Board of Rules and AppealsFBC 6th Edition (2017)- Plumbing - Supplement No. 1 January 1, 2018

Broward County Board of Rules and AppealsOne North University Drive Suite 3500 B, Plantation, Florida 33324 - Phone: 954 -765-4500

Website: www.broward.org/codeappeals

Florida Building Code 6th Edition (2017) Plumbing

Broward County EditionLoose-leaf Supplement

Insert and maintain this instruction sheet in front of the Florida Building Code, 6th Edition (2017) –Plumbing.

File removed pages for reference.

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Chapter 3 - Page 15 - 166 35 - 36

Chapter 6 - Page 37 - 38

APPENDIX F - Page 155 - 156 APPENDIX F - Page 159 - 160 APPENDIX F - Page 161 - 162 APPENDIX F - Page 163 - 164

Chapter 3 - Page 15 - 166 35- 36

Chapter 6 - Page 37- 38

APPENDIX F - Page 155 - 156 APPENDIX F - Page 159 - 160 APPENDIX F - Page 161 - 162 APPENDIX F - Page 163 - 164

Highlight of changes:

Modification to section [M] 314.2.12. Modification to section 604.4

3. Modification to table 604.4

4. Modification to Appendix F - page 1555. Modification to Appendix F - page 1606. Modification to Appendix F - page 161-1627. Modification to Appendix F - page 164

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GENERAL REGULATIONS

16

mm) measured at the threshold. Where a threshold of at least2 inches (51 mm) high does not exist, a temporary thresholdshall be constructed to retain the test water in the lined flooror receptor area to a level not less than 2 inches (51 mm) deepmeasured at the threshold. The water shall be retained for atest period of not less than 15 minutes, and there shall not beevidence of leakage.

312.10 Inspection and testing of backflow preventionassemblies. Inspection and testing shall comply with Sec-tions 312.10.1 and 312.10.2.

312.10.1 Inspections. Inspections shall be made of allbackflow prevention assemblies and air gaps to determinewhether they are operable.

312.10.2 Testing. Reduced pressure principle, doublecheck, pressure vacuum breaker, reduced pressure detectorfire protection, double check detector fire protection, andspill-resistant vacuum breaker backflow preventer assem-blies and hose connection backflow preventers shall betested at the time of installation and immediately afterrepairs or relocation. The testing procedure shall be per-formed in accordance with one of the following stan-dards: ASSE 5013, ASSE 5015, ASSE 5020, ASSE 5047,ASSE 5048, ASSE 5052, ASSE 5056, CSA B64.10 orCSA B64.10.1.

SECTION313EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCIES

313.1 General. Equipment efficiencies shall be in accor-dance with the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation.

SECTION 314 CONDENSATE DISPOSAL

[M] 314.1 Fuel-burning appliances. Liquid combustion by-products of condensing appliances shall be collected and dis-chargedto an approved plumbing fixture or disposal area in accordance withthe manufacturer’s instructions. Condensate piping shall be ofapproved corrosion-resistant material and shall not be smaller thanthe drain connection on the appli-ance. Such piping shall maintain ahorizontal slope in the direction of discharge of not less than one-eighth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent slope).

[M] 314.2 Evaporators and cooling coils. Condensate drainsystems shall be provided for equipment and appliances con-tainingevaporators or cooling coils. Condensate drain sys-tems shall bedesigned, constructed and installed in accordance withSections 314.2.1 through 314.2.5.

[M] 314.2.1 Condensate drainage collection, use or disposal.Condensate from all cooling coils and evaporators of equipmentserved by an onsite cooling tower in a building or structurewherein the aggregate cooling capacity of the equipmentexceeds 65,000 Btu/hr shall be collected and conveyed from thedrain pan outlet and discharged to the cooling tower. Where anon-site cooling tower is not installed the condensate from allcooling coils and evaporators shall be conveyed from thedrain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal. Such pipingshall maintain a horizontal slope in the direction of discharge ofnot less than one-eighth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent slope). Condensate shall not discharge into a street,alley or other areas so as to cause a nuisance.

[M] TABLE 314.2.2

CONDENSATE DRAIN SIZING

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 ton of capacity = 3.517 kW.

[M] 314.2.3 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems. In additionto the requirements of Section 314.2.1, where damage to anybuilding components could occur as a result of overflow from theequipment primary condensate removal system, one of the followingauxiliary protection methods shall be provided for each coolingcoil or fuel-fired appliance that produces condensate:

2. A separate overflow drain line shall be connected to thedrain pan provided with the equipment. Such overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The overflow drain

EQUIPMENT CAPACITY

MINIMUM CONDENSATE PIPE DIAMETER

(inch)

Up to 20 tons of refrigeration 3/4 inch

Over 20 tons to 40 tons of refrigeration 1 inch

Over 40 tons to 90 tons of refrigeration 11/4 inch

Over 90 tons to 125 tons of refrigeration 11/2 inch

Over 125 tons to 250 tons of refrigeration 2 inch

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017)

Adopted: October 12, 2017Effective: January 1, 2018

Exceptions:1. Condensate from cooling coils and evaporators is notrequired to be collected and conveyed to an on-site cooling tower: provided 1.1 through 1.3 are met:

2. In existing buildings condensate may be collected andconveyed to a cooling tower or discharged to an approved place of disposal.

