INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS: ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT

Rooftop Equipment Page 1 of 14 Revision Date: 1/26/2017

City of Palo Alto Development Services Building Division – 285 Hamilton Av. (First Floor), Palo Alto, CA 94301 – (650) 329-2496

INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS: ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT

INSPECTION CODE: 613, 614, 101 SCOPE: RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL

CODES ENFORCED: CURRENT CA. CODES OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, AND RELATED CPA MUNICIPAL CODES

The information provided in this document is general and intended as a guide only. Each project is unique and additional requirements may be enforced as deemed appropriate.

APPLICATION When replacing existing rooftop equipment with new equipment or installing new equipment on rooftop,

the following code sections apply.

Existing equipment shall meet current code. (CMC 302.1.3) LIST OF ITEMS NOT APPROVED IN THE CITY OF PALO ALTO

ROOF CURBS Wood curbs are not approved in Type I and II Construction. Roof Curbs shall not be installed over

roofing and all roof curbs supporting equipment shall be roofed-in. See CPA Figure 016 for an example of a CPA-approved roof equipment curb installation.

Figure CPA 016 – Example of CPA-approved Roof Equipment Curb Installation



COOLING WATER SYSTEMS Clean running water used exclusively as a cooling medium in an appliance, device, or apparatus is

prohibited. (CPA Municipal code 16.08.130 – 2016 CMC Section 808.0 amended)

COPPER MATERIALS Copper, copper alloys, lead and lead alloys, including brass, shall not be used for building sanitary

sewer systems except for domestic waste sink traps and short lengths of associated connecting pipes where alternate materials are not practical. (Commercial and Multi-Family only.) o Where permitted by the Building Official, copper tube for drainage and vent piping shall have a

weight of not less than that of copper drainage tube type DWV. (CPA Municipal Code 16.09.180 – 2016 CPC Section 701.1.1, Part 4 amended).

Copper roofing materials shall not be permitted for use on any residential, commercial or industrial building. Most historic structures are exempt provided the material used is pre-patinated at the factory. (PAMC 16.09.180 (14)

EQUIPMENT ON ROOF-TOPS Roof-top equipment must be anchored to the structure per CMC 303.8 and CBC 1613.1, which references

ASCE 7.

ROOF SUPPORT Roofs on which equipment and appliances are to be installed shall be capable of supporting the

additional load or shall be reinforced to support the additional load. (CMC 303.8.1)

ANCHORAGE Appliances designed to be on a fixed position shall be securely fastened in place. Supports for

appliances shall be designed and constructed to sustain vertical and horizontal loads within the stress limitations specified in the building code. (CMC 303.4)

EARTQUAKE LOADS Every structure, and portion thereof, including nonstructural components that are permanently

attached to structures and their supports and attachments, shall be designed and constructed to resist the effects of earthquake motions in accordance with ASCE 7. (CBC 1613.1)

NONSTRUCTURAL COMPONENT ANCHORAGE Nonstructural components and their supports shall be attached (or anchored) to the structure in

accordance with the requirements of this section, and the attachment shall satisfy the requirements for the parent material as set forth elsewhere in this standard. (ASCE 7-10 13.4)

Component attachments shall be bolted, welded, or otherwise positively fastened without consideration of frictional resistance by the effects of gravity. A continuous load path of sufficient strength and stiffness between the component and the supporting structure shall be provided. Local elements of the structure including connections shall be designed and constructed for the component forces where they control the design of the elements or their connections. (ASCE 7-10 13.4)



GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS Architectural, mechanical, and electrical components, supports, and attachments shall comply with

the sections referenced in Table 13.2-1. These requirements shall be satisfied by one of the following methods (ASCE 7-10 13.2.1):

o Project-specific design and documentation prepared and submitted by a registered design professional.

o Submittal of the manufacturer's certification that the component is seismically qualified by: Analysis Testing in accordance with alternative set forth in Section 13.2.5 Experience data in accordance with the alternative set forth in Section 13.2.6

MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS The attachment of mechanical and electrical components and their supports to the structure shall

meet the requirements of nonstructural component anchorage. (ASCE 7-10 13.6)

