisions of this code.

§ 242-10 Inspections and tests.

A. Inspections. All new plumbing work and such portions of existing systems as may be affected by new work or any changes shall be inspected to ensure compliance with all the requirements of this code and to assure that the installation and construction of the system is in accordance with approved plans.

B. Notification.

(1) Advance notice. It shall be the duty of the plumber to give advance notice to the office of the Plumbing Inspector when plumbing work is ready for test or inspection.

(2) Plumber's responsibility. It shall be the duty of the master plumber to make sure that the work will stand the test prescribed before giving the above notification.

(3) Retesting. If the Plumbing Inspector finds that the work will not pass the test, the plumber shall be required to make the necessary corrections, and the work shall then be resubmitted for test or inspection.

C. Material and labor for tests. The equipment, material, power and labor necessary for the inspection and test shall be furnished by the plumber.

D. Test of interior leaders or downspouts. Leaders or downspouts and branches within a building shall be tested by water or air as per the State Code.

[Amended 3-18-2003 by Ord. No. 63-2003]

E. Covering the work.

(1) Prior to test. No plumbing system or part thereof shall be covered until it has been inspected, tested and approved as prescribed in this chapter.

(2) Removal. If any plumbing system or part thereof is covered before being regularly inspected, tested and approved, as prescribed in this chapter, it shall be uncovered under the direction of the Plumbing Inspector.

F. Certificate of approval. Upon the satisfactory completion and final test of the plumbing system, a certificate of approval shall be issued by the Plumbing Inspector to the plumber to be delivered to the owner. The regular use of the plumbing system is prohibited until so approved and certified by the Plumbing Inspector.

G. Test of defective plumbing. The drainage system of any building, where there is reason to believe that it has become defective, shall be subject to test or inspection.

H. Inspection and test not required. No tests or inspections shall be required where a plumbing system or part thereof is set up for exhibition purposes and is not used for toilet purposes and is not directly connected to a water supply or sewerage system.

§ 242-11 Maintenance.

A. Defective fixtures. All installed fixtures found defective or in an unsanitary condition shall be repaired, renovated, replaced or removed upon written notice from the proper administrative authority.

B. Temporary toilet facilities. Suitable toilet facilities shall be provided for the use of workmen during the construction of any building. These toilet facilities shall be maintained in a sanitary condition.

C. Defective plumbing. Any part of the plumbing system found defective or in an unsanitary condition shall be repaired, renovated, replaced or removed within five days upon written notice from the authority having jurisdiction over plumbing.

D. Repairs. None but licensed plumbers will be permitted to alter, repair or make connections to any of the plumbing system, building drain or building sewer of any building.

E. Removal of nonconforming house sewers or drains. Whenever any house sewer or drain connected with any public sewer or drain becomes obstructed, broken or out of order, or in such condition as to prevent the use of the house sewer or drain, or unfit for the purpose of drainage, or where old tile, cement or other drainpipe that does not conform to the provisions of this code is uncovered or exposed for any reason, it shall be removed and replaced with material as approved by the administrative authority. The owner, agent, occupant or person having charge of any building, yard, lot of land or other premises which are drained by said drain or house sewer shall, when directed by the Inspector of Plumbing, remove, reconstruct, alter, clean or repair said drain as condition of said drain may require.

F. Construction of minor repairs. "Minor repairs," as used in this subsection, shall mean repairs to leaks in drains, traps or cocks, opening waste or supply pipes, traps or drains or repairing broken fixtures or frozen pipes. Minor repairs shall not include the doing of such work where connections to soil pipes, supply pipes, wastepipes or vent pipes are disturbed or inside leader pipes are used, nor shall it include the setting or replacing of fixtures.

G. Certain sewer connections prohibited. No connection through which it is designed to discharge offal, garbage, solid refuse or other matter which might clog or stop the pipes shall be made with the sewer system of the City or any of its branches nor shall anyone discharge such matters into the sewer system.

H. Unsanitary plumbing. Whenever, upon inspection, any building or part thereof is found unfit for human habitation by reason of defective plumbing or drainage system, the Department of Public Works may require such building or part thereof to be vacated and may cause to be posted in a conspicuous place therein a notice of unsanitary condition and may order any person, firm or corporation using or maintaining any such condition or responsible for the use or maintenance thereof to discontinue the use of or maintenance thereof or to repair, alter, change, remove or demolish the same as the Department of Public Works may consider necessary for the proper protection of life, health or property.

I. Improper construction or use. The Department of Public Works has the power to stop the construction or use of drains, sewers and water mains not properly constructed or used or which are not in accordance with plans already approved. They may condemn and order the removal of any fixture or any plumbing and drainage that is defective when found to be dangerous to health.

J. Improvements ordered. The Department of Public Works shall have the power to order changes or improvements in the existing plumbing or drainage on any premises within a specified time when, in its opinion, the requirements of health demand such changes or improvements. Such order shall be issued to the owner, agent and/or lessee in writing, and the order shall state the time within which the work shall be completed and ready for inspection.

§ 242-12 Modifications to state standards.

A. Section 901.19i of the State Code was modified by the following, by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

(1) Minimum size of individual drain, trap and waste branches. Minimum size of drain, trap or waste branches to individual fixtures shall be in accordance with the sizes specified in the following table:

Fixture	Minimum Size of Trap and Branch (inches)	Minimum Size of Fixture Drain (inches)
Bathtub (trap)	1 1/2	1 1/2
Combination sink and laundry tray	2	2
Dental unit	1 1/2	1 1/2
Drinking fountain	1 1/2	1 1/2
Floor drain	3	3
Laundry tray	1 1/2	1 1/2
Lavatory	1 1/2	1 1/2
Shower stall	2	2
Sink, dishwasher	1 1/2	2
Sink, hotel or public	2	2
Sink, kitchen, residence	2	2
Sink, pantry or bar	1 1/2	2
Sink, pot or scullery etc.	2	2
Sink, service	2	2
Sink, service (trap standard)	3	3
Urinal, stall	2	2
Urinal, wall	1 1/2	2
NOTE: This table does not apply to fixtures with integral traps.