1.1 The equipment comprises 10% or less of the total capacity of the cooling tower system1.2 The equipment is located in an isolated or remote area1.3 The size of the equipment is 65,000 Btu/hr or less

[M] 314.2.2 Drain pipe materials and sizes. Components of thecondensate disposal system shall be cast iron, galvanized steel,copper, cross-linked polyethylene, polyethylene, ABS, CPVC orPVC or polypropylene pipe or tubing. All components shall beselected for the pressure and temperature rating of the pressure andtemperature rating of the installation. Joints and connections shallbe made in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 7relative to the material type. Condensate waste and drain line sizeshall be not less than 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) internal diameter shallnot decrease in size from the drain pan connection to the place ofthe condensate disposal. Where the drain pipes from more thanone unit are manifolded together for condensate drainage, the pipeor tubing shall be sized in accordance with Table 314.2.2.

1. An auxiliary drain pan with a separate drain shall beprovided under the coils on which condensation will occur.The auxiliary pan drain shall discharge to a conspicuous pointof disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of theprimary drain. The pan shall have a depth of not less than11/2 inches (38 mm), shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm)larger than the unit or the coil dimensions in width and lengthand shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant material.Galvanized sheet metal pans shall have a thickness of not lessthan 0.0236-inch (0.6010 mm) (No. 24 gage) galvanizedsheet metal. Nonmetallic pans shall have a thickness of notless than 0.0625-inch (1.6 mm)

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017) 35

CHAPTER 6

WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION

SECTION 601GENERAL

601.1 Scope. This chapter shall govern the materials, designand installation of water supply systems, both hot and cold,for utilization in connection with human occupancy and habi-tation and shall govern the installation of individual watersupply systems.

601.2 Solar energy utilization. Solar energy systems usedfor heating potable water or using an independent medium forheating potable water shall comply with the applicablerequirements of this code. The use of solar energy shall notcompromise the requirements for cross connection or protec-tion of the potable water supply system required by this code.

601.3 Existing piping used for grounding. Existing metallicwater service piping used for electrical grounding shall not bereplaced with nonmetallic pipe or tubing until other approvedmeans of grounding is provided.

601.4 Tests. The potable water distribution system shall betested in accordance with Section 312.5.

601.5 Rehabilitation of piping systems. Where pressurepiping systems are rehabilitated using an epoxy lining sys-tem, such lining system shall comply with ASTM F2831.

SECTION 602WATER REQUIRED

602.1 General. Structures equipped with plumbing fixturesand utilized for human occupancy or habitation shall be pro-vided with a potable supply of water in the amounts and at thepressures specified in this chapter.

602.2 Potable water required. Only potable water shall besupplied to plumbing fixtures that provide water for drinking,bathing or culinary purposes, or for the processing of food,medical or pharmaceutical products. Unless otherwise pro-vided in this code, potable water shall be supplied to allplumbing fixtures.

602.3 Individual water supply. Where a potable publicwater supply is not available, individual sources of potablewater supply meeting the requirements of Florida Statue 373shall be utilized.

602.3.1 Sources. Dependent on geological and soil condi-tions and the amount of rainfall, individual water suppliesare of the following types: drilled well, driven well, dugwell, bored well, spring, stream or cistern. Surface bodiesof water and land cisterns shall not be sources of individ-ual water supply unless properly treated by approvedmeans to prevent contamination.

602.3.2 Minimum quantity. The combined capacity ofthe source and storage in an individual water supply sys-tem shall supply the fixtures with water at rates and pres-sures as required by this chapter.

602.3.3 Water quality. Water from an individual watersupply shall be approved as potable by the authority hav-ing jurisdiction prior to connection to the plumbing sys-tem.

602.3.4 Disinfection of system. After construction, theindividual water supply system shall be purged of delete-rious matter and disinfected in accordance with Section610.

602.3.5 Pumps. Pumps shall be rated for the transport ofpotable water. Pumps in an individual water supply systemshall be constructed and installed so as to prevent contam-ination from entering a potable water supply through thepump units. Pumps shall be sealed to the well casing orcovered with a water-tight seal. Pumps shall be designedto maintain a prime and installed such that ready access isprovided to the pump parts of the entire assembly forrepairs.

602.3.5.1 Pump enclosure. The pump room or enclo-sure around a well pump shall be drained and protectedfrom freezing by heating or other approved means.Where pumps are installed in basements, such pumpsshall be mounted on a block or shelf not less than 18inches (457 mm) above the basement floor. Well pitsshall be prohibited.

