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Question 1Plumbing Code and Regulations
Under the North Dakota State Plumbing Code, a plumbing permit is generally required before installing which of the following?
- Installing a new water heater in an existing single-family home Correct answer.
- Clearing a hair clog from a tub drain
- Replacing a lavatory faucet aerator
- Replacing a toilet tank flapper
Explanation
Permits are required for work that adds, alters, or replaces plumbing systems or fixtures, including installing a water heater, because it involves connections to the water and fuel or electrical systems and must be inspected. Minor maintenance such as aerator or flapper replacement and drain clearing does not add or alter piping and is exempt.
Question 2Plumbing Code and Regulations
In North Dakota, plumbing work that requires a permit must generally be performed by whom?
- A property maintenance worker employed by the owner
- A general contractor holding a building license
- Any homeowner, regardless of occupancy
- A licensed plumbing contractor or an authorized registered apprentice under supervision Correct answer.
Explanation
The code limits permitted plumbing work to licensed plumbing contractors and their properly registered apprentices working under supervision. Homeowner exemptions are narrow and do not extend to general contractors or maintenance staff who are not licensed plumbers.
Question 3Plumbing Code and Regulations
A plumbing inspector finds a rough-in installation that fails inspection. What is the standard next step for the permit holder?
- The installation may proceed if the contractor self-certifies the fix
- The work must be corrected and reinspected before it may be covered Correct answer.
- The inspection fee is refunded and the project closed
- The permit is automatically voided and a new one must be purchased
Explanation
Failed inspections require the permit holder to correct the identified deficiencies and request a reinspection before concealing the work. Covering defective work without approval is a violation, and the permit remains active rather than automatically voided.
Question 4Plumbing Code and Regulations
When must a building drain be tested for watertightness during construction?
- After the drain is installed and before it is concealed Correct answer.
- After all fixtures are finally set and trimmed out
- Only after the certificate of occupancy is issued
- Only if the inspector requests it in writing
Explanation
Drain, waste, and vent piping must be tested and approved before being covered or concealed, so defects can be found while the piping is still accessible. Testing after concealment or after occupancy defeats the purpose of the inspection.
Question 5Plumbing Code and Regulations
Which test is acceptable for a section of drain piping installed in a building?
- Smoke test only
- Vacuum test held for 5 minutes
- Air test at 5 psi for 15 minutes
- Water test with the system filled to a point at least 10 feet above the highest connection Correct answer.
Explanation
The code allows a water test in which the DWV system is filled with water to a level at least 10 feet above the highest connection in the section under test and held to check for leaks. Air and smoke tests serve other purposes and do not substitute for the required water test of new drain piping.
Question 6Plumbing Code and Regulations
A water distribution system in a new building must be tested at a pressure of not less than what value, when the working pressure is below that figure?
- 50 psi
- 150 psi
- 25 psi
- 100 psi Correct answer.
Explanation
The potable water distribution system must be tested with water at a pressure of at least the working pressure, but not less than 100 psi, held for the required duration to demonstrate it is leak-free. Lower pressures do not satisfy the minimum test requirement.
Question 7Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum size of a building sewer serving a single-family dwelling?
- 4 inch
- 2 inch
- 3 inch Correct answer.
- 1-1/2 inch
Explanation
The building sewer for a single dwelling must be at least 3 inches in diameter, which provides adequate capacity for the fixture load of a residence. Smaller sizes are permitted only for certain fixture drains and branches, not the building sewer.
Question 8Plumbing Code and Regulations
A horizontal drain serving a water closet must be sized at a minimum of what diameter?
- 4 inch
- 1-1/2 inch
- 3 inch Correct answer.
- 2 inch
Explanation
A water closet requires a minimum 3-inch drain because of the large discharge volume and solids it carries. Smaller drains would be prone to clogging and cannot accept the fixture's drainage fixture unit load.
Question 9Plumbing Code and Regulations
Which fixture unit value is commonly assigned to a private water closet in drainage sizing?
- 1
- 6
- 3 Correct answer.
