What is the primary code regulating plumbing practices in the U.S.?

The International Plumbing Code (IPC) serves as the primary code regulating plumbing practices in many areas of the United States. It is developed and published by the International Code Council (ICC) and provides comprehensive standards to ensure safety, health, and building integrity across plumbing systems.

The IPC covers various essential aspects, including materials, design, installation, and maintenance of plumbing infrastructure, making it vital for ensuring uniformity and compliance in plumbing practices nationwide. Many state and local jurisdictions adopt the IPC as their plumbing code, which underscores its significance and relevance in the industry.

While the National Plumbing Code and Uniform Plumbing Code also exist, they are not as widely adopted as the IPC. The primary difference lies in their regional applicability and the specifics that they cover. Local building codes may incorporate these standards or have modifications; however, they primarily focus on regulations within specific municipalities or regions rather than establishing a broadly accepted framework like the IPC.