602.4 Reclaimed water. Reclaimed water shall be permittedto be used for flushing water closets and urinals and other fix-tures which do not require potable water in accordance withFlorida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)Chapter 62-610, Florida Administrative Code (FAC). Reuseof reclaimed water activities shall comply with the require-ments of DEP Chapter 62-610, FAC.

WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION

36

SECTION 603WATER SERVICE

603.1 Size of water service pipe. The water service pipeshall be sized to supply water to the structure in the quantitiesand at the pressures required in this code. The water servicepipe shall be not less than 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) in diameter.

603.2 Separation of water service and building sewer.Where water service piping is located in the same trench withthe building sewer, such sewer shall be constructed of materi-als listed in Table 702.2. Where the building sewer piping isnot constructed of materials listed in Table 702.2, the waterservice pipe and the building sewer shall be horizontally sep-arated by not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) of undisturbed orcompacted earth. The required separation distance shall notapply where a water service pipe crosses a sewer pipe, pro-vided the water service is sleeved to a point not less than 5feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the sewer pipe centerlineon both sides of such crossing. The sleeve shall be of pipematerials listed in Table 605.3, 702.2 or 702.3. The requiredseparation distance shall not apply where the bottom of thewater service pipe, located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of thesewer, is not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the highestpoint of the top of the building sewer.

603.2.1 Water service near sources of pollution. Potablewater service pipes shall not be located in, under or abovecesspools, septic tanks, septic tank drainage fields or seep-age pits (see Section 605.1 for soil and ground water condi-tions).

SECTION 604DESIGN OF BUILDING

WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

604.1 General. The design of the water distribution systemshall conform to accepted engineering practice. Methods uti-lized to determine pipe sizes shall be approved.

604.2 System interconnection. At the points of interconnec-tion between the hot and cold water supply piping systemsand the individual fixtures, appliances or devices, provisionsshall be made to prevent flow between such piping systems.

604.3 Water distribution system design criteria. The waterdistribution system shall be designed, and pipe sizes shall beselected such that under conditions of peak demand, thecapacities at the fixture supply pipe outlets shall be not lessthan shown in Table 604.3. The minimum flow rate and flowpressure provided to fixtures and appliances not listed inTable 604.3 shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’sinstallation instructions.

TABLE 604.3WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA REQUIRED

CAPACITY AT FIXTURE SUPPLY PIPE OUTLETS

For SI: 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.

a. For additional requirements for flow rates and quantities, see Section604.4.

b. Where the shower mixing valve manufacturer indicates a lower flowrating for the mixing valve, the lower value shall be applied.

604.4 Maximum flow and water consumption. The maxi-mum water consumption flow rates and quantities for allplumbing fixtures and fixture fittings shall be in accordancewith Table 604.4.

Exceptions:

1. Blowout design water closets having a water con-sumption not greater than 31/2 gallons (13 L) perflushing cycle.

2. Vegetable sprays.

3. Clinical sinks having a water consumption notgreater than 41/2 gallons (17 L) per flushing cycle.

4. Service sinks.

5. Emergency showers.

�

FIXTURE SUPPLY OUTLET SERVING

FLOW RATEa (gpm)

FLOW PRESSURE

(psi)

Bathtub, balanced-pressure, thermostatic or combination balanced-pressure/thermostatic mixing valve

4 20

Bidet, thermostatic mixing valve 2 20Combination fixture 4 8Dishwasher, residential 2.75 8Drinking fountain 0.75 8Laundry tray 4 8Lavatory, private 0.8 8Lavatory, private, mixing valve 0.8 8Lavatory, public 0.4 8Shower 2.5 8Shower, balanced-pressure, thermostatic or combination balanced-pressure/thermostatic mixing valve

2.5b 20

Sillcock, hose bibb 5 8Sink, residential 1.75 8Sink, service 3 8Urinal, valve 12 25Water closet, blow out, flushometer valve 25 45Water closet, flushometer tank 1.6 20Water closet, siphonic, flushometer valve 25 35Water closet, tank, close coupled 3 20Water closet, tank, one piece 6 20

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017)

Adopted: October 12, 2017Effective: January 1, 2018

6. All fixtures, fittings and appliances with U.S. EnvironmentalAgency WaterSense® (EPA) label.

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017) 155

APPENDIX F

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION BUILDING CODES FORTURF AND LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

PART 1: GENERAL

A. Description.

1. Purpose. To establish uniform minimum standardsand requirements for the design and installation ofsafe, cost effective, reliable irrigation systems forturf and landscape areas which promote the effi-cient use and protection of water and other naturalresources.

2. Definition. Turf and landscape irrigation systemsapply water by means of permanent above-groundor subsurface sprinkler or microsprinkler equip-ment under pressure.

3. Scope. These construction codes shall apply to allirrigation systems used on residential and commer-cial landscape areas. They address the designrequirements, water quality, materials, installation,inspection, and testing for such systems. These con-struction codes do not apply to irrigation systemsfor golf courses, nurseries, greenhouses, or agricul-tural production systems.