The materials comprising supports and the means of attachment to the component shall be constructed of materials suitable for the application, including the effects of service conditions, for example, low temperature applications. Materials shall be in conformance with a nationally recognized standard. (ASCE 7-10 13.6.5.4)



ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS The following additional requirements shall apply to mechanical and electrical component supports

(ASCE 7-10 13.6.5.5): o Seismic supports shall be constructed so that support engagement is maintained. o Oversized plate washers or other reinforcement shall be provided at bolted connections

through a sheet metal base if the base is not reinforced with stiffeners or is not capable of transferring the required loads.

o Where weak-axis bending of cold-formed steel supports is relied on for the seismic load path, such supports shall be specifically evaluated.

o Components mounted on vibration isolators shall have a bumper restraint or snubber in each horizontal direction, and vertical restraints shall be provided where required to resist overturning. Isolator housings and restraints shall be constructed of ductile materials. A viscoelastic pad or similar material of appropriate thickness shall be used between the bumper and components to limit the impact load

o Expansion anchors shall not be used for non-vibration isolated mechanical equipment rated over 10 hp (7.45 kW)

Exception: Undercut expansion anchors are permitted. o The supports for electrical distribution components shall be designed for the seismic forces

and relative displacements defined in Sections 13.3.1 and 13.3.2 if any of the following conditions apply:

Ip is equal to 1.5 and conduit diameter is greater than 2.5 in. (64 mm) trade size. Trapeze assemblies supporting conduit, and bus ducts or cable trays where Ip is equal

to 1.5 and the total weight of the bus duct, cable tray, or conduit supported by trapeze assemblies exceeds 10 lblft (146 Nlm).

Supports are cantilevered up from the floor. Supports include bracing to limit deflection. Supports are constructed as rigid welded frames. Attachments into concrete utilize nonexpanding insets, power actuated fasteners, or

cast iron embedments. Attachments utilize spot welds, plug welds, or minimum size welds as defined by AISC.

o For piping, boilers, and pressure vessels, attachments to concrete shall be suitable for cyclic loads.

o For mechanical equipment, drilled and grouted-in-place anchors for tensile load applications shall use either expansive cement or expansive epoxy grout.



EXEMPTIONS The following nonstructural components are exempt from the requirements of this section (ASCE 7-

10 13.1.4): o Architectural components in Seismic Design Category B other than parapets supported by

bearing walls or shearwalls provided that the component importance factor, Ip, is equal to 1.0 o Mechanical and electrical components in Seismic Design Category B. o Mechanical and electrical components in Seismic Design Category C provided that the

component importance factor, Ip, is equal to 1.0 o Mechanical and electrical components in Seismic Design Categories D, E, and F where the

component importance factor, Ip, is equal to 1.0 and either: Flexible connections between the components and associated ductwork, piping, and

conduit are provided Components are mounted at 4 ft (1.22 m) or less above a floor level and weigh 400 lb

(1780 N) or less o Mechanical and electrical components in Seismic Design Categories D, E, and F where the

component importance factor, Ip, is equal to 1.0 and Flexible connections between the components and associated ductwork, piping, and

conduit are provided The components weigh 20 lb (89 N) or less or, for distribution systems, weighing 5 lblft

(73 Nlm) or less INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

BUILDING If applicable verify that sight screening is per planning regulations and roof attachments are included

in the scope of permitted work.

Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inch (0.483 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet) and shall be primed and painted. (PAMC 16.04.267, PAMC 16.06.265)

Chimney spark arrester shall be installed on any repair, replacement or alteration to the roof of an existing structure.

MECHANICAL

ABANDONED EQUIPMENT AND LISTINGS Remove abandoned equipment above ceiling and on rooftops.

