Residential Consistency
Land Use and Environmental Service Agency
(Code Enforcement)
4th Quarter Q&A 2011
General:
1.
(Q) Are IAPMO compliance reports acceptable to this department?
(A) No, all compliance reports must be from ICC unless they have been
reviewed by the Building Code Administrator. (10/05/2011)
2. (Q) When a bench is used as part of the guard rail how high must the guard be above
the seat?
(A) 36” the seat must be treated as a walking surface. (10/05/2011)
3. (Q) Is flashing required over projecting wood trim on exterior doors?
(A) Yes, as required by R703.8 item 4. (10/05/2011)
4. (Q) Are CO detectors required to be installed at this time?
(A) Yes, on Jan. 1, 2011 the requirement for CO detectors took effect in the
residential code. They must be located outside of each sleeping room.
(11/02/2011)
5. (Q) If a homeowner is acting as his own contractor on a project with a cost greater
than $30,000 must he be on site for each inspection?
(A) Yes a new law requires that the homeowner be on site for each inspection
unless the project was designed by a registered design professional.
(11/02/2011)
6. (Q) Does an inspector have to make an inspection no matter what?
(A) No, if the site is not accessible (door locked, no ladder, road blocked ECT)
then a notes must be placed on the inspection results as to why the
inspection could not be made. (12/07/2011)
7. (Q) Can the guard around a platform be out past the edge of the platform?
(A) No, balusters, pickets, horizontal rails must be flush with the edge of the
platform so that there is not a horizontal gap at he edge of the platform.
(12/07/2011)
8. (Q) Does beveled glass meet the exception for decorative glass under exception of
R308.4.
(A) No, and it must be marked in accordance with section R308.1. (12/07/2011)
Commercial Plan Review
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10. (Q) Click here to enter text.
(A) Click here to enter text.
Commercial Consistency
Land Use and Environmental Service Agency
(Code Enforcement)
4th Quarter Q&A 2011
General:
1.
(Q) Is FRT alone an acceptable structural floor in a type I and II building?
(A) No, see section 603.1. All structural elements must be noncombustible.
(10/05/2011)
2. (Q) Is a tenant space or building with an assembly use with less than 50 occupants a B
occupancy?
(A) Yes, see section 303.1 exception 1. The occupant load, however, of the
space is based on the use of the space not the occupant group. (10/05/2011)
3. (Q) What is the required floor rating for a floor supporting a shaft wall?
(A) The floor must have the same rating as the shaft it supports. (10/05/2011)
4. (Q) Are guards required on green roofs?
(A) No, if the roof is only accessed for maintenance. This would be covered by
OSHA. (10/05/2011)
5. (Q) Are closures required on restroom entrance doors?
(A) No, ANSI A117.1 section 404.1 requires the closures to be on stall doors.
(11/02/2011)
6. (Q) Can sound proofing be applied over fire proofing?
(A) Yes, there are products that have been approved to be applied over fire
proofing. A letter of approval must be supplied from UL and the fire
proofing manufacture. (12/07/2011)
7. (Q) Can the controls for a lavatory be mounted higher than the bowl?
(A) Yes, the bowl must be located per ANSI A 117.1 section 606 and the
controls may be located per the reach range requirements of section 309.
(12/07/2011)
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Land Use & Environmental Services Agency
Code Enforcement
12/14/11 ELECTRICAL CONSISTENCY MEETING
Code Consistency Questions
The December Consistency meeting was cancelled
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
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11/9/11 ELECTRICAL CONSISTENCY MEETING
Code Consistency Questions
1. I have several electricians who have been using 14 AWG conductors from a switch to a
light on a 20 amp circuit. Some cite tapping, others point to fixture wire sizing to allow them
to do it. I have rejected this installation in both cases as it is my understanding that the
weakest link in the circuit needs to be the OCPD (Over Current Protective Device). They often
state that the light is only using half an amp etc. and they are the correct?
Reference 210.19(A) (4) Exception No.1 (b) and 410.117. No, the contractor is incorrect to
install a 14 AWG conductor from the switch to the luminaire on a 20 amp circuit. 210.19(A)
(4) Exception No.1 (b) allows the 14 AWG to be used as long as it applies to 410.117 (410.67
prior to the 2008 NEC). 410.117 allows for only 1 foot of tap conductors to be used before
terminating into an outlet box. The Tap Conductors shall be installed in a suitable raceway. If
Type AC or Type MC Cable is being used then it is allowed to be between a minimum of 18”to
a maximum of 6 feet in length and does not required to be installed in a raceway.
We may also want to look at 210.20(B) which takes you to 240.4(D) specifying the OC
protection for branch circuit conductors. Branch circuit tap conductors are covered by
240.21(A), which refers to 210.19 and 210.20. It may be that there is confusion in the use of
fixture wire used as a tap conductor for a luminaire covered by 402.10, 410.117(C),
240.5(B)(2). It seems you could have 14AWG fixture wire used as a tap conductor for a
luminaire on a 20A OC device but the length restrictions of 410.117(C) applies.
My understanding is that you cannot have a 14 AWG branch circuit conductor protected by a
20A OC device.
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2. On a large construction site, the local utility set a 500 KVA transformer. The contractor set
a temporary pole with a 100 Ampere, 240-Volt main breaker. Should I enforce the short
circuit rating of this installation? If so why?
(2008 NEC Reference Articles 590 and 240 and Sections 110.9 and 110.10) Article 590
addresses temporary installations of electrical power and lighting. Section 590.4 requires
services, feeders, branch circuits, etc. to be installed in accordance with all the applicable
Articles of the NEC. Therefore, the requirements of Article 240 and Sections 110.9 and 110.10
are applicable and temporary installations are to comply with the same provisions for
overcurrent protection as is required for a permanent installation.
3. I installed an emergency equipment unit in the center of the passage hall to the
apartments in a multifamily dwelling unit. There is one head (light) on the unit and one head
mounted remote from the unit in a stairwell. I am being told this is not an acceptable
installation. Any idea why not?
This is in violation of NEC 700.16. It is critical to have 2 heads on egress lighting so if the bulb
is burnt out they still have some light.
700.16 Emergency Illumination.
Emergency illumination shall include all required means of egress lighting, illuminated exit
signs, and all other lights specified as necessary to provide required illumination.
Emergency lighting systems shall be designed and installed so that the failure of any individual
lighting element, such as the burning out of a lamp, cannot leave in total darkness any space
that requires emergency illumination.
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4. Can I run a 3-wire multiwire circuit using two individual single-pole circuit breakers without
handle ties for two lighting circuits in a residence?
2005 NEC – Yes
Handle tie not required for this application in the 2005 NEC
210.4 (B) Devices or Equipment. Where a multiwire branch circuit supplies more than one
device or equipment on the same yoke, a means shall be provided to disconnect
simultaneously all ungrounded conductors supplying those devices or equipment at the point
where the branch circuit originates.
2008 NEC – No
Handle tie required for this application in the 2008 NEC
210.4 (B) Disconnecting Means. Each multiwire branch circuit shall be provided with a means
that will simultaneously disconnect all ungrounded conductors at the point where the branch
circuit originates.
5. When does a range or laundry circuit have to be brought up to current code on a remodel
job?
After a great deal of discussion this issue was tabled till the next meeting.
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10/12/11 ELECTRICAL CONSISTENCY MEETING
Code Consistency Questions
1. On a sub panel installation in a residential garage of 4 two-wire branch circuits I say that
the minimum feeder ampacity should be 60-Amp, based on the fact that the disconnecting
means must be rated at 60-Amp by code. The inspector says that it is based on the
computed load, 45 amps, and could be 45 Amp or 50Amp. Who is correct?
The inspector if attached, 215.2, (A) (1), applies and feeder conductors shall have an
ampacity not less than required to supply the load as calculated per Article 220. Thus the
40/50 ampere feeder could be acceptable. NEC 215.5, allows the AHJ to ask for a feeder
diagram and details. Now let’s review the detached structure option which I believe the
question was designed for; 225.39 (D), indicates that the rating of the disconnect shall not be
less than 60 ampere since there are (4 two-wire branch circuits) mentioned. The 60 ampere
requirement is not correct. Article 225.5 states “The ampacity of outdoor branch-circuit and
feeder conductors shall be in accordance with 310.15 based on loads as determined under
220.10 and Part III of Article 220”, thus the conductor ampacity may be sized according to the
computed load and still have the disconnect rated at 60 Amp.
2. We installed a separately derived system (transformer) at the far end of a large warehouse.
We proposed to use a primary equipment ground on the circuit that would be sized based on
the required grounding electrode conductor size. This would have one conductor serve as
both the equipment grounding and grounding electrode conductor. The inspector said no,
they are separate conductors but cannot point to a code requirement. Is there a prohibition on
this type of installation?
Yes, The grounding electrode conductor is required to be routed from the grounding electrode
to the separately derived system. 250.30(A) (3).
250.30(A)(3) Grounding Electrode Conductor, Single Separately Derived System
A grounding electrode conductor for a single separately derived system shall be sized in
accordance with 250.66 for the derived phase conductors and shall be used to connect the
grounded conductor of the derived system to the grounding electrode as specified in
250.30(A)(7). This connection shall be made at the same point on the separately derived
system where the system bonding jumper is installed.
The question has it routed from the primary overcurrent enclosure and not the grounding
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electrode. If the grounding electrode conductor was routed from the electrode and installed
with the primary conductors, there is nothing in the code that would prohibit the equipment
grounding conductor and the grounding electrode conductor to occupy the same raceway.
250.30(A) (5) requires the installation of the grounding electrode conductor to comply with
250.64(A) (B) (C) & (E). 250.64(C) requires the conductor to be one continuous length
without a splice. 250.64(E) has requirements for the conductor in enclosures and bonding
applies and each end of a ferrous metal raceways. Though PRESENTLY not prohibited by the
code the installation requirements really makes it unrealistic in most applications to utilized
one conductor for both the grounding electrode conductor and the equipment grounding
conductor.
3. An air-conditioner consisting of two separate units is installed in a residence. The self-
contained fan unit is inside the house and a hermetic refrigerant unit outside. Is it permitted to
use the supplied five-conductor (with ground) cable between the two units? The conditions
and materials are: a 15-amp, two-pole circuit feeds the unit outside and the cable between
the units is a CSA listed# 14 AWG rated 600 volts TC cable. The cable is sunlight resistant
and suitable for a wet location. The cable is tie wrapped to the insulated Freon lines between
the two units and runs through the wall of the house with them. Is this cable a proper one to
use, considering it is rated only as Type TC cable?
NO – code reference 336.12(2)
336.12 Uses Not Permitted
Type TC tray cable shall not be installed or used as follows:
(1) Installed where it will be exposed to physical damage
(2) Installed outside a raceway or cable tray system, except as permitted in 336.10(7)
(3) Used where exposed to direct rays of the sun, unless identified as sunlight resistant
(4) Direct buried, unless identified for such use
Product Standard used is UL 1277, Electrical Power and Control Tray Cables with Optional
Optical-Fiber Members under
Category QPOR on page 208 of the UL white book.
Although the general rule in 336.12(2) only permits type TC cable to be installed inside a
raceway or cable tray, other than as permitted in 336.10(7) in industrial establishments for
Type TC–ER shall be permitted between a cable tray and the utilization equipment or device,
or 336.12(4) for direct burial where identified for such use and 336.10 (4) In outdoor locations
supported by a messenger wire. Therefore the application as presented would not be code
compliant.