(2) Residential washing machines. All residential washing machine standpipe trays shall be a minimum of two inches in diameter and shall be to the full height of the back splash or a minimum of 42 inches, whichever is greater. The minimum size of a vent for a residential washing machine shall be 1 1/2 inches.

B. Section 902.7e of the State Code was modified by the following, by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

(1) Shutoff valves. Separate valves, always accessible, shall be placed at the foot of each riser line and in multiple dwellings or commercial buildings for each individual fixture or group of fixtures controlled in each dwelling unit or group of fixtures in one room.

C. Section 902.9e of the State Code was modified by the following, by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

(1) Size of supply pipes. Where two or more fixtures are above the first floor, the risers shall be not less than 3/4 inch.

D. Section 903.20a of the State Code was modified by the following, by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

(1) Sink waste pipes. Sink wastes shall not connect into bath wastes but shall connect into a separate fitting in the main soil or waste line.

E. Section 904.6d of the State Code was modified by the following, by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

(1) Permitted locations and systems for DWV copper tube. Type DWV copper tube shall be permitted in structures of all use group occupancies for aboveground vent systems within structures only.

(a) Copper water tube for drainage and venting. Seamless copper water tube known as "Type M" may be used above ground in all buildings and structures for installation on leaders, drainage, waste, venting and water closet bends. It may not be used for installation on urinal branches chemical wastes. Copper tubing for urinal branches shall be at least as heavy as Type K. All tubing shall be clearly marked or coded by the manufacturer, and installation shall have such markings so positioned as to be readily identifiable. All connections, offsets, turns or changes in direction on copper tubing installations shall be made only with proper solder joint fittings, adaptors, converters and appurtenances specifically approved for such use.

F. Section 904.6i of the State Code was modified by the following by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

[Amended 12-13-2016 by Ord. No. 252-2016]

(1) Hubless cast-iron pipe.

(a) Hubless cast-iron pipe shall be permitted for inside leaders six stories and above when installed in compliance with manufacturer's specifications.

[Amended 9-19-2017 by Ord. No. 170-2017]

(b) Permitted locations for hubless cast-iron pipe. Hubless pipe Specification No. AWWA Class 22 or stronger shall be permitted on storm, soil, waste and vent piping above ground within the structure for all use groups. All connections shall be made with stainless steel corrugated coupling with an approved neoprene gasket and stainless steel clamps. PVC pipe shall be permitted for storm piping, service piping, waste and vent piping and potable water lines in buildings that do not exceed six stories in height. PVC piping shall be installed in strict compliance with manufacturer's specifications. PVC storm piping shall be insulated as per manufacturer's installation guidelines and heat traced in open garages and unheated spaces.

[Amended 9-19-2017 by Ord. No. 170-2017]

(c) All installations of hubless pipe and fittings shall be supported and secured so there will be no sagging or lateral movement and shall be installed as per the manufacturer's specifications and acceptable standards.

(d) Hubless piping and PVC piping shall be supported and secured by means of unistrut or similar type material and clamping device and other such measures as to ensure a rigid piping installation. Installation of PVC piping shall be installed in strict compliance with manufacturer's installation guidelines.

(e) Testing of all hubless pipe, PVC pipe and fittings shall be limited to two floors or a height not to exceed 24 feet of head pressure.

G. Sections 904.6d and 904.6g of the State Code were modified by the following by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

[Amended 12-13-2016 by Ord. No. 252-2016]

(1) Plastic pipe. Unless otherwise specifically permitted by the administrative authority, the use of plastic piping and material shall be prohibited for underground installations only. Change of use of residences in which plastic pipe has been heretofore installed in compliance with this code shall only be permitted upon removal of the plastic pipe and fittings or at the discretion of the administrative authority.

H. Part 1001 (including G.A.S.) of the State Code was modified by the following by approval of the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 19, 1986:

(1) Installation of gas piping and gas appliance connections in buildings (not applicable to undiluted liquefied petroleum gas).

(a) Gas appliance installations.

[1] All hereafter installed gas appliances and gas appliance connections shall be installed in such a manner as not to endanger the health, safety, lives, property and welfare of the person or persons using the same or receiving the benefit thereof or of the general public.

[2] General. Under this caption appear the fundamental standards which shall be observed during the installation of any gas piping and gas appliance connections to assure safety. Responsibility for observing these precautions so as not to create a physical injury hazard to any person or property under ordinary circumstances shall rest with the installing permit holder.

[3] Scope. This code represents basic standards governing the installation of gas piping and gas appliance connections in buildings. These standards apply only to low-pressure [not in excess of 1/2 pound per square inch] gas piping systems in buildings, extending from the gas meter outlet to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation of residential and commercial gas appliances supplied through such systems by public utilities. They are intended to cover the installation and tests of such systems for fuel gases, such as natural gas and manufactured gas. They are not intended to cover systems distributing undiluted liquefied petroleum gas. They are also not intended to cover systems or portions of systems supplying equipment engineered, designed and installed for specific manufacturing, production, processing and power-generating applications, such as large and high-pressure boilers, melting and treating furnaces, production ovens, etc. For piping in gas-distribution systems, in gas-manufacturing plants, in gas-compressing stations and in gas-processing plants, refer to the latest edition of the Code for Pressure Piping and consult the gas utility corporation.

(b) Definitions. For the purpose of this code, certain terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall be interpreted as set out in this subsection:

COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL

Wall, floor, ceilings, shelves or other parts of a building constructed of wood, wood lath and plaster, composition or paper. (See Building Code.)

FLUE OR VENT CONNECTOR

The pipe connecting an appliance with the flue or vent. This corresponds to the smoke pipe used with solid or liquid fuels.

GAS PIPING

Any run of pipe or fittings that is used to convey fuel gas, installed on any premises or in any building, but shall not include any portion of the service piping from main to meter nor any piping connection less than six feet in length between an existing gas outlet and a gas appliance in the same room with the outlet.