- 2
Explanation
A private water closet is typically rated at 3 drainage fixture units, reflecting its discharge characteristics. Lavatories and other small fixtures carry lower values, while larger fixtures such as a service sink carry more.
Question 10Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the purpose of a vent in a plumbing drainage system?
- To increase the flow velocity in the drain
- To protect trap seals from siphonage and back pressure Correct answer.
- To supply air for combustion appliances
- To provide a cleanout access point
Explanation
Vents admit air to the drainage system so that pressure in the pipes stays near atmospheric, which protects trap seals from siphonage and back pressure. They do not increase drain velocity or serve as cleanouts or combustion air sources.
Question 11Plumbing Code and Regulations
A vent terminal on a roof must extend how far above the roof surface when the roof is not used for other purposes?
- At least 1 inch
- At least 12 inches
- At least 24 inches
- At least 6 inches Correct answer.
Explanation
A vent stack must terminate at least 6 inches above the roof surface when the roof is not used for any purpose other than weather protection. Greater heights are required where the roof is used for other purposes or where snow accumulation is a concern.
Question 12Plumbing Code and Regulations
A vent terminal must be located at least what horizontal distance from an operable window, door, or air intake?
- 15 feet
- 10 feet Correct answer.
- 3 feet
- 5 feet
Explanation
Vent terminals must be kept at least 10 feet horizontally from operable windows, doors, and air intakes to prevent sewer gas from entering the building. This separation protects occupants from odors and harmful gases.
Question 13Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum trap seal depth for a plumbing fixture trap?
- 1 inch
- 4 inches
- 2 inches Correct answer.
- 6 inches
Explanation
A fixture trap must maintain a water seal of at least 2 inches and not more than 4 inches, which resists sewer gas while allowing proper flow. A shallower seal can be lost to evaporation or pressure fluctuations.
Question 14Plumbing Code and Regulations
Which of the following fixtures is required to be directly connected to the drainage system with a trap?
- An ice maker
- A drinking fountain
- A clothes washer standpipe
- A lavatory Correct answer.
Explanation
A lavatory is a fixture that discharges through a trap directly into the drainage system. Drinking fountains, ice makers, and similar appliances are typically connected indirectly through an air gap or air break to protect potable water.
Question 15Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum air gap required for an indirect waste connection to a receptor?
- Two pipe diameters
- One inch or twice the diameter of the pipe, whichever is greater Correct answer.
- The same as the trap seal depth
- One-half inch regardless of pipe size
Explanation
An air gap must be at least 1 inch or twice the effective diameter of the drain line served, whichever is greater, to prevent backflow into the potable supply. A fixed half-inch gap does not satisfy the requirement for larger drains.
Question 16Plumbing Code and Regulations
A backflow prevention device is required on a connection to a boiler. Which device is appropriate where there is a health hazard risk?
- A check valve at the meter
- A vacuum breaker on a hose bibb
- A dual check valve
- A reduced pressure zone backflow preventer Correct answer.
Explanation
Where a health hazard exists, an air gap or a reduced pressure zone backflow preventer is required because it provides protection against both backflow and backsiphonage. Dual check valves and simple check valves offer only limited protection.
Question 17Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum diameter of a lavatory drain?
- 2-1/2 inch
- 1-1/2 inch
- 1-1/4 inch Correct answer.
- 2 inch
Explanation
A lavatory drain must be at least 1-1/4 inches in diameter, and the trap and trap arm must match or exceed that size. Larger drains are permitted but are not required for a lavatory.
Question 18Plumbing Code and Regulations
How far may a water closet be set from the side wall or partition in a bathroom?
- Not less than 24 inches from the center line to the wall
- Not less than 30 inches from the center line to the wall
- Not less than 10 inches from the center line to the wall
- Not less than 15 inches from the center line to the wall Correct answer.
Explanation
A water closet must be centered at least 15 inches from any side wall or partition, providing clearance for use and maintenance. This minimum also ensures the fixture can be serviced without obstruction.
Question 19Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum unobstructed clearance required in front of a water closet?
