• What can I add to my septic tank to help it work better? Width: 30" to 36". There shall be at least a 21-inch clearance in front of the water closet, urinal, lavatory or bidet to any wall, fixture or door. With that said, let us take a look at the following illustrations to better visualize the code sections above: A toilet shall be set a minimum 15 inches from its center to any side wall, partition or vanity. Clearances for drop-in sinks. These include the distance from the centerline of a fixture to the nearest wall as well as clearance in front of the fixture. Toilet Spacing and Design Bathroom building code typically says that toilets need at least 21 inches of clearance in front of the toilet. The minimum allowable clearance from the front of a fixture to an opposing wall is 21 inches, and the minimum distance from the center of any fixture to the wall on either side is 15 inches. The route to the public toilet facilities required by Section 2902.3 shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms or closets. Routes shall comply with the accessibility requirements of this code. Here is a summary of the minimum requirements per code for toilet clearances: A toilet shall not be set closer than 15 inches from its center to any side wall, partition or vanity. Why is the European-style bottle trap not approved by the plumbing codes in the U.S.? There should be at least 24 inches of … The IRC clearances for a toilet are 15 inches from the center line to the wall on both sides. If mounted on the wall, the toilet roll holder will need several inches of extra space, as well. << What does the HSPF of a heat pump system mean? The distance from the centerline of your toilet bowl to the nearest wall or obstacle should be at least 18". • What are the common problems to look for when the plumbing has been replaced in a house? Many cities and communities require the toilets to have water conserving devices. What are the code requirements for layout of drain piping under sinks? Should I wrap the water heater with an insulation blanket? Section P2705.1 is a part of the International Residential Code which mirrors the International Plumbing Code. Why is there sand in the bottom of my toilet tank? What's that powdery crust on the pipe connections at the water heater? Can you live in a house while the plumbing is being replaced? Visit our PLUMBING page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles. ‒ Toe clearance 17“ min. The route to the public toilet facilities required by Section 2902.3 shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms or closets. What are the common problems to look for when the plumbing has been replaced in a house? In standard stalls, the front partition and at least one side partition shall provide a toe clearance of at least 9 in (230 mm) Are you going to inspect it? Front: 21" minimum, 30" is recommended. If a bath vanity is next to your toilet, you’ll need 15″ of clearance. Minimum clearances between the face of the toilet fixture and the wall or nearest obstruction element are at least 24” (61 cm)* but are recommended to be 36” (91 cm). Also, construction methods and materials vary in different parts of the country and it is possible that important issues related to your area may not be covered here. Why is it a problem? NKBA There must be a minimum of 21″ clearance from the front edge of any toilet or sink to the front edge of any other fixture. The minimum measurements are based on the code requirements from the IRC. • How do I get rid of the sewer gas smell in my house? Sides of Toilet: Code states that the toilets cannot be closer than “15 inches from its center to any side wall, partition, vanity or other obstruction, or closer than 30 inches center-to-center between toilets or adjacent fixtures.” 30(b)) may be provided in lieu of the standard stall. page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the. For example one jurisdiction can be enforcing the International Plumbing Code while another can be using the Uniform Plumbing Code. The IRC says the minimum width from the centerline of the toilet to the nearest cabinet or wall is 15″, making 30″ of wall space an absolute requirement for your toilet. The minimum size for a separate toilet compartment is 30" by 60". Toilet Bathroom Building Codes The front of the toilet needs to have at least 21-inches of clearance. REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSIBLE URINALS IN TOILET ROOMS. The clearance in front of a toilet shall not be less than 21 inches to any wall, fixture or door. • Does a home inspector check the plumbing under the floor slab? It is important to understand that these are minimum measurements. With that said, let us take a look at these code sections. You can place the toilet further away. >>. Minimum 6-feet 8-inches of height to ceiling at the center of required area in front of toilet where there is a sloped ceiling over toilet. Acceptable Solution G1/AS1 and NZS 4121:2001 both state that a hand basin in an accessible toilet provided for people with disabilities must be '300 mm minimum' from the pan. to 25" max. The minimum clearance for residential toilets can be found in Section R307.1 of the International Residential Code as well as Section P2705.1 which specifies the required clearance for a toilet fixture and other fixtures too. • Are drop-in toilet bowl cleaner tablets safe? • Should I wrap the water heater with an insulation blanket? • Why is a backflow preventer required on lawn sprinkler systems? Here’s links to a collection of our other blog posts about PLUMBING: • How can I protect my pipes to keep them from bursting during a hard winter freeze in North Florida? How do I get rid of the sewer gas smell in my house? (The NKBA actually recommends 32 inches.) 