1. The zoning at the address must be residential;
2. This permit is for the replacement of an existing gas or electric water heater in the same location as the current water heater. If you are proposing to relocate the water heater to a new location, see other building permit requirements; “Other building permit requirements” should be linked to: click here;
3. Water heaters require two seismic straps; one located within the top 1/3 of the water heater unit and one at the bottom 1/3. The bottom strap must be located at least 4" away from the water heater controls;
4. The new water heater is between 30 and 150 gallons;
5. Water heaters located in a garage must be elevated so the pilot light and controls are at least 18" above the garage floor surface. if subject to damage, adequate barriers must be installed (e.g. bollard);
6. Combustion air must be maintained per current California Plumbing Code. When the appliance is located in an unconfined space (e.g. garage) the combustion air can be used from that area. When located in a closet, combustion air must be provided at a minimum of two openings (one at the top and one at the bottom) sized at 100 square inches each;
7. A fuel burning (gas) water heater may not be installed in a sleeping room, bathroom, bedroom, or clothes closet;
8. The vent and the water heater must maintain clearance from combustible materials such as wall framing or roofing. Generally the minimum distance is 6" for single wall and 1" for double wall and the water heater, but check the manufacturer's listing on the materials. The vent shall terminate a minimum 6" above the roof through flashing at the roof and terminate in a listed and approved vent cap. Vents may require additional supports depending on the material, design and length. All single wall and single wall to double wall joints shall be secured with a minimum of three sheet metal screws, rivets or similar positive connection;
9. All water heaters have a pressure/temperature (P/T) relief valve. The valve shall be drained to the exterior and terminate toward the ground maintaining between 6" and 24" of clearance from the ground and pointing downward. The diameter of the valve opening (generally 3/4") must be maintained to the termination of the drain. Check the manufacturer's requirements. When approved by the Chief Building Official, such drain may terminate at other locations (i.e. laundry tub, floor sink, or floor drain). No part of such drain shall be trapped and the terminal end of the drain shall not be threaded;
10. if located in an attic or furred space (i.e. closet) where leaking could cause damage to underlying wood framing, the water heater must be set in a pan constructed of water tight corrosion resistant material. The pan must be fitted with a minimum 3/4" drain that drains to an approved location; and
11. Tankless water heaters shall be listed by an approved testing agency (UL, UPC, etc.) and be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements.

• Installing the new water heater in a different location; or
• Installing a water heater larger than 150 gallons.

Inspections can be scheduled online using your building permit number.