New York Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Plumbing Codes and Legislation in New York State
Plumbing regulations in New York State are primarily governed by the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (Uniform Code). This code is applicable in every municipality of the state, with the notable exception of New York City, which maintains its own independent building and plumbing codes. The state-level plumbing requirements are incorporated by reference into Title 19 of the New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (19 NYCRR).
As of the most recent updates, New York State has adopted the 2025 Plumbing Code of New York State. This code is a derivative work based on the 2024 edition of the International Plumbing Code (IPC) published by the International Code Council (ICC), with specific modifications and amendments developed to suit New York State requirements. For one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not exceeding three stories, plumbing systems are governed by the Residential Code of New York State, which is based on the International Residential Code (IRC).
Primary State Board and Agencies
The development, maintenance, and administration of these standards are overseen by the following entities:
- State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council (Code Council): This body is responsible for the adoption and amendment of the Uniform Code, including the Plumbing Code of New York State.
- New York State Department of State (DOS), Division of Building Standards and Codes (DBSC): The DBSC provides technical support, administers the statutory functions of the Code Council, and oversees the enforcement framework for the Uniform Code across the state.
Resources to Learn More
- New York State Department of State: Division of Building Standards and Codes
- New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code Information
- International Code Council (ICC)
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