4. Application. All new irrigation systems and anynew work to existing irrigation systems shall con-form to the requirements of this code.

5. Application to existing irrigation installations.Nothing contained in this code shall be deemed torequire any irrigation system or part thereof, whichexisted prior to the establishment of this code, to bechanged, altered or modified to meet the standardsof this code.

B. Permits.

1. Permits required. It shall be unlawful to construct,enlarge, alter, modify, repair, or move any irriga-tion system or part thereof, or to install or alter anyequipment for which provision is made or theinstallation of which is regulated by this code with-out first having filed application and obtained a per-mit therefore from the building official. A permitshall be deemed issued when signed by the buildingofficial and impressed with the seal of the govern-mental agency issuing said permit.

2. Exceptions. All work where exempt from permitshall still be required to comply with the code. Nopermit shall be required for general maintenance orrepairs which do not change the structure or alterthe system and the value of which does not exceed$600.00 in labor and material based on invoicevalue.

C. Preconstruction submittals.

1. Plans or drawings.

a. Single-family residence. Provide design draw-ings orshop drawings, where required, for the installation prior tostart of construction. Design drawings shall be clearlyreadable, to reasonable scale, show the entire site to beirrigated, and include all improvements. Drawings can bepre-pared by a properly licensed qualified contractor.

b. Commercial, industrial, municipal and multi-ple-family.Provide professionally designed drawings prior to startof construction. Design drawings shall be clearly readable,to reasonable scale, show the entire site to be irrigated,includ-ing all improvements, and shall include but not belimited to: date, scale, revisions, legend, speci-fications whichlist all aspects of equipment and assembly there of, watersource, water meter and/or point of connection, backflowprevention devices, pump station size, pump station location,design operating pressure and flow rate per zone, precipitationrate per zone, locations of pipe, con-trollers, valves,sprinklers, sleeves, gate valves, etc. The plans andspecifications shall be pre-pared in accordance with Section107 of the Flor-ida Building Code, Building.

c. Sprinkler layout. Sprinkler layout may be modified to adjustfor field conditions provided it complies with part VI, SectionB, subsection 1 Sprinkler layout and spacing. Prior to finalinspection, the contractor shall submit a letter or as-builtdrawing that reflects the modification to the authority withjurisdiction.

D. Definitions.

ABS Pipe. Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene black,semi-rigid, plastic pipe extruded to IPS. ABS pipe is inlimited use in present day irrigation systems. Solventweld fittings are used with this pipe (see ASTMD1788).

Air Release Valve. A valve which will automaticallyrelease to the atmosphere accumulated small pockets ofair from a pressurized pipeline. A small orifice is usedto release air at low flow rates. Air release valves arenormally required at all summits of mainline and sub-main pipelines in an irrigation system.

Anti-Siphon Device. A safety device used to preventback-flow of irrigation water to the water source byback-siphonage.

Application Rate. The average rate at which water isapplied by an irrigation system, sometimes also calledprecipitation rate. Units are typically inches/hr or mm/hr.

Application Uniformity. Irrigation application unifor-mity (also known as distribution uniformity) describeshow evenly water is distributed within an irrigationzone.

Arc. The angle of coverage of a sprinkler in degreesfrom one side of throw to the other. A 90-degree arcwould be a quarter-circle sprinkler.

Adopted: October 12, 2017Effective: January 1, 2018

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156

Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker. An anti-siphondevice which uses a floating seat to direct water flow.Water draining back from irrigation lines is directed tothe atmosphere to protect the potable water supply.

Automatic Control Valve. A valve in a sprinkler sys-tem which is activated by an automatic controller byway of hydraulic or electrical control lines and controlsa single device or multiple devices.

Automatic System. An irrigation system which oper-ates following a preset program entered into an auto-matic controller.

Backflow Prevention Device. An approved safetydevice used to prevent pollution or contamination ofthe irrigation water supply due to backflow from theirrigation system.

Belled (Pipe). Pipe which is enlarged at one end so thatthe spigot end of another length of pipe can be insertedinto it during the assembly of a pipeline.

Block (of sprinklers). A group of sprinklers controlledby one valve. Also called zones or subunits.

Block System. An irrigation system in which severalgroups of sprinklers are controlled by one valve foreach group.

Bubbler Irrigation. The application of water to thesoil surface or a container as a small stream or fountain.Bubbler emitter discharge rates are greater than the 0.5to 2 gph characteristic of drip emitters, but generallyless than 60 gph.

Check Valve. A valve which permits water to flow inone direction only.

Chemical Water Treatment. The addition of chemi-cals to water to make it acceptable for use in irrigationsystems

Chemigation. The application of water soluble chemi-cals by mixing or injecting with the water appliedthrough an irrigation system.

Contractor. Any person who engages in the fabrica-tion and installation of any type of irrigation system ona contractual basis in accordance with all stipulationsreceiving his compensation.