- 30 inches
- 21 inches Correct answer.
- 36 inches
- 15 inches
Explanation
A minimum of 21 inches of unobstructed clearance must be provided in front of a water closet, measured from the front of the fixture to any wall or obstruction. This allows the fixture to be used comfortably.
Question 20Plumbing Code and Regulations
A shower compartment must have a minimum interior area of what size?
- 900 square inches Correct answer.
- 1,600 square inches
- 1,024 square inches
- 1,296 square inches
Explanation
A shower compartment must have a minimum interior cross-sectional area of 900 square inches, with the least dimension not less than 30 inches. This provides adequate space for a person to shower safely.
Question 21Plumbing Code and Regulations
Under North Dakota's adopted Uniform Plumbing Code, what is the minimum required slope for a 3-inch horizontal drain pipe?
- 1 inch per foot
- 1/8 inch per foot
- 1/2 inch per foot
- 1/4 inch per foot Correct answer.
Explanation
North Dakota adopts the 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code. Under UPC section 708.1, an ordinary 3-inch horizontal drain requires a minimum slope of 1/4 inch per foot. The conditional allowance for 1/8 inch per foot applies to piping 4 inches or larger.
Question 22Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum slope required for a 2-inch horizontal drain pipe?
- 1/2 inch per foot
- 1/4 inch per foot Correct answer.
- 1/8 inch per foot
- 3/8 inch per foot
Explanation
Horizontal drain pipes smaller than 3 inches must be sloped at least 1/4 inch per foot to maintain adequate flow velocity and prevent solids from settling. The 1/8 inch per foot allowance applies only to 3-inch and larger pipes.
Question 23Plumbing Code and Regulations
How often must a grease interceptor be maintained on a commercial kitchen line?
- Only when a stoppage occurs
- At intervals frequent enough to keep the grease and solids from exceeding the design capacity Correct answer.
- Once per year regardless of use
- Only when the inspector requests it
Explanation
Grease interceptors must be cleaned and maintained at intervals frequent enough to prevent the accumulation of grease and solids from exceeding the device's capacity. Maintenance is based on actual loading, not a fixed annual schedule.
Question 24Plumbing Code and Regulations
A cleanout is required at the base of a stack, and it must be installed how?
- At a height of at least 6 feet above the floor
- Accessible and with a clearance of at least 18 inches in front of the cleanout Correct answer.
- Only inside the wall cavity
- Flush with the floor and concealed under tile
Explanation
Cleanouts must remain accessible for clearing stoppages, and the code requires at least 18 inches of clearance in front of the opening. Concealing a cleanout under tile or inside a wall defeats its purpose.
Question 25Plumbing Code and Regulations
Which material is generally prohibited for a new potable water distribution pipe in a building?
- PEX tubing
- Copper tubing
- Lead pipe Correct answer.
- Galvanized steel pipe
Explanation
Lead pipe is prohibited for potable water distribution because lead can leach into the water and cause serious health effects. Copper, PEX, and approved galvanized steel are permitted materials subject to code listing.
Question 26Plumbing Code and Regulations
When a plumbing permit is required for the replacement of a water heater, what must the permit applicant typically submit to the authority having jurisdiction along with the application?
- A notarized statement from the property owner
- A set of construction documents showing the proposed installation Correct answer.
- A list of all plumbing fixtures in the building
- A copy of the utility bill for the premises
Explanation
Most plumbing codes require that an application for a permit be accompanied by construction documents, such as plans and specifications, that show the location, size, and type of the proposed work. For a water heater replacement, this typically includes details on the unit, venting, and relief valve piping. The other items are not standard submittal requirements.
Question 27Plumbing Code and Regulations
A plumbing inspector discovers that a contractor has installed a water closet using a material that is not listed or approved for that application. Under the typical plumbing code, what is the most appropriate action for the inspector to take?
- Allow the installation with a temporary certificate of occupancy
- Issue a written notice of violation and require correction Correct answer.