Except as otherwise provided in the code, the installation of appliances regulated by this code

shall conform to the conditions of listing. The appliance installer shall leave the manufacturer's installation and operating instructions attached to the appliance. Clearances of listed appliances from combustible materials shall be as specified in the listing or on the rating plate. (CMC 303.1)

ROOF LOADS Roofs on which equipment is to be installed shall be capable of supporting the additional load or

shall be reinforced to support the additional load. (CMC 303.8.1)



WEATHER PROTECTION All roof top access locks, screws, and bolts shall be corrosion-resistant. (CMC 303.8.2)

Equipment on roof shall be designed or enclosed so as to withstand climatic conditions in the

areas in which it is installed. Where enclosures are provided, each enclosure shall be of reasonable height, and shall have at least a thirty 30 inch clearance between the entire service access panel(s) of the equipment and the wall of the enclosure. (CMC 303.8)

Equipment shall be installed on well-drained surface of the roof. Were water stands on roof at the equipment or passageways to the equipment, a suitable platform, walkway or both shall be provided above the waterline and shall be located adjacent to equipment and control panels so that the equipment can be safely serviced were water stands. (CMC 303.8.6)

All equipment sheet metal deck/caps/lids and cap flashing shall have a minimum 1/4” per foot

slope. o Fix: Apply a two part epoxy system roof coating or snow roof system.

ACCESS AND CLEARANCES Unless otherwise specified, not less than 30 inches in depth, width, and height for working space

shall be provided. (CMC 304.1) Sufficient clearance shall be maintained to permit cleaning of heating surfaces; the replacement

of filters, blowers, motors, burners, controls, and vent connections; the lubrication of moving parts where necessary; the adjustment and cleaning of burners and pilots; and the proper functioning of explosion vents, if provided. (CMC 304.1)

The operating instructions shall be attached to the appliance where they can be read easily.

Buildings of more than fifteen 15 feet in height shall have an inside means of access to the roof

unless other means acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction are provided. (CMC 304.3.1) The inside means of access shall be a permanent or foldaway inside stairway or ladder,

terminating in an enclosure, scuttle, or trap door. Such scuttles or trap doors shall be at 22 inches by 24 inches in size, shall open easily and safely under all conditions, especially snow, and shall be constructed so as to permit access on the inside. (CMC 304.3.1.1)

At least 6 feet of clearance shall be available between the access opening and the edge of the

roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed rails or guards a minimum of 42 inches in height shall be provided on the exposed side. Where parapets or other building structures are utilized in lieu of guards or rails, they shall be a minimum of 42 inches in height. (CMC 304.3.1.1)



ROOFTOP TERMINATION FOR TYPE I HOOD EXHAUST SYSTEMS Rooftop terminations shall be arranged with or provided with the following (CMC 510.9.1):

o Not less than 10 feet of horizontal clearance from the outlet to adjacent buildings, property lines, and air intakes.

o Not less than 5 feet of horizontal clearance from the outlet to a combustible structure. o A vertical separation of 3 feet below an exhaust for air intakes within 10 feet of the

exhaust outlet. o The ability to drain grease out of traps or low points formed in the fan or duct near the

termination of the system into a collection container that is noncombustible, closed, rainproof, and structurally sound for the service to which it is applied, and that will not sustain combustion.

o A grease collection device that is applied to exhaust systems that does not inhibit that performance of a fan.

o A listed grease collection system that is in accordance with Section 510.9.1(4) and 510.9.1(5).

o A listed grease duct in accordance with Section 507.3.7 or ductwork in accordance with Section 507.3.8.

o A hinged upblast fan supplied with flexible weatherproof electrical cable and service hold-open retainer to permit inspection and cleaning that is listed for commercial cooking equipment with the following conditions:

Where the fan attaches to the ductwork, the ductwork is not less than 18 inches away from the roof surface, as shown in Figure 510.9.1.

The fan discharges not less than 40 inches away from the roof surface, as shown in Figure 510.9.1.

o Other approved fan, provided it is in accordance with the following criteria: The fan is in accordance with the requirements of Section 510.9.1(3) and Section

511.1.3. Its discharge or its extended duct discharge is in accordance with the

requirements of Section 510.9.1(2) Exhaust fan discharge is directed up and away from the roof surface.



ROOFTOP TERMINATIONS FOR TYPE II HOOD EXHAUST SYSTEMS The exhaust system shall terminate as follows (CMC 510.10):

o Rooftop terminations shall terminate not less than 10 feet from a property line and the exhaust flow shall be directed from the roof surface of the roof not less than 40 inches.