Control Lines. Hydraulic or electrical lines whichcarry signals (to open and close the valves) from thecontroller to the automatic valves.

Controller. The timing mechanism and its mountingbox. The controller signals the automatic valves toopen and close on a pre-set program or based on sensorreadings.

Coverage. Refers to the way water is applied to anarea.

Cycle. Refers to one complete run of a controllerthrough all programmed controller stations.

Demand (or irrigation demand). Refers to the irriga-tion requirements of the irrigated area. Demand primar-

ily depends on the type of crop, stage of growth, andclimatic factors.

Design Area. The specific land area to which water isto be applied by an irrigation system.

Design Emission Uniformity. An estimate of the uni-formity of water application with an irrigation system.

Design Pressure. The pressure at which the irrigationsystem or certain components are designed to operate.The irrigation system design pressure is that measuredat the pump discharge or entrance to the system if thereis no pump, and a zone design pressure is the averageoperating pressure of all emitters within that zone.

Direct Burial Wire. Plastic-coated single-strand cop-per wire for use as control line for electric valves.

Discharge Rate. The instantaneous flow rate of anindividual sprinkler, emitter, or other water emittingdevice, or a unit length of line-source microirrigationtubing. Also, the flow rate from a pumping system.

Double Check Valve. An approved assembly of twosingle, independently-acting check valves with testports to permit independent testing of each check valve.

Drain Valve. A valve used to drain water from a line.The valve may be manually or automatically operated.

Drip Irrigation. The precise low-rate application ofwater to or beneath the soil surface near or directly intothe plant root zone. Applications normally occur assmall streams, discrete or continuous drops, in therange of 0.5 to 2.0 gph.

Effluent water. Also referred to as reclaimed or graywater is wastewater which has been treated per FloridaStatute, §403.086 and is suitable for use as a water sup-ply for irrigation systems.

Emitters. Devices which are used to control the dis-charge of irrigation water from lateral pipes. This termis primarily used to refer to the low flow rate devicesused in microirrigation systems.

Fertigation. The application of soluble fertilizers withthe water applied through an irrigation system.

Filtration System. The assembly of physical compo-nents used to remove suspended solids from irrigationwater. These include both pressure and gravity typedevices, such as settling basins, screens, media filters,and centrifugal force units (vortex sand separators).

Flexible Swing Joint. A flexible connection betweenthe lateral pipe and the sprinkler which allows thesprinkler to move when force is applied to it.

Flow Meters. Devices used to measure the volume offlow of water (typically in gallons), or flow rates (typi-cally in gpm), and to provide data on system usage.

Gauge (Wire). Standard specification for wire size.The larger the gauge number, the smaller the wirediameter.

Head. A sprinkler head. Sometimes used interchange-ably with and in conjunction with “Sprinkler.”

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017)

Adopted: October 12, 2017Effective: January 1, 2018

3. Threaded PVC pipe firings fittings shall meet the requirements of Schedule 40 as set forth in ASTM D2464.

APPENDIX F

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017) 161

where site conditions present a potential for dam-age.

3. Support riser-mounted sprinklers to minimizemovement of the riser resulting from the action ofthe sprinkler.

4. Swing joints, either flexible or rigid, shall be con-structed to provide a leak-free connection betweenthe sprinkler and lateral pipeline to allow move-ment in any direction and to prevent equipmentdamage.

5. Check valves shall be installed on any sprinklerwhere low point drainage occurs.

6. All tubing shall be installed under ground coverusing staples at close enough intervals (24 to 36inches) to secure the tubing and prevent it frommoving through the mulch bed.

F. Valves.

1. Valves must have a maximum working pressurerating equal to or greater than the maximum pres-sure of the system, but not less than 125 psi (861kPa). This requirement may be waived for lowmainline pressure systems [30 psi (207 kPa) orless]. All valves used with effluent water systemsshall be designated for nonpotable use by eitherlabel or by the industry standard color purple.

2. Only valves that are constructed of materialsdesigned for use with the water and soil conditionsof the installation shall be used. Valves that are con-structed from materials that will not be deterioratedby chemicals injected into the system shall be usedon all chemical injection systems.

G. Valve boxes.

1. Valve boxes are to be constructed to withstand traf-fic loads common to the area in which they areinstalled. They should be sized to allow manualoperation of the enclosed valves without excava-tion.

2. Each valve box should be permanently labeled toidentify its contents. All valve boxes used witheffluent water systems shall be designated for non-potable use by either label or by the industry stan-dard color purple.

H. Low voltage wiring.

1. All low voltage wire which is directly buried mustbe labeled for direct burial wire. Wire not labeledfor direct burial must be installed in watertight con-duits, and be UL listed TWN or THHN type wire asdescribed in the NEC. All wire traveling under anyhardscape or roadway must installed within a pipeand sleeve.