- Approve the installation if it functions properly
- Refer the matter to the manufacturer for approval
Explanation
Plumbing codes require that materials and fixtures be approved by the authority having jurisdiction and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the code. If an unapproved material is used, the inspector should issue a notice of violation and require the work to be corrected to achieve compliance. Functional testing alone does not override the requirement for approved materials.
Question 28Plumbing Code and Regulations
In a plumbing system, what is the primary purpose of a trap primer?
- To reduce noise from a water closet flush
- To prevent freezing of exposed water supply pipes
- To increase the flow rate of a fixture drain
- To maintain a water seal in a floor drain trap that might otherwise evaporate Correct answer.
Explanation
A trap primer is a device that automatically supplies a small amount of water to a trap to maintain its water seal, particularly for floor drains that see infrequent use and are subject to evaporation. This prevents sewer gas from entering the building. Trap primers do not affect flow rate, freeze protection, or noise reduction.
Question 29Plumbing Code and Regulations
When installing a building water supply system, what is the minimum required size for a water service pipe serving a single-family dwelling?
- 3/4 inch Correct answer.
- 1-1/4 inch
- 1/2 inch
- 1 inch
Explanation
The plumbing code typically requires that the water service pipe to a single-family dwelling be not less than 3/4 inch in nominal size, based on the minimum fixture supply pipe sizing and pressure requirements. A 1/2-inch service would be inadequate to supply the required flow and pressure to the fixtures. Larger sizes may be required based on the water supply fixture units and developed length.
Question 30Plumbing Code and Regulations
A horizontal drainage pipe is installed at a slope of 1/8 inch per foot. For which pipe size is this slope typically permitted as an alternative to the standard 1/4 inch per foot?
- 3 inch Correct answer.
- 2 inch
- 4 inch
- 1-1/2 inch
Explanation
The plumbing code allows a slope of 1/8 inch per foot for horizontal drainage pipes that are 3 inches in diameter or larger, provided that the pipe has sufficient velocity to carry solids. For pipes smaller than 3 inches, the minimum slope is generally 1/4 inch per foot. This exception recognizes that larger pipes can maintain adequate flow at a lesser slope.
Question 31Plumbing Code and Regulations
A plumbing fixture is installed in a location where the drainage system is subject to backflow from a public sewer. What device is required to protect the potable water supply from contamination?
- A vacuum breaker
- A check valve
- A backwater valve Correct answer.
- An air gap
Explanation
A backwater valve is required on drainage systems where backflow from a public sewer may occur, to prevent sewage from backing up into the building. It is installed on the building drain or branch. Vacuum breakers and air gaps protect the water supply, not the drainage system, and a simple check valve is not approved for this drainage application.
Question 32Plumbing Code and Regulations
When a plumbing system is tested with water, what is the minimum hydrostatic pressure that must be maintained for the water distribution system test?
- 50 psi
- 125 psi
- 75 psi
- 100 psi Correct answer.
Explanation
The plumbing code requires that the water distribution system be tested with water at a pressure of not less than 100 psi (or the working pressure if greater) for a period of at least one hour. This test ensures that the system can withstand the expected operating pressures without leaks. Lower pressures are not sufficient for this test.
Question 33Plumbing Code and Regulations
A plumbing inspector is reviewing the installation of a grease interceptor for a commercial kitchen. What is the most critical factor in determining the required capacity of the interceptor?
- The flow rate and grease retention capacity of the interceptor Correct answer.
- The number of fixtures connected to the interceptor
- The temperature of the wastewater
- The diameter of the kitchen drain pipe
Explanation
The capacity of a grease interceptor is determined by its flow rate and grease retention capacity, which are selected based on the anticipated discharge from the fixtures served. The code provides sizing methods that consider the volume and characteristics of the wastewater. While the number of fixtures is a factor, the interceptor must be rated for the flow and grease retention.
Question 34Plumbing Code and Regulations
When installing a water heater, what is the maximum temperature setting allowed for a residential water heater to prevent scalding, unless a tempering valve is installed?
- 160°F
- 120°F
- 180°F
- 140°F Correct answer.
