Pierre, South Dakota — On March 13, South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden signed Senate Bill 25 (SB 25) into law, officially adopting the 2024 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC®) to replace the previously adopted 2015 version. The update, which was championed by the state’s Plumbing Commission and strongly supported by the South Dakota plumbing industry, is expected to enhance plumbing standards across the state.
Senate Commerce and Energy Committee Chairman David Wheeler sponsored the bill at the request of the South Dakota Plumbing Commission and successfully guided it through the legislative process. The bill passed after extensive discussions, culminating in a bipartisan vote of 102 yeas to 2 nays.
“This passage and update is a testament to the deep roots, allies, and stakeholder partnerships that IAPMO has been able to forge and sustain in South Dakota,” said Jed Scheuermann, IAPMO Vice President of Field Services. “The work of the chair and the committee was essential, acting as a steady, reliable, and amenable hand leading all the way to the governor’s desk. This update helps South Dakotans have access to a newer code that reflects improvements in water conservation, drinking water quality, and plumbing technology.”
One of the key changes from the 2015 to the 2024 UPC is the introduction of Appendix M, which includes the Peak Water Demand Calculator®. This update is the result of a multiyear, IAPMO-led effort to develop a statistically based method for water pipe sizing, addressing growing concerns about water safety and the inefficiency of oversized water supply pipes. The new approach, which refines the iconic Hunter's Curve developed over 80 years ago, aims to reduce wasted water and energy while improving system performance in homes and buildings.
Additionally, the updated UPC emphasizes the importance of accredited third-party certification for drinking water treatment devices, fixtures, and components to meet relevant American National Standards. This will ensure that all plumbing systems meet rigorous standards for health and safety.
“The 2024 update to the UPC is a significant step forward for South Dakota, bringing the state in line with the latest advancements in plumbing technology and water conservation,” said Scheuermann. “As the plumbing industry evolves, these updates address key concerns, ensuring that the state’s infrastructure keeps pace with the growing demand for more sustainable and efficient systems.”
The 2024 UPC also includes several other important provisions and updates to address the evolving needs of the plumbing industry, particularly in South Dakota and similar regions. These updates include:
- New provisions for private well water tanks to improve water safety and system reliability.
- Appendix Q, which addresses plumbing requirements for indoor horticultural facilities, reflecting the growing interest in urban agriculture and sustainability.
- Appendix R, establishing minimum plumbing system requirements for tiny houses, ensuring that these compact living spaces are equipped with safe and efficient plumbing systems.
- Appendix S, which includes provisions for onsite stormwater treatment systems, supporting sustainable practices for managing and reusing water in both residential and commercial buildings.
These updates reflect a comprehensive effort by IAPMO and the South Dakota Plumbing Commission to incorporate the latest standards for water conservation, energy efficiency, and plumbing technology into the state's plumbing code.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Plumbing in South Dakota
The adoption of the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code marks a major milestone in South Dakota’s ongoing efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure, particularly in terms of water safety and conservation. As the state continues to grow, these updates will play a crucial role in ensuring that new construction projects, as well as existing infrastructure, are built to the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability.
“The implementation of these new standards will have a lasting impact on how plumbing systems are designed and function across South Dakota,” said Scheuermann. “We are proud of the progress made and the partnerships that have allowed us to get to this point. We look forward to working with stakeholders in the plumbing industry to continue enhancing the state’s plumbing systems for years to come.”
South Dakota's adoption of the 2024 UPC is part of a broader trend across the United States, as many states and municipalities update their plumbing codes to incorporate modern technologies, address water scarcity, and improve public health. By aligning with the 2024 edition of the UPC, South Dakota positions itself as a forward-thinking state committed to sustainable and safe plumbing practices.
As the plumbing industry continues to innovate, further updates to the UPC may be expected in the coming years, keeping pace with advancements in water treatment, energy efficiency, and the push toward net-zero buildings. These ongoing efforts are key to ensuring that plumbing systems are not only functional but also resilient and environmentally responsible. For more information on the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and to access the Water Demand Calculator, visit IAPMO’s website and download the calculator at iapmo.org/we-stand/water-demand-calculator.
Originally reported by IAPMO.