GAS PIPING SYSTEM

Any arrangement of gas piping supplied by one meter.

GAS UTILITY CORPORATION

The firm or corporation supplying either natural or manufactured gas to the consumer within the limits of the City of New Rochelle.

GAS VENT OR FLUES

A conduit or pipe, vertical or nearly so in direction, designed to convey the products of combustion to the outside atmosphere. (See Building Code.)

HOUSE GAS PIPING

Any run of gas piping or fittings installed on any premises or in any building on the outlet side of the gas meter, beginning within 30 inches of the meter location or extending from gas pipes anywhere beyond said location and ending at the capped or plugged outlets ready to connect with gas fixtures or gas appliances, but does not include the connection of the gas fixtures, gas appliances or gas meter or any portion of the gas service piping from street mains.

SERVICE PIPING

The piping between the street gas main and the gas meter location.

(c) License. Only those persons licensed to do plumbing work under this code, the utility company, or those certified by the utility company may install any service piping, gas piping or gas appliances. The utility company or those certified by the utility company may only install service piping to the meter for residential work or to the building line for commercial work.

[Amended 6-15-2010 by Ord. No. 91-2010]

(d) Permit.

[1] It shall be unlawful for any person to install or cause to be installed any service piping, gas piping, gas water heater or other gas appliances without first obtaining a permit from the Plumbing Inspector.

[2] Permits for gas piping shall show the total number of gas outlets to be provided for and such other information as may be required by the Plumbing Inspector.

(e) Inspections.

[1] Upon completion of the installation of any gas piping on the outlet side of the gas meter and/or gas water heater and prior to the use thereof, the Plumbing Inspector shall be notified that such piping and/or water heater is ready for inspection.

[2] The Plumbing Inspector shall make the following inspections and shall either approve that portion of the work as completed or shall notify the permit holder wherein the same fails to comply with this code:

[a] Rough piping inspection. This inspection shall be made after all gas piping authorized by the permit has been installed and before any such piping has been covered or concealed or any fixture or appliance has been attached thereto.

[b] Pressure test. This inspection will include a determination of the test of piping for tightness, that gas piping installation shall stand a pressure of at least six inches of mercury or of three pounds per square inch for a period of not less than 10 minutes without showing any drop in pressure and that the installation meets the requirements of this code. For welded piping, the test pressure shall be 50 pounds per square inch and shall be made using air only. All necessary apparatus for conducting either method of pressure testing shall be furnished by the permit holder, and the test shall be made in the presence of the Plumbing Inspector.

[c] Test of piping for tightness. Before any system of gas piping is finally put in service, it shall be carefully tested by the permit holder to assure that it is gastight. Where any part of the system is to be enclosed or concealed, this test shall precede the work of closing in. To test for tightness, the piping may be filled with city gas, air or inert gas, but not with any other gas or liquid. In no case shall oxygen ever be used. The piping shall stand a pressure of at least six inches of mercury, measured with a manometer or slope gauge, for a period of not less than 10 minutes without showing any drop in pressure.

[d] Additional piping. In cases where the work authorized by the permit consists of additional piping to be installed on gas piping already connected to a gas meter, the foregoing inspections may be waived. In this event, the Plumbing Inspector shall require such inspections as he deems advisable in order to assure himself that the work has been performed in accordance with the intent of this code.

[e] Final inspection. A final inspection shall be made when all appliances are connected and all outlets capped, the gas meter is installed and the following has been done by the permit holder.

[f] Turning on gas. Close all gas outlets before turning gas under pressure into any piping. The permit holder or gas utility corporation shall close all openings from which gas can escape.

[g] Checking for leakage with meter. Immediately after turning gas into piping, the system shall be checked to ascertain that no gas is escaping. This shall be done by the permit holder or gas utility corporation by carefully watching the test dial of the meter to determine whether gas is passing through the meter. To assist in observing any movement of the test hand, wet a small piece of paper and paste its edge directly over the center line of the hand as soon as the gas is turned on. Allow five minutes for a one-half-foot dial and proportionally longer for a larger dial in checking for gas flow. This observation shall be made with the test hand on the upstroke.

[h] In case test hand does not move. In case careful observation of the test hand for a sufficient length of time reveals no movement, the pipe shall be purged (see provisions of Subsection H(1)(e)[2][j], [k] and [l]) and a small gas burner turned on and lighted and the hand of the test dial again observed. If this dial hand now moves (as it should), it will show that the meter is operating properly. If the test hand does not move or register the flow of gas through the meter to the small burner, it is certain that the meter is defective, and the gas shall be turned off and the gas utility corporation notified.

[i] In case meter test hand moves. In case the test hand shows movement, all appliances or outlets supplied through the meter shall be examined to see if they are turned off and do not leak. If they are found tight, movement of the test hand will indicate that there is a leak in the piping system. The meter valve shall be turned off until the necessary repairs have been made, after which the test specified in Subsection H(1)(e)[2][g] shall be repeated.

[j] Purging all gas lines. After the piping has been checked, all piping receiving gas through the meter shall be fully purged. A suggested method for purging the gas line to an appliance is to disconnect the pilot line at the outlet of the pilot valve. Under no circumstances shall a line be purged into the combustion chamber of an appliance.

[k] Light pilots. After the piping has been sufficiently purged, all appliances shall be purged and the pilots lighted. The installer shall assure himself that all piping and appliances are fully purged before leaving the premises.

[l] Purging large lines with inert gas. Lines of four-inch iron pipe size or larger should be purged with carbon dioxide, nitrogen or a mixture of the two. For a detailed procedure, consult the gas utility corporation.

(f) Certificate of inspection.

[1] When the rough piping inspection has been made, if the installation is found to comply with the provisions of this code, a certificate of inspection shall be issued by the Plumbing Inspector to the permit holder.

[2] A copy of the certificate of such rough piping inspection shall be issued to the gas utility corporation supplying gas to the premises.