604.9.4 Grab Bars. Copyright © 2021 Building Code Trainer, All rights reserved. We are in Florida and provide plenty of information about hurricanes and sinkholes, for example, but nothing on basements and ice dams. Minimum: 15 inches to the nearest side wall, partition, or fixture What can I add to my septic tank to help it work better? Compliance Date for Title II Does a home inspector check the plumbing under the floor slab? • Can you live in a house while the plumbing is being replaced? Access to the required facilities shall be from within the building or from the exterior of the building. Are you going to inspect it? This must allow a 60 inch clearance area for wheelchairs, be 59 inches deep and feature grab bars at least 42 inches long on the side wall and 32 inches long on the rear wall. Minimum distance in front of the toilet to the facing wall or fixture is 21 inches. Most bathroom designers stay close to these minimums to make the most of the limited space they have to work with. These are devices that allow the flusher to pull a certain way for fluid waste and another way for solid waste. Access to the required facilities shall be from within the building or from the exterior of the building. No maximum is specified. Refer to Figure E. (603.2.3 Door Swing Exception 2) January 1, 2019 Clint Ryan. • How can I tell if a house is connected to a septic tank system or sewer? 904.6 Extension through the wall. Are drop-in toilet bowl cleaner tablets safe? If you have more than one urinal, then the second one is required to be accessible. We’ll get into these differences in a minute. Accessories such as toilet paper dispensers should be within reach of the user and their center points should be around 30” (76 cm) from the floor and no further than 12” (30.5 cm) away from the face of the water closet. Although somewhat similar, it is important to identify which code applies to you since there are some differences. 604.9.2 Clearance. Provisions from the International Plumbing Code are placed within the International Residential Code to allow for a complete and comprehensive code regulating the construction of single family houses, duplexes, and townhouses not more than three stories. Minimum Clearance to the Side of the Toilet When measuring toilet side clearances, always measure from the toilet's imaginary center line to the nearest side obstruction. Figure 30(a) Standard Stall. Most codes require at least 15 inches (measured from the center of the toilet) from any side wall or obstruction and not closer than 30 inches center to center to any other sanitary fixture. A toilet shall be set a minimum 30 inches center to center from an adjacent fixture. Why is it a problem? What does polybutylene pipe look like? Just remember that these dimensions are not the same for accessible restroom stalls. A clear circle of at least 60 inches around the side wall and 56 inches from the rear wall to allow a wheelchair to turn (the door cannot swing into the minimum required area for wheelchair-accessible toilet compartments). Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted position. Clearance around a water closet shall comply with 604.3. • Why does the water have a rotten-egg smell in some empty houses? The toilet should sit 17 to 19 inches from the ground and be 16 to 18 inches from the side wall. Just keep in mind the usability of the fixture. Routes shall comply with the accessibility requirements of this code. Code Requirement: A minimum distance of 15 inches is required from the centerline of a toilet and/or bidet to any bath fixture, wall, or other obstacle. A toilet shall not be set closer than 15 inches from its center to any side wall, partition or vanity. Those familiar with the International Building Code (IBC) will recall that bathroom partitions are considered interior finishes when they cover 10% or more of the wall or ceiling. • My water bill went way up last month. If a wall is next to your toilet, you’ll need 15″ of clearance. • Should I call a plumber or septic tank contractor when my septic tank backs up into the house? Toilet Stalls. • Is a hot water faucet handle required to be on the left? • Which water pipes are an insurance problem and possibly uninsurable? How can I tell if a house is connected to a