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4. If there is electrical power in a detached residential garage, and an electric garage door
opener has a light with a wall-mounted control for the light in the unit, does this count as the
required lighting outlet in Section 210.70?
Maybe, depending on if the lighting source is on a separate circuit and will illuminate the area
without having to open and close the garage door opener mechanism that normally allows for
the light to be shut off after a timing sequence. Section 210.70 (A) (2) (a), pg 54, requires a
wall switch controlled lighting outlet. (b) Also requires detached garages to have one wall
switched lighting outlet on the exterior side of outdoor entrances and exits. Just to have a
light that cycles on by the function of the garage door opening and closing and then switching
off after a period of time does not meet need for lighting while one is in the area for
unspecified periods of time.
5. We installed two feeders in a raceway. Does each circuit need an equipment grounding
conductor?
Section 250.122 provides the requirements for sizing the equipment grounding conductor in a
raceway based on the branch circuit overcurrent device. Where multiple circuits are installed
in the same raceway 250.122(C) would apply.
250.122(C) Multiple Circuits Where a single equipment grounding conductor is run with
multiple circuits in the same raceway or cable, it shall be sized for the largest overcurrent
device protecting conductors in the raceway or cable.
This section does not address multiple feeders in a raceway. It would be my interpretation
that this section would also apply to feeders even though it is not specifically addressed in this
code section.
6. The manufacturers of recessed light fixtures list the type of light bulbs that are approved
to be installed within their fixtures. The newer type of medium base fluorescent light bulb is
not listed for use in these recessed cans. Many people are buying them to conserve energy
and are installing them in the recessed cans. Is this permissible?
Yes, this is permissible providing you install the lamp in accordance with its markings and do
not exceed the wattage rating on the luminaire...
The question is dealing with the proliferation of what the industry calls compact fluorescent
lamps. UL Lists these as Self Ballasted Lamps and Lamp Adapters, (OOLR), located on page
269 in the 2011 White Book. The Guide Information states these products have been
investigated for use in the smaller of a 6- or 8-in. diameter recessed luminaire, if they will
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physically fit, and are intended for use in totally enclosed, recessed luminaires unless marked
and stated not for such use.
7. Can a single-pole switch control the emergency lighting on the critical branch for a nurse’s
station?
Answer: Yes, if the switch is accessible only to authorized persons.
517.26 Application of Other Articles.
The essential electrical system shall meet the requirements of Article 700, except as amended
by Article 517.
V. Control — Emergency Lighting Circuits
700.20 Switch Requirements.
The switch or switches installed in emergency lighting circuits shall be arranged so that only
authorized persons have control of emergency lighting.
Exception No. 1: Where two or more single-throw switches are connected in parallel to control
a single circuit, at least one of these switches shall be accessible only to authorized persons.
Exception No. 2: Additional switches that act only to put emergency lights into operation but
not disconnect them shall be permissible. Switches connected in series or 3- and 4-way
switches shall not be used.
700.12 requires that the emergency power be on within 10 seconds, and the building codes
and building code officials generally require the emergency lights to be on within this time.
8. Who is qualified to perform a GFP test of a GFP main breaker service?
Requirements for testing these systems can be found in 230.95(C) but the NEC is silent on
any qualifications to perform such testing. The test is required to be performed in accordance
with manufacturer’s instructions and a written record of the test is required. Some AHJs may
have additional requirements such as witnessing the test.
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9. Where are disconnects required on PV systems?
Locations for disconnects is found in Part III of article 690.
III. Disconnecting Means
690.13 All Conductors.
Means shall be provided to disconnect all current-carrying conductors of a photovoltaic power
source from all other conductors in a building or other structure. A switch, circuit breaker, or
other device, either ac or dc, shall not be installed in a grounded conductor if operation of that
switch, circuit breaker, or other device leaves the marked, grounded conductor in an
ungrounded and energized state.
Exception: A switch or circuit breaker that is part of a ground-fault detection system required
by 690.5 shall be permitted to open the grounded conductor when that switch or circuit
breaker is automatically opened as a normal function of the device in responding to ground
faults. The switch or circuit breaker shall indicate the presence of a ground fault.
FPN: The grounded conductor may have a bolted or terminal disconnecting means to allow
maintenance or troubleshooting by qualified personnel.
690.14 Additional Provisions.
Photovoltaic disconnecting means shall comply with 690.14(A) through (D).
(A) Disconnecting Means. The disconnecting means shall not be required to be suitable as
service equipment and shall comply with 690.17.
(B) Equipment. Equipment such as photovoltaic source circuit isolating switches, overcurrent
devices, and blocking diodes shall be permitted on the photovoltaic side of the photovoltaic
disconnecting means.
(C) Requirements for Disconnecting Means. Means shall be provided to disconnect all
conductors in a building or other structure from the photovoltaic system conductors.
(1) Location. The photovoltaic disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible
location either on the outside of a building or structure or inside nearest the point of entrance
of the system conductors.
Exception: Installations that comply with 690.31(E) shall be permitted to have the
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disconnecting means located remote from the point of entry of the system conductors. The
photovoltaic system disconnecting means shall not be installed in bathrooms.
(2) Marking. Each photovoltaic system disconnecting means shall be permanently marked to
identify it as a photovoltaic system disconnect.
(3) Suitable for Use. Each photovoltaic system disconnecting means shall be suitable for the
prevailing conditions. Equipment installed in hazardous (classified) locations shall comply with
the requirements of Articles 500 through 517.
(4) Maximum Number of Disconnects. The photovoltaic system disconnecting means shall
consist of not more than six switches or six circuit breakers mounted in a single enclosure, in a
group of separate enclosures, or in or on a switchboard.
(5) Grouping. The photovoltaic system disconnecting means shall be grouped with other
disconnecting means for the system to comply with 690.14(C) (4). A photovoltaic
disconnecting means shall not be required at the photovoltaic module or array location.
(D) Utility-Interactive Inverters Mounted in Not-Readily-Accessible Locations. Utility-interactive
inverters shall be permitted to be mounted on roofs or other exterior areas that are not readily
accessible. These installations shall comply with (1) through (4):
(1)
A direct-current photovoltaic disconnecting means shall be mounted within sight of or
in the inverter.
(2)
An alternating-current disconnecting means shall be mounted within sight of or in the
inverter.
(3)
The alternating-current output conductors from the inverter and an additional
alternating-current disconnecting means for the inverter shall comply with 690.14(C) (1).
(4)
A plaque shall be installed in accordance with 705.10.
690.15 Disconnection of Photovoltaic Equipment.
Means shall be provided to disconnect equipment, such as inverters, batteries, charge
controllers, and the like, from all ungrounded conductors of all sources. If the equipment is
energized from more than one source, the disconnecting means shall be grouped and
identified.
A single disconnecting means in accordance with 690.17 shall be permitted for the combined
ac output of one or more inverters or ac modules in an interactive system.
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690.16 Fuses.
Disconnecting means shall be provided to disconnect a fuse from all sources of supply if the
fuse is energized from both directions and is accessible to other than qualified persons. Such a
fuse in a photovoltaic source circuit shall be capable of being disconnected independently of
fuses in other photovoltaic source circuits.
690.17 Switch or Circuit Breaker.
The disconnecting means for ungrounded conductors shall consist of a manually operable
switch (es) or circuit breaker(s) complying with all of the following requirements:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
that is
Located where readily accessible
Externally operable without exposing the operator to contact with live parts
Plainly indicating whether in the open or closed position
Having an interrupting rating sufficient for the nominal circuit voltage and the current
available at the line terminals of the equipment
Where all terminals of the disconnecting means may be energized in the open position, a
warning sign shall be mounted on or adjacent to the disconnecting means. The sign shall be
clearly legible and have the following words or equivalent:
WARNING
ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD.
DO NOT TOUCH TERMINALS. TERMINALS
ON BOTH THE LINE AND
LOAD SIDES MAY BE ENERGIZED
IN THE OPEN POSITION.
Exception: A connector shall be permitted to be used as an ac or a dc disconnecting means,
provided that it complies with the requirements of 690.33 and is listed and identified for the
use.
690.18 Installation and Service of an Array.
Open circuiting, short circuiting, or opaque covering shall be used to disable an array or
portions of an array for installation and service.
FPN: Photovoltaic modules are energized while exposed to light. Installation, replacement, or
servicing of array components while a module(s) is irradiated may expose persons to electric
shock.
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705.10 Directory.
A permanent plaque or directory, denoting all electric power sources on or in the premises,
shall be installed at each service equipment location and at locations of all electric power
production sources capable of being interconnected.
Exception: Installations with large numbers of power production sources shall be permitted to
be designated by groups.
10. Can a load center be mounted in a horizontal position?
The term “horizontal” can be interpreted two ways:
1) Rotated on the wall 90 degrees
2) Mounted on the ceiling or on or under the floor
Code Reference: 240.33 and 240.81
The issue over horizontal mounting goes back to the 1925 NEC. The specific issue was to
prohibit fused switches from being mounted on the ceiling (under a floor) where the constant
vibration from the floor traffic could cause the fuse to dislodge from a fuse clip and drop
against the enclosure creating a ground fault.
The language in 240.33 was changed in the 2002 NEC with a substantiation that revolved
around rotating the enclosure 90 degrees not from wall to ceiling or floor.
240.33 Vertical Position.
Enclosures for over current devices shall be mounted in a vertical position unless that is shown
to be impracticable. Circuit breaker enclosures shall be permitted to be installed horizontally
where the circuit breaker is installed in accordance with 240.81. Listed busway plug-in units
shall be permitted to be mounted in orientations corresponding to the busway mounting
position.
240.81 Indicating.
Circuit breakers shall clearly indicate whether they are in the open “off” or closed “on”
position. Where circuit breaker handles are operated vertically rather than rotationally or
horizontally, the “up” position of the handle shall be the “on” position.
Typically, mounting a panel board horizontally will cause a number of the circuit
breakers (1/2) to have their handles in the up position when they are off, which is
not allowed.
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NC Fuel Gas Code 2011
Attention:  Denotes a new question from the most current month!
 Denotes a revised/revisited question.
December 2011
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Administration
Chapter 3 General Regulations
Chapter 5 Chimneys & Vents
Chapter 7 Gaseous Hydrogen S.
POLICY
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 4 Gas Piping Install.
Chapter 6 Specific Appliances.
Chapter 8 Ind./Special Waste
OTHER
Chapter 1 Administrative:
1) (Q) An engineer provides combustion and ventilation air louver calculations on a
Mechanical Plan for an equipment room with both oil and gas fired equipment.
Can the plans examiner accept the calculations as an alternate design?
(A) Yes. The plan reviewer would need to decide if the calculations and louver
Meet the equivalency test per 105.2.
2) (Q) A Mechanical Inspector is inspecting a furnace change out which did not
require plan review. He notices the new furnace is significantly heavier that the
old unit that has been replaced. Can the inspector pass the inspection as is?
(A)The inspector can use his discretionary powers as a sworn official of the state in one
of three ways. 1. He can determine that the weight of the unit is sufficiently
supported as installed and approve the inspection as is. 2. He can turn the unit down
until he receives a letter from a structural engineer that the installation is supported
per code. 3. He can require plans to be submitted with structural information about
support of the unit to be approved by plan review. Ref: 107.3 NCSBC; Admin.
Code.
Chapter 3General Regulations:
1) Q) The installation instructions for an 80 percent furnace cautions against
providing combustion air from areas such as laundry rooms. The
manufacturer states that installation of a furnace adjacent to laundry
equipment can lead to premature corrosion from chemicals in laundry
detergents. Would it be acceptable to draw combustion air from an open
basement or garage, which by definition is not a confined space, even though
laundry equipment is also located in that space?
