Repiping and Local Plumbing Codes in Orange County

Repiping a home in Orange County involves more than replacing old pipes. Every project must comply with the California Plumbing Code as adopted locally, and each jurisdiction within the county has its own permit processes and inspection requirements. Understanding how these systems work helps homeowners make informed decisions, avoid violations, and ensure long-term safety and reliability in their plumbing systems.

How Plumbing Codes Are Set and Enforced in Orange County

Every city in Orange County adopts statewide standard codes, including the California Plumbing Code and related state building codes, but may also apply local amendments. 

Local city building departments or county agencies enforce these codes. For example, in unincorporated areas, OC Development Services issues permits, reviews plans, and performs inspections for plumbing, HVAC, and structural work. 

This means that when you repipe, your project must meet both statewide standards and any city-specific amendments or inspection requirements.

Why codes matter for repiping:

• They ensure the new plumbing system is safe and sanitary.

• They help prevent leaks, water damage, or health hazards linked to improper installation.

• A code compliant repipe protects your home value and keeps insurance and resale documentation in order.

How Plumbing Codes Are Structured in Orange County

Every city in California must enforce the California Building Standards Code, also known as Title 24, which includes the California Plumbing Code (CPC). Cities may adopt local amendments, but they cannot be less strict than the CPC. This baseline legal structure applies to all 34 cities in Orange County plus unincorporated County areas.

Adopted Code Editions

• 2022 California Plumbing Code is currently in effect across Orange County.

• The 2025 CPC has been published by IAPMO and will go into effect statewide on January 1, 2026. Cities across Orange County will begin enforcing the updated code requirements at that time.

California Building Standards Law requires every city to adopt the CPC or a stricter local version. For example, Irvine offers a dedicated Residential Re-Pipe permit category.

When a Repipe Requires a Permit in Orange County

A full repipe is considered a plumbing system alteration. Under state law and local ordinances, this work almost always requires a plumbing or building permit, because it affects:

• potable water systems

• pipe routing and sizing

• structural penetrations

• water heater reconnections

• pressure and safety requirements

Permit Exceptions for Small Plumbing Tasks

Not all plumbing work requires a permit. For example, the City of Irvine notes that replacing toilets, sinks, disposals, or dishwashers does not require a permit if no pipes, valves, or fixtures are replaced or rearranged.

However, repiping always requires a permit, because it involves replacing supply lines and altering the plumbing system.

Inspection Requirements for Repiping in Orange County

After the permit is issued, the repipe must pass local inspections before the project can be closed. Most Orange County cities follow a similar structure.

1. Under-Slab or Under-Floor Inspection

If supply lines are located beneath a slab or floor framing, these must be inspected before being covered. The City of Orange identifies under-slab and under-floor inspections for plumbing work.

2. Rough Plumbing Inspection

Performed when pipes are installed but walls and ceilings remain open. Inspectors check:

• pipe materials

• fittings

• insulation and protection plates

• routing and support

• separation of hot and cold lines

The City of Orange confirms that rough plumbing must be approved before framing inspection.

3. Pressure or Leak Test

Before drywall is installed, plumbing systems are pressure-tested to confirm watertightness. Most jurisdictions require this to be completed before rough plumbing inspection.

4. Final Inspection

A final inspection is performed when the repipe is complete and surfaces have been restored. The City of Orange specifies that final inspection occurs last and that all approved plans must be available on site.

Once approved, the permit can be officially closed.

Core Code Requirements That Apply to Repipes in Orange County

The California Plumbing Code outlines specific installation standards that affect how repipes are performed.

Approved Pipe Materials

Under the CPC adopted by OC jurisdictions, approved materials include:

• Copper (Types L and M)

• PEX tubing certified for potable water systems

• CPC-listed fittings and valves

Cities such as Brea, Orange, Newport Beach, and Huntington Beach explicitly identify CPC use in their building regulations.

Pipe Sizing and Routing

Inspectors verify compliance with CPC standards for:

• adequate water flow and pressure

• minimum pipe sizes

• correct spacing between hot and cold lines

• support and anchoring

• protection plates at framing penetrations

Water Heater Requirements

Repipes that involve reconnection to water heaters must follow CPC and local rules for:

• seismic strapping

• T and P valve discharge piping

• venting

• bonding or grounding when required

Fixture and Water Conservation Rules

Orange County Development Services publishes a Plumbing Fixture Replacement Policy connected to state water conservation laws. If a repipe occurs along with a remodel, fixture efficiency rules may be triggered.

Risks of Not Following Local Plumbing Codes

Repiping without proper permits or compliance can create long-term problems, including:

• Correction notices or stop-work orders from the city

• Failed inspections that require reopening walls or replacing work

• Insurance claim issues for water damage

• Resale complications since Orange County tracks permit history

• Safety risks from leaks, pressure failures, or improperly connected water heaters

Ensuring Code Compliance on Your Orange County Repipe

Understanding Orange County's plumbing codes and permit requirements protects your investment and ensures your home's plumbing system is safe, legal, and built to last. While the regulations may seem complex, with state codes, local amendments, and multiple inspection checkpoints, working with a licensed, experienced repiping contractor simplifies the entire process.

At Repipe Top Team, we handle every aspect of code compliance for our Orange County customers. From pulling the proper permits and scheduling inspections to ensuring all materials and installation methods meet current CPC standards, we make sure your repipe project is done right the first time. Our team stays current with local requirements across all 34 cities in Orange County, so you can have confidence that your project will pass inspection and close without complications.

Ready to repipe your home the right way? Contact Repipe Top Team today for a clear proposal. We'll walk you through the entire process and answer any questions about permits, codes, or what to expect during your project.