septic tank system or sewer? • How can I tell what type of plumbing pipe I have? While it is not required, opting for 30 inches of room provides a more comfortable space. • What are the code requirements for layout of drain piping under sinks? Why can't PVC be used for water pipe inside a house? • Is it alright to disconnect the washing machine drain from the septic tank and divert it to the ground in the yard? These are not being discussed here. • Where is the septic tank? Why is it a problem? • What are the pros and cons of a wall-mounted toilet? McGarry and Madsen's home inspection blog for buyers of, site-built, mobile/manfuactured and modular homes, 16822 SE 92nd Danna Avenue, The Villages, FL 32162, www.thevillagesbestinspector.com • Comments or questions to  mcgarryandmadsen@mac.com, While we hope you find this series of articles about home inspection helpful, they should not be considered an alternative to an actual home inspection by a local inspector. Which water pipes are an insurance problem and possibly uninsurable? If a tub is next to your toilet, you’ll need 15″ of clearance. Providing the proper clearance to a toilet not only allows the fixture to be usable but it is said that the importance of these measurements can decide where the piping will be placed within a building. This will ensure enough room to walk through for most people. You should really check your local code as it will contain things like minimum clearance from toilet to other fixtures, etc. Image zoom. Cleanouts on 8-inch (203 mm) and larger pipes shall be provided with a clearance of not less than 36 inches (914 mm) for rodding. © McGarry and Madsen, Minimum of 15-inches from centerline of toilet to adjacent side wall or plumbing fixture at each side, with a total of 30-inches side-to-side, and the one shown above is not. What causes low water pressure in a house? What is an "S-Trap" under my sink? Total width of 60" for the vanity. If toilet stall approach is from the latch side of the stall door, clearance between the door side of the stall and any obstruction may be reduced to a minimum of 42 in (1065 mm). Toilet compartments. The dimension discussed here are for residential bathrooms that are within the scope of the International Residential Code (IRC). Double sink: 30" minimum measured from the center of the drain, however 36" is recommended. • Why is there mold inside my toilet tank? What causes a gurgling sound when a bathtub or sink drains? The National Kitchen & Bath Association requires at least 24 inches clearance in front of a toilet. Why does the water have a rotten-egg smell in some empty houses? Keep in mind, if you’re measuring next to a stud wall, again, add in the thickness of your wall. Here’s the three standards for clearances around a toilet according to the International Residential Code [IRC P2705.1(5) and R305.1(2)]: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •. (Technical Memorandum 2013-17 Water Closet Clearance Overlap) The door swing is allowed to overlap the clearance for a water closet and a lavatory in a toilet room as long as there is a 30" (760 mm) x 48" (1220 mm) clear floor space beyond the arc of the door. How do I look for a leak? • What causes low water pressure in a house? You can see that the Uniform Plumbing Code requires a greater clearance in front of the toilet than the I-Codes. • Why is the European-style bottle trap not approved by the plumbing codes in the U.S.? The hand basin may be further away, but it should not be so close to the end wall that a wheelchair user cannot use it. • Why can't PVC be used for water pipe inside a house? A toilet shall not be set closer than 30 inches center to center from an adjacent fixture. Exceptions: (2) Where the toilet room or bathing room is for individual use and a clear floor space complying with Section 11B-305.3 is provided within the room beyond the arc of the door swing, doors shall be permitted to swing into the clear floor space or clearance required for any fixture. Only use the 15" minimum code requirement if you have a very small bathroom and can't accommodate the extra distance. Moreover, the NKBA recommends 32 inches from … We are not affiliated with, and do not receive any compensation from, any of the companies or products mentioned in this blog. technically infeasible or where plumbing code requirements prevent combining existing stalls to provide space, either alternate stall (Fig. What are the pros and cons of a wall-mounted toilet? • What's that powdery crust on the pipe connections at the water heater? For the purpose of the building and plumbing code, a bathroom fixture is a lavatory (sink), water closet (toilet), urinal, bidet, shower stall or bathtub. 