Yes, in the codes we checked. Phoenix's 2024 IPC and UPC both list ASME A112.19.19 nonwater urinals as approved fixtures. Local rules still apply: Scottsdale requires a water supply at every urinal rough-in, and EPA notes that U.S. codes prohibit the self-sealing mechanical-trap type. Confirm the model and the city before you buy.
Do Phoenix codes allow waterless urinals?
Yes. Phoenix adopted both the International Plumbing Code and the Uniform Plumbing Code, 2024 editions, with local amendments under Ordinance G-7397, effective August 1, 2025. Both name the nonwater urinal standard as an acceptable one.
IPC Section 424.1 says: "Urinals shall conform to ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.19 or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124." The UPC's Section 412.1, as Phoenix's amendment document prints it, reads the same: "Urinals shall comply with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.19, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124." EPA's urinal guide identifies ASME A112.19.19 as the standard for "Vitreous China Nonwater Urinals." So a vitreous china waterless urinal built to that standard is a recognized fixture in Phoenix.
Which waterless designs are not allowed?
Self-sealing mechanical traps. EPA describes three kinds of nonwater urinal: cartridge types with a liquid barrier seal, cartridge-less types with a liquid seal in the trap, and "a self-sealing mechanical waste valve trap that does not require a liquid barrier seal; however, U.S. plumbing codes currently prohibit these self-sealing mechanical trap designs." That is EPA's 2023 statement of the national position. Confirm it with the Phoenix or other city reviewer for a specific product.
The liquid-seal types are the ones to shop. They bring the cartridge routine described in waterless vs flush urinals and how often to replace urinal screens and strainers.
Does Scottsdale treat them differently?
Yes. Scottsdale adds a section to its IPC Chapter 4 amendments. Section 424.1.1 reads: "Waterless urinals shall have a water supply provided at all urinal rough-ins." So a Scottsdale waterless urinal still gets a water supply roughed in, even though the fixture does not use it. The code adds no reason, so ask the plan reviewer if a layout needs the supply capped or valved.
That rule is Scottsdale's, not Phoenix's. Phoenix's IPC amendment list does not include Section 424.1, so the model text applies there. Other Valley cities adopt their own editions and amendments, so check the city's amendment list before drawing a restroom.
What other Phoenix rules affect a urinal layout?
Phoenix amended Section 424.2, the cap on how many water closets a urinal can replace. Under the Phoenix text, urinals "shall not be substituted for more than 67 percent of the required water closets for males according to Table 403.1 in assembly and educational occupancies," and not more than 50 percent in all other occupancies. A waterless urinal counts as a urinal for that limit, the same as a flush one.
Phoenix also amended Table 604.4(1) so a flushing urinal is limited to 0.5 gallon per flushing cycle, which matches EPA WaterSense levels. That limit is about flush fixtures, so a waterless unit is not at issue. The comparison matters if you are deciding between a 0.5 gpf flush urinal and a waterless one. See low-flow fixture requirements in Arizona.
What should you confirm before buying?
- 1The model's standard. Look for ASME A112.19.19 or another listed standard on the spec sheet.
- 2The seal type. Liquid barrier, not a self-sealing mechanical trap.
- 3The city. Ask whether it amends IPC or UPC urinal sections, as Scottsdale does.
- 4Upkeep. Who will do the cartridge and flush-out cleaning, and when.
- 5The drain. EPA says sediment "can build up in the drainlines if not properly maintained," so a long, flat drain needs a plan.
If a waterless unit starts to smell, do waterless urinals cause sewer odor walks through the checks. HQ gives free estimates on commercial restroom plumbing and can walk the fixture list with your plan reviewer's notes in hand.