Building Code Glossary
Antisiphon: Building Code Definition
How the IRC 2009, IPC 2009 define antisiphon, where the wording differs, and which chapters depend on the term.
On this page
Last updated September 7, 2026 · Definitions quoted from the 2009 International Codes as transcribed in this site's building-codes collection, with the source chapter linked for each quotation. Usage counts are computed over the chapters hosted here, one copy per code. The [ICC code library](https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes) publishes the current model text and the [ICC adoption maps](https://www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/code-adoption-maps/) show which edition a jurisdiction has adopted; those sources control.
Direct answer
Antisiphon is a defined term in the International Residential Code (IRC) 2009, in Definitions. The code's own words are: “A term applied to valves or mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage.” The IPC 2009 carries the same definition word for word, so the term means the same thing in each. The term is used in 8 chapters of this corpus, most often in Flammable and Combustible Liquids (IFC 2009), Motor Fuel-dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages (IFC 2009), Definitions (IPC 2009). These pages transcribe the 2009 model text; verify the definition against the edition and amendments your authority having jurisdiction has adopted. Record the jurisdiction, the adopted edition, the application date and any local amendment that rewrites the definition before you use it on a live project, because a term redefined by amendment changes every requirement that depends on it.
Content and cited inputs reviewed by Scott Barrington, Harth founder and architectural technology specialist · Published 2026-09-07 · Updated 2026-09-07.
What does this term mean?
Antisiphon — IRC 2009, Definitions:
A term applied to valves or mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage.
What must be verified before using this guidance?
Two of the I-Codes in this corpus define Antisiphon, in identical words.
| Code | Where it is defined | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| IRC 2009 | Definitions | A term applied to valves or mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage. |
| IPC 2009 | Definitions | A term applied to valves or mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage. |
Where antisiphon is used in the code
The term appears in 8 chapters of the 2009 I-Codes hosted here. The chapters that lean on it hardest are the ones to read next.
| Chapter | Code | Mentions |
|---|---|---|
| Flammable and Combustible Liquids | IFC 2009 | 20 |
| Motor Fuel-dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages | IFC 2009 | 3 |
| Definitions | IPC 2009 | 3 |
| Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings | IPC 2009 | 2 |
| Water Heaters | IPC 2009 | 2 |
| Water Supply and Distribution | IRC 2009 | 2 |
| Fuel Oil Piping and Storage | IMC 2009 | 1 |
| Definitions | IRC 2009 | 1 |
The term in use
How the code actually writes about antisiphon, quoted from the 2009 text hosted here:
Approved antisiphon devices shall be installed in each external pipe connected to the protected above-ground tank when the pipe extends below the level of the top of the tank.
An approved antisiphon method shall be provided in the piping system to prevent flow of liquid by siphon action.
All flush tanks shall be equipped with an antisiphon fill valve conforming to ASSE 1002 or CSA B125.3.
Antisiphon: what to open, and in what order
Every row is a document this term depends on. The ICC code library and the ICC adoption maps cover the middle rows.
| Check | Where | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| Read the definition in the adopted IRC | Definitions | |
| Read the definition in the adopted IPC | Definitions | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Flammable and Combustible Liquids (IFC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Motor Fuel-dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages (IFC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Definitions (IPC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings (IPC 2009) | |
| Local amendment to any of the above | Jurisdiction's amendment list |
A research aid, not a code determination. The authority having jurisdiction decides which edition and which amendments apply.
Where can you explore related guidance?
- Explore all glossary guidance
- Building: Building Code Definition
- Construction Documents: Building Code Definition
- Registered Design Professional: Building Code Definition
- Dwelling Unit: Building Code Definition
Sources and method
Definitions quoted from the 2009 International Codes as transcribed in this site's building-codes collection, with the source chapter linked for each quotation. Usage counts are computed over the chapters hosted here, one copy per code. The ICC code library publishes the current model text and the ICC adoption maps show which edition a jurisdiction has adopted; those sources control.
Source links
Frequently asked questions
What is the code definition of antisiphon?
The International Residential Code (IRC) 2009 defines it in Definitions as: “A term applied to valves or mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage.” The 2009 model text is reproduced here; the definition that binds your project is the one in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted, as amended locally.
Which parts of the code depend on antisiphon?
In this corpus the term is used across 8 chapters, led by Flammable and Combustible Liquids in the IFC 2009. Those are the sections whose scope moves if the definition is amended locally, so read them together with Chapter 2 rather than on their own.
Is a backflow preventer required by code?
Backflow is a separate defined term. The IPC 2009 defines it as: “Pressure created by any means in the water distribution system, which by being in excess ofthe pressure in the water supply mains causes a potential backflow condition.” That is not the same as antisiphon, which the IRC 2009 defines as “A term applied to valves or mechanical devices that eliminate siphonage.” — read both before applying either, and confirm the wording in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted.
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