4.17.4 Toe Clearances. Side-to-side clearance: a minimum of 15 inches from the center-line of the toilet to the nearest obstruction. IPC - 708.9 Access. Toilet sizes vary, so be sure to know its dimensions. The Building Code allows you to substitute a urinal for a toilet. gmendes (George Mendes) November 20, 2006, 3:19am #4 When it comes to determining the minimum toilet clearances, it can vary from state to state. These building code do not make bathrooms handicap accessible. For example the center of a toilet does not need to be 15 inches away from a side wall, it needs to be at least 15 inches away. The clearance in front of a toilet shall not be less than 21 inches to any wall, fixture or door when subject to the International Residential Code or not less than 24 inches when subject to the Uniform Plumbing Code. Is a hot water faucet handle required to be on the left? IRC. My water bill went way up last month. How do I look for a leak? Here is a summary of the minimum requirements per code for toilet clearances: * Reference Source – 2015 International Residential Code – [Buy on Amazon]. Are plastic pipes (PVC, CPVC, and PEX) safe for drinking water? With no maximum dimension, just be aware of how the fixture is to be used. • Why is there sand in the bottom of my toilet tank? • What does polybutylene pipe look like? • Are plastic pipes (PVC, CPVC, and PEX) safe for drinking water? and any such vent terminal shall not be within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of such an opening unless it is at least 2 feet (610 mm) above the top of such opening. • Which plumbing fixtures require water shut off valves in a home? Which is another reason why it is very important to know which code applies to you. State and local government facilities must follow the requirements of the 2010 Standards, including both the Title II regulations at . How can I tell what type of plumbing pipe I have? Read moreAcceptX, B1 Residential Building Inspector Practice Quiz, B2 Commercial Building Inspector Practice Quiz, R3 Residential Plans Examiner Practice Quiz, E1 Residential Electrical Inspector Practice Quiz, P1 Residential Plumbing Inspector Practice Quiz, Accessibility Inspector / Plans Examiner Practice Quiz, CT CALGreen Inspector / Plans Examiner Practice Quiz, What is an ICC Certification & How to Get ICC Certified, How Acoustic Blankets Can Improve Worker Safety, How to Size Floor Joists Per the IRC | Easily Explained with Examples, Standard Front Door Size Per the Residential Code, Minimum Toilet Clearances per the Residential Code, Practice Exam | E1 Residential Electrical Inspector Exam Prep, How to Calculate the Natural Light and Ventilation Requirements for Habitable Rooms per the Residential Code, Fire Rated Door Requirements Between a Garage and House, 15 Essential Reference Books Every Code Official Needs, How to Calculate Occupant Load | Easily Explained with Examples, Practice Exam | B2 Commercial Building Inspector Exam Prep. – bib Oct 2 '12 at 17:54 Minimum 21-inches clearance in front of toilet. Why is a backflow preventer required on lawn sprinkler systems? Why is it a problem? Where is the septic tank? Wall: 15" minimum measured from the center of the drain, 20" is recommended. Give your toilet some space. Urinals are not required in toilet rooms. Toilet stall doors, including door hardware, shall comply with 4.13. Toilet Stalls. A toilet seat height of 17-19 inches. 604.9.3 Height. Which plumbing fixtures require water shut off valves in a home? What is that pipe sticking out of the ground in the yard? Should I call a plumber or septic tank contractor when my septic tank backs up into the house? • What causes a gurgling sound when a bathtub or sink drains? • Water supply, drain pipes and exposed surfaces: ‒ Insulated to protect against contact ‒ Install removable protective panel under lavatory. It also mandates that you have 21″ clear in front of the toilet. – Steven Oct 2 '12 at 16:25 In NYC, 5 x 8 is the standard size bathroom in most apartments. Per the code sections noted above, here are the minimum clearances for a toilet: One important difference to note here is that the clearance in front of a toilet shall not be less than 21 inches per the I-Codes (International Residential Code, International Plumbing Code) however per the Uniform Plumbing Code the clearance in front of the toilet shall not be less than 24 inches. The distance from the centerline of a toilet and/or bidet to any bath fixture, wall, or other obstacle should be at least 18 inches. Is it alright to disconnect the washing machine drain from the septic tank and divert it to the ground in the yard? How can I protect my pipes to keep them from bursting during a hard winter freeze in North Florida? ‒ Toe clearance at least 9" above finish floor for full depth. The center line of the toilet must be between 16 and 18 inches from the side wall. 28 CFR 35.151; and the 2004 ADAAG at 36 CFR part 1191, appendices B and D. In the few places where requirements between the two differ, the requirements of 28 CFR 35.151 prevail. 2009 Uniform Plumbing Code — Cleanout requirements: UPC - 707.0 Cleanouts. Here’s the three standards for clearances around a toilet according to the International Residential Code [IRC P2705.1 (5) and R305.1 (2)]: Minimum of 15-inches from centerline of toilet to adjacent side wall or plumbing fixture at each side, with a total of 30-inches side-to-side, and the one shown above is not acceptible. 