A) The unit must be installed according to manufacturer's specifications;
however, as long as it is not in a confined space and the area can provide
adequate combustion air, the installation described above would not be an
issue. The intent of the manufacturers' caution statement is to address a
small room specifically designated as a laundry room. 303.1
4th Quarter
Land Use and Environmental Service Agency
(Code Enforcement)
NC Fuel Gas Code 2011
Attention:  Denotes a new question from the most current month!
 Denotes a revised/revisited question.
December 2011
2) Q) At the final inspection the mechanical inspector finds the 3rd party label is missing from
a gas regulator. The contractor tells the inspector that the factory “self certifies” the
regulator to meet the ASTM requirements and presents a letter from the factory
verifying the product has been tested at the factory. Should the inspector approve the
regulator “as is” and final the inspection?
(A) The field inspector should turn the regulator down until it can be determined if the
product meets the ASTM standard specified by the code with the proper label from
the testing lab. Per the Department of Insurance a factory is not allowed to “self
certify” a product. It must have the listing and labeling information from an
approved testing facility. Approved facilities can be found on the DOI web site. Ref:
301.3, 301.5
3) (Q) A gas appliance has been changed out “like for like” in a residential single family
dwelling, however, it is located in a closet opening directly into a bathroom. The closet
door is not louvered; however, the door has been undercut. Can this change out be
approved by the inspector without additional changes?
(A) No. Combustion and ventilation air shall come directly from the outside and the
door shall be weather stripped with a self-closing device. In addition the closet
cannot be used for any other purpose. Ref: 303.3, exception # 5
4) (Q) A boiler requires a barrier separation per the NC Building Code. The boiler is gas
fired and exceeds 15 PSI and 10 Boiler Horsepower. What code requirements would
the boiler have to meet to be approved for minimum combustion and ventilation air
requirements?
(A) Combustion and ventilation air shall be calculated per Section 304 of the NC
Fuel Gas code. If the boiler is regulated by the NC Department of Labor per GS 95
and different criteria exist for combustion and ventilation air then either code
calculation is acceptable as meeting minimum code requirements.
Chapter 4 Gas Piping Installation:
1)
(Q) When and where are sediment traps required?
A) Section 408 requires a sediment trap as close as practical to the inlet side
of the equipment. This would include gas regulators. Regulators for
individual appliances may utilize a single trap for both the regulator as
well as the appliance. Illuminating appliances, ranges, clothes dryers, gas
logs, log lighters and outdoor grills are exempt from traps. Ref: 408
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2)
(Q) May a flexible gas connector run through the appliance housing?
A) No! Ref: 411.1.3.3
3)
(Q) A home inspector has disapproved the material for a “T” fitting in a gas line
stating in his report: “There is a galvanized “T” fitting in the gas line at the first
floor furnace. This is not an acceptable material for gas piping. The galvanizing will
flake off and cause problems with the gas equipment. I recommend correction by a
qualified plumber.” Is this a correct call by the home inspector?
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(A) NO. Galvanized pipe and fittings are an approved material. See material listing.
Re: Section 403.
4)
(Q We received a call that black iron gas piping was being strapped directly to the
underside of the roof sheeting in an attic. Roofing contractors had replaced the
sheeting. Is the gas piping being supported correctly? What is the correct way to
support the piping per the code?
(A)The piping is not supported correctly. It shall be supported by the structural
members of the roof (trusses or sleepers). The roof sheeting does not provide
proper support and is subject to cause damage to the piping via the roofing nails.
Spacing of the supports shall be in accordance with table 415.1. Ref: [B] 302.1
Table 415.1 for spacing requirements.
Chapter 5 Chimneys and Vents:
1) (Q) I am terminating a direct vent appliance on the exterior wall of a residential
building. The fireplace I am venting is on the same wall as the porch. The
porch is open on three sides and the termination cap provides adequate
protection for the vent opening. Am I allowed to install this per code?
A) Yes. A venting system shall be designed and constructed so as to develop a
positive flow adequate to convey flue or vent gases to the outdoor
atmosphere. Once a deck is completely covered and/or screened in, it now
could be an occupied space and would no longer be considered outdoors. We
have to depend on the field Inspector to make an informed judgment. There
are special circumstances where this would be allowed. If the manufacturer’s
instructions allow the installation on an open porch (3 sides) and the
termination vent is protected the installation may be allowed. Ref: 503.3
2) (Q) Screws in venting: Are they necessary? For example, in type B venting.
A) No. Some Manufacturer’s instructions actually allow screws at joints as long as 3
they do not penetrate past the outer wall of the B vent. Ref: 503.6
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3) (Q)Under what circumstances, if any, may gas appliance vent pass through the
following? (a) An appliance housing. (b) A factory built fireplace. (c) A floor. (d)
A wall.
(A) (a) If the appliance housing is listed and approved for the vent material
passing through the housing. (b) Similar to answer (a) Ref: 501.7.2 3.
(c) & (d) Not allowed. Single Wall Connector Ref: 503.10.14, (see exceptions)
Medium heat connectors. Ref: 503.10.16
4)
(Q) A Mechanical Contractor has insulated the vent for a 90+ furnace within
an unconditioned space in a single family home. Should the Mechanical
Inspector turn him down? The contractor tells the inspector the requirement is in
the manufacturer’s instructions.
(A) The inspector would have to approve the installation if the contractor is
correct about the manufacturer’s instructions. The inspector can still call the
manufacturer for clarification. Ref: 503.4.1, 503.4.2
5)
(Q)What is the maximum height for a vent used on a 40 gal., natural draft, gas fired
water heater?
(A) Install per manufacturers instruction depending on venting requirements.
Ref: FG 503.3.3#1,624.1
Chapter 6 Specific Appliances:
1) (Q) I want to install code approved unvented gas logs in a commercial restaurant
that seats 100 people. Can this appliance be installed in an assembly
occupancy?
A) No. Unvented room heaters shall not be installed within Groups A, E, and I
Occupancies. Ref: 621.4 (FGC)
2) (Q) A new 5 million BTUH instantaneous water heater is being installed in an
existing food processing plant. The water heater is located in an existing pump
room that also contains electrical panels. The pump room area is 1000 square
feet. Combustion and ventilation air openings are installed high and low and
meet code sizing requirements. Does the pump room have to comply with the
boiler room requirements of [B] 1015.3 for egress?
A) Yes. At 15.1 Boiler Horse Power it will require two remote exit doors per the
Building Code.
3) (Q) What is the BTUH conversion factor for BTUH to Boiler Horse Power?
A) One boiler horse power equal 330,000 BTUH.
4) (Q) Are there other factors or trade requirements that may be effected by the
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installation of the boiler in the pump room?
A) Inspectors should be aware of clearance to combustibles. Ref: 631.3. (FGC)
5) (Q) When the stamping on a pressure-retaining item becomes indistinct or the
nameplate is lost, illegible, or loose, but traceability to the original pressureretaining item is still possible, can a new nameplate be made and attached to
anexistingboiler?
Answer: Yes. All re-stamping must be done in accordance with the original
code of construction. Requests for permission to re-stamp or replace
nameplates must be made to the jurisdiction in which the pressure-retaining
item is located. The jurisdiction may grant such requests if satisfied with the
information submitted. Permission from the jurisdiction is not required for
the reattachment of nameplates that are loose or not fully attached. When
traceability cannot be established, the jurisdiction must be contacted.
Ref; 105, 301.4, 631.1, 631.2
6) (Q) I am a homeowner and I have built a new home. I am selling my existing
home which is being moved off site to make way for a new highway.
The gas water heater is only 2 years old. I am going to re-locate it to my new
residence. I am doing all of the work myself. Is this allowed in Mecklenburg
County?
(A) Yes. You must pass the homeowners test and pull all required permits. The
installation must meet current code. Ref: 102.7, 624.1
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2nd
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Administration
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 3 General Regulations
Chapter 4 Ventilation.
Chapter 5 Exhaust Systems
Chapter 6 Duct Systems
Chapter 7 Combustion Air
Chapter 8 Chimneys & Vents
Chapter 9 Specific Appliances
Chapter 10 Boilers, Water Htrs
Chapter 11 Refrigeration
Chapter 12 Hydronic Piping
Chapter 13 Fuel Oil Piping
Chapter 14 Solar Systems
POLICY
OTHER
Chapter 1 Administration:
1) (Q) Is it the responsibility of a plans examiner or inspector to inform a designer or contractor
of additional requirements of other State agencies or licensing boards?
(A) No. It is not the responsibility of the inspector or plans examiner. It shall be the
responsibility of the permit holder, design professional, contractor, or occupational
license holder to determine whether any additional requirements exist. 101.5
2) (Q) Are explosion proof condensate pumps allowed to be installed on the floor of
a garage?
(A) Yes. Although a condensate pump, by definition would not be considered an
appliance, when used in conjunction with heating and/or air conditioning
equipment, it becomes an appurtenance to that appliance.
Condensate pumps, used as an appurtenance to a heating/cooling appliance
which generates a glow, spark or flame, capable of igniting gasoline vapors and
located in a garage shall be installed with burners, burner ignition devices or
heating elements and switches at least 18 inches above the floor level.
Condensate pumps installed on the floor of the garage must be listed and labeled
for installation in a Class 1, Division 2 location, as specified in the NEC, Article
500. An "explosion proof" rating, by itself, does not necessarily mean the
equipment will meet this requirement. Listed equipment will be marked to show
the class, group (division) and operating temperature or temperature range in
which the equipment can be used. The identification numbers are marked on the
equipment nameplate. Ref: 102.9
3)
(Q) The trading floor of a large office building is being renovated. They are using the re-hab
code for the renovation. The floor will require phasing the construction to complete the
work. The first stage will only have equipment capable of supplying outside air for the
initial 40 people that will occupy the trading floor. They will not move the other
employees in the building until the OA equipment is in place. Should we allow the
installation to be phased for additional OA?
(A) Yes. The designers will keep the CA and field inspectors informed at each stage of
completion as to scheduling and equipment information. Ref: 102.9 (MC)
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Chapter 3 General Requirements:
1) (Q) What are the requirements for systems installed in a flood plain?
(A) Section 301.13 Flood hazard: For structures located in flood hazard areas, mechanical
systems, equipment and appliances shall be located at or above the design flood
elevation. Exception: Mechanical systems, equipment and appliances are permittedto
be located below the design flood elevation provided that they are designed andinstalled
to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components and to resist
hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including theeffects of buoyancy,
during the occurrence of flooding to the design flood elevationin compliance with the
flood-resistant construction requirements of the International Building Code.301.13.1
High-velocity wave action. In flood hazard areas subject to high-velocity wave action,
mechanical systems and equipment shall not be mounted on or penetrate walls intended
to break away under flood loads. See also section 602.4 for similar the requirements
covering the duct system.
2) (Q) Would the discharge line of an appliance condensate pump need to be protected from
freezing temperatures?
(A) Chapter 307 does not address the protection of condensate discharge lines, installed in
areas subject to freezing temperatures, however, we would be remiss if we did not
require this protection in areas such as a ventilated attic space. Other areas of concern
would be where the line exits the foundation wall. We would “recommend” that these
installations be sloped downward and increasing in pipe size to limit blockages.
3) (Q) What type of access would be required for a boiler installation where the boiler devices
may be subject to vandalism or component theft?
(A) Chapter 306 covers the typical installation of equipment. Section 105.1 Would allow us
the flexibility to allow alternative access on a case by case basis.
