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DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS
CONSTRUCTION CODES COORDINATING BOARDNOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING
The Chairperson of the Construction Codes Coordinating Board (Chairperson), pursuant to the authority set forth in section 10 of the Construction Codes Approval and Amendments Act of 1986 (Act), effective March 21, 1987 (D.C. Law 6-216; D.C. Official Code § 6-1409 (2008 Repl.)) and Mayor’s Order 2009-22, dated February 25, 2009, as amended, hereby gives notice of the intent to adopt the following amendments to Title 12 (D.C. Construction Codes Supplement of 2008) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, as well as to rename Title 12.
This proposed rulemaking would adopt the following codes published by the International Code Council (ICC), as amended by this rulemaking in a new District of Columbia Construction Codes Supplement of 2013, as the District of Columbia Construction Codes: the 2012 edition of the International Building Code; the 2012 edition of the International Residential Code; the 2012 edition of the International Fuel Gas Code; the 2012 edition of the International Mechanical Code; the 2012 edition of the International Plumbing Code; the 2012 edition of the International Property Maintenance Code; the 2012 edition of the International Fire Code; the 2012 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code; the 2012 edition of the International Existing Building Code; the 2012 edition of the International Green Construction Code; the 2012 edition of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code; and the 2011 edition of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) published by the National Fire Protection Association.
This proposed rulemaking would repeal the D.C. Construction Codes Supplement of 2008, adopted December 26, 2008 (55 DCR 13094), consisting of the following: the 2006 edition of the ICC International Building Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Residential Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Fuel Gas Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Mechanical Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Plumbing Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Property Maintenance Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Fire Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Energy Conservation Code; the 2006 edition of the ICC International Existing Building Code; and the 2005 edition of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70) National Electrical Code.
Comments on this proposed rulemaking must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, January 25, 2013. The process for submitting comments is detailed on the final page of this proposed rulemaking.
The Chairperson also hereby gives notice of the intent to take final rulemaking action to adopt this amendment. Pursuant to section 10(a) of the Act, the proposed amendment will be submitted to the Council of the District of Columbia for a forty-five (45) day period of review, and final rulemaking action will not be taken until the later of thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice in the D.C. Register or Council approval of the amendment.
Title 12 (D.C. Construction Codes Supplement of 2008) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations is amended as follows:
The title of title 12 is renamed as the District of Columbia Construction Codes Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 A (Building Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Building Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 B (Residential Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Residential Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 C (Electrical Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Electrical Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 D (Fuel Gas Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Fuel Gas Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 E (Mechanical Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Mechanical Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 F (Plumbing Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Plumbing Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 G (Property Maintenance Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Property Maintenance Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 H (Fire Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Fire Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 I (Energy Conservation Code Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Energy Conservation Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 J (Existing Building Supplement of 2008) is repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Existing Building Code Supplement of 2013.
Subtitle 12 K (Fees) is redesignated as Subtitle M (Fees).
A new Subtitle 12 K (Green Construction Code Supplement of 2013) is added.
A new Subtitle 12 L (Swimming Pool and Spa Code Supplement of 2013) is added.