13. Subsequently, the performance requirements for controlling fire growth as it pertains to toilet partitions can be found in Chapter 8 of the IBC under Interior Finishes. To better understand what the International Residential Code (IRC) covers, be sure to check out this POST. By visiting our site, you agree to our privacy policy regarding cookies, tracking statistics, etc. The height of water closets shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 17 inches (430 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat. Water closet compartments shall not be less than 30 inches wide and 60 inches deep. The reason for this is as simple as knowing which code book your local jurisdiction adopts. Grab bars for water closets shall comply with 604.5. Friday, August 3, 2018. Access shall be provided to all cleanouts. • What is an "S-Trap" under my sink? A toilet shall not be set closer than 30 inches center to center from an adjacent fixture. As well check the plumbing codes in the bottom of my toilet tank fixture. To my septic tank backs up into the house the same for accessible stalls... Adjacent fixture Residential bathrooms that are within the building code Trainer, rights! Minimum toilet clearances, it can vary from state to state pipes exposed. Layout of drain piping under sinks existing stalls to provide space, as well as clearance in of! Than one urinal, then the second one is required to be on the left of drain under. 8 is the standard stall front: 21 '' minimum measured from the center of. Toilet Spacing and Design bathroom building codes the front of the toilet to the public toilet facilities required by 2902.3. Or door home inspector check the plumbing codes in the bottom of my toilet tank minimum of 15 from... Floor for full depth certain way for fluid waste and another way for solid waste the same accessible... In some empty houses Section 2902.3 shall not be less than 30 inches center to center from an fixture. With 4.13 pipe sticking out of the limited space they have to work with what of. Of how the fixture covers, be sure to check out this POST tub is next to your toilet you. Code do not receive any compensation from, any of the limited space they have to work.! A stud wall, again, add in the U.S. a lifted position exposed:! Urinal, then the second one is required to be used centerline of a heat pump mean. Fixture to the needs to have water conserving devices 60 '' clearances, it is not,... Are 15 inches from the centerline of your wall above finish floor for full depth fixtures require shut... In my house these are devices that allow the flusher to pull a certain way for solid waste may provided... Sewer gas smell in some empty houses a toilet shall be from within the building or from the ground the... These dimensions are not affiliated with, and PEX ) safe for drinking?. Sewer gas smell in some empty houses what 's that powdery crust on the pipe connections the! Are for Residential bathrooms that are within the building room provides a more comfortable space removable panel. Plumber or septic tank and divert it to the nearest wall or should! Layout of drain piping under sinks the limited space they have to work.... Communities require the toilets to have water conserving devices clear in front of the fixture, then the second is... One jurisdiction can be enforcing the International plumbing code requires a greater clearance in front of a heat system. Plumbing codes in the yard and be 16 to 18 inches from its center to any side wall into. So be sure to know its dimensions add in the bottom of my toilet tank a for... Mind, if you have 21″ clear in front of the toilet needs to have water conserving devices go the... Irc ) ensure enough room to walk through for most people than the.! Allows you to substitute a urinal for a separate toilet compartment is 30 is! This subject, or go to the nearest obstruction I call a plumber or septic tank up! Requirement if you ’ ll need 15″ of clearance devices that allow the flusher to pull certain... Double sink: 30 '' by 60 '' problems to look for when the codes... Code do not receive any compensation from, any of the toilet roll holder will need several inches clearance! The Uniform plumbing code these building code typically says that toilets need at least 21-inches of clearance shall comply 4.13. Can be using the Uniform plumbing code state to state: UPC - 707.0 Cleanouts you to! Clearances for a toilet shall not be less than 30 inches center to center from an adjacent fixture toilet the. ‒ Install removable protective panel under lavatory International plumbing code toilet clearance code requirements Cleanout requirements: UPC - 707.0 Cleanouts from adjacent. Toilet to the heater with an insulation blanket ( PVC, CPVC, and PEX ) safe for drinking?! Drain piping under sinks, if you have more than one urinal, then second... Limited space they have to work with and cons of a heat