[3] It shall be unlawful for any utility or person furnishing gas to set or cause to be set or connected any gas meter or meters with any gas piping until such certificate of inspection, as herein provided, shall have been issued.

(g) Authority to connect. It shall be unlawful to turn on or to connect gas in or on any premises unless all outlets are properly and securely connected to gas appliances or capped or plugged with screw-joint fittings.

(h) Authority to disconnect.

[1] The Plumbing Inspector shall order the gas turned off or disconnected, and the gas utility corporation supplying gas to the premises is hereby authorized to turn the gas off or disconnect any gas piping and/or appliance which shall be found not to conform to the requirements of this code or which may be found defective and in such condition as to endanger life or property.

[2] Where such disconnection has been made, a notice shall be attached by the gas utility corporation to such gas piping and/or appliance, which shall state that the same has been turned off or disconnected, together with the reasons therefor.

[3] Such attached notice shall not be removed nor shall the gas piping and/or appliance be turned on or reconnected until the defective condition has been corrected.

[4] It shall be unlawful to remove or disconnect any gas fixture and/or appliance without capping or plugging with a screw-joint fitting the outlet from which said gas fixture and/or appliance was removed.

[5] All gas outlets to which gas fixtures and/or appliances are not connected shall be left capped or plugged with a screw-joint fitting, gastight, on any gas piping system which has been installed, altered, extended or repaired.

(i) General precautions.

[1] Turn gas off. All gas piping or gas appliance installations shall be performed with the gas turned off to eliminate hazards from leakage of gas.

[2] Notification of interrupted service. It shall be the duty of the installing permit holder when the gas supply is to be turned off to notify all affected consumers.

[3] Before turning gas off. Before turning off the gas at the meter for the purpose of installation, repair, replacement or maintenance of piping or appliances, all burner and pilot valves on the premises supplied with gas through the meter shall be turned off and the meter test hand observed for a sufficient length of time to ascertain that there is no gas passing through the meter. Where there is more than one meter on the premises, precaution shall be exercised to assure that the proper meter is turned off.

[4] Checking for gas leaks. No matches, candles, flames or other sources of ignition shall be employed to check for gas leakage from piping or an appliance. Gas leakage shall be checked with a soap and water solution. See provisions of Subsection H(1)(e)[2][c], [f], [g], [h] and [i].

[5] Use of lights. Artificial illumination used in connection with a search for gas leakage shall be restricted to electric hand flashlights (preferably of the safety type) or approved safety lamps. In searching for leaks, electric switches should not be operated. If electric lights are already turned on, they should not be turned off.

[6] Working alone. An individual shall not work alone in any situation where accepted working practice dictates that two or more men are necessary to perform the work safely.

[7] Handling of liquid from drips. Liquid which is removed from a drip in existing gas piping shall be handled with proper precautions and shall not be left on the consumer's premises.

[8] No smoking. When working on piping which contains or has contained gas, smoking shall not be permitted.

[9] Handling flammable liquids. Flammable liquids used by the permit holder shall be handled with proper precautions and shall not be left within the premises from the end of one working day to the beginning of the next.

[10] Work interruptions. When interruptions in work occur, the system shall be left in a safe and satisfactory condition.

(j) Gas piping installation.

[1] Piping plan. The applicant for a permit shall, before proceeding with the installation of a gas piping system, furnish the Plumbing Inspector with a piping sketch or plan showing the proposed location of the piping as well as the size of different branches.

[a] Before any final plans or specifications are completed, the gas utility corporation shall be consulted for its approval.

[b] When an additional appliance is to be served through an extension of present piping, capacity of the existing line shall be verified.

[2] Piping shall provide for proper meter location.

[a] A meter location shall be provided for the building or premises to be served, and the location shall be such that the meter connections are easily accessible in order that the meter may be read or changed. Location, space requirements, dimensions and type of installation shall be acceptable to the gas utility corporation.

[b] Piping at multiple-meter installations shall be plainly marked by a metal tag or other permanent means installed by the plumber, designating the part of the building being supplied.

[3] Interconnections. Where two or more meters are installed on the same premises but supply separate consumers, the piping systems shall not be interconnected on the outlet side of the meters.

(k) Size of piping to gas appliances.

[1] Size of piping. Piping shall be of such size and so installed as to provide a supply of gas sufficient to meet the maximum demand without undue loss of pressure between the meter and the appliance or appliances. The size of gas pipe depends upon the following factors:

[a] Allowable loss in pressure from meter to appliance.

[b] Maximum gas consumption to be provided for.

[c] Length of pipe and number of fittings.

[d] Specific gravity of the gas.

[e] Diversity factor.

[2] Pressure loss. It is recommended that the pressure loss in any piping system from the gas meter to any appliance at the maximum probable gas demand not exceed a three-tenths-inch water column.

[3] Gas consumption. The volume of gas to be provided for (in cubic feet per hour) shall be determined, whenever possible, directly from the manufacturer's Btu ratings of the appliances which will be installed and the heating value of the gas to be used. In case the ratings of the appliances to be installed are not known, Table 27[1] is given to show the approximate consumption of average appliances of certain types in Btu's per hour.

[a] To obtain the cubic feet per hour of gas required, divide the total Btu input of all appliances by the average Btu heating value per cubic foot of the gas. The average Btu per cubic foot of the gas in the area of the installation may be obtained from the gas utility corporation.

[1] Editor's Note: Table 27 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[4] Capacity of pipe. Capacities of different sizes and lengths of pipe in cubic feet per hour with a pressure drop of 0.3 inch of water column for gas of 0.60 specific gravity are shown in Table 28.[2] In using this table, no allowance for an ordinary number of fittings is necessary.

[a] To convert the figures given in Table 28 to capacities of another gas of different specific gravity, multiply the tabular values by the multipliers shown in Table 29.[3]

[3] Editor's Note: Tables 28 and 29 are included as attachments to this chapter.

[2] Editor's Note: Table 28 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[5] Diversity factor. The diversity factor is the percentage of the total connected load in use at any one time and is an important factor in determining the correct pipe size to be used in multifamily dwellings. It is dependent upon the number and kinds of gas appliances being installed. Consult the gas utility corporation for the diversity factor to be used.

[6] Extensions. Extensions to existing piping shall conform to Table 28. Existing piping shall be converted to the proper size of pipe where necessary. In no case shall extensions be made to existing pipe which is smaller than permitted by Table 28.[4]

[4] Editor's Note: Table 28 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

(l) Materials.

[1] Acceptable piping material.

[a] Gas piping in buildings shall be wrought iron or steel pipe complying with the American Standard for Wrought Steel and Wrought Iron Pipe, ASA B36.10-1950. The connecting of pipe by welding is permissible. Underground gas service piping installations shall be permitted to be installed in plastic pipe, in compliance with the New York State Building Codes, to the meter for residential work (one- and two-family residences only) and to the building line for commercial work.

[Amended 6-15-2010 by Ord. No. 91-2010]

[b] Threaded pipe fittings (except stopcocks or valves) shall be malleable iron or steel when used with wrought iron or steel pipe. Where approved by the gas utility corporation, cast-iron fittings in sizes four inches and larger may be used with wrought iron and steel pipe, and copper or brass pipe in iron pipe sizes assembled with threaded fittings of the same materials may be used with gases not corrosive to such materials.

[c] Gas piping and fittings shall be clear and free from cutting burrs and defects in structure or threading and shall be thoroughly brushed and scale blown.

[d] Defects in pipe or fittings shall not be repaired. When defective pipe or fittings are located in a system, the defective pipe or fittings shall be replaced.

[2] Pipe coating. When in contact with material exerting a corrosive action, piping and fittings coated with a corrosion-resisting material shall be used.

[3] Use of old pipe. Pipe, fittings, valves, etc., removed from any existing installation shall not be again used until they have been thoroughly cleaned, inspected and ascertained to be equivalent to new material.

[4] Joint compounds. Joint compounds (pipe dope) shall be applied sparingly and only to the male threads of the joints. Such compounds shall be resistant to the action of liquefied petroleum gas-air mixtures.

(m) Pipe threads.

[1] Specifications for pipe threads. Pipe and fitting threads shall comply with the American Standard for Pipe Threads, ASA B2.1-1945, American Standard Taper Pipe Threads.

[2] Damaged threads. Pipe with threads which are stripped, chipped, corroded or otherwise damaged shall not be used. If a weld opens during the operation of cutting or threading, that portion of the pipe shall not be used.

[3] Number of threads. Pipe shall be threaded in accordance with Table 30.[5]

[5] Editor's Note: Table 30 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

(n) Concealed piping.

[1] Minimum size. No pipe smaller than standard one-half-inch iron pipe size shall be used in any concealed location.

[2] Piping in partitions. Concealed piping shall be located in hollow rather than in solid partitions.

[3] Piping in floors. Piping in solid floors such as concrete shall be laid in channels in the floor suitably covered to permit access to the piping with a minimum of damage to the building. Piping in contact with earth or other material which may corrode the piping shall be protected against corrosion in an approved manner. Piping shall not be laid in cinders.

[4] Connections in original installations. When installing piping which shall be concealed, unions, running threads, right and left couplings, bushings and swing joints made by combinations of fittings shall not be used.

[5] Reconnections. When necessary to insert fittings in piping which has been installed in a concealed location, the piping shall be reconnected by the use of a ground joint union with the nut center punched to prevent loosening by vibration.

(o) Installation of piping.

[1] Drips, grading and protection from freezing, as provided for in this section, shall apply only when other than a dry gas is distributed and climatic conditions make such requirements necessary.

[2] Building structure. The building structure shall not be weakened by the installation of any gas piping. Before any beams or joists are cut or notched, special permission should be obtained from the Building Official.

[3] Piping to be graded. All piping shall be graded not less than 1/4 inch in 15 feet to prevent traps. All horizontal lines shall grade to risers and from risers to the meter or to the appliance.

[4] Supporting pipe. Gas piping shall not be supported by other piping but shall be supported to maintain proper grade with pipe hooks, metal pipe straps, bands or hangers suitable for the size of pipe and of proper strength and quality at proper intervals so that the piping cannot be moved accidentally from the installed position. The spacing of supports in piping installations shall not be greater than the following:

[a] One-half-inch pipe: six feet.

[b] Three-fourths inch or one-inch pipe: eight feet.

[c] One-and-one-fourth-inch or larger (horizontal): 10 feet.

[d] One-and-one-fourth-inch or larger (vertical): every floor level.

[5] Protect against freezing. Gas piping shall be protected against freezing temperatures. When piping must be exposed to wide ranges or sudden changes in temperatures, special care shall be taken to prevent stoppages.

[6] Overhanging rooms. Where there are overhanging kitchens or other rooms built beyond the foundation walls in which gas appliances are installed, care shall be taken to avoid placing the piping where it will be exposed to low temperatures (40º F. or below for manufactured gas) or to extreme changes of temperatures. In such cases, the piping shall be brought up inside the building proper and run around the sides of the room in the most practical manner.

[7] Do not bend pipe. Pipe shall not be bent. Fittings shall be used when making turns in gas piping.

[8] Provide drip where necessary. A drip shall be provided at any point in the line of pipe where condensate may collect. Where condensation is excessive, a drip shall be provided at the outlet of the meter. This drip shall be so installed as to constitute a trap wherein an accumulation of condensate will shut off the flow of gas before it will run back into the meter.

[9] Location and size of drips. All drips shall be installed only in such locations that they will be readily accessible to permit cleaning or emptying. A drip shall not be located where the condensate is likely to freeze. The size of any drip used shall be determined by the capacity and the exposure of the piping which drains to it and in accordance with the recommendations of the gas utility corporation.