UTILITY SET EXHAUST FANS Fans installed at the rooftop termination point shall be in accordance with the following Sections

510.9.1 and 510.9.1.2 (CMC 511.1.3.1)

SPECIFIC APPLIANCES: AIR-CONDITIONING Air-conditioning appliances shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation

instructions. Unless the appliance is listed for installation on a combustible surface, such as a floor or roof, or unless the surface is protected in an approved manner, it shall be installed on a surface of non-combustible construction with noncombustible material and surface finish and with no combustible material against the underside thereof. (CMC 903.2.4)

SPECIFIC APPLIANCES: COOLING TOWERS, EVAPORATIVE CONDENSERS, AND FLUID COOLERS Cooling towers, evaporative condensers, and fluid coolers shall be readily accessible. Where

located on roofs, such equipment having combustible exterior surfaces shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system. (CMC 1119.1)

Cooling towers, evaporative condensers, and fluid coolers shall be supported on noncombustible grillage designed in accordance with the building code. Seismic restraints shall be as required by the building code. (CMC 1120.0)

ELECTRICAL POWER AND LIGHTING Electrical systems shall be in accordance with the electrical code. Equipment shall be provided

with a vibration switch to shut off fans operating with excessive vibration. In climates commonly subject to electrical storms, lightning protection shall be provided on roof-mounted equipment. (CMC 1124.1)

All equipment requiring an external source of electrical power for its operation shall be provided with: (CMC 303.8.5)

o A 120-VAC grounding-type receptacle outlet on the roof adjacent to the equipment and appliance. The receptacle outlet shall be on the supply side of the disconnect switch.

o The receptacle shall be located within 25 feet of the equipment for service and maintenance purposes. (CMC 301.4)

Permanent lighting shall be provided at the roof access. The switch for such lighting shall be

located inside the building near the access means leading to the roof. (CMC 304.3.2)

Air-conditioning wire, breaker, and fuse shall be sized per name plate. (CEC 440.4 (B))



SERVICE AND ACCESS TO EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES Working space in front of the equipment disconnects/electrical equipment shall be 30” wide and

36” deep. Disconnect shall not be placed behind equipment. Associated electrical equipment may extend 6” into the working space. Equipment and appliances shall be accessible for inspection, service, repair, and replacement without removing permanent construction.(CEC Table 110.26, CEC 110.26(A)(3))

ILLUMINATION AND SERVICE RECEPTACLES In addition to the requirements of Section 301.4, permanent lighting fixtures shall be installed

for equipment required by this code to be accessible or readily accessible. Such fixtures shall provide illumination to perform the required tasks for which access is provided. Control of the illumination source shall be provided at the access entrance. (CMC 1105.4)

o Exceptions: Lighting fixtures shall be permitted to be omitted where the fixed lighting or the

building will provide the required illumination. Equipment located on the roof or on the exterior walls of a building.

IDENTIFICATION OF EQUIPMENT Where more than one heating, cooling, ventilating, or refrigerating system is installed on the

roof of a building or within a building, it shall be permanently identified as to the area or space served by the equipment. The identification of the equipment must be permanent labels (phenolic engraved plaque) on the unit and the disconnect switch. The label shall identify the panel used to energize the equipment. (CMC 303.6)

DISCONNECT SWITCH All equipment requiring an external source of electrical power for its operation shall be provided

with: (CMC 303.8.5) o Readily accessible electrical disconnecting means within sight of the equipment and

appliance that will complete de-energize the equipment and appliance.

Overcurrent devices shall be readily accessible and shall be installed so that the center of the grip of the operating handle of the switch or circuit breaker, when in its highest position, is not more than 6 feet 7 inches above the floor or working platform. (CEC 240.24)

PLUMBING

GAS CONNECTOR Where flexible connections are used, they shall be of the minimum practical length and shall not

extend from one room to another or pass through walls, partitions, ceilings, or floors. Flexible connections shall not be used in a concealed location. They shall be protected against physical or thermal damage and shall be provided with gas shutoff valves in readily accessible locations in rigid piping upstream from the flexible connections. (CPC 1212.4.3)

All existing/old connectors shall not be reused when replacing an appliance. Do not remove the sizing label from the connectors as these must be reviewed as part of the inspection.



GAS TEST Prior to acceptance and initial operation, piping installations shall be visually inspected and

pressure-tested. (CPC 1213.1)

Gas test shall be provided when gas pipe is altered or changed.