For purposes of clarity, the following table lists each chapter of the ICC and NFPA 70 codes amended by the District of Columbia Construction Codes Supplement of 2013:
Subtitle A – Building Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Administration and Enforcement
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 3 Use Group and Classification
Chapter 4 Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy
Chapter 5 General Building Heights and Areas
Chapter 7 Fire-Resistance-Related Construction
Chapter 9 Fire Protection Systems
Chapter 10 Means of Egress
Chapter 12 Interior Environment
Chapter 14 Exterior Walls
Chapter 15 Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures
Chapter 16 Structural Design
Chapter 18 Soils and Foundations
Chapter 26 Plastic
Chapter 30 Elevators and Conveying Systems
Chapter 31 Special Construction
Chapter 32 Encroachments into the Public Right-of-Way
Chapter 33 Safeguards During Construction
Chapter 34 Existing Structures
Chapter 35 Referenced Standards
Appendix E Supplementary Accessibility Requirements
Subtitle B – Residential Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 3 Building Planning
Chapter 9 Roof Assemblies
Chapter 11 Energy Efficiency
Chapter 12 Mechanical Administration
Chapter 15 Exhaust Systems
Chapter 16 Duct Systems
Chapter 24 Fuel Gas
Chapter 25 Plumbing Administration
Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution
Chapter 30 Sanitary Drainage
Chapter 44 Referenced Standards
Appendix H Patio Covers
Appendix J Existing Buildings and Structures
Appendix K Sound Transmission
Appendix M Home Day Care – R-3 Occupancies
Subtitle C – Electrical Code Supplement
Article 90 Introduction
Article 408 Switchboards and Panelboards
Subtitle D – Fuel Gas Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 5 Chimneys and Vents
Chapter 8 Referenced Standards
Subtitle E – Mechanical Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 4 Ventilation
Chapter 5 Exhaust Systems
Chapter 6 Duct Systems
Chapter 8 Chimneys and Vents
Chapter 9 Specific Appliances, Fireplaces and Solid Fuel-Burning Equipment
Chapter 10 Boilers, Water Heaters and Pressure Vessels
Chapter 11 Refrigeration
Chapter 15 Referenced Standards
Subtitle F – Plumbing Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 3 General Regulations
Chapter 4 Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings
Chapter 6 Water Supply and Distribution
Chapter 8 Indirect/Special Waste
Chapter 11 Storm Drainage
Chapter 13 Nonliquid Saturated Treatment Systems
Subtitle G – Property Maintenance Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Administration and Enforcement
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 3 Requirements
Chapter 4 Light, Ventilation and Occupancy Limitations
Chapter 5 Plumbing Facilities and Fixture Requirements
Chapter 6 Mechanical and Electrical Requirements
Chapter 7 Fire Safety Requirements
Chapter 8 Referenced Standards
Subtitle H – Fire Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Administration and Enforcement
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 3 General Requirements
Chapter 5 Fire Service Features
Chapter 6 Building Services and Systems
Chapter 9 Fire Protection Systems
Chapter 10 Means of Egress
Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 56 Explosives and Fireworks
Appendix B Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings
Appendix C Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution
Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads
Appendix H Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) Instructions
Subtitle I – Energy Conservation Code Supplement
Chapter 1[CE] Administration
Chapter 4[CE] Commercial Energy Efficiency
Chapter 1[RE] Scope and Administration
Subtitle J – Existing Building Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 4 Prescriptive Compliance Method
Chapter 6 Repairs
Chapter 7 Alterations-Level 1
Chapter 8 Alterations-Level 2
Chapter 9 Alterations-Level 3
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards
Subtitle K – Green Construction Code
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 3 Green Building Act and ASHRAE 189.1
Chapter 4 Site Development and Land Use
Chapter 5 Material Resource Conservation and Efficiency
Chapter 6 Energy Conservation, Efficiency, and CO2e
Chapter 7 Water Resource Conservation, Quality and Efficiency
Chapter 8 Indoor Environmental Quality and Comfort
Chapter 9 Commissioning
Chapter 10 Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 Existing Building Site Development
Chapter 12 Referenced Standards
Appendix A Project Electives
Subtitle L – Swimming Pool and Spa Code Supplement
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
CONSTRUCTION CODES SUPPLEMENT OF 2013
12 DCMR F PLUMBING CODE SUPPLEMENT
The District of Columbia has adopted the 2012 edition of the International Plumbing Code (IPC), as amended by this Supplement.
IPC CHAPTERS AMENDED BY THIS SUPPLEMENT:
CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REGULATIONS
CHAPTER 4 FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
CHAPTER 6 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
CHAPTER 8 INDIRECT/SPECIAL WASTE
CHAPTER 11 STORM DRAINAGE
CHAPTER 13 NONLIQUID SATURATED TREATMENT SYSTEMS
CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
101 General
Strike Chapter 1 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 101 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
101 GENERAL
101.1 General. Administration and enforcement of the Plumbing Code shall be governed by Chapter 1 of the Building Code, 12 DCMR A.
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REGULATIONS
301 General
301 GENERAL
Strike Section 301.3 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 301.3 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
301.3 Connections to drainage system. Every improved lot in which plumbing fixtures are installed shall have its own independent sanitary or combined sewer connection, to discharge liquid wastes and sewage to the available public system, installed from the public way at a right angle to the street lot line or as approved by the administrative authority. Plumbing fixtures, drains, plumbing appurtenances and plumbing appliances used to receive or discharge liquid wastes or sewage shall be directly connected to the sanitary drainage system of the building or premises, in accordance with the requirements of this code. This section shall not be construed to prevent indirect waste systems required by Chapter 8.