2. The size of the electrical control wire shall be inaccordance with the valve manufacturer’s specifi-cations, based on the solenoid in-rush amperage andthe circuit length, considering the number of sole-

noids operating, on the circuit. Minimum of #14AWG single strand control wire shall be used on allsystems, except single lot individual residential sys-tems.

3. Connections are to be made using UL approveddevices specifically designed for direct burial. Allsplices shall be enclosed within a valve box.

I. Irrigation controllers.

1. All irrigation controllers shall be UL listed, con-form to the provisions of the National ElectricCode (NEC), and be properly grounded in accor-dance with manufacturer’s recommendations.Equip solid state controls with surge suppressors onthe primary and secondary wiring, except single lotresidential systems.

2. The controller housing or enclosure shall protectthe controller from the hazards of the environmentin which it is installed.

3. The rain switch shall be placed on a stationarystructure minimum of 5-foot (1524 mm) clearancefrom other outdoor equipment, free and clear ofany tree canopy or other overhead obstructions,and above the height of the sprinkler coverage.Soil moisture sensors and ET sensors shall beinstalled and monitored per manufacturer’s guide-lines per Florida Statutes, Section 373.62 require-ments.

J. Pumps and wells.

1. Irrigation pump electrical control systems mustconform to NEC and local building codes.

2. The pumping system shall be protected from thehazards of the environment in which it is installed.

3. Use electric motors with a nominal horsepowerrating greater than the maximum horsepowerrequirement of the pump during normal operation.Motor shall have a service factor of at least 1.15.

4. Casings for drilled wells may be steel, reinforcedplastic mortar, plastic, or fiberglass pipe. Only steelpipe casings shall be used in driven wells. Steelpipe must have a wall thickness equal to or greaterthan Schedule 40. See SCS code FL-642. Steel cas-ings shall be equal to or exceed requirements ofASTM A589.

K. Chemical injection equipment.

1. Chemical injection equipment must be constructedof materials capable of withstanding the potentialcorrosive effects of the chemicals being used.Equipment shall be used only for those chemicalsfor which it was intended as stated by the injectionequipment manufacturer.

L. Filters and strainers.

1. Filtration equipment and strainers constructed ofmaterials resistant to the potential corrosive and

APPENDIX F

162

erosive effects of the water shall be used. They shallbe sized to prevent the passage of foreign materialthat would obstruct the sprinkler/emitter outlets inaccordance with the manufacturer’s recommenda-tions.

PART V: INSTALLATION

A. Pipe installation.

1. Pipe shall be installed at sufficient depth belowground to protect it from hazards such as vehiculartraffic or routine occurrences which occur in thenormal use and maintenance of a property. Depthsof cover shall meet or exceed SCS Code 430-DD,Water Conveyance, as follows:

a. Vehicle traffic areas.

b. All areas except vehicle traffic:

2. Make all pipe joints and connections according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Perform all sol-vent-weld connections in accordance with ASTM D2855.

3. Minimum clearances shall be maintained between irrigation lines and other utilities. In no case shall one irrigation pipe rest upon another. Comingling or mixing of different types of pipe assemblies shall be prohibited.

4. Thrust blocks or other approved method must be used on all gasketed PVC systems. They must be formed against a solid, hand-excavated trench wall undamaged by mechan-ical equipment. They shall be constructed of con-crete, and the space between the pipe and trench shall be filled to the height of the outside diameter of the pipe. Size thrust blocks in accordance with ASAE S-376.1.

5. The trench bottom must be uniform, free of debris, and of sufficient width to properly place pipe and support it over its entire length. Native excavated material may be used to backfill the pipe trench. However, the initial backfill material to 6" above the top of the pipe shall be free from rocks or stones larger than 1-inch in diameter. The final backfill material shall be free of rock or debris that is greater than 3" in diameter. At the time of placement, the moisture content of the material shall be such that the required degree of compaction can be obtained with the backfill method to be used. Blocking or mounding shall not be used to bring the pipe to final grade.

6. Pipe sleeves must be used to protect pipes or wires

installed under pavement or roadways., or when positionof irrigation pipes or wires conflict with pipes orappurtenances of other trades. Use pipe sleeves two pipesizes larger than the carrier pipe or twice the diameter ofthe wire bundle to be placed under the paving orroadway and extending a mini-mum of 3 feet beyondthe paved area or as required by the Florida Departmentof Transportation (FDOT). Use sleeve pipe with wallthickness at least equal to the thickness of Schedule 40or PR 160 pipe, whichever is thicker. Proper backfilland compaction procedures should be followed.

B. Control valve installation.

1. Valve installation shall allow enough clearance forproper operation and maintenance. Where valvesare installed underground, they shall be providedwith a valve box with cover extending from gradeto the body of the valve. The top of the valve bodyshould have a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) ofcover in nontraffic and noncultivated areas and 18inches (457 mm) of cover in traffic areas. The valvebox shall be installed so as to minimize the effect ofsoil intrusion within the valve box with the use offilter fabric, pea gravel, or other acceptablematerial. If an automatic valve is installed undereach sprinkler, then the valve box may be omitted.

2. Install valve boxes so that they do not rest on thepipe, the box cover does not conflict with the valvestem or interfere with valve operation, they areflush with the ground surface and do not present atripping hazard or interfere with routine mainte-nance of the landscape.

3. Install quick coupling valves on swing joints orflexible pipe with the top of the valve at groundlevel.

4. Any above-ground manually-operated valves onnonpotable water systems will be adequately identi-fied with distinctive purple colored paint. Do notprovide hose connections on irrigation systems thatutilize nonpotable water supplies.

C. Sprinkler installation.

1. On flat landscaped areas, install sprinklers plumb.In areas where they are installed on slopes, sprin-klers may be tilted as required to prevent erosion.

2. Sprinklers should be adjusted to avoid unnecessarydischarge on pavements and structures.

a. Adjust sprinklers so they do not water on roads.

b. Provide a minimum separation of 4 inches (102mm) between sprinklers and pavement.

c. Provide a minimum separation of 12 inches (305mm) between sprinklers and buildings and othervertical structures.

d. Polyethylene (PE) nipples shall not be used inmaintenance equipment traffic areas oralongside roadways and driveways.

3. Piping must be thoroughly flushed before installa-tion of sprinkler nozzles.

Pipe Size (inches) Depth of Cover (inches)1/2 – 21/2 18

3 – 5 24

6 and larger 30

Pipe Size (inches) Depth of Cover (inches)1/2 – 11/2 6

2 – 3 12

4 – 6 18

more than 6 24

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017)

Adopted: October 12, 2017Effective: January 1, 2018

APPENDIX F

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017) 163

4. Surface mounted and pop-up heads shall beinstalled on swing joints or flexible pipe.

5. Above-ground (riser mounted) sprinklers shall bemounted on Schedule 40 PVC or steel pipe and beeffectively stabilized.

6. The pop-up height for sprays and rotator nozzlesshall be adequate to prevent being obstructed by theturf grass blades: 6-inch height for St. Augustine,Zoysia and Bahia, 4-inch height for Bermuda, Cen-tapede and Seashore Paspalum.

7. All microirrigation zones shall have adequate filtra-tion installed at the zone valve or at the point wherethe drip tubing is attached to PVC pipe to protectthe emission devices from contamination from aPVC main or lateral break.

8. All microirrigation zones shall have adequate pres-sure regulation installed at the zone valve or at thepoint where the drip tubing is attached to the PVCto ensure that all emission devices meet the manu-facturer’s performance standards.

9. Each plant shall have a adequate number andsize(gph) of microirrigation devices, properlyplaced to meet the plant water requirements for norainfall.

10. All tubing shall be installed under ground coverusing staples at close enough intervals (24 to 36inches) to secure the tubing and prevent it frommoving through the mulch bed.

D. Pump installation.

1. Install pumps as per the manufacturer’s recommen-dations. Set pumps plumb and secure to a firm con-crete base. There should be no strain or distortionon the pipe and fittings. Pipe and fittings should besupported to avoid placing undue strain on thepump. Steel pipe should be used on pumps 5 horse-power (hp) or larger whenever practical.

2. Pumps must be installed in a manner to avoid lossof prime. Install suction line to prevent the accumu-lation of air pockets. All connections and reductionsin suction pipe sizes should be designed to avoidcausing air pockets and cavitation.

3. Pumps must be located to facilitate service and easeof removal. Appropriate fittings should be providedto allow the pump to readily be primed, serviced,and disconnected. Provide an enclosure of adequatesize and strength, with proper ventilation, to protectthe pump from the elements (except residential sys-tems).

E. Low voltage wire installation.

1. Install low voltage wire (less than 98 volts) with aminimum depth of cover of 12 inches (305 mm)where not installed directly under the mainline.

2. Provide a sufficient length of wire at each connec-tion to allow for thermal expansion/shrinkage.

3. As a minimum, provide a 12-inch (305 mm) diame-ter loop at all splices and connections.

4. Terminations at valves will have 24-inches (610mm) minimum free wire.

5. Install all above-ground wire runs and wire entriesinto buildings in electrical conduit.

Exception: No conduit is required when wiringabove ground manifolds from the valve to theground immediately beneath it.

6. Provide common wires with a different color thanthe power wires (white shall be used for commonwires).

7. Connections are to be made using UL approveddevices specifically designed for direct burial.

8. All splices shall be enclosed within a valve box.

F. Hydraulic control tubing.

1. For hydraulic control systems, use a water supplythat is filtered and free of deleterious materials, asdefined by the hydraulic control system manufac-turer. Install a backflow prevention device wherethe hydraulic control system is connected to potablewater supplies.

2. Install tubing in trenches freely and spaced so that itwill not rub against pipe, fittings, or other objectsthat could score the tubing, and with a minimum12-inch (305 mm) diameter loop at all turns andconnections. Provide a minimum depth of cover of12 inches (305 mm).