[10] Use tee. A tee fitting with the bottom outlet capped instead of an ell fitting shall be used at the bottom of any riser to catch any dirt or other foreign materials. (See Figure 17.[6])

[6] Editor's Note: Figure 17 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[11] Avoid clothes chutes, etc. Gas pipe inside any building shall not be run in or through an air duct, clothes chute, chimney or flue, ventilating duct, dumbwaiter or elevator shaft.

[12] Cap all outlets. Each outlet, including a valve or cock outlet, shall be securely closed gastight with a threaded iron plug or cap immediately after installation and shall be left closed until an appliance is connected thereto. Likewise, when an appliance is removed from an outlet and the outlet is not to be used again immediately, it shall be securely closed gastight. In no case shall the outlet be closed with tin caps, wooden plugs, corks, etc.

[13] Location of outlets. The unthreaded portion of piping outlets shall extend at least one inch through finished ceilings and walls and, when extending through floors, shall be not less than two inches above them. The outlet fitting or the pipe shall be securely fastened. Outlets shall not be placed behind doors. Outlets shall be far enough from floors and walls to permit the use of a pipe wrench of suitable size without straining or bending the pipe.

[14] Prohibited devices. No device shall be placed inside the gas pipe or fittings that will reduce the cross-sectional area or otherwise obstruct the free flow of gas.

[15] Branch pipe connection. All branch outlet pipes shall be taken from the top or sides of horizontal lines and not from the bottom. Where a branch outlet is placed on a main supply line, before it is known what size of pipe will be connected to it, the outlet shall be of the same size as the line which supplies it.

[16] Piping between buildings. Where piping is run from one building to another, it shall be adequately protected against freezing temperatures and shall be graded toward a suitable drip.

[a] Where manufactured gas is distributed, underground piping shall be one size larger than that specified in Table 27,[7] but in no case less than 1 1/4 inches.

[7] Editor's Note: Table 27 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[b] Where local conditions require it, underground piping shall be protected against corrosion by coating or by other suitable means.

[17] Lines supplying gas pilots for oil burners. Lines supplying gas pilots for oil-burning appliances shall be accessible, not less than 1/2 inch standard pipe size, and shall not be exposed to extreme temperatures.

(p) Appliance connections to building piping.

[1] Connecting nonportable appliances. Nonportable appliances, such as central heating, water heating and similar equipment, shall be connected to the gas piping with rigid pipe.

[2] Connecting domestic ranges, hot plates, clothes dryers, room heaters, refrigerators and similar equipment. Domestic gas ranges, hot plates, clothes dryers, room heaters, refrigerators and similar equipment shall be connected to the gas piping with rigid pipe, approved semirigid tubing or approved appliance connectors of flexible metal tubing and fittings. When a semirigid tubing connector or a connector of flexible metal tubing and fittings is used, it shall connect to an outlet in the same room as the appliance. The length of the connector should not exceed four feet. The connector shall be installed so as to be protected against physical damage.

[3] Use of gas hose. The connection of an appliance with any type of gas hose is prohibited, except when used with laboratory, shop or ironing equipment that requires mobility during operation. Such connections shall have the shutoff or stopcock installed at the connection to the building piping. Only listed gas hose shall be used. Listed gas hose shall be used only in accordance with the terms of its listing. Gas hose shall not be used where it is likely to be subject to excessive temperatures, above 125º F.

[4] Permissible length and location. Where gas hose is used, it shall be of the minimum practical length, but not to exceed four feet, and shall not extend from one room to another nor pass through any walls, partitions, ceilings or floors. Under no circumstances shall gas hose be concealed from view or used in a concealed location.

[5] Gas piping.

[a] The gas utility corporation shall be consulted before the installation of a gas appliance to determine if the piping, service and metering equipment is adequate. If changes are required in the piping, service pipe and meter, the gas utility corporation shall provide specifications covering the work to be performed in making these changes.

[b] Gas piping shall be of such size and so installed as to provide a supply of gas sufficient to meet the maximum demand without undue loss of pressure between the meter and the appliance or appliances.

(q) Appliance installation, general.

[1] Appliances and accessories to comply with standard requirements. All gas appliances and accessories installed for domestic or commercial use shall:

[a] Be listed by a nationally recognized testing agency;

[b] Comply with applicable American Standard Approval or Listing Requirements covering safe operation, substantial and durable construction and acceptable performance; or

[c] Be acceptable to the gas utility corporation.

  Such compliance may be determined by the presence on the appliance or accessory of a label of a nationally recognized testing agency, qualified and equipped to perform the tests necessary to determine such compliance and maintaining an adequate periodic inspection of current models, and whose label on the appliance or accessory states that it complies with national safety requirements.

  In cases where no applicable American Standard Approval or Listing Requirements have been developed for a given class of appliance or accessory, approval of the proper administrative authority shall be obtained before the appliance or accessory is installed.

[2] Listed appliances and accessories. The word "listed' used in connection with appliances and accessories throughout the present code refers to appliances and accessories which are shown in a list published by an approved nationally recognized testing agency, qualified and equipped for experimental testing and maintaining an adequate periodic inspection of current production of listed models, and whose listing states either that the appliance or accessory complies with nationally recognized safety requirements or has been tested and found safe for use in a specified manner.

[3] Type of gas. It shall be determined that the appliance has been designed for use with the gas to which it will be connected. No attempt shall be made to convert the appliance from the gas specified on the rating plate for use with a different gas without consulting the manufacturer of the appliance for complete instructions.

[4] Verification of pipe size. When connecting additional appliances to a piping system, the existing piping shall be checked to determine if it has adequate capacity. [See Subsection H(1)(k).] If inadequate, the existing system shall be enlarged as required or a separate line of adequate capacity shall be run from the meter to the appliance.

[5] Permissible temperatures on combustible materials. See Building Code and NFPA 54.

[6] Air for combustion. Where appliances are installed in a confined space or building of unusually tight construction or in unconfined spaces, such as a full basement, with a building of unusually tight construction, the gas utility corporation or the Plumbing Inspector shall be consulted for proper method of ventilation to supply air for combustion.