Exception: Bathtubs, showers, whirlpool bathtubs, lavatories, drinking fountains, clothes washers and laundry trays shall not be required to discharge to the sanitary drainage system where such fixtures discharge to an approved gray water system for flushing of water closets and urinals.
Strike Section 301.4 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 301.4 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
301.4 Connections to domestic water supply. Every improved lot in which plumbing fixtures are installed shall have its own independent water connection to the available public water supply system, installed from the public way at a right angle to the street lot line or as approved by the administrative authority. Every plumbing fixture, device or plumbing appliance requiring or using water for its proper operation shall be directly or indirectly connected to the public water supply system, in accordance with the requirements of this code.
Exception: Water closets and urinals shall not be required to be connected to the public water supply system where such fixtures are supplied from an approved gray water system.
CHAPTER 4 FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
403 Minimum Plumbing Facilities
405 Installation of Fixtures
410 Drinking Fountains
403 MINIMUM PLUMBING FACILITIES
Strike Section 403.4 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 403.4 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
403.4 Signage. Multi-occupancy public facilities shall be designated by a legible sign for each sex. Single-occupancy public facilities shall be designated with gender-neutral signage. Signs shall be readily visible and located near the entrance to each toilet facility. Signs for accessible toilet facilities shall comply with Section 1110 of the International Building Code.
405 INSTALLATION OF FIXTURES
Strike Section 405.3.2 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 405.3.2 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
405.3.2 Public lavatories. Lavatories shall be installed within multiple-occupancy employee and public toilet rooms that contain one or more water closets or urinals. The number of such lavatories shall be sufficient to serve the occupant load served by the water closets and urinals located in the same toilet room, based on the ratios of Table 403.1. All single-occupancy employee and public toilet rooms shall contain a lavatory. Lavatories installed outside a toilet room shall not count towards the number of lavatories required by Table 403.1 for employee and public toilet facilities.
410 DRINKING FOUNTAINS
Strike Section 410.1 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 410.1 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
410.1 Approval. Drinking fountains shall conform to ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2 or ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 and water coolers shall conform to AHRI 1010. Drinking fountains and water coolers shall conform to NSF 61, Section 9.
Strike Section 410.3 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 410.3 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
410.3 Substitution. Where restaurants provide drinking water in a container free of charge, drinking fountains shall not be required. In establishments of occupancies B or M, with an area of 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2) or less, a water cooler or a bottled water dispenser shall be permitted to be substituted for the required drinking fountains. In other occupancies, including B or M occupancies with an area of more than 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2), water coolers or bottled water dispensers shall be permitted to be substituted for not more than 50 percent of the required number of drinking fountains.
CHAPTER 6 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
604 Design of Building Water Distribution System
608 Protection of Potable Water Supply
604 DESIGN OF BUILDING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
Strike Table 604.4 in the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Table 604.4 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
TABLE 604.4
MAXIMUM FLOW RATES AND CONSUMPTION FOR
PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
PLUMBING FIXTURE
OR FIXTURE FITTING
MAXIMUM FLOW RATE
OR QUANTITYb
Lavatory, private
1.5 gpm at 60psi
Lavatory, public, (metering)
0.25 gallon per metering cycle
Lavatory, public
(other than metering)
0.5 gpm at 60 psi
Shower heada
2.0 gpm at 80psi
Sink faucet
2.2 gpm at 60 psi
Urinal
0.5 gallon per flushing cycle
Water closet (tank type)c
1.28 gallons per flushing cycle
Water closet (flushometer)
1.28 gallons per flushing cycle
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa
a. A hand-held shower spray is a shower head
b. Consumption tolerances shall be determined from referenced standards.
c. Dual Flush Toilets - The effective flush volume shall not exceed 1.28 gallons (4.8 liters). The effective flush volume is defined as the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush. Flush volumes will be tested in accordance with ASME A112.19.2 and ASME A112.19.14.
608 PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER SUPPLY
Strike Section 608.16.4 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 608.16.4 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
608.16.4 Connections to automatic fire sprinkler systems and standpipe systems. The potable water supply to automatic fire sprinkler and standpipe systems shall be protected against backflow by a double check backflow prevention assembly, a double check fire protection backflow prevention assembly, or a reduced pressure principle fire protection backflow prevention assembly.
Exception: Where systems are installed as a portion of the water distribution system in accordance with the requirements of this code and are not provided with a fire department connection, backflow protection for the water supply system shall not be required.
CHAPTER 8 INDIRECT/SPECIAL WASTE
802 Indirect Wastes
802 INDIRECT WASTES
Strike Section 802.3 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 802.3 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
802.3 Waste receptors. Waste receptors shall be of an approved type. A removable strainer or basket shall cover the waste outlet of waste receptors. Waste receptors shall be installed in ventilated spaces. Waste receptors shall not be installed in bathrooms, toilet rooms, plenums, crawl spaces, attics, interstitial spaces above ceilings and below floors or in any inaccessible or unventilated space such as a closet or storeroom. Ready access shall be provided to waste receptors.
Exception: Clothes washer standpipes shall be permitted in bathrooms in dwelling units.
CHAPTER 11 STORM DRAINAGE
1115 Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems
Insert new Section 1115 to the Plumbing Code to read as follows:
1115 Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems
1115.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems. Water collected in rainwater collection systems shall not be used as drinking water or for any other potable water application.
1115.2 Potable water connections. Where a potable system is connected to a rainwater collection and conveyance system, the potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with Section 608.
1115.3 Nonpotable water connections. Nonpotable water from any source other than roof drainage, other storm drainage or condensate water where approved shall not be combined in a rainwater collection and distribution system.
1115.4 Installation. Except as provided for in this section, all systems shall be installed in compliance with the provisions of the Plumbing Code and the manufacturer’s instructions.
1115.5 Rainwater collected for landscape irrigation. Rainwater collected on the surface of the building site, or from the roof surfaces of the building, and used for landscape irrigation purposes shall not be limited regarding the method of application. Rainwater collected from elevated building locations that is to be used in building site irrigation shall comply with the provisions of Section 1115 with the exception of Sections 1115.11.1 and 1115.11.7.3.
1115.6 Approved components and materials. Piping, plumbing components, and materials used in the collection and conveyance systems shall be manufactured of material approved for the intended application and compatible with any disinfection and treatment systems used.
1115.7 Insect and vermin control. Inlets and vents to the system shall be protected to prevent the entrance of insects and vermin into storage tanks and piping systems. Screens installed on vent pipes, inlets, and overflow pipes shall have an aperture of not greater than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) and shall be close fitting. Screen materials shall be compatible with contacting system components and shall not accelerate corrosion of system components.
1115.8 Drainage. Water drained from the roof washer or debris excluder shall not be drained to the sanitary sewer. Such water shall be diverted from the storage tank and discharge in a location that will not cause erosion or damage to property. Roof washers and debris excluders shall be provided with an automatic means of self-draining between rain events, and shall not drain onto roof surfaces.
1115.9 Freeze protection. Where sustained freezing temperatures occur, provisions shall be made to keep storage tanks and the related piping from freezing.
1115.10 Trenching requirements. All collection and distribution piping containing rainwater shall be separated from the building sewer as required in Section 603.2 for water service piping.
Exception: Irrigation piping located outside of a building and downstream of the backflow preventer is not required to meet the trenching requirements where rainwater is used for outdoor applications.
1115.11 Rainwater catchment and collection systems. The design of rainwater collection and conveyance systems shall conform to accepted engineering practice.
1115.11.1 Collection surface. Rainwater shall be collected only from above-ground impervious roofing surfaces constructed from approved materials. Collection of water from vehicular parking or pedestrian surfaces shall be prohibited except where the water is used exclusively for landscape irrigation. Overflow and bleed-off pipes from roof-mounted appliances including but not limited to evaporative coolers, water heaters and solar water heaters shall not discharge onto rainwater collection surfaces.
1115.11.2 Debris excluders. Downspouts and leaders shall be connected to a roof washer and shall be equipped with a debris excluder or equivalent device to prevent the contamination of collected rainwater with leaves, sticks, pine needles and similar material. Debris excluders and equivalent devices shall be self-cleaning.
1115.11.3 Roof gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts shall be constructed of materials that are compatible with the collection surface and the rainwater quality for the desired end use. Joints shall be watertight.
1115.11.3.1 Slope. Roof gutters, leaders and rainwater collection piping shall slope continuously toward collection inlets. Gutters and downspouts shall have a slope of not less than 1 unit in 96 units along their entire length and shall not permit the collection or pooling of water at any point.
