Traps shall not extend nearer to the floor than 12 inches, with an exception for which fixtures?

• A. Laundry trays or similar fixtures
• B. Kitchens sinks
• C. Bathtubs
• D. Urinals

Answer: (A)

The rule focuses on where a trap can be installed relative to the finished floor and why some setups require a lower trap than others. Keeping traps at least 12 inches above the floor helps ensure the trap is accessible for cleaning and that the drainage and venting work properly without the trap being buried inside cabinets or under a heavy appliance. However, laundry trays (and similar fixtures) have a unique installation: their drains and trays sit low, and a trap placed much higher would create awkward piping and fit problems. To accommodate typical laundry area layouts, the code allows the trap for laundry trays to be installed closer to the floor than the 12-inch minimum. This exception recognizes practical installation constraints while still maintaining proper drainage and venting for that fixture.