[7] Venting. Appliances shall be vented in accordance with the provisions of Subsection H(1)(v) of this section and the Building Code.

[8] Flammable vapors. Gas appliances shall not be installed in any location where flammable vapors are likely to be present, unless the design, operation and installation are such as to eliminate the possible ignition of the flammable vapors.

[9] Accessibility. Every appliance shall be located so that it will be readily accessible for operation and servicing.

[10] Avoid strain on piping. Gas appliances shall be adequately supported and so connected to the piping as not to exert undue strain on the connections.

[11] Extra device or attachment. No device or attachment shall be installed on any appliance which may in any way impair the combustion of gas.

[12] Combination of appliances. Any combination of appliances, attachments or devices used together in any manner shall comply with the standards which apply to the individual appliance.

[13] Use of air or oxygen under pressure. Where air or oxygen under pressure is used in connection with the gas supply, effective means shall be provided to prevent air or oxygen from passing back into the gas piping. The gas utility corporation shall be consulted for details.

[14] Venting of pressure regulators. Gas appliance pressure regulators requiring access to the atmosphere for successful operation shall be equipped with a vent pipe leading to the outer air or into the combustion chamber adjacent to a constantly burning pilot, unless constructed or equipped to limit the escape of gas from the vent opening in the event of diaphragm failure to not more than 1.0 cubic feet per hour of a gas of a specific gravity of 0.6 at seven inches of water column pressure. In case of vents leading to the outer air, means shall be employed to prevent water from entering this pipe and also to prevent stoppage of it by insects and foreign matter. In case of vents entering the combustion chamber, the vent shall be so located so that the escaping gas will be readily ignited from the pilot flame and the heat liberated will not adversely affect the operation of the thermal element. The terminus of the vent shall be securely held in a fixed position relative to the pilot flame. For manufactured gas, a flame arrester in the vent line may also be necessary.

(r) Water heaters.

[1] Location. Water heaters shall be located as close as practicable to the flue or vent. They should be so located as to provide short runs of piping to fixtures.

[2] Connections. Water heaters shall be connected in a manner to permit observation, maintenance and servicing.

[3] Closed systems. No water heater shall be installed in a closed system of water piping unless an approved water-pressure-relief valve is provided. (See entire Section 902.6 of the State Code.)

[4] Size of water-circulating pipe. The size of the water-circulating piping, in general, shall conform to the size of the water connections of the heater.

[5] Sediment drain. A suitable water valve or cock through which sediment may be drawn off or the tank emptied shall be installed at the bottom of the tank.

[6] Anti-siphoning devices. Means acceptable to the proper administrative authority shall be provided to prevent siphoning in any boiler or tank to which any circulating water heater is attached. A cold-water tube with a hole near the top is accepted for this purpose.

[7] Prohibited installations. Water heaters shall not be installed in bathrooms, bedrooms or any occupied rooms normally kept closed.

(s) Gas-fired unit heaters.

[1] Garage installation. Unit heaters installed in garages for more than three motor vehicles or in airplane hangars shall be of a type listed for such use and shall be installed at least eight feet above the floor.

(t) Clothes dryers.

[1] Public use. Gas-fired clothes dryers installed for multiple-family use shall be equipped with approved automatic pilots.

(u) Gas refrigerators.

[1] Gas refrigerators shall be provided with adequate clearances for ventilation at the top and back. They shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. If such instructions are not available, at least two inches shall be provided between the back of the refrigerator and the wall and at least a twelve-inch clearance above the top.

(v) Flue or vent connectors.

[1] Materials. The material used for the flue or vent connector shall be resistant to corrosion and shall be of sufficient thickness to withstand damage. Where a question arises as to the suitability of a particular material, the proper administrative authority shall be consulted.

[2] Avoid bends. The flue or vent connector shall be installed so as to avoid short turns or other constructional features which would create excessive resistance to the flow of flue gases.

[3] Pitch. The flue or vent connector shall maintain a pitch or rise from the appliance to the flue or vent. A rise as great as possible, at least 1/4 inch to the foot (horizontal length), shall be maintained. The horizontal run shall be free from any dips or sags.

[4] Provide vertical run. Wherever sufficient headroom is available, appliances having a horizontal flue outlet shall be provided with a vertical run or flue or vent connector before the horizontal run. To minimize frictional resistance in the connector, it is recommended that forty-five-degree elbows are used.

[5] Length. The horizontal run of the connector shall be as short as possible, and the appliance shall be located as near the flue or vent as practicable. The maximum length of horizontal run shall not exceed 75% of the height of the flue or vent.

[6] Support. Flue or vent connectors shall be securely supported.

[7] Clearance.

[a] Flue or vent connectors shall be located in such a manner that continued operation of the appliance will not raise the temperature of surrounding combustible construction more than 90º F. above normal room temperature when measured with mercury thermometers or conventional bead-type thermocouples. Where flue or vent connectors pass through partitions of combustible construction, ventilated thimbles shall be used. Minimum clearances from combustible construction to flue or vent connectors for listed appliances are shown in Table 31.[8] For unlisted appliances, the minimum clearance shall be nine inches from metal flue or vent connectors, except for incinerators, where the minimum clearance shall be 18 inches.

[8] Editor's Note: Table 31 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[b] The clearance from metal flue or vent connectors to combustible construction may be reduced as specified in Table 32[9] where the combustible construction is protected in accordance with this table.

[9] Editor's Note: Table 32 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[8] Use of thimbles. Flue or vent connectors, other than Type B (see Building Code), shall not pass through any combustible walls or partitions unless they are guarded at the point of passage by ventilated metal thimbles not smaller than the following:

[a] For listed appliances except floor furnaces and incinerators: four inches larger in diameter than the flue or vent connector, unless there is a run of not less than six feet of flue or vent connector in the open, between the draft hood outlet and the thimble, in which case the thimble may be two inches larger in diameter than the flue or vent connector.

[b] For listed floor furnaces and all unlisted appliances except incinerators: six inches larger in diameter than the flue or vent connector.

