New York plumbing code: which edition applies and what it requires

Does New York use the IPC or the UPC?

New York uses the IPC. Its plumbing code is based on the International Plumbing Code published by the ICC, not the Uniform Plumbing Code.

The adopted code is the Plumbing Code of New York State (PCNYS); NYC has a separate code. It takes the IPC as its base and may layer state amendments on top, so a cited section refers to the state-adopted edition with the IPC as the underlying model.

What edition of the plumbing code does New York use, and when did it take effect?

New York's current edition is 2025 PCNYS (IPC 2024 base); NYC = 2022 NYC PC (IPC 2015), effective 2025-12-31 (statewide), adopted by the NYS Fire Prevention & Building Code Council / Dept of State; NYC = NYC Dept of Buildings.

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 New York's plumbing code?

New York'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 amended IPC; NYC statutorily exempt with its OWN code. Confirm any local amendments and the accepted trap-seal methods with your city or county building department before relying on a provision.

Does the plumbing code vary by city in New York?

Yes. Key jurisdictions in New York can differ, so the adopted code or edition changes from one city or county to the next.

New York City is statutorily exempt from the statewide Plumbing Code of New York State and enforces its own NYC Plumbing Code (2022 edition, IPC 2015 base) through the NYC Department of Buildings. The rest of the state follows the PCNYS.

Pin down the exact jurisdiction before you specify or install, since the model code, edition, and amendments can differ between neighboring cities.

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.

In New York, that requirement sits in the traps chapter of the adopted code (Chapter 10). The IPC lists a barrier-type floor drain trap seal protection device conforming to ASSE 1072 as an accepted method under Section 1002.4.1, alongside trap primers and deeper-seal traps.

Are barrier-type (ASSE 1072) trap seals allowed under New York's code?

Yes. The IPC lists a barrier-type floor drain trap seal protection device (conforming to ASSE 1072) as one of the methods for protecting a floor-drain trap seal from evaporation, alongside trap primers (IPC 1002.4.1.4).

ASSE 1072 is the standard titled "Performance Requirements for Barrier Type Floor Drain Trap Seal Protection Devices." Because it is a co-equal listed method, a barrier-type device can be used in place of a trap primer where a floor-drain trap is subject to evaporation. Acceptance for a specific project rests with the AHJ.

Do I need a permit to add a floor-drain trap seal in New York?

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 New York, plumbing permits and inspections run through NYS Fire Prevention & Building Code Council 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 New York's plumbing code?

The adopting authority and code text are linked below. Always confirm current requirements against the adopted code and your local AHJ.

• dos.ny.gov/notice-adoption
• codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1
• up.codes/viewer/new_york/ipc-2024