Explanation
The plumbing code typically limits the maximum water temperature delivered to fixtures in residential occupancies to 120°F, but water heaters may be set higher if a tempering valve is installed to reduce the temperature at the point of use. However, the maximum allowable setting for a residential water heater without a tempering valve is generally 140°F. This question tests the threshold where additional protection is needed.
Question 35Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum required size of a vent stack serving a water closet in a plumbing system?
- 1-1/2 inch
- 3 inch
- 1-1/4 inch
- 2 inch Correct answer.
Explanation
The plumbing code requires that a water closet be vented by a vent pipe not less than 2 inches in diameter. This is because water closets have a large trap arm and require a vent of sufficient size to prevent siphonage. Smaller vents are not permitted for water closets.
Question 36Plumbing Code and Regulations
A plumbing contractor is installing a new water service line that will cross a sanitary sewer line. What is the minimum required vertical separation between the water service and the sewer line?
- 12 inches Correct answer.
- 6 inches
- 24 inches
- 18 inches
Explanation
The plumbing code requires a minimum vertical separation of 12 inches between a water service pipe and a sewer line when they cross, with the water service above the sewer. This separation prevents contamination of the potable water in case of a leak. If this separation cannot be maintained, the water line must be sleeved or otherwise protected.
Question 37Plumbing Code and Regulations
In a public restroom, what is the maximum allowable flow rate for a showerhead?
- 3.0 gallons per minute
- 2.5 gallons per minute Correct answer.
- 2.0 gallons per minute
- 1.5 gallons per minute
Explanation
The maximum flow rate for a showerhead is typically limited to 2.5 gallons per minute at 80 psi, as required by federal energy standards and adopted plumbing codes. This limit applies to all showerheads, including those in public restrooms. Higher flow rates are not permitted unless the showerhead is designed for multiple outlets and meets specific criteria.
Question 38Plumbing Code and Regulations
When a plumbing fixture is installed in a room that is not provided with a floor drain, what is the minimum required clearance between the fixture and the wall to allow for cleaning and maintenance?
- 12 inches Correct answer.
- 18 inches
- 6 inches
- 4 inches
Explanation
The plumbing code typically requires a minimum of 12 inches of clearance between a fixture and adjacent walls to allow for cleaning and maintenance, unless the fixture is designed for installation against a wall. This clearance ensures access to the fixture and its connections. Smaller clearances may be allowed for certain fixtures if they are accessible for cleaning.
Question 39Plumbing Code and Regulations
What is the minimum required size of a building drain for a building with a total drainage load of 200 fixture units?
- 3 inch
- 2 inch
- 4 inch Correct answer.
- 6 inch
Explanation
According to the fixture unit sizing tables in the plumbing code, a building drain with a total drainage load of 200 fixture units requires a minimum diameter of 4 inches. A 3-inch drain can handle fewer fixture units, typically up to around 140. The 4-inch size ensures adequate flow and prevents clogging.
Question 40Plumbing Code and Regulations
When installing a plumbing system, what is the minimum required thickness of a concrete floor penetration for a drain pipe to be considered adequately protected?
- 2 inches
- 8 inches
- 4 inches Correct answer.
- 6 inches
Explanation
The plumbing code generally requires that pipes passing through concrete floors be protected by a sleeve or be embedded at least 4 inches in the concrete to prevent damage from movement or settlement. This is a common installation requirement to ensure the pipe is not subjected to shear forces. Thinner embedment may not provide adequate protection.
Question 41Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A water closet is installed in a public restroom. Which flush volume is required for a single-flush tank-type water closet under current federal standards?
- 3.5 gallons per flush
- 0.8 gallons per flush
- 1.6 gallons per flush Correct answer.
- 1.28 gallons per flush
Explanation
Federal law limits tank-type water closets to a maximum of 1.6 gallons per flush, the figure that has governed new fixtures since the 1990s. Lower volumes such as 1.28 gpf are common but are manufacturer choices, not the mandated ceiling.
Question 42Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
What is the minimum required diameter of a lavatory tailpiece and the fixture drain serving a single lavatory?