Exception: Siphonic drainage systems installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions shall not be required to have slope.
1115.11.3.2 Size. Gutters and downspouts shall be installed and sized in accordance with Section 1106.6.
1115.11.3.3 Cleanouts. Cleanouts shall be provided in the water conveyance system so as to allow access to all filters, flushes, pipes and downspouts.
1115.11.4 Collection pipe materials. In buildings where rainwater collection and conveyance systems are installed, draining piping approved for use within plumbing draining systems shall be utilized to collect rainwater and convey it to the storage tank. Vent piping approved for use within plumbing venting systems shall be utilized for all vents within the rainwater system. Drains to a stormwater discharge shall use approved waste piping.
1115.11.4.1 Joints. Collection piping conveying rainwater shall utilize joints approved for use with the distribution piping and appropriate for the intended applications as specified in the Plumbing Code.
1115.11.4.2 Size. Collection piping conveying rainwater from collection surfaces shall be sized in accordance with Chapter 11 of the Plumbing Code and local rainfall rates.
1115.11.4.3 Marking. Additional marking of rainwater collection piping shall not be required beyond that required for sanitary drainage, waste and vent piping by the Plumbing Code.
1115.11.5 Filtration. Collected rainwater shall be filtered to the level required for the intended end use. Filters shall be accessible for inspection and maintenance.
1115.11.6 Disinfection. Where the intended application and initial quality of the collected rainwater requires disinfection or other treatment or both, the collected rainwater shall be treated as needed to ensure that the required water quality is delivered at the point of use. Where chlorine is used for disinfection or treatment, water shall be tested for residual chlorine in accordance with ASTM D 1253. The levels of residual chlorine shall not exceed the levels allowed for the intended use in accordance with the requirements of the District of Columbia.
1115.11.7 Storage tank. The design of the storage tank shall be in accordance with Sections 1115.11.7.1 through 1115.11.7.10.
1115.11.7.1 Location. Storage tanks shall be installed either above or below grade. Above-grade storage tanks shall be protected from direct sunlight and shall be constructed using opaque, UV-resistant materials including, but not limited to, heavily tinted plastic, fiberglass, lined metal, concrete, wood or painted to prevent algae growth, or shall have specially constructed sun barriers including, but not limited to, installation in garages, crawlspaces or sheds. Storage tanks and their manholes shall not be located directly under any soil or waste piping or any source of contamination. Rainwater storage tanks shall be located with a minimum horizontal distance between various elements as indicated in Table 1115.11.7.1.
Table 1115.11.7.1
Location of Rainwater Storage Tanks
Element
Minimum Horizontal Distance from
Storage Tank (feet)
Critical root zone (CRZ) of protected trees
2
Lot line adjoining private lots
5
Seepage pits
5
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
1115.11.7.2 Materials. Where water is collected onsite, it shall be collected in an approved tank constructed of durable, nonabsorbent and corrosion-resistant materials. Storage vessels shall be compatible with the material being stored. Storage tanks shall be constructed of materials compatible with the type of disinfection system used to treat water upstream of the tank and used to maintain water quality within the tank.
1115.11.7.2.1 Wooden tanks. Wooden storage tanks shall not be required to have a liner. Where unlined tanks are used, the species of wood shall be decay resistant and untreated.
1115.11.7.3 Makeup water. Where an uninterrupted supply is required for the intended application, potable water shall be provided as a source of makeup water for the storage tank. The potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the Plumbing Code.
1115.11.7.4 Overflow. The storage tank shall be equipped with an overflow pipe having the same or larger area as the sum of the areas of all tank inlet pipes. The overflow pipe shall be protected from insects or vermin and the discharge from such pipe shall be disposed of in a manner consistent with stormwater runoff requirements of the District of Columbia. The overflow pipe shall discharge at a sufficient distance from the tank to avoid damaging the tank foundation or the adjacent property. The overflow drain shall not be equipped with a shutoff valve. A minimum of one cleanout shall be provided on each overflow pipe in accordance with Section 708.