[c] For incinerators: 12 inches in diameter than the flue or vent connector.

[9] Size. The flue or vent connector shall not be smaller than the size of the flue collar or the size of the outlet of the draft hood supplied by the manufacturer of a gas-designed appliance. Where the appliance has more than one flue outlet, and in the absence of the manufacturer's specific instructions, the flue or vent connector shall equal the combined area of the flue outlets for which it acts as a common connector to the flue or vent.

[10] Dampers.

[a] No manually operated damper shall be placed in any flue or vent connector, except as noted below. Fixed baffles ahead of draft hoods are not classified as dampers.

[b] A manually operated or barometric damper may be installed in the flue or vent connector of a gas incinerator when recommended by the manufacturer. The manual damper shall be so constructed that it will not close off more than 80% of the cross-sectional area of the flue or vent connector. Such a damper will be supplied with a listed incinerator if the manufacturer recommends its use, and the installation instructions accompanying the incinerator will include complete information for installation of the damper.

[11] Fireplace. A flue or vent connector shall not be connected to a chimney flue having a fireplace opening unless the opening is permanently sealed.

[12] Check chimney. Before connecting a flue or vent connector, the flue or vent shall be examined to ascertain that it is properly constructed, clear and will freely conduct the products of combustion to the outer air.

[13] Draft woods. Every vented appliance, except incinerators, dual oven-type combination ranges and units designed for power burners or for forced venting, shall have a draft hood. If the draft hood is not a part of the appliance or supplied by the appliance manufacturer, it shall be supplied by the installer and, in the absence of other instructions, shall be the same size as the appliance flue collar. (For suggested general dimensions for such draft hoods, see Tables 33, 34 and 35 with accompanying Figures 18, 19 and 20 respectively.[10])

[a] Installation of draft hoods. Where the draft hood is a part of the appliance or is supplied by the appliance manufacturer, it shall be installed without alteration in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. In the absence of manufacturer's instructions, the draft hood shall be attached to the flue collar of the appliance or as near to the appliance as conditions permit. In no case shall a draft hood be installed in a false ceiling, in a different room or in any manner that will permit a difference in pressure between the draft hood relief opening and the combustion air supply.

[b] Position of draft hood. A draft hood shall be installed in the position for which it was designed with reference to the horizontal and vertical planes and shall be so located that the relief opening is not obstructed by any part of the appliance or adjacent construction.

[c] Special draft hoods. Where the installer must supply a draft hood of special design, advice of the gas utility corporation or the proper administrative authority as to its use should be secured.

[10] Editor's Note: Tables 33, 34 and 35 and Figures 18, 19 and 20 are included as attachments to this chapter.

[14] Size. The flue or vent to which the flue or vent connector is connected shall be of a size not less than specified in Figure 21.[11] In no case shall the area be less than the area of three-inch diameter pipe. When more than one appliance vents into a flue or vent, the flue or vent area shall be not less than the area of the largest flue or vent connector plus 50% of the areas of the additional flue or vent connectors. Any shaped flue or vent may be used, provided that its flue gas venting capacity is equal to the capacity of round pipe for which it is substituted.

[11] Editor's Note: Figure 21 is included as an attachment to this chapter.

[15] Height. The flue or vent should extend high enough above the building or other neighboring obstruction so that wind from any direction will not strike the flue or vent from an angle above horizontal. Unless the obstruction is of great magnitude, it is usual experience that a flue or vent extended at least two feet above flat roofs or two feet above the highest part of wall parapets and peaked rods within 30 feet will be reasonably free from downdrafts.

[16] Chimney entrance. In entering a chimney flue, the connection shall be above the extreme bottom to avoid stoppage. Means shall be employed which will prevent the flue or vent connector from entering so far as to unduly restrict the space between its end and the opposite wall of the chimney. A thimble or slip joint shall be used to facilitate removal of the flue or vent connector for cleaning.

[17] Cleanouts. Cleanouts shall be of such construction that they will remain tightly closed when not in use.

[18] Venting into flues used for other fuels. An automatically controlled gas appliance connected to a flue which also serves equipment for the combustion of solid or liquid fuel shall be equipped with an automatic pilot. A gas appliance flue or vent connector and a smoke pipe from an appliance burning another fuel may be connected into the same flue through separate openings or may be connected through a single opening if joined by a wye fitting located as close as practical to the flue. If two or more openings are provided into one flue, they should be at different levels.

[19] Flue connecting two or more gas appliances. In order to promote better draft where more than one gas appliance flue or vent connector is connected to a flue or vent, the connections should be made at different levels. Two or more gas appliances may be vented through a common flue or vent connector when necessary, if joined by wye fittings as close as practical to the flue or vent, and provided that the size of the common flue or vent is sufficient to accommodate the total volume of flue gases. Wye fittings shall be made so that the angle at which the flue or vent connectors intersect is as small as possible and should not exceed 45º.

(w) Gas shutoff valves.

[1] Accessibility of gas valves. Main gas shutoff valves controlling several piping systems shall be placed an adequate distance from each other so that they will be easily accessible for operation and shall be installed so as to be protected from injury. Valves shall be plainly marked with a metal tag by the installer so that the, piping systems supplied through them can be re identified. Shutoff valves shall be installed at every point where safety, convenience of operation and maintenance demands.

[2] Shutoff valves for multiple house lines. In multiple-tenant buildings supplied through a master meter or where meters are not readily accessible from the appliance location, an individual shutoff valve for each apartment and for each separate house line shall be provided at a convenient point of general accessibility.

[3] Shutoff valve for gas appliance. Every gas appliance shall have an approved shutoff valve on the supply line.

(x) Gas piping containing unmeasured gas. If working on gas piping containing unmeasured gas, see gas utility corporation regulations.

§ 242-13 Penalties for offenses.

[Amended 3-18-2003 by Ord. No. 63-2003]

An offense against the provisions of this chapter shall be punishable by a fine of not less than $250 and not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 15 days, or both. Each and every day that a violation continues shall be a separate and additional violation.