Will the inspector be at the site during the special events?
No, but there may be a fire inspector present.
Does my mechanical product need to be on the LA Research Report Database in order to be acceptable?
No, the product is acceptable if it is listed by a City of Los Angeles recognized listing agency.
How can I obtain a general approval from the Mechanical Test Lab?
The product manufacturer needs to file a test lab application and submit the required testing reports. Please visit the Mechanical Test Lab page for applications.
How can I obtain approval as a mechanical listing/testing agency?
You will need to file an application with the Mechanical Testing Laboratory.
How can I obtain approval from the Mechanical Test Lab if there are currently no published applicable testing standards?
Approval from LA City Mechanical Testing Laboratory cannot be obtained for products that do not have applicable testing standards.
How long will it take for my application to be processed?
The process time depends on the current backlog and type of application submitted. Contact the Mechanical Test Lab Engineer for more information.
What product standard(s) do I need to have my product tested by an approved testing agency?
A product (or equipment) is considered approved if it bears either the approval label of the City of Los Angeles Electrical Test Lab, or listing or certification label, symbol or other identifying mark of a recognized testing agency.
Where can I find a roster of the approved listing and testing agencies recognized by the Mechanical Test Lab?
Approved testing and listing agencies are available from the Mechanical Test Lab page.
Where can I find the application for renewal, new general approval, technical modifications, and one-time approval from the Mechanical Test Lab?
All testlab applications are listed on the Mechanical Test Lab page on the LADBS website.
Are there exceptions to the requirement of "graywater ready" systems?
Yes. Graywater Ready Systems are not required when the landscape area on the site does not exceed 500 square feet, or when graywater irrigation is not permitted due to geological conditions, or for additions or alterations that use the existing building drain.
Can I combine emergency drains with subsoil drainage system?
Yes. However, the emergency drains shall be protected against backflow with backwater valves.
Can I discharge water from the sprinkler piping to the storm drain system?
No, water from sprinkler drain shall discharge to the sewer.
Can I get plan check approval before getting the gas service letter from the gas company?
No. Low pressure gas systems (2 psi or less) with more than 10 gas outlets require plan check. Medium and high pressure gas systems (more than 2 psi) require plan check regardless of the number of gas outlets.
Can I install a water heater in the yard?
The Plumbing Code allows outdoor installations of water heaters. Check with the Zoning engineer for required minimum distance from the property line.
Can I use a slope of less than 1% for rain water piping?
No, since the pipe sizing tables for rain rainwater are based on a minimum 1% slope.
Can I use ABS pipe in a residential building?
Plastic waste and vent piping in residential occupancies are allowed when the residential portion of the building is 2 stories or less.
What are the over-the-counter hours for Mechanical Plan Check?
- Monday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Tuesday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Thursday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Friday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Monday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Tuesday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Wednesday 9:00
Do I need plan check if I am adding plumbing fixtures in an existing building that has a main pipe 2 inches diameter or larger?
Plan check is not required for existing systems that are added added or altered with branch lines serving less than 20 fixture units and sized per table 610.4.
Do I need plan check for a gas system?
Low pressure gas systems (2 psi or less) with more than 10 gas outlets require plan check. Medium and high pressure gas systems (more than 2 psi) require plan check regardless of the number of gas outlets.
Do I need plan check for a potable water system when the water service is less than 2 inches?
Plan check is not required for a 2-inch or less water service when the potable water piping is sized using table 610.4 of the Los Angeles Plumbing Code.