1115.11.7.5 Access. A minimum of one access opening shall be provided to allow inspection and cleaning of the tank interior. Access openings to storage tanks and other vessels shall have an approved locking device or shall otherwise be protected from unauthorized access. Below-grade storage tanks located outside of the building shall be provided with either a manhole not less than 24 inches (610 mm) square or a manhole with an inside diameter of not less than 24 inches (610 mm). Manholes shall extend not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above ground or shall be designed so as to prevent water infiltration. Finish grade shall be sloped away from the manhole to divert surface water from the manhole. Each manhole cover shall be secured to prevent unauthorized access. Service ports in manhole covers shall be not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter and shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above the finished grade level. The service port shall be secured to prevent unauthorized access.
Exception: Storage tanks having a volume of less than 800 gallons (3028 L) and installed below grade shall not be required to be equipped with a manhole where provided with a service port that is not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter.
1115.11.7.6 Venting. Storage tanks shall be provided with a vent sized in accordance with the Plumbing Code and based on the diameter of the tank influent pipe. Tank vents shall not be connected to sanitary drainage system vents.
1115.11.7.7 Inlets. Storage tank inlets shall be designed to introduce water into the tank with minimum turbulence and shall be located and designed to avoid agitating the contents of the storage tank.
1115.11.7.8 Outlets. Outlets shall be located not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above the bottom of the storage tanks and shall not skim water from the surface.
1115.11.7.9 Draining of tanks. Where storage tanks require draining for service or cleaning, tanks shall be drained by using a pump or by a drain located at the lowest point in the tank. The discharge from draining the tank shall be disposed of in a manner consistent with the stormwater runoff requirements of the District of Columbia and at a sufficient distance from the tank to avoid damaging the tank foundation.
1115.11.7.10 Marking and signage. Each storage tank shall be marked with its rated capacity. Storage tanks shall bear signage that reads as follows: “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK.” Where an opening is provided that could allow the entry of personnel, the opening shall bear signage that reads as follows: “DANGER – CONFINED SPACE.” Markings shall be indelibly printed on a tag or sign constructed of corrosion-resistant waterproof material mounted on the tank or shall be indelibly printed on the tank. The letters of words shall be not less than 0.5 inches (13 mm) in height and shall be of a color that contrasts with the background on which they are applied.
1115.11.8 Valves. Valves shall be installed in accordance with Section 1115.11.8.1.
1115.11.8.1 Backwater valve. Backwater valves shall be installed on each overflow and tank drain pipe. Backwater valves shall be installed so that access is provided to the working parts for service and repair.
1115.11.9 Roof washer. A sufficient amount of rainwater shall be diverted at the beginning of each rain event, and not allowed to enter the storage tank, to wash accumulated debris from the collection surface. The amount of rainfall to be diverted shall be field adjustable as necessary to minimize storage tank water contamination. The roof washer shall not rely on manually operated valves or devices, and shall not operate automatically. Diverted rainwater shall not be drained to the roof surface, and shall be discharged in a manner consistent with the stormwater runoff requirements of the District of Columbia. Roof washers shall be accessible for maintenance and service.
1115.11.10 Vent piping. Storage tanks shall be provided with a vent in accordance with the requirements of Section 1115.11.7.6. Vents shall be sized in accordance with the Plumbing Code, based on the aggregate diameter of storage tank influent pipe(s). Vents shall be protected from contamination by means of a U-bend installed with the opening directed downward or an approved cap. Vent outlets shall extend a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above grade, or as necessary to prevent surface water from entering the storage tank. Vent openings shall be protected against the entrance of vermin and insects in accordance with the requirements of Section 1115.7.
1115.11.11 Pumping and control system. Mechanical equipment including pumps, valves and filters shall be easily accessible and removable in order to perform repair, maintenance and cleaning. Pressurized water shall be supplied at a pressure appropriate for the application and within the range specified by the Plumbing Code. Where water could be supplied at an excessive pressure, a pressure-reducing valve shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of the Plumbing Code.
1115.11.11.1 Water-pressure-reducing valve or regulator. Where the rainwater pressure supplied by the pumping system exceeds 80 psi (552 kPa) static, a pressure-reducing valve shall be installed to reduce the pressure in the rainwater distribution system piping to 80 psi (552 kPa) static or less. Pressure-reducing valves shall be specified and installed in accordance with Section 604.8.
1115.11.12 Distribution pipe. Distribution piping shall comply with Sections 1115.11.12.1 through 1115.11.12.4.
1115.11.12.1 Materials. Distribution piping conveying rainwater shall conform to the standards and requirements specified by the Plumbing Code for nonpotable water.
