The City of New York Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) publishes the city’s standard sewer and water main specifications. Among other details, the specifications define a contractor’s responsibilities. Use this guide to NYC standard sewer and water main specifications as an overview of essential standards.
1. Construction Documentation
The NYC 2022 plumbing code 701.2 states that buildings with installed plumbing fixtures and premises with drainage pipes will connect to the public sewer when possible. If the conditions are unsanitary or the connection is not feasible, a private sewer or sewage disposal system gets used instead.
Construction document approval applications must include documents regarding the availability of public sanitary or public combined sewage disposal systems. A combined sewer system collects rainwater runoff, sewage, groundwater, and non-potable clear water waste.
New buildings with fixtures that produce sewage require sewage documentation. They’re also required for alterations that require an increase in size to an existing system and projects that require a new connection to a sanitary or combined sewer.
2. Drainage Pipe Materials and Installation
The plumbing code specifies accepted materials for above-ground soil, waste, and vent pipes. Above-ground materials include brass pipes, cast-iron pipes, copper, and ductile iron.
The code also specifies underground drainage and vent pipe materials. Approved materials include copper or copper-alloy tubing, ductile iron, and certain PVC pipes.
The code specifies a minimum slope in inches per foot for horizontal pipes depending on the pipe’s size. For instance, pipes 2.5 inches or less require a minimum slope of .25 inches per foot. A pitch below the minimum requirement will cause constant clogs.
Harris Main and Water Sewer contractors understand NYC’s material specifications for drainage and vent pipes. We meet city specifications when we handle NYC DEP emergency repairs and installation.
3. Water Main Considerations
A Licensed Professional Engineer, Registered Architect, or Licensed Master Plumber must obtain conceptual design approval for taps, wet connects, and service connections. They must submit information about water demand, existing service material, the proposed size of the tap or wet connection, and other details.
Internal water mains must have backflow prevention devices installed inside the property within two feet of the property line. The property owner will own, maintain, and repair these devices.
Internal water mains must meet the Department of Buildings sizing requirements. Service connections must get installed by an NYC-Licensed Master Plumber with approval to perform the work. Upon completion, the Department will inspect the work.
This guide to standard sewer and water main specifications shows the high standards of NYC plumbing codes. The specifications constantly evolve regarding responsibilities, limitations, and requirements.
Harris contractors’ professional services simplify the plumbing process. We’re experienced NYC new construction plumbing contractors. Contact us today for exceptional water and sewer services.
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