3. Connect tubing with couplings and collars recom-mended by the tubing manufacturer. All splicesshall be made in valve boxes. Prefill tubing withwater, expelling entrapped air and testing for leaksprior to installation.

Install exposed tubing in a protective conduit manu-factured from Schedule 40 UV protected PVC or elec-trical conduit.

PART VI: TESTING & INSPECTIONS

A. Purpose. All materials and installations covered by theIrrigation Code shall be inspected by the governingagency to verify compliance with the Irrigation Code.

B. Rough inspections. Rough inspections will be per-formed throughout the duration of the installation.These inspections will be made by the governingagency to ensure that the installation is in compliancewith the design intent, specifications, and the IrrigationCodes. Inspections will be made on the following itemsat the discretion of the governing agency:

1. Sprinkler layout and spacing: This inspection willverify that the irrigation system design is accuratelyinstalled in the field. It will also provide for alter-ation or modification of the system to meet fieldconditions. To pass this inspection, sprinkler/emit-ter spacing should be within ± 5 percent of thedesign spacing.

APPENDIX F

164

2. Pipe installation depth: All pipes in the system shall beinstalled to depths as previously described in this code.

3. Test all mainlines upstream of the zone valves asfollows:

a. Fill the completely installed pipeline slowly withwater to expel air. Allow the pipe to sit full ofwater for 24 hours to dissolve remaining trappedair.

b. Using a metering pump, elevate the water pres-sure to the maximum static supply pressureexpected and hold there for a period of 2 hours,solvent-weld pipe connections shall have no leak-age.

c. For gasketed pipe main lines add water as needed tomaintain the pressure. Record the amount of wateradded to the system over the 2-hour period.

d. Use the following formulas to determine themaximum allowable leakage limit of gasketedpipe.

DUCTILE IRON:

PVC, GASKETED JOINT:

Where:L = allowable leakage (gph),

N = number of joints,

D = nominal diameter of pipe (inches), P = average test pressure (psi), and

S = length of pipe (fi).

e. When testing a system which contains metal-seated valves, an additional leakage per closed valveof 0.078 gph/inch of nominal valve size is allowed.

C. Final inspection. When the work is complete the con-tractor shall request a final inspection.

1. Cross connection control and backflow prevention.

a. Public or domestic water systems: Check that anapproved backflow prevention assembly is prop-erly installed and functioning correctly. Reviewthe location of the assembly to check that it is notcreating a hazard to pedestrians or vehicular traf-fic.

b. Water systems other than public or domesticwater systems: Check that the proper backflowprevention assemblies are provided.

c. All assemblies that can be, will be tested by atechnician certified for backflow testing by a

State recognized certifying board prior to beingplaced into service.

2. Sprinkler coverage testing.

a. All sprinklers must be adjusted to minimize over-spray onto buildings and paved areas. Minor tol-erances shall be made to allow for prevailingwinds.

b. All sprinkler controls must be adjusted to mini-mize runoff of irrigated water. Water applicationrates shall not exceed the absorption rate of thesoil.

c. All sprinklers must operate at their design radiusof throw. Nozzle sizes and types called for in thesystem design must have been used. All nozzleswithin the same zone shall have matched precipi-tation rates unless otherwise directed in order toincrease efficiency by adjusting the nozzle selec-tion to match site conditions.

d. Spray patterns must overlap as designed (a.k.a.head to head coverage) or placed to achieve thehighest possible distribution uniformity using themanufacturer’s specifications.

e. Sprinklers must be connected, as designed, to theappropriate zone.

f. Sprinkler heads must operate within 20 percent ofthe optimum operating pressure but not morethan the maximum nor less than the minimumguidelines as specified by the manufacturer. Ifthe dynamic water pressure at the site’s watersource(s) is too low to achieve this pressure rangeat the sprinklers, a booster pump or alternatesource shall be required. If the dynamic waterpressure at the site’s water source(s) is too high toachieve this pressure range at the sprinklers, apressure regulating device shall be required ateither the source, the zone valve, or the sprin-klers, or any combination there of.

D. Site restoration.

1. All existing landscaping, pavement, and grade ofareas affected by work must be restored to originalcondition or to the satisfaction of the governingauthority.

Verify that the pipeline trenches have been properlycompacted to the densities required by the plans andspecifications.

E. Record Drawings.

1. A record drawing shall be required of all irrigationsystems installed on commercial and residentialdevelopments and shall contain the following infor-mation:

a. Location, type pressure and maximum flowavailable of all water sources.

Include limitations like days of week water-ing requirements.

L SDP133 200,---------------------=

L NDP7 400,---------------=

FLORIDA BUILDING CODE — PLUMBING, 6th EDITION (2017)

Adopted: October 12, 2017Effective: January 1, 2018

4. Open Trench Inspection: The trench at all joints and everytransition in pipe size, will be open where open trench inspection is required.