GAS PIPING Gas pipe shall be seismically braced at equipment. (See Figure CPA 017)

Gas piping shall be supported per Table 1210.2.4.1.

Exterior metallic gas piping and fittings shall be coated with corrosion-resistant material. (CPC 312.4, CMC 316.3). Aluminum alloy tubing shall not be used in exterior locations. (CPC 1208.5.2.3)

Electrical RMC, gas, and plumbing piping shall be secured a minimum 4” above the roof with

listed piping supports such as B-LINE DURA-BLOK, spaced no more than 10’ on center, and secured within 3’ of every box or termination fitting. Listed blocking shall be secured to roof with compatible roofing adhesive. (CPC 1210.2.4.1, CEC 344.30 (B) (2), 344.30 (A) (See Figure CPA 014)

Figure CPA 014 – Attachment Requirements for Piping Supports



SEDIMENT TRAP Where a sediment trap is not incorporated as a part of the gas utilization appliance, a sediment

trap shall be installed downstream of the appliance shutoff valve as close to the inlet of the appliance as practical at the time of appliance installation. The sediment trap shall be either a tee fitting with a capped nipple in the bottom outlet, as illustrated in Figure 1212.8, or other device recognized as an effective sediment trap. Illuminating appliances, ranges, clothes dryers, decorative vented appliances for installation in vented fireplaces, gas fireplaces, and outdoor grills shall not be required to be so equipped. (CPC 1212.8)

CONDENSATE WASTES AND CONTROL Condensate drain lines from individual condensing appliances shall be sized as required by the

manufacturer's instructions. Condensate drain lines serving more than one appliance shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction prior to installation. (CPC 814.4)

Air-conditioning condensate waste pipes shall connect indirectly, except where permitted in Section 814.6, to the drainage system through an air gap or air break to trapped and vented receptors, dry wells, leach pits, or the tailpiece of plumbing fixtures. A condensate drain shall be trapped in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions or as approved. (CPC 814.5)

Where the condensate waste from air-conditioning coils discharges by direct connection to a lavatory tailpiece or to an approved accessible inlet on a bathtub overflow, the connection shall be located in the area controlled by the same person controlling the air-conditioned space. (CPC 814.6)

Condensate lines shall not be connected or allowed to drain to the storm drain. (PAMC 16.09.180 (5))



Where an equipment or appliance is installed in a space where damage is capable of resulting from condensate overflow, other than damage to replaceable lay-in ceiling tiles, a drain line shall be provided and shall be drained in accordance with Section 310.1. An additional protection method for condensate overflow shall be provided in accordance with one of the following (CMC 310.2):

o A water level detecting device that will shut off the equipment or appliance in the event the primary drain is blocked.

o An additional watertight pan of corrosion-resistant material, with a separate drain line, installed beneath the cooling coil, unit, or the appliance to catch the overflow condensate due to a clogged primary condensate drain.

o An additional drain line at a level that is higher than the primary drain line connection of the drain pan.

o An additional watertight pan of corrosion-resistant material with a water level detection device installed beneath the cooling coil, unit, or the appliance to catch the overflow condensate due to a clogged primary condensate drain and to shut off the equipment.

The additional pan or the additional drain line connection shall be provided with a drain pipe of not less than 3/4 of an inch nominal pipe size, discharging at a point that is readily observed. (CMC 310.2)

Condensate waste pipes from air-cooling coils shall be sized in accordance with the equipment

capacity as specified in Table 310.3. The material of the piping shall comply with the pressure and temperature rating of the appliance or equipment, and shall be approved for use with the liquid being discharged. (CPC 814.3)



Figure CPA 015 – Example of Lavatory Tailpiece Connection

VENT TERMINATION Each vent pipe or stack shall extend through its flashing and shall terminate vertically not less

than 6 inches (152 mm) above the roof nor less than 1 foot from a vertical surface. (CPC 906.1)

Each vent shall terminate not less than 10 feet from, or not less than 3 feet above, an openable window, door, opening, air intake, or vent shaft, or not less than 3 feet in every direction from a lot line, alley and street excepted.



Figure CPA 017 – CPA Rooftop Equipment Guidelines

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INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS: ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT