Interpretation #7508
Published June 01, 2015
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2010
- Code
- FUELGAS
- Code Description
- Fuel Gas
- Chapter
- 4
- Section
- 404.4
- Topic
- Fuel gas piping below grade
Question
Is it the intent of the FBC, Plumbing and Residential Code sections 404.4 and G2415.4 to prohibit fuel gas piping from penetrating building foundation walls at any point below grade? Or, is it the intent to prohibit foundation wall penetrations only?
Answer Published 06/01/2015 at 1:15 PM
International Fuel Gas Code section 404.4 Is very clear,
"Gas piping shall enter and exit a building at a point above
grade". Section G2415.4 of the Residential Code has the same
wording. Gas piping can penetrate foundation walls as long
as this occurs above grade. In regard to G2415.6.1 for
conduit terminating outdoors, this section lets you know
once inside the structure you can run the piping inside
walls, floors, attics etc, and the vent on the exterior must
be protected from water and insect intrusion.
"Gas piping shall enter and exit a building at a point above
grade". Section G2415.4 of the Residential Code has the same
wording. Gas piping can penetrate foundation walls as long
as this occurs above grade. In regard to G2415.6.1 for
conduit terminating outdoors, this section lets you know
once inside the structure you can run the piping inside
walls, floors, attics etc, and the vent on the exterior must
be protected from water and insect intrusion.
Commentary
The confusion on the conduit terminating outdoors occurs
where the wording of the code section specifies it "shall be
vented above grade to the outdoors" making you think it is
OK to exit the building below grade. That is not the case,
the code is making it clear the vent must be to the
atmosphere, outside, above grade and protected from water
and insects.