507.2 Seismic Provisions — 2025 California Plumbing Code

Water heaters shall be anchored or strapped to resist horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. Strapping shall be at points within the upper one-third ( [1] ∕ 3 ) and lower one-third ( [1] ∕ 3 ) of its vertical dimensions. At the lower point, minimum a distance of not less than four ( 4 ) inches (102 mm) shall be maintained above the controls with the strapping. Note: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Reference Health and Safety Code Section 19211(a) which addresses new, replacement, and existing water heaters. Note: The applicable subsection of Health and Safety Code Sec- tion 19211(a) which addresses new, replacement, and existing water heaters is repeated here for clarity and reads as follows: Section 19211(a) Notwithstanding Section 19100, all new and replacement water heaters, and all existing residential water heaters shall be braced, anchored, or strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. At a minimum, any water heater shall be secured in accor- dance with the California Plumbing Code, or modifications made thereto by a city, county, or city and county pursuant to Section 17958.5.