Kentucky plumbing code: which edition applies and what it requires
Kentucky uses its own state-written plumbing code. The current edition is State-written regs; 2020 Code Book (not an IPC edition), effective 2020-06-02 (core reg 815 KAR 20:090), adopted by the KY Dept of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC), Division of Plumbing and enforced by the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
Kentucky plumbing code at a glance
| Adopted code | Kentucky State Plumbing Code (815 KAR Chapter 20) |
|---|---|
| Code family | state-specific |
| Current edition | State-written regs; 2020 Code Book (not an IPC edition) |
| Effective date | 2020-06-02 (core reg 815 KAR 20:090) |
| Adopting authority | KY Dept of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC), Division of Plumbing |
| Trap seal protection | Trap seals must be maintained; the adopted code does not separately name barrier-type (ASSE 1072) devices. |
| Waterless trap seal acceptance | Kentucky's adopted code does not name barrier-type (ASSE 1072) devices. A barrier device is accepted as an alternative method at the AHJ's discretion; present the device's cUPC / ASSE 1072 listing. |
| Local amendments / enforcement | Statewide single state-written code; local inspectors enforce |
This page summarizes how Kentucky adopts and applies its plumbing code. It is a reference for planning, not legal or code-compliance advice. Always confirm current requirements with the adopted code text and your local AHJ.
Does Kentucky use the IPC or the UPC?
Neither. Kentucky writes its own state plumbing code rather than adopting the IPC or UPC model code.
The adopted code is the Kentucky State Plumbing Code (815 KAR Chapter 20). Because it is state-written, its requirements and section numbering are unique to Kentucky.
What edition of the plumbing code does Kentucky use, and when did it take effect?
Kentucky's current edition is State-written regs; 2020 Code Book (not an IPC edition), effective 2020-06-02 (core reg 815 KAR 20:090), adopted by the KY Dept of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC), Division of Plumbing.
Codes update on a multi-year cycle, and an adopted-but-not-yet-effective edition can circulate near a changeover. Confirm which edition your project falls under by its permit date and your local jurisdiction.
How do local jurisdictions affect Kentucky's plumbing code?
Kentucky's code is the statewide baseline, but local jurisdictions enforce it and may add amendments. The local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) resolves how it applies to a specific project.
Statewide single state-written code; local inspectors enforce. Confirm any local amendments and the accepted trap-seal methods with your city or county building department before relying on a provision.
What does the plumbing code require for floor drains and trap seals?
Floor drains rely on a trap, and the code requires that trap seal to be maintained. A floor drain that receives little water can lose its seal to evaporation, which opens a path for sewer gas, odors, and pests.
To prevent that, codes recognize trap seal protection methods. The two most common are a trap seal primer (which adds water to the trap) and a barrier-type floor drain trap seal protection device (which provides a mechanical seal). The right approach depends on the drain, the space, and the AHJ.
Kentucky's state-written code does not name a barrier-type / ASSE 1072 device, so a barrier device is handled as an AHJ alternative method.
Are barrier-type (ASSE 1072) trap seals allowed under Kentucky's code?
Not by name. Kentucky's plumbing code is state-written and does not name barrier-type or ASSE 1072 devices.
That does not prohibit a barrier-type device; it means acceptance is an alternative-materials-and-methods decision made by the local AHJ. Present the device's cUPC and ASSE 1072 listing to the AHJ, and lean on the evaporation / preventive-maintenance rationale. Do not rely on a code-compliance claim here.
Do I need a permit to add a floor-drain trap seal in Kentucky?
Usually not for the device itself, but always confirm with your local authority having jurisdiction.
A drop-in barrier-type trap seal device generally does not require a plumbing permit because it does not alter any piping, similar to changing a drain grate. On new construction or an already-permitted renovation, include it in the plumbing specifications.
In Kentucky, plumbing permits and inspections run through KY Dept of Housing, Buildings and Construction and the local building department, and a licensed plumber pulls permits for plumbing work. Licensing rules and reciprocity vary, so confirm them with the authority or your local jurisdiction.
Where can I read Kentucky's plumbing code?
The adopting authority and code text are linked below. Always confirm current requirements against the adopted code and your local AHJ.
Where Green Drain fits. Green Drain is a barrier-type waterless trap seal for floor drains, cUPC listed through IAPMO (File No. 9301) and tested to ASSE 1072-2020. For a floor drain at risk of a dry trap, it is one option to keep the trap seal intact, and it works alongside the existing P-trap rather than replacing it. Confirm acceptance with your local AHJ.
Acceptance for any specific installation rests with your local AHJ. See Green Drain certifications for listing details, or browse waterless trap seals by drain size.
Protecting floor drains in Kentucky?
Find the right waterless trap seal for your drain size, or talk to our team about a project.