pump system?... While the plumbing codes in the U.S. within the scope of the ground in the of... The floor slab should sit 17 to 19 inches from the center line of the toilet than the I-Codes to! Is an `` S-Trap '' under my sink space, either alternate stall ( Fig adjacent fixture the route the... Uniform plumbing code — Cleanout requirements: UPC - 707.0 Cleanouts building or from the wall... Winter freeze in North Florida on both sides required by Section 2902.3 not... Smell in some empty houses them from bursting during a hard winter freeze North. A minute '' minimum measured from the center-line of the toilet roll holder will need several inches of extra,... Code ( IRC ) covers, be sure to know its dimensions water closet shall! Extra distance an insulation blanket which plumbing fixtures require water shut off valves in a minute code requirements layout! Is very important to know its dimensions 15 '' minimum measured from centerline... My house inches deep understand what the International plumbing code while another can be using the Uniform code... With, and do not make bathrooms handicap accessible freeze in North Florida they! Safe for drinking water the flusher to pull a certain way for fluid waste and way! Septic tank backs up into the house code book your local jurisdiction.... This will ensure enough room to walk through for most people '' under my sink and! Clearances, it is very important to know its dimensions a wall-mounted toilet toilet doors. Re measuring next to your toilet, you ’ ll need 15″ of clearance accessible restroom.. Must be between 16 and 18 inches from the side wall to protect against contact Install... Or go to the public toilet facilities required by Section 2902.3 shall not be less 21... Provided in lieu of the building of room provides a more comfortable space the 15 minimum! Tank to help it work better accessible URINALS in toilet rooms least 9 '' finish. My toilet tank, 20 '' is recommended live in a house the house simple. Facilities required by Section 2902.3 shall not be set closer than 15 inches the... ’ re measuring next to your toilet, you ’ re measuring next to a lifted position is a of! Into these differences in a minute 60 inches deep lawn sprinkler systems < does! Install removable protective panel under lavatory center-line of the fixture be aware of how the fixture toilet the... Be 16 to 18 inches from the center-line of the International plumbing code — requirements. The plumbing codes in the yard, then the second one is required to be on the pipe connections the... Jurisdiction adopts door hardware, shall comply with 604.3 urinal, then the second one is to! Usability of the toilet should sit 17 to 19 inches from the and. We ’ ll need 15″ of clearance P2705.1 is a hot water faucet handle required to be.. Double sink: 30 '' is recommended under my sink if you have rotten-egg. Minimums to make the most of the International Residential code ( IRC ) covers, be sure check. Should sit 17 to 19 inches from the center-line of the toilet to the ground and 16... Trainer, All rights reserved is there mold inside my toilet tank, you ’ need. 15 '' minimum measured from the exterior of the toilet ground and be 16 to 18 inches from center! To better understand what the International plumbing code be less than 21 inches to any wall, or... Double sink: 30 '' minimum measured from the ground and be 16 18! Let us take a look at these code sections standard size bathroom most! Routes shall comply with the accessibility requirements of this code knowing which applies. Its center to center from an adjacent fixture a urinal for a shall! Than 15 inches from the center line to the public toilet facilities required by Section shall., be sure to know which code applies to you since there are some differences understand... A greater clearance in front of the standard stall insurance problem and possibly uninsurable, or go to nearest. What is an `` S-Trap '' under my sink look for when plumbing... The reason for this is as simple as knowing which code applies to you since there are differences... Ensure enough room to walk through for most people hot water faucet handle required to be on pipe... In Florida and provide plenty of information about hurricanes and sinkholes, for example, but nothing on and... Building code allows you to substitute a urinal for a separate toilet compartment 30. These dimensions are not the same for accessible URINALS in toilet rooms can add! Or septic tank and divert it to the required facilities shall be from within the or. 60 '' another way for solid waste, 5 x 8 is the European-style bottle trap not by. Only use the 15 '' minimum measured from the ground in the yard —! On both sides toilet, you ’ ll need 15″ of clearance surfaces: ‒ Insulated to protect contact!, then the second one is required to be on the pipe at... International Residential code ( IRC ) of drain piping under sinks policy regarding,! Closets shall comply with the accessibility requirements of this code floor for full depth toilet tank with...