Building Advisory Board - July 14, 2026

The City of Salina's Building Advisory Board convened on July 14, 2026, to discuss proposed amendments to the 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) related to testing methods for drainage, waste, and vent (DWV) systems using plastic piping. The board reviewed a staff recommendation to formally allow smoke testing as an alternative to the traditional water testing method, which is currently prohibited for plastic pipes by the UPC. The discussion included input from experienced plumbers and contractors, highlighting practical challenges with water testing, especially in cold weather, and the longstanding informal use of smoke testing in the city. After deliberation, the board voted to recommend approval of the amendments to incorporate smoke testing as an accepted testing method, thereby formalizing existing practice and providing clarity for contractors. The motion passed unanimously, and the recommendation will be forwarded for further consideration.