4) Q) Where are the seismic strapping requirements for air conditioners and/or heat
pumps in the NC Mechanical Code?
(A) Seismic requirements and zone information is in the Building Code as
referenced by 301.15 of the Mechanical Code.
5) (Q Do copper condensate lines or return piping of heating/cooling units that are in direct
contact with galvanized sheet metal duct and/or plenum constitute a potential for galvanic
action?
(A) It is recommended that piping be protected from potential corrosion by protecting or
isolating the piping. 307.2.2
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6)
(Q) What is the proper way to protect an appliance in a residential garage?
(A) From the information we have from DOI and past practice if you pulled a straight
edge from the garage door opening to the rear of the opening, if the appliance in
question was not in the normal path of the vehicle, then no protection is required. No
what if’s Ref: 303.4
7)
(Q) A mechanical contractor requested an interpretation as to whether traps were required
on the condensate from an evaporator coil and if we knew of any conflicts with the
energy code involving cleanout vent/ tees on a blow-through unit discharging into an
unconditioned area (attic/crawl space)?
(A) The code requires the inspector to rely on the manufacturer’s data to determine
if a trapped drain is required. If any conflicts with other codes are apparent then
the contractor may need to consult with the manufacturer to resolve the problem and
inform the inspector of the issues. Ref: 307.2.4
Chapter 4 Ventilation:
1)
(Q) What is the minimum ventilation required for toilet rooms?
(A) Toilet rooms are not considered to be habitable space and so their
ventilation requirements would be found in table 403.3 which would require
mechanical exhaust and not natural ventilation. Note: We have allowed natural
ventilation in the past and we will begin enforcing the mechanical ventilation
requirement on permits obtained after April 1, 2011.
2)
(Q) The M/P plans examiner has turned a plan down because the designer has used
incorrect Outside Air calculation information. The designer contacts the CE to
explain the calculation is from the ASHRAE 69 calculations in the 2012 Mechanical
Code. Replacing the equipment to meet current code would add significant cost to
the project. The existing equipment will work based on the new 2012 calculation.
Should the designer be allowed to use the new code calcs for the outside air?
(A) Yes. Since the new code is adopted by the BCC and is in effect September 1st, 2011.
Section 403.3 and Table 403.3. (MC)
Chapter 5 Exhaust Systems:
1) (Q) Does Mecklenburg County allow an alternative method for type I hood
clearances?
(A) Mecklenburg County allows the use of NFPA 96, Chapter 4.2.3.2 based
on an interpretation by DOI dated 2/2/2004.
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2) (Q) In an automotive repair garage with a vehicle exhaust source capture system per NCMC
502.14, is it permitted to have one (1) –exhaust capture connection for every two (2) bays
or is one connection only allowed per bay?
(A) The Mechanical Code is silent on this question, however the code language gives the
inference that it requires a singular; “a source capture system” for each vehicle or
service bay. One per bay is required. Ref: 502.14
3) (Q) Even though the code requirements have been met for the installation of the grease duct
the contractor wants to add several more cleanout openings because he also has the
maintenance contract on the grease duct system. The duct is only 10 inches by 10 inches
and the code access door manufacturer informs him the smallest door approved for
grease duct installation per code is 12 inches by 12 inches. Can the contractor make his
own door to access the grease duct?
(A) Yes. Where the duct is smaller than the 12 by 12 minimum the mechanical contractor
may provide cleanouts approved by the mechanical official at least equivalent to the
minimum requirements of the code for manufactured access doors. Ref: 506.3.9
4) (Q)The Mechanical inspector has turned a residential range exhaust installation down
because the contractor has used screws to join the pipe together and then sealed the pipe
joints with mastic. The pipe extends up through the roof and is terminated per code. Is this
inspector correct? Is this a code violation?
(A) The inspector may consider this a code violation; reference is 505.1 “smooth inner
walls,” however there are minimal code restrictions on residential hood installations.
While the code reference says smooth we would accept small screws and mastic to
fasten the duct joints together. Ref: 505.1
5) (Q) A contractor asks the inspector if he can combine the bathroom exhaust with the dryer
exhaust to value engineer the job for the owner and appease the Architect who is
complaining about all of the exterior wall penetrations disturbing the ambiance of his
finished exterior walls. Can the inspector allow this installation? Will a redesign in duct
sizing, fittings or joints be required?
(A) No. No comingling of the dryer exhaust is allowed by code. Ref: 504.1
6) (Q) A battery room is installed in an existing multistory building. The designer says it is
virtually impossible to run the exhaust duct up to the roof because of the tenants and
space in the ceiling above so he wants to run the duct into an area way in the middle of
the building that is enclosed on all four sides similar to an interior courtyard in an office
building. The only thing located in the area way are 10 compressors for AC to the
various building tenants. His problem with running the duct to the area way is that he can
only get 3 feet of clearance to terminate the exhaust duct. Can this installation be allowed
per Code?
(A) No, Ref: 501.2.1 sub (1) for conveyance of flammable/explosive vapors.
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7) (Q) A UL listed grease duct installation for a type I hood is called for inspection. Duct joints
are not welded per code requirements; however, the installation instructions show
approved joint connections without welded joints. What would the inspector be required
to inspect? How does the inspector look at the installation for code compliance? What
tests are required for system approval?
(A) Inspection of the manufactured system would have to comply with all standard tests
for grease duct required for type I hoods including 506.3.2.5. Any tests specified in the
manufacturers literature will also be the responsibility of the field inspector. Ref:
506.3.2.5
8) (Q) Under what conditions can an outdoor grill and hood be installed under a covered porch?
(A) The hood would be approved if installed per the manufacturer’s installation
instructions, including the correct fan, and unit sizing-and it is used in a single family
detached dwelling. No townhouse/condo/apartment use would be allowed. Ref: 506.4.1
9) (Q) A manufacturer has submitted a dryer booster fan to be used in a residential application
per IRC 1501. Would the inspector approve the booster fan if the contractor has the
letter on site for the inspection?
(A) Dryer booster fans are not allowed by the code. There is no code language to allow
their use. Ref: 504.1
10) (Q) A counter mounted, induction type, two burner range with a down draft exhaust filter is installed
on a counter top in a restaurant open bar buffet. The appliance is cord and plug connected 208V
three phase with two burners. The manufacturer does not think a hood or fire suppression system
should be required since the unit will be used for sauté and warming only. Should a hood and fire
suppression system be required?
(A) Yes. The food is producing grease laden vapors and therefore should have a hood and
suppression system installed per code. Ref: 507.2.1
11) (Q)The designer of a hood system wants to use the filter at the hood as the only means to protect
the ductwork from grease laden vapors. The designer wants to terminate on the outside wall in a
louver flush with the wall. No other exhausting means will be provided. Should we allow this
installation?
(A) No. We currently allow a variance from the code for downtown buildings and other buildings
where the designer wants to avoid a sidewall standard hood installation that extends 40 inches
into an alley, street, sidewalk or other public way. A filter located at the hood could be
removed or replaced more conveniently than the scrubber system or environmental air
filtration systems we currently allow for a louvered wall termination. (See web site document
for exceptions) Ref: 506.3.12
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Chapter 6 Duct Systems:
1)
(Q) What method can be used to protect the opening in a floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling
assembly where supply duct from the HVAC unit penetrates the assembly? NOT
There is not a fire damper currently manufactured that is approved for this application
when the multi-story building is classified as an R2 occupancy with type V construction
.
(A) The current code approval for this application requires a smoke detector to be
installed in the same room as the HVAC unit that will shut down the unit if smoke is
detected. The smoke detector shall tie in to the smoke detector circuit provided for
the apt/condo unit. A static damper is required at the ceiling penetration of the
HVAC duct penetrations from the unit. This method of protecting the ceiling
penetrations is only approved until a Fire Damper is manufactured that provides
adequate protection for the openings.
2)
(Q) What are the minimum requirements for plenum rated materials within an open ai
plenum space?
(A) Not required. See plenum definition. Open air returns are typically in
habitable areas and do not have to conform to the material requirements of enclosed
plenums. Example: Home Depot. Ref: Chapter 2 plenum definition. & 602.2.1
3)
(Q) Unlisted duct tape has been installed on the metal to metal and flex to metal airduct
joints a furnace installation in a single-family dwelling. Is it required that the unlisted
duct tape be removed before installing the approved tape or mastic?
(A) No, approved tape may be installed over unlisted duct tape unless the listing,
labeling or manufacturer’s instructions supersede the allowance of such material.
Ref: 603.9
4)
(Q) What is considered proper access for smoke/fire dampers?
(A) 607.5 states that the damper must be accessible for removal/maintenance.
5)
(Q) Are fire dampers, smoke dampers, or combination dampers required in walls that
separate a garage from the residential living space in a single family dwelling?
(A) The code has no provisions for a fire damper of any type to be required in this
residential installation. 603.1.2
6)
(Q) Are longitudinal seams required to be sealed in a duct used to exhaust a bath fan?
(A) Yes. Our policy has always been to seal the seams in a longitudinal duct run in a
residential application to prevent any duct leakage on the ceiling. Recent DOI
interpretations of the 2012 code MC Section 603.9 back the department position to
seal the exhaust duct. The 2009 code vaguely describes “contamination prevention”
in 601.4 but exempts one and two family dwellings. Ref; 603.9
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7)
(Q) A listed and labeled product (return air grill) is being installed in a panned 2 by 4 wall
stud cavity. A return air grill is being installed in the wall cavity at a depth of 1 inch
leaving only 2 inches between the return collar and the filter. Is this installation allowed
by Code?
(A) The inspector must look at the surface area to determine if this installation will meet
code. Ref: 602.3, 605.2
8)
(Q) Charlotte Pipe has a new CPVC pipe called ChemDrain with a Zero flame spread rating
and a smoke developed rating of between 8 and 22 based on ULC S102.2. Can we allow
this new pipe in return air plenums?
(A)
Yes. As long as it is tested and approved for at least 25-50 smoke and flame
spread rating we would allow the product in return air plenums. Ref: 602.2.1
9)
(Q) A residential 3 story apartment building has louvered doors on a closet which is used for
the return air to the AC unit. The closet doors are made out of wood. (a)Is the closet
allowed to be used as part of the return? (b)Does the closet meet minimum requirements
for a return air plenum? (c) Could the doors be used in a commercial office space?
(A) (a) Yes. (b) Yes. (c) Plenums in dwellings are not required to meet the code
requirements for non-combustible materials within plenum spaces. Materials in
plenums for all other occupancies shall be non-combustible or meet 25-50
requirements. Ref; 602.2, 602.2.1, 602.2.1 exception # 3.
10)
(Q) What are the minimum requirements for access to a fire damper located inside a duct
when the ductwork is located behind a sheet rock wall? Would the requirements be the
same for commercial and residential construction?
(A) The access shall be by an approved means large enough to permit inspection and
maintenanceof the damper and its operating parts. The access opening shall not
affect the integrity of fire-resistance rated assemblies. Access doors in ducts shall be
tight fitting and suitable for the required duct construction. Ref: 607.4 [B]
11)
(Q) The designer on a multi story building wants the fan shut down to be a function of the
Building Mechanical system wiring for the fan powered terminal boxes. By using this
option it will enable restart of the fans and gives the end user more monitoring ability.
With this capability the Fire Alarm panel will send a signal to the nearest BMS panel
which in turn will send a signal to all the fans to shut down. Under what
circumstances would we allow this installation?
(A) Terminal units with a capacity of less than 2000 cfm (greater than 2000 cfm must
have its own individual smoke detector) may be interlocked with the smoke
detector locatedat the primary air-handling unit which serves the terminal units.
When the interlock option has been selected we will allow it to be interlocked
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through the Fire Alarm Panel utilizing the Building Mechanical System Panel and
associated wiring. Note: all wiring located in a plenum must be plenum rated.
Ref: 606.2 (MC)
12)
(Q) What are the clearances required on a vertical grease duct from a Type I hood
penetrating a metal pan deck on an unrated single story roof deck when the following
conditions exist: 1 The roof curb adapter is 18 inches high and fastened to the roof pan
decking. 2. The roof insulation stops 12 inches away from the curbing. 3. Rubber
roofing materials are bonded to the outside of the roof curb. Would the roof hood duct
require wrapping under the circumstances stated above?
(A) No. NFPA guidelines equate 18inches above the roof to be equivalent to a fire
damper located at the roof penetration. Wrapping would not be required in the
example above.
Chapter 9 Specific Appliances, Fireplaces and Solid Fuel-Burning Equipment:
1)
(Q) What is the minimum clearance of a microwave oven hung under an existing stove
cook top? The manufacturer’s instructions require a 24 inch clearance. This clearance
will work but just barely because of the existing cabinet height. The house is in a
historical district and the governing board does not allow removal or alteration of
existing cabinets in the district. Can the inspector allow the manufacturers approved
clearance?
(A) Yes. Install the equipment per manufacturer’s clearances. Ref: 917.4
Chapter 10 Boilers, Water Heaters and Pressure Vessels:
(1)
(Q) An out of state jurisdiction ask the department about the enforcement of ASME Boiler
and Pressure vessel regulation enforcement for the state of North Carolina. Who
enforces regulations for UNFIRED pressure vessels for (1) Newly installed pressure
vessels to comply with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, (2) Repairs and
alterations for existing boilers, and (3) Other regulations or codes that also apply to
boilers?
(A) The Department of Labor Boiler and Pressure Vessel division has primary
responsibility over boiler inspections, however there is a list of exempt boilers. The
exempt boilers are governed by the North Carolina Mechanical and Fuel Gas codes
as enforced by the Office of the State Fire Marshall through the Department of
Insurance. Ref: Ch. 10 and NCGS 95-69.10/ BPV Rules.
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(2)
(Q) When the stamping on a pressure-retaining item becomes indistinct or the nameplate is
lost, illegible, or loose, but traceability to the original pressure-retaining item is still
possible, can a new nameplate be made and attached to the existing boiler?
(A) Yes. All re-stamping must be done in accordance with the original code of construction.
Requests for permission to re-stamp or replace nameplates must be made to the
jurisdiction in which the pressure-retaining item is located. The jurisdiction may grant
such requests if satisfied with the information submitted. Permission from the
jurisdiction is not required for the reattachment of nameplates that are loose or not fully
attached. When traceability cannot be established, the jurisdiction must be contacted.
Ref; 105, 301.4, 1004.1, 1004.2
(3)
(Q) If multiple water heaters were piped together for space heating, would
Btu's and volume combine to make the system a boiler?
(A) No. See boiler definition 1001.1 Exception 7, NC Dept of Labor
Chapter 95. Note: The combined BTU’s will be used to calculate
combustion and ventilation air requirements. Ref: 1001.1 definition and
exception 7, NC Dept. of Labor Chapter 95.
Chapter 11 Refrigeration:
1)
2)
(Q)An existing chiller is being replaced. The existing chiller uses R-22. The chiller is in
an existing mechanical room. The new chiller will be using the more environmentally
friendly R-410-A refrigerant. The existing chiller room has a volume of 925 sq. feet
and a cu ft. volume of 12,025. The new chiller has 160 lb of R-410A in its largest
refrigerant circuit. The chillers quantity exceeds the capacity of the room as provided
for in the chart in tbl. 1103.1 2009 NC mech. Code. Table 1103.1 has been changed
in the 2012 North Carolina code and the quantity of R-410 has been reduced to
25lb/1000 cu. ft. There are no other changes in the code that would change the
quantities. Can the code official allow the new code quantities to be used so a separate
mechanical room will not be required?
(A) Since there are no other changes that would require the designer to build a
separate mechanical room the new table quantity is approved as an alternate
design. Ref: Table 1103.1- 2012 and Table 1103.1- 2009
(Q) Can recovered refrigerants be re-used by the same owner?
(A) Yes. They shall be filtered and dried and they may also be required to be
reclaimed if clear signs of contamination exist. Ref; 1102.2.2.2
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3)
(Q) Can reclaimed refrigerants be used in a different owner’s equipment? REF: 1102.2.2.3
(A) Yes. The refrigerant must be tested and found to meet ARI 700 test requirements.
Policy: Includes Energy Conservation and Re-Hab Codes
1) (Q) When is a refrigeration permit required?
(A) A refrigeration permit is required for any refrigeration equipment required to be
assembled (excluding the walk-in cooler box) OR any equipment required to be hard
wired electrically (not cord and plug type).
2) (Q) Is the outside air make-up air duct located on the non-insulated side of an attic space in
a single family dwelling required to be insulated?
(A) No. The temperature difference between the air in the make-up air duct
and the air temperature in the attic are not sufficient to cause condensate
that would require insulating the duct. Ref: 503.2.7, Exception #2, North Carolina
Energy Conservation Code
3) (Q)When does a Mechanical Inspector enforce the Carbon Monoxide Alarm requirements
adopted by the NC Department of Insurance in One-and-Two-Family Dwellings and
Townhouses? Effective date: January 1, 2011.
(A) 2009 NC Residential Code revisions to Section R313 as provided below:
R313.1.1 Carbon Monoxide alarms. In new construction, dwelling units shall be
provided with an approved carbon monoxide alarm installed outside of each separate
sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom(s) as directed by the alarm
manufacturer. R313.1.2 Where required-existing dwellings. In existing dwellings,
where interior alterations, repairs, fuel-fired appliance replacements, or additions
requiring a permit occur, or where one or more sleeping rooms are added or created,
carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in accordance with Section 313.1.1.
R313.1.3 The required carbon monoxide alarms shall be audible in all bedrooms over
background noise levels with all intervening doors closed. Single station carbon
monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and shall be installed in
accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
4) (Q Can R-4 insulated Flex be used in Icynene insulated attics where a thermal barrier is
above the ductwork?
(A) Yes. It can be used as long as the attic is now part of the thermal envelope and properly
sealed. Ref: 503.2.7, NC Energy Conservation Code
5) (Q) Does the code limit the noise level produced by heat pumps and air conditioners?
(A) No. There are not any requirements restricting the noise levels of this equipment in the
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current code. Local ordinances dictate noise levels and are not enforced by building
code enforcement officials in Mecklenburg County.
6) (Q) When extending gas pipe to non-electrical gas equipment (barbecue, insert, are you
required to bond the existing gas pipe connected to an existing gas or electrical appliance?
(A) No, unless the alteration creates the potential to be energized.
Administrative Information
1) (Q) A mechanical contractor is adding economizers to existing commercial air conditioning units on a
roof. Are permits required to add economizers to the existing units? Are plans required before a
permit can be issued?
(A) Permits are required per the North Carolina Administrative Code. Plans may be required
dependent upon the scope of work and energy code requirements. CTAC usually determines if this
information is needed prior to issuing a permit. Ref: North Carolina State Building Code:
Administrative Code and Policies
2) (Q) Does the Department of Insurance still maintain a list of third party approved agencies
for Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing and Fuel Gas products? It is my understanding they did
away with the list.
(A) Yes. The Department of Insurance still has the approve list of third party testing
agencies on its web site but only for Electrical and Mechanical Equipment. Go to:
http://wwwNCDOI.com/OSFM/Engineering/BCC/engineering bcc third party. ASP
3) (Q) I am a homeowner and I have a complaint about a licensed Mechanical Contractor. The
contractor did not complete the work in the contract. Who do I call to file a complaint?
(A) Contact John Todaro, he is the area representative for the North Carolina Board of
Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. His email address is:
jtodaro@NCLICENSING.ORG
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Administration
Chapter 3 General Regulations
Chapter 5 Water Heaters
Chapter 7 Sanitary Drainage
Chapter 9 Vents
Chapter 11 Storm Drainage
POLICY
Chapter 2 Definitions
Chapter 4 Fixtures, Fau & Fit.
Chapter 6 Water Supply & Dist.
Chapter 8 Ind./Special Waste
Chapter 10 Traps, Inter. & Sep.
APPENDIX A-H
OTHER
Chapter 3 General Regulations:
1) (Q) Is a check valve required on the water supply to a mobile home?
(A) No. Water supply piping shall be directly connected to the mobile home. The utility
requirements are the same as any single family dwelling in Mecklenburg County. Ref:
301.3, 301.4 & North Carolina Mobile Home Code requirements.
2) (Q) Under what circumstances can a nylon zip tie be used as a pipe strap for pex pipe?
(A) This application can be used in parallel water distribution systems for bundling or
securing, not supporting purposes, unless the zip tie is listed for that application. Ref:
308.9
3) (Q) What is the minimum height required by code on a partition between water closets in a
multi fixture bathroom group?
(A) The code does not specifically cover the height of the partition. It requires the water
closets to be “suitably screened for privacy”. The typical partition sold is 5feet high and
there is a 1 foot clearance under partitions for cleaning and sanitation. The total height
of the partition with clearance is 6 feet. Ref: 310.4, 310.5
4)
(Q) A large fast food chain wants to stay in operation during a major remodel by keeping the
drive through window open and employee’s only working in the building. The
building will not be serving customers inside the restaurant. The contractor wants to
remodel both bathrooms at the same time and provide a temporary bathroom facility
outside the building. Will this be allowed by the Plumbing Official?
(A) No. Any time you have permanent utilities on the site they must connect to the plumbing
facilities if the public or employees are still running a business out of the building.
Alternate approved method: Install a temporary handicap facility with permanent
connections to the utility for water and sanitary sewer. The walkway from the
occupied business to the bathrooms shall be covered or in a corridor and not more
that 500 feet from the employee work area. The bathroom(s) shall be handicap
accessible. Ref: 301.3, 301.4
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5)
(Q) Is it required to insulate thermal expansion tanks that are installed in residential
garages? After all, there is very little if any water that would occupy space in the tank.
Should any freezing occur, there would be ample room for any expansion within the
tank.
(A) The ruling from this department on insulating appliances in a garage has been; if the
water piping must be insulated, then the expansion tank does as well. NCDOI has
concurred with this interpretation and they state “if exposed inside an unheated
residential garage, it must be insulated” Ref: 305.6
6)
(Q) A pool equipment room located in an apartment complex is not used in the winter months.
The water lines are drained to prevent freezing. Is the trap on the sink located in the pool
equipment room required to be insulated?
(A) Yes. The water piping and sink drain trap shall be insulated. Ref: 305.6. 305.6.1
7)
(Q) Is the water piping in the wall separating habitable space from the garage in a single
family residence required to be protected from freezing?
(A) Yes. Water piping installed in attics or unconditioned utility rooms shall be insulated
with an insulation having a minimum R-factor of 6.5 at 75 Degrees F in accordance
with ASTM C-177. Garages are similar spaces. Ref: 305.6
8)
(Q) Are plumbing fixtures required to be third- party certified?
(A) No. Plumbing fixtures are required to be third-party tested. Ref: Table. 303.4
9)
(Q) Are downspouts and gutters located on the side of a single family dwelling exposed
directly to an alley way required to be protected?
(A) No. 305.9 exception. (Yes if components of a plumbing system)
10)
(Q) The contractor has met the horizontal spacing requirements in table 308.5 for PEX
pipe. The plumbing inspector is not satisfied that the hangers will provide proper
support for the piping. Can the plumbing inspector require additional hangers that
will exceed minimum code?
(A) Yes. If the inspector deems it necessary for strength and stability. Ref: 308.5, 102.9
Chapter 4 Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings:
1) (Q) What is the maximum height of the curb on a shower pan threshold?
(A) There is not a maximum height for a non-handicap shower threshold. The requirement
is; “the remaining side (threshold) shall wrap over the curb”. Ref: 417.4The maximum
height for the threshold of a handicap shower, (either roll-in or transfer type) is ½ inch.
The exception is for existing facilities where structural reinforcement would be
disturbed. If that is the case a maximum threshold of 2 inches would be allowed. Ref:
ICC/ANSI A117.1- 2003
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2) (Q) Can standard drywall coverings be used on the walls of a shower enclosure with shower
head?
(A) No. The wall area shall be constructed of smooth, non-corrosive, non-absorbent, and
water proof materials to a height of 6 feet. Ref: 417.4.1
3) (Q) I have an old existing apartment building three stories high that have no washer and dryer
facilities. I can alter the plumbing piping to provide a 2 inch drain for the washers. I have
no practical way to install a horizontal 3inch drain for the washers. Will the re-hab code
offer me any relief so these washers may be installed?
(A) No. The Re-hab code offers the designer no relief from the horizontal 3 Inch drain
requirement, however, the plumbing official may look at the existing DWV system to
determine the feasibility of accommodating the washers before making a final
determination. Ref: 406.3
4) (Q) Is a drain required for an outside shower used on a pool deck that hasonly a cold water
connection?
(A) No. The shower is not used for bathing and has no hot waterconnection. The water could
be considered clear water waste under normal circumstances and can drain into the
same system that is used for the pool deck drainage. Similar in some respects to
Emergency Showers and Eyewash Stations. Ref: 411
5)
(Q) Are bottle trap installations allowed by the NC Plumbing Code?
Since they are not expressly prohibited by ICC we would have to approve them as long
as they meet the standards listed under NC IPC 421.1.2 and comply with ASME
A112.18.2. also, ref: 1002.3 #6
6)
(Q) An engineer submits a plan with a system of trench drains in a factory that drain various
grease producing cooking equipment to a grease interceptor located outside the building.
The engineer wants to pour concrete forms and install stainless steel trench drain inserts
in the concrete. The project is turned down by the plan examiner. Neither the plans nor
specifications show how the project meets 412.1 construction requirements (ASME
A112.6.3.). What information does the plan reviewer need to approve the review?
(A)The Engineer suggested supplying a letter showing how the installation met the trench
drain provision ASME A112.6.3. The CA agreed to review the engineers sealed letter.
If the letter was disapproved by the CA the engineer would be required to provide
trench drains that meet the code or have the trench drains field verified by a third
party testing agency to meet the ASTM standard. Ref: 412.1.
7)
(Q) My church has ball fields and they would like to build toilets facilities in lieu of the
portable units they have now. Because they are not required by code do we have to
meet a certain number of toilets?
(A) The following code interpretation was put out by the department in 1993 with the
assistance of the parks department and should be used as a guide to determine the
fixture count for your church ball field. Ref: Table 403.1, Park Fixture
Requirements. Revised April 2009. The information on calculating the minimum
facilities is in the chapter 4 interpretations reference guide on our web site.
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8)
(Q) Are there specific minimum facilities requirements for medical office buildings? What
information do I need to calculate and label bathrooms for male, female and
unisex use ?
(A) Yes. Because of the number of facilities in a typical medical office building and
the availability of assistance by nurses and medical personnel for patients the following
calculations shall be used ONLY in a medical office building for minimum facilities
counts per the Plumbing official.
Special requirements for minimum facilities in medical office buildings.
Exception number 2 to 403.2 of the North Carolina Plumbing code allows a unisex bathroom if the
occupant content is 25 people or less which includes employees and customers. If the occupant content
in a tenant space is over 25 people then 403.2 applies and separate facilities for men and women are
required and signage for each sex shall be required.
1.
If a tenant space used as a medical office has an occupant content less than 25 people
(business occupancy) then only one unisex bathroom is required. The designer may add
additional bathrooms in the tenant space. All other bathrooms added can be unisex bathrooms
and shall be handicap accessible. Each shall have, as a minimum, one lavatory and one water
closet. If the bathroom is directly accessible from a private office then it shall be handicap
accessible or handicap adaptable. This shall not be considered a public bathroom; however, the
office space the bathroom serves may be deducted from the minimum facilities calculations
for the rest of the tenant space.
2. If the occupant content of a tenant space used as a medical office has an occupant content
greater than 25 people then 403.2 applies. At least one male and one female handicap
bathroom shall be provided and labeled male and female. Each bathroom shall have at least
one lavatory and one water closet. If additional facilities are required per table 403.1
calculations or if the designer wishes to install additional patient facilities they may be
considered unisex. See “All other……………………………………..tenant space” in
paragraph 1. Above. The same requirements apply for paragraph 2.
3. If facilities are calculated for the entire floor of the building in the core bathrooms then no
bathrooms are required in the medical office tenant spaces. Facilities provided may be unisex
and handicap accessible for any tenant space that chooses to provide additional facilities.
Private office facilities shall be the same as in the two paragraphs above.
If core facilities are provided that do not meet the minimum facility calculations for the entire floor
then each separate tenant space on that floor shall be calculated separately as stated in either paragraph
one or paragraph two above. No tenant space may “take credit” for the core facilities in calculating
their individual space minimum facilities. Ref: 403.2
9)
(Q)The minimum number of drinking fountains required for an office building is provided
in table 403.1. The designer has requested a substitution of 50 % of the drinking fountains
required with bottled water dispensers. One of the required drinking fountains that would
be substituted for a bottled water dispenser is in the private bathroom of one of the company
executives. Is this bottled water dispenser allowed in this location?
(A) No. Since it is a required drinking fountain it cannot be located in a private bathroom.
Bottled water dispensers are not allowed to be used unless they meet the requirements
of 1109.5.1 & 1109.5.2 of the North Carolina Building Code. The Building Code is more
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stringent than the North Carolina State Plumbing Code so no bottled water dispensers
are allowed in any occupancy even if the minimum number of drinking fountains has
been exceeded. Ref: 410.1, 410.2(PC), 1109.5.1, 1109.5.2.1 (BC)
10) (Q) A very expensive Italian marble has been installed on all sides of a whirlpool tub in the
bathroom of a single family dwelling with no access to the pump. The inspector turned the
inspection down on a final sighting no pump access. The plumbing contractor then installed
an access panel in the floor under the tub in a crawl space and called for a re-inspection. Is
this access allowed by the code?
(A) Under certain conditions the inspector may pass the installation. The crawl space shall
be a minimum of 24 inches high, the access panel shall be at least 12 inches by 12 inches
unless the pump is more than 2 feet away from the access hole. If more than 2 feet
away the access opening then the access panel shall be 18 inches by 18 inches.
Ref: 421.5
11) (Q) A manufacturing facility has heavy equipment arriving ahead of schedule. The contractor
re- permits the project to install the equipment in a section of the plant that cuts off
employee access to the minimum facilities. The installation of the equipment will take
about two months to complete to obtain a Certificate of Compliance. Can the contractor
bring in a temporary modular toilet facility and install them inside the building? Can the
existing facilities be used if the path of travel exceeds 500 feet if the path of travel is
protected from the new construction activity?
(A) A temporary facility may be installed in the building if it is the same construction type
as the building and provisions can be made to exhaust the bathrooms. The plumbing
official may approve a path or travel greater than 500ft. in factory and industrial
occupancies ONLY. Ref: 403.4.1 Exception
12) (Q) A designer has questioned whether a check cashing business is required to have
bathrooms accessible to the public? His client has several locations. The
other locations do not allow the public to use the bathrooms.
(A) This is a business occupancy per code. Fixtures are required per the code, however, the
tenant is not required to allow the public to use the facilities. The facilities are
required to be handicap accessible and shall be on an accessible route from the public
area inside the building. The business may allow members of the public to use the
facilities. If the tenant space has an occupant count of 25 or less per the building code a
unisex bathroom may be installed in lieu of male and female separate facilities.
Ref: Table 403.1, 403.2 exception 2.
13) (Q) The plumbing inspector checks a daycare and it appears to be short minimum facilities per
table 403.1. The contractor calls the Architect to check on the facilities count. The
Architect informs the inspector the daycare minimum facilities are based on the posted
occupant count which has been approved by the building official. Will the Architect
be required to add additional facilities?
(A) No. An interpretation from Department of Insurance would allow the fixture count to
be calculated per the posted number of people. Ref: 403.3, DOI interpretation
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14) (Q) Is the plastic backing plate provided by a shower valve manufacturer, by itself, with no
connection to the structure, adequate support for a shower or tub and shower valve?
(A) No, unless the plate is listed for that application. Ref: 417.2
15) (Q) Are slip joint connections allowed in a sheetrock ceiling?
(A) Yes. Fixtures with concealed slip joint connections shall be provided with an
access panel or utility space at least 12 inches in its smallest dimension or other
approved arrangement so as to provide access to slip joint connections for inspection
and repair. Where such access cannot be provided, access doors shall not be
required, provided, that all joints are soldered, solvent cemented or screwed to form
a solid connection. 405.8
16) (Q) Are terrazzo shower pans required to be identified with the manufacturers label and the
applicable standards on the pan itself? What standards should be listed on the pan?
(A) Yes. The shower pans should meet ASME A112.19.16. Ref: 417.1, 417.4
17) Shell construction minimum facilities requirements for multistory business occupancies.
Specific review requirements for checking upfits for minimum facilities calculations:
(Q) How should we enforce the new code interpretation from Mike Page, Plumbing Chief
for DOI. The interpretation states; “ footnote “J” to table 403.1, would not require the
additional facilities if the occupant content of the space remained unchanged.” This
interpretation assumes the plumbing minimum facilities met the Code at the time it was
built or modified. If the existing building does not meet accessibility requirements,
Building Code Section 3409.7 will apply and disproportionality may require additional
drinking fountains or other the accessibility features ?
(A) If the designer can show the core minimum facilities calculations meet the occupancy
requirements for the code the shell was built under then no additional facilities are
required. If the addition of large assembly rooms or other mixed use occupancies
change the occupancy count and it exceeds the original calculation then additional
facilities are required.
18) Continuing the discussion of the shell occupancy/minimum facilities requirements
above;
(Q) What information should be required on the plans by the designer so the plans examiner
can readily check the plans for a consistent fixture count on shell up-fit plans?
(A) If the designer chooses to use the core facilities when up-fitting a space in a multi-story
business occupancy, they shall provide the following information. 1. Fill out the
minimum facilities chart listed in the appendix “B” for the shell floor. 2. Provide
calculations to verify the fixture count and occupancy information for the floor on which
the upfit will be constructed. 3. Provide a floor plan showing the location and access to
the core facilities including drinking fountains. 4. If additional facilities are required the
designer may provide the facilities either within the tenant space or add fixturers to the
core facilities. 5. The plan submittal requirements on our web site will be changed for
upfits in a shell building to reflect this change.
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19) (Q) An architect for a multi-story building project specifies 7 of the 10 lavatories required
by table 403.1 for assembly occupancy to be lavatories. He wants to specify three sinks to
meet the total lavatory count of 10. Can the plans examiner allow the three sinks to be
substituted for the required lavatories? How many sinks may be installed in bathrooms
that exceed the minimum fixture requirements?
(A) No. Lavatories are specified because they have a different fouling surface that allows
them to drain quicker for sanitary requirements than sinks. Sinks may not be substituted
for Lavatories. Ref: 418
Chapter 5 Water Heaters:
1) (Q) May a plastic safety pan be used for a gas fired instantaneous W/H?
(A) Yes, provided that the water heaters minimum distance from combustible material is
maintained. Ref: Manufacturers Instructions
2) (Q) What is the minimum size of a water heater pan drain per the current North Carolina
Plumbing Code?
(A) The plumbing code minimum in 504.7.1 requires a ¾ inch drain minimumThis is
incorrect and is a misprint in the code. The correct minimum size is 1 Inch. See DOI
letter From Henry Webster Chief Plumbing Engineer for the State Department of
Insurance Office of the State Fire Marshall.
3) (Q) What is the maximum temperature setting for a tankless water heater allowed for a
residential use only? What if temperature exceeds 140 degrees can the water heater still be
installed?
(A) 501.6 Maximum temperature is 140 degrees. 501.8 Where temperatures exceed 140
degrees a mixing valve shall be installed.
4)
(Q) A plumbing contractor “converted” a water heater from a 12 kW to an 18kW. The water
heater is located in the ceiling. It will be difficult for the inspector to observe the data plate
of the water heater. The new data plate reflecting the 18KW change has been added to
reflect the new heating capacity. The water heater now has dual (two) data plates. Is there
a problem with this installation change?
(A) Yes. Not allowed. The addition of a new data plate to the appliance negates the factory
listing/labeling of the appliance. The labels should be installed at the factory. From our
limited knowledge of this situation it sounds like a data plate has been taken from one
heater and added to another. Ref: Labeled by the Manufacturer, see def. 501.9
5)
(Q) 1. Does a point of use tankless water heater used for a sink require a drain pan and pan
discharge line to a floor or hub drain in a new building? 2. Several tank type point of use
water heaters sized between one and five gallons are installed in a new building.
Do the water heaters require a pan, drain and indirect drain within the room location?
3. Are the requirements similar for an existing building?
(A) 1. Yes. Per DOI all water heaters require a drain pan and drain to the point of
discharge.
2. Yes. The same as above.
3. Yes. Only if an available drain is readily accessible. Ref: 504.7, 504.7.2
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6) (Q) A homeowner calls to question a water heater the contractor located in the middle of the
floor of the garage. They are having difficulty parking cars around the water heater. The
water heater is on the slab and has no drain pan. What are the code issues with this
installation?
(A) The plumbing contractor that installed the Water Heater told the homeowner no permit
was required. The Water Heater must be protected from the vehicle traffic. This is
“priority one” if the Water Heater is preventing parking cars in the garage. Ref: 502.5
Chapter 6 Water Supply & Distribution:
1) (Q) What is the maximum distance a fixture supply pipe may be from the fixture it serves?
(A) Section 604.5 states 72”.
2) (Q) When are water hammer arrestors required?
(A) The flow velocity of the water distribution system shall be controlled to reduce the
possibility of water hammer. A water-hammer arrestor shall be installed where quickclosing valves (clothes washers and dishwashers) and metallic piping is used. The waterhammer arrestor shall not be required on any valves where plastic piping is used for
water distribution. Water-hammer arrestors shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s specifications. Water-hammer arrestors shall conform to ASSE 1010.
Ref: 604.9
3) (Q) Does the Code require a water distribution system to be sanitized?
(A) (No) 602.3.4 purged and disinfected, 610.1 purged of deleterious matter.
4) (Q) Is an expansion device required on a tankless water heater?
(A) No. An expansion device is required only if there is a tank type waterheater installed in
the residence. An expansion device is not required if hot water distribution is from a
tankless water heater. Ref: 607.3
5) (Q) The Plumbing Code defines the "Water Supply System" and gives the point where the
Water service pipe terminates and becomes the water distribution pipe. When the water is
supplied by a well and not a meter what is the starting point of the service pipe inspection?
(A) The plumbing inspections begin at the valve at the outlet of the pressure tank. Ref:
602.3.5, 602.3.5.1
6) (Q) When and where are pressure-reducing valves required by code, and upon what
circumstances should the Inspectors be requiring them to be installed?
(A) When the incoming water pressure exceeds 80 PSI, and on the cold water line no further
downstream than the beginning of the water distribution system. Ref: 604.8
7) (Q) Past policies have required a expansion device installed on a closed water distribution
system where there is a tank style water heater and/or backflow prevention- is this still the
case?
(A) Yes Ref: 604.8.1, 504.4.1
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8) (Q) How should expansion tanks be supported?
(A) Per the tank manufacturers installation instructions. Ref: 607.3.2
9) (Q) Does the code allow a yard hydrant with a stop and waste that is fed from underground,
potable water, yard irrigation loop? The irrigation system is for a garden and not close to
any structure.
(A) No. The code does not allow a stop and waste on a potable water system. Any
underground opening represents a possibility of contamination through back siphon age
into the potable water system. Alternate approved method. A stop-and–waste may be
installed in the situation noted above if a reduced pressure backflow preventer on the
potable irrigation loop is installed and the piping is identified from the RP to the yard
hydrant as non-potable water. Non -potable piping must be painted yellow with black
lettering stating “NON POTABLE WATER”. Ref: 608.7, 608.8.2
10) (Q) When is a Thermal expansion control device required on a water distribute system?
.
(A) An expansion device is required per the instances below. Ref: 607.3
1. When a tank type water heater is installed: Yes
2. When a tank style water heater is present and a new water service is installed with
or without a PRV on it. Yes.
3. When a tank style water heater is present and a new PRV is installed: Yes
4. When a tankless water heater is present or has been installed : No
11) (Q) What is typical about the equipment installed that would require an expansion device
to be required?
(A) A tank style water heater.
12) (Q) The water distribution piping in a restaurant is protected b a vacuum breaker that is
located under a commercial hood. Is this installation allowed by code?
(A) No. It must be located outside the hood area of exhaust. Ref: 608.15.4
Chapter 7 Sanitary Drainage:
(1) (Q). Can a force main tie into gravity drain line? If yes can a Y connection be used for
this purpose? What other requirements apply to meet code minimums?
(A) Yes. Must be 10 feet from the base of any soil stack, waste stack, or fixture drain
or the connection to a septic tank. Where the connection is to a horizontal drain
pipe the ejector shall be made on top of the drain pipe through a wye fitting at an
angle of 45 deg. Ref: 712.3.5
2) (Q) A plumbing contractor wants to use saddle valves to tap a live 6 inch main. The approval is
based on an engineer approved letter of approval for use of the valve as an alternate
method. Is this allowed?
(A) No. Saddle valves are clearly prohibited by the code. Ref: 707.1 #6
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3)
(Q) Is the flexible drain line piping approved for under sink waste piping?
(A) No. Flexible drain piping, sold at most of the big box stores, is not approved by the NC
Plumbing Code. The fittings shall not have ledges, shoulders or reductions capable of
retarding or obstructing flow in the piping. Threaded drainage pipe fittings shall be of
the recessed drainage type. Ref: 706.2
4)
(Q) The plumbing inspector has turned down a forced sewer because the cleanouts are not
spaced properly per code. The contractor says the cleanouts on the force sewer are
optional and he does not have to meet the clean out spacing requirements. Is the
contractor correct?
(A ) Yes. The code is silent on cleanouts for forced sewers. The addition of cleanouts is
optional and therefore the cleanout spacing is optional. Ref: DOI interpretation per
State Mechanical Engineer.
5)
(Q) 1. ABS and PVC DWV pipe normally has a warp or a bend. When
inspecting an inground installation, should the warp or bend be pointed up,
down, or to the side?
(A) The warp should be to the side in order to support the length of the pipe and
to maintain a uniform grade. Ref: 704.1
6)
(Q) Can a Fernco coupling be used underground to join like materials.
Example: ABS to ABS or is it required to be used only as a transition fitting?
(A) Yes. A Fernco coupling may be used in the application listed above. Ref: 706.1
7)
(Q) Can a sewer/building drain two- way cleanout be used as the clean out for the base of the
stack if it is installed vertically and directly connected to the main building drain?
(A) Yes. The cleanout on the vertical stack may be used as the clean out at the base of the
sewer/building drain. Ref: 708.3, 708.5
(8) (Q) Are pro set pipe joints allowed under slabs?
(A) Yes. See manufacturer’s data. Ref: 702.2
Chapter 8 Indirect/Special Waste:
1) (Q) What is a sacristy and what special allowances apply?
(A) It is one use where the drain is allowed to discharge directly into a drywell outside of the
structure. Ref: 803.4
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2) (Q) Can the tail piece of a lavatory or sink be used as a direct connection for the drainage from
an ice maker or medical equipment?
(A) No. An air gap shall be provided and the waste shall discharge into an approved
receptor to protect against backflow. Ref: Section 801.2, 802.1, and 802.1.6
3) (Q) Do all acid waste neutralization tanks require a monitoring device with alarm?
(A) Yes. We require monitoring and alarms on all neutralization tanks installed in
Mecklenburg County. Ref: Code Interpretation Letter & 702.5/803.2,803.5.
4) (Q) Can the discharge from a three compartment sink in a commercial Restaurant be pumped to
an indirect waste receptor in a remote location?
(A) Yes. The three compartment sink shall discharge through a flow control fitting and a
point of use grease interceptor before terminating in the lift station. The lift station
pumped discharge shall have a check valve and terminate over an indirect waste
receptor which must be visible from the three compartment sink location. Ref: 802.1.1,
802.2.1
5) (Q) Is a condensate pump that is not listed for installation in a plenum allowed in a plenum if it
has all non –combustible parts?
(A) Yes. (307.2.1, 307.2.2 Mech. Code) The plumbing official may allow the use of this pump
as an equivalency to a listed pump under the conditions stated above. Ref: 801.1
6) (Q) Are AAV’s approved for venting in Corrosive Waste DWV systems?
( A) They are not approved unless the acid soil and waste DWV system is an engineered
system approved as an alternate method by the Plumbing Code Administrator.
Ref: 803.5.
Chapter 9 Vents:
1)
(Q) When a floor drain or a floor sink receives the discharge from an espresso or
soda machine, the drain must be individually vented. Correct?
(A) No. Espresso and soda machines are not fixtures, they are pieces of
equipment. Therefore the indirect waste receptor serving those devices shall be
trapped and may be primed but not individually vented. The term "fixture"
means a sink type fixture only which is required to have an indirect drain
Examples would be a food prep sink, vegetable or fruit prep sink or a meat prep
sink. As long as the floor sink/drain trap is installed as part of a properly vented
combination waste and vent system an individual vent is not required. Ref: 912.2.4
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2) (Q) In checking the installation of an AAV in an attic the inspector notices one of the AAV’s
is leaning over slightly. He measurers the degrees it is out of plumb. It turns out it is only
18 degrees out of plumb. Should the inspector pass the installation?
(A) No. AAV’s do not work properly when they are not installed vertically. Different
manufacturers allow different deviations from vertical. The AAV in the example above
happens to be a studor –vent which allows a 15 degree deviation from vertical, therefore
the installation should be disapproved by the inspector. Always check manufacturer’s
instructions. Ref: 917.2
3) (Q)The plumbing inspector notices a specific contractor installing the AAV’s on the attic
vents during the rough in inspection. What should the inspector do?
(A) The inspector should turn down the job until the contractor removes the AAV’s.
AAV’s should only be installed after all DWV testing has been completed. Ref: 917.2
4)
(Q) Can a Positive Air Pressure Attenuator be installed in conjunction with a conventional
DWV system?
(A) Yes. If approved as an alternate method by the plumbing official. The PAPA is tested
per ASSE 1030 and may be used in conventional DWV systems to remove positive
transients related to hydraulic jump. The PAPA is usually installed in High Rise
buildings which experience the effect of positive transients on the system when
water closets tend to spit water while flushing.
Chapter 10 Traps, Interceptors & Seperators:
1) (Q) What is required for laundry drain protection for lint, buttons or strings?
(A) Laundries other than a single family residence, shall be equipped with a manufactured
device (not field fabricated) that will limit lint, buttons or string larger than ½” from
entering the drainage system. Ref: 1003.6
2) (Q) Is a separate draw off storage tank allowed to be installed as part of an oil/water separator
installation?
(A)Yes. When circumstances exist on a site that would not permit the full storage tank
capacity calculated for an integral storage oil/water separator to be installed, an integral
separator sized to meet the minimum capacity of the code may be installed with an
additional draw off tank to store the remaining capacity calculated for the separator. All
other requirements for oil/water separators installed in Mecklenburg County shall
remain the same. Ref: 1003.1, 1003.2, 1003.4, & 1003.4.2
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3)
(Q) Grease interceptors that are required by the plumbing code and by Charlotte
Mecklenburg Utility Department should be designed to meet both standards. The
utility company would like Mecklenburg County to alter its policy statement. Is
there any reason we should not honor that request?
(A) No. Unless the change is a violation of current code we can honor their request. They
would like us to add the access provision to our requirements. This standard provision
would require access to each chamber separately of a grease interceptor. Out policy will
be revised to reflect this change. Ref: 1003.3
4)
(Q) The plumbing plans examiner has turned down a plan requiring a system of floor drains
or trench drains in a repair garage that will have to discharge through an oil/water
separator. The owner calls the CA to find out if he may use dry clean up and
environmental disposal of waste just like the garage next door to his has for years?
(A)If the owner does not have floor drains or trench drains and uses dry clean up and
proper environmental disposal methods per our on line OWS interpretation, I see no
reason to require the OWS. I would always advise checking the plans to get the overall
picture of the project. We may not be getting the whole picture. If there are existing
floors or trench drains in the original building they are adding on to then the new floor
and trench drains should be added to the original drain installation and the OWS sized
to accommodate all the waste from the garage floor. We need to get a letter from the
owner about the pick up and disposal of the dry clean up material Ref: Oil Water
Separator Policy letter on our web site. Ref: 1003.4 exception
5)
(Q) Does a fire sprinkler equipment room that is required to have an annual test blow down
require a properly sized drain to sanitary sewer or can it go to the storm sewer?
(A) When you have an RP dump discharge water in an equipment room an opening in the
exterior wall at grade level or a pipe sleeve used to channel emergency over flow outside
the building my typically be used for blow down water. That water flows to the storm
drain. Neither the plumbing plan examiners nor the fire plans examiners have ever
required any type of oil water separator based on the possibility the fire line would
discharge oil and/or chemicals into the storm or sanitary sewer system. Separators are
not required. Any quantity of oil or chemicals in the waste water would be minute and
diluted. The discharge can go to either the storm or the sanitary sewer system. No
separator is required. . Ref: 1003.2.
6)
(Q) A residential washing machine is installed as part of the restaurant equipment without a
separate lint interceptor. The designer shows the plans examiner the integral lint
interceptor information supplied by the manufacturer. The washing machine is only used to
wash hand towels. Is a separate lint interceptor required?
(A) No. It is determined the washing machine is used for minimal washing of hand towels
and has an integral lint filter therefore a separate lint interceptor is not required.
Ref: 1003.6
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(7) (Q) Under what conditions would we accept concrete grease interceptors in Mecklenburg
County?
(A) (1) It shall have a capacity equal to or greater than 500 gallons storage capacity.
(2) It shall be installed outside the building. (3) The interceptor shall be delivered on site
as a complete unit and require no field fabrications or modifications. (4) It shall be
clearly marked with the manufacturers name and the standards to which they comply.
(5) An engineer (registered in the state of North Carolina) is responsible for proper
sizing of the grease interceptor. Ref: 1003.3
Chapter 11 Storm Drainage:
1) (Q) How do vertical walls affect roof drain calculations?
(A) In sizing roof drains and storm drainage piping, one-half of the area of any vertical wall
that diverts rainwater to the roof shall be added to the projected roof area for inclusion
in calculating the required size of vertical conductors, leaders and horizontal storm
drainage piping. Ref: 1106.4
2) (Q) I am attaching a handmade metal box I designed to a 4 inch overflow roof drain that
terminates on the side wall of an apartment building. I am installing a screen in the box to
restrict the flow so the water will not be pouring down the side of the building and staining
the brick finish. Does this installation meet the Code?
(A) No. The size of the drainage pipe is reduced in the direction of flow. The fitting is not
approved and retards the direction of flow. The fitting has shoulders and/or reductions
that retard flow. Strainers are allowed on roof surfaces only for overflow drains this is a
side wall mounted fitting. Ref: 1101.5, 1101.6, 1102.7, 1105.1, 1107.2
3) (Q) Is it still applicable to use the 3.2” and 6.6” rainfall amounts for primary and secondary
roof drain quantities? These values were in the table approved by Phil Edwards for
rainfall as long as we noted on the plans that we used those totals? It has been about 8-12
months since I last checked.
(A) Yes. You can still use either the NC Plumbing Code calculations or CMUD data. It is the
designers’ choice as long as the code tables do not contain a lesser value than local
weather conditions. The rainfall amounts in your email are from CMUD data and would
still apply for local rainfall amounts used in your calculations. Ref: 1106.1
4) (Q) What should the maximum drain size be for a swimming pool drain terminating in a CMUD
manhole? Maximum drains from the manhole are typically 4 inch.
(A) CMUD (the utility) is consistently having manhole flooding problems. The problem
arises when a 6 inch pool drain discharges into a utility manhole that has 4 inch
maximum utility drains. CMUD wants to eliminate this costly problem by requiring a
maximum drain size of 4 inches for all pool drains. In order to resolve the problem and
reduce flooding problems we will require the maximum drain size from a pool to the
utility manhole to be 4 inch. Larger pools, example: (Olympic size pools.) We will
increase the drain size when the utility connection can handle the larger drain size from
the pool.
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POLICY/ADMINISTRATION/DEFINITIONS;Chapter 1,2
1) (Q) What is the maximum depth that a two-way C/O may be installed?
(A) The maximum depth shall not exceed 24” below grade. If deeper depths are required,
then an additional combination may be placed as close as possible downstream of the
required building drain/sewer junction C/O.
2) (Q) A single family home is connected to a septic tank. Can a dishwasher or washing machine
be connected to the drainage system of the house? Can the washing machine be connected
to a dry well?
(A) The homeowner would be required to contact the Environmental Health Department for
Mecklenburg County. They regulate the installation, repair, and alteration of the septic
tank systems in Mecklenburg County.
3) (Q) I’ve received a complaint on one of our child care centers and apparently the center’s
sewage grinder tank does not work properly, to the point that the center has their tank
pumped weekly or whenever the tank’s alarm goes off. The tank overflows into the
adjacent playground/parking lot. I’m planning to visit the facility and advise them that the
sewage cannot flow onto the ground and that their sewage system must work properly. That
being said, the caller also advised that the grinder in the tank was not adequate when it was
installed. As far as the effectiveness of the grinder tank, will the issue fall under Code
Enforcement?
(A) We do not get involved with the performance of the pump; it comes down to “Does the
pump/tank operate as designed?” It goes back to the installing contractor- he/she is liable
for the design/installation/performance of the equipment. If I were the tenant, I would call
the installing contractor and have them check on why it did not work as designed.
4) (Q) 21 NCAC 50 .0505 (NC Administrative Code)
The general supervision required by G.S. 87-26 is that degree of supervision
which is necessary and sufficient to ensure that the contract is performed in a
workmanlike manner and with the requisite skill and that the installation is
made properly, safely and in accordance with applicable codes and
rules. General supervision requires that review of the work done pursuant to the
license be performed by a licensee of the firm while the work is in progress.
What are the requirements per the North Carolina Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler
Contractors licensing laws?
(A) **Contractors must immediately inform the board that he/she is no longer the
qualifier and all work must cease** The contractors Mecklenburg County account will be
put into an “H” status which will prevent the contractor from obtaining permits until he
has a new qualifier.
5)
(Q) A domestic water heater replacement was installed in a crawl space on its side because of
clearance problems. The homeowner complained to the department that she has had no hot
water in her kitchen since the water heater was installed. The homeowner also contacted the
contractor who told her a permit was not required to install a water heater. What should the
department do to resolve the problem? Does the contractor have to get a permit for this
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work?
(A) Inspections must create an RQ to inspect the work. They should instruct the
homeowner to contact the State Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractor Board
if they wish to file a complaint against the licensed contractor. Inspections will triple fee
the licensed contractor and notify him of the need for a permit and inspection.
6)
(Q) Is a plumbing license required to replace a shower liner? Does the replacement require a
permit?
(A) Yes. A plumbing license is required. Yes. A permit is required. Per DOI – Henry
Webster
7)
(Q) Does a NC state plumbing license cover the installation of a vent for a gas fired water
heater?
(A) Yes. Per John Taderro, investigator for the North Carolina Plumbing, Heating, and
Fire Sprinkler Contractor Licensing Board.
8)
(Q) What are the goals of the TAB (Technical Advisory Board) as an arm of the BDC
( Building Development Commission)?
(A) The Technical Advisory Board (TAB) is made up of members of the design community,
the utility, and the Code Enforcement CA’s. The goal of the committee is to assist the
design community in their efforts to install equipment and systems that qualify as
sustainable design features of a building and are in compliance with the minimum codes.
(Q) A plumbing inspector in called to inspect a renovation project for a restaurant. While
9)
inspecting the underground connection outside the building he/she notices the grease
interceptor is overflowing into the parking lot. Does the inspector have the authority
to require the owner to have the Grease Interceptor re-inspected to see if it is code
compliant?
(A) Yes. The code official shall have the authority to require any plumbing system to be reinspected. Ref: 102.3
10)
(Q) While making a routine inspection the plumbing inspector notices that the occupancy
has clearly changed from the information on the plans. He notes that the minimum
facilities will not meet the minimum requirements for the new occupancy. What
should the Plumbing Inspector do to resolve these issues? Ref: 102.5
(A) The inspector should inform the Building Inspector of the occupancy change
especially if the change results in any hazard to the public health, safety or welfare.
11)
(Q) A plumbing inspector is checking a Vacuum Breaker location in a dental office. There
are no critical level markings on the device. Should the inspector turn the inspection
down because the VB is not marked?
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(A) No. If the device is not marked the bottom of the device shall constitute the critical
level (C-L). The VB shall be installed above the flood level rim of the fixture served b
the device. Ref: Chapter 2-Definitions-Critical Level (C-L)
12)
(Q) Are water heaters installed in one and two family residences and townhouses
required to meet seismic support requirements?
(A) Neither 2009 IRC code or the 2009 MC or FGC require seismic support for
residential water heaters. It is not required in the current code. See 2009 IRC.
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4rth
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