- 2 inches
- 1-1/4 inches Correct answer.
- 1 inch
- 1-1/2 inches
Explanation
Lavatories are assigned a minimum fixture drain and tailpiece size of 1-1/4 inches in the drainage tables. Larger sizes are permitted but the minimum cannot be reduced, because the trap and tailpiece must pass the fixture's discharge without clogging.
Question 43Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A backflow-prevention device is required on a hose bibb that is threaded for attachment of a hose. Which device satisfies this requirement?
- A water hammer arrestor
- A vacuum breaker Correct answer.
- A check valve at the meter
- A pressure-reducing valve
Explanation
A hose bibb can be submerged in a bucket or pool, creating a cross connection, so an approved vacuum breaker must be installed to protect the potable supply. The device must be the type that cannot be removed without a tool and vents when supply pressure drops.
Question 44Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A floor-mounted water closet flange is being set on a finished floor. Where should the top of the flange sit relative to the finished floor?
- At least 1 inch below the finished floor
- Two inches above the finished floor
- Flush with or slightly above the finished floor Correct answer.
- Directly on the subfloor regardless of finish
Explanation
The closet flange must sit on top of the finished floor, or be extended so its face is flush with or slightly above it. This lets the closet seal compress against the flange and prevents leakage at the base of the fixture.
Question 45Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
What is the minimum air gap required between the lowest point of a fixture outlet and the flood-level rim of the receiving receptor?
- Four inches
- One inch or twice the outlet diameter, whichever is greater Correct answer.
- One-quarter inch
- One-half the outlet diameter
Explanation
An air gap must be at least one inch or twice the effective opening of the outlet, whichever is greater. This separation is what makes an air gap a positive, non-mechanical backflow prevention method.
Question 46Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A drinking fountain is being installed. What type of protection is required where the water supply connects to the fountain?
- A shutoff valve only
- An air gap or an approved backflow preventer Correct answer.
- A pressure gauge on the supply
- A strainer on the inlet
Explanation
Drinking fountains are subject to backflow because the nozzle can be submerged or the unit can be connected to a nonpotable source. An air gap or an approved backflow prevention device protects the potable water system from contamination.
Question 47Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A lavatory faucet is installed in a public restroom. What is the maximum flow rate allowed for a public lavatory faucet?
- 1.5 gallons per minute
- 2.2 gallons per minute
- 2.5 gallons per minute
- 0.5 gallons per minute Correct answer.
Explanation
Public lavatory faucets are limited to 0.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi, a much lower rate than private residential faucets. The lower limit reflects the short, frequent use pattern in public facilities and water conservation goals.
Question 48Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A water heater is installed in a garage. What is the minimum height above the floor for the ignition source of a fuel-fired water heater?
- 24 inches
- 12 inches
- 36 inches
- 18 inches Correct answer.
Explanation
Fuel-fired water heaters in garages must have the ignition source elevated at least 18 inches above the floor to reduce the risk of igniting gasoline vapors. The requirement applies to the burner and pilot assembly, not to the tank itself.
Question 49Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A bathtub has a rim-mounted shower valve with no integral backflow protection. What protection must be provided on the tub spout or hand-held shower?
- A pressure-reducing valve
- An atmospheric vacuum breaker Correct answer.
- A thermal expansion tank
- A floor drain
Explanation
A hand-held shower or tub spout can be submerged in the tub water, so an atmospheric vacuum breaker is required to prevent backflow into the potable supply. The device must be installed on the hose side of the control valve and located above the flood-level rim.
Question 50Fixtures, Faucets, and Appliances
A commercial kitchen is installing a pre-rinse spray valve on a sink. What is the maximum flow rate for this fixture?
- 2.2 gallons per minute
- 1.0 gallons per minute
- 2.5 gallons per minute
- 1.6 gallons per minute Correct answer.
Explanation
Pre-rinse spray valves in commercial kitchens are limited to 1.6 gallons per minute at 60 psi. This fixture is used heavily during dishwashing, so the limit produces substantial water savings.