Adapting to National Plumbing Standards

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The Saskatchewan Regulations 119/2023, titled The Plumbing Code (Adoption of Code) Amendment Regulations, 2023, were filed on November 29, 2023, introducing changes to the plumbing regulations under The Construction Codes Act. These amendments include new definitions, updates to existing sections, and an alignment of the provincial plumbing code with the National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC).

The addition of a definition for “single family dwelling unit,” now defined as a dwelling with a dedicated metered water connection to a communal waterworks that is not shared with any other unit and may include a secondary suite. This clarification provides specific plumbing requirements for these residential units.

The amendments declare that the National Plumbing Code of Canada 2020 is now in force, including modifications specified in Appendix A and revisions by Codes Canada, ensuring that Saskatchewan’s plumbing standards are current and aligned with national guidelines.

Regarding permit applications for existing single-family dwellings, the eligibility criteria have been revised to require that owners occupy the dwelling and use it exclusively as living quarters, with no intention to resell at the time of application. The application process has also been restructured, requiring applicants to submit their requests to local authorities in an acceptable form. This includes providing specifications for the proposed work and details regarding any water reuse systems that utilize sewage.

Local authorities may exempt applicants from certain requirements if such exemptions are deemed not harmful to public interest. If plumbing work involves a water reuse system, applicants must provide a detailed description, evidence of compliance with relevant CSA standards, and consent from the owner of any communal waterworks servicing the location.

New provisions require that sanitary drainage systems connect to approved sewage systems, and similar requirements apply to storm drainage systems. Regulations concerning connections to communal and private water systems state that local authority approval is necessary to prevent contamination and ensure safe water practices.

Updated requirements for backflow prevention specify that backwater valves must be installed where there is a risk of backflow, particularly for fixtures located below grade. Additionally, provisions for non-potable water systems utilizing sewage mandate compliance with CSA B128.3:23 standards to ensure the performance and safety of these systems.

Saskatchewan (119/2023) December 8, 2023