1115.11.12.2 Joints. Distribution piping conveying rainwater shall utilize joints approved for use with the distribution piping and appropriate for the intended applications as specified in the Plumbing Code.
1115.11.12.3 Size. Distribution piping conveying rainwater shall be sized in accordance with the Plumbing Code for the intended application.
1115.11.12.4 Marking. Nonpotable rainwater distribution piping shall be of the color purple and shall be embossed or indelibly printed with the words: “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK” or shall be installed with a purple identification tape or wrap. Identification tape shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm) wide and shall have white or black lettering on purple stating “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK.” Identification tape shall be installed on top of nonpotable rainwater distribution pipes, fastened not greater than every 10 feet (3048 mm) to each pipe length and run continuously the entire length of the pipe. Lettering shall be readily observable within the room or space where the piping is located.
Exception: Piping located outside of the building and downstream of the backflow preventer is not required to be purple where rainwater is used for outdoor applications.
1115.12 Tests and inspections. Tests and inspections shall be performed in accordance with Sections 1115.12.1 through 1115.12.10.
1115.12.1 Drainage and vent tests. The testing of rainwater collection piping, overflow piping, vent piping and storage tank drains shall be conducted in accordance with Section 312.
1115.12.2 Draining and vent final test. A final test shall be applied to the rainwater collection piping, overflow piping, storage tank, and tank vent piping in accordance with Section 312.4.
1115.12.3 Water supply system test. The testing of makeup water supply piping and rainwater distribution piping shall be conducted in accordance with Section 312.5.
1115.12.4 Inspection and testing of backflow prevention assemblies. The testing of backflow preventers and backwater valves shall be conducted in accordance with Section 312.10.
1115.12.5 Inspection of vermin and insect protection. Inlets and vents to the system shall be inspected to ensure that each is protected to prevent the entrance of insects or vermin into storage tank and piping systems in accordance with Section 1115.8.
1115.12.6 Roof gutter inspection. Roof gutters shall be inspected to verify that the installation and slope is in accordance with Section 1115.11.3.
1115.12.7 Roofwasher test. Roofwashers shall be tested by introducing water into the gutters. Proper diversion of the first quantity of water in accordance with the requirements of Section 1115.11.9 shall be verified.
1115.12.8 Storage tank tests. Storage tanks shall be tested in accordance with the following:
1. Storage tanks other than factory made tanks shall be filled with water to the overflow line prior to and during inspection. Seams and joints shall be left exposed and the tank shall remain water tight without leakage for a period of 24 hours.
2. The overflow system shall be tested for a period of 15 minutes to verify proper drainage and verify that there are no leaks.
3. The makeup water system shall be tested for proper operation and automatic shutoff of the system at the refill threshold shall be verified.
1115.12.9 Supply pressure test. The static water pressure at the point of use farthest from the supply shall be verified to be within the range required for the application, in accordance with Section 1115.11.11.
1115.12.10 Water quality test. The quality of the water for the intended application shall be verified at the point of use in accordance with all applicable requirements of the District of Columbia.
1115.13 Operations and maintenance manuals. Operations and maintenance materials shall be supplied by the installer to the owner of the system in accordance with 1115.13.1 through 1115.13.4. The owner shall keep these manuals on site or where they are readily available to the code official upon request.
1115.13.1 Manual. A detailed operations and maintenance manual shall be supplied in hardcopy form with all rainwater collection systems.
1115.13.2 Schematics. The manual shall include a detailed system schematic, the locations of all system components and a list of all system components including manufacturer and model number.
1115.13.3 Maintenance procedures. The manual shall provide a maintenance schedule and procedures for all system components requiring periodic maintenance. Consumable parts including filters shall be noted along with part numbers.
1115.13.4 Operations procedures. The manual shall include system startup and shutdown procedures. The manual shall include detailed operating procedures for the system.
1115.14 System abandonment. In order to abandon or cease use of a rainwater collection and conveyance system, other than rain barrels, the owner shall first obtain approval for abandonment of the system from both the District Department of the Environment and the code official. Abandonment of a rainwater collection and conveyance system shall comply with the following:
1. System piping connecting to a utility-provided water system shall be removed or disabled and the potable water supply line shall be capped with an approved cap or plug.
2. The storage tank shall be secured from inadvertent access by sealing or locking tank inlets and access points, or by filling with sand or by other equivalent approved method.
1115.14.1 Mandatory abandonment. Mandatory abandonment of a rainwater collection and conveyance system is required where (1) system installation is not required by the stormwater requirements in Title 20, DCMR; and (2) the owner fails to properly maintain the system in accordance with the maintenance procedures set forth in Section 1115.13. The owner shall comply with the system abandonment procedures set forth in Section 1115.14.
CHAPTER 13 NONLIQUID SATURATED TREATMENT SYSTEMS
1301 Gray Water Recycling Systems
1302 Systems for Flushing Water Closets and Urinals
1303 Subsurface Landscape Irrigation Systems
1301 GRAY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEMS
Strike Sections 1301.1 and 1301.2 and Figure 1301.1(1) of the International Plumbing Code in their entirety and insert new Sections 1301.1 and 1301.2 in the Plumbing Code in their place to read as follows:
1301.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 13 shall govern the materials, design, construction and installation of gray water systems for flushing of water closets and urinals. See Figure 1301.1(2).
1301.2 Installation. In addition to the provisions of Section 1301, systems for flushing of water closets and urinals shall comply with Section 1302. Except as provided for in this chapter, all systems shall comply with the provisions of the other chapters of this code.
Strike Section 1301.5 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 1301.5 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
1301.5 Inspections. Gray water systems shall be inspected in accordance with Section 312 of the Plumbing Code and with Section 109 of the Building Code, 12 DCMR A.
Strike Section 1301.7 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Sections 1301.7 and 1301.7.1 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
1301.7 Waste water connections. Gray water recycling systems shall receive only the waste discharge of bathtubs, showers, lavatories, drinking fountains, whirlpool bathtubs, clothes washers or laundry trays.
1301.7.1 Prohibited sources. Roof drainage and other stormwater drainage shall not be collected in gray water systems except for makeup purposes as provided in Section 1302.3.1. Gray water systems shall not receive waste discharge from any fixture installed in an I-2 occupancy.
1302 SYSTEMS FOR FLUSHING WATER CLOSETS AND URINALS
Strike Section 1302.3 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Sections 1302.3 and 1302.3.1 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
1302.3 Makeup water. Potable water shall be supplied as a source of makeup water for the gray water system. The potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with Section 608. There shall be a full-open valve located on the makeup water supply line to the collection reservoir.
1302.3.1 Makeup water from other sources. In addition to the makeup water required by Section 1302.3, makeup water supplied to a gray water system from a rainwater collection system complying with Section 1115 shall be allowed where approved. The design of the makeup water connection between the two systems shall be approved prior to installation. The overflow discharge of a rainwater collection system shall not pass through any portion of the gray water system. The potable water supply shall be protected against backflow from the rainwater collection system in accordance with Section 608.
Strike Section 1302.4 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 1302.4 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
1302.4 Coloring. The gray water shall be dyed purple with a food grade vegetable dye before such water is supplied to the fixtures.
Strike Section 1302.6 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety and insert new Section 1302.6 in the Plumbing Code in its place to read as follows:
1302.6 Identification. Distribution piping and reservoirs shall be identified as containing nonpotable water. Gray water collection piping shall be identified so as to preclude drainage pipe connections from prohibited fixtures. Piping identification shall be in accordance with Section 608.8.
1303 SUBSURFACE LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Strike Section 1303 of the International Plumbing Code in its entirety without substitution.
All persons desiring to comment on these proposed regulations should submit comments in writing to Helder Gil, Legislative Affairs Specialist, Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, 1100 Fourth Street, SW, Room 5164, Washington, D.C. 20024, or via e-mail at ConstructionCodes@dc.gov, not later than 5 p.m. on Friday, January 25, 2013.
Comments should clearly specify which Subtitle, Chapter, and Section of the proposed District of Columbia Construction Codes they are related to.
Persons with questions concerning this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking should call (202) 442-4400. Copies of the proposed rules can be obtained from the address listed above. A copy fee of one dollar ($1.00) will be charged for each copy of the proposed rulemaking requested.
Free copies of these proposed regulations are available on the DCRA website at http://dcra.dc.gov by going to the “About DCRA” tab, clicking on “News Room”, and then clicking on “Rulemaking”. Additionally, the DCRA website will list links to each of the ICC and NFPA 70 codes.
