What is the maximum distance of the top of the post on a post indicator valve from final grade?

According to NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances, post indicator valves (PIVs) must be installed so they are readily accessible and visible. The standard specifies a required height range to ensure proper operation. The top of the PIV post must be set between 36 inches (900 mm) and 40 inches (1000 mm) above the final grade. Therefore, the maximum allowable distance from the final grade to the top of the post is 40 inches (1000 mm).

A. 36 in. (900 mm) is the minimum required height for the top of the post, not the maximum.

C. 48 in. (1200 mm) exceeds the maximum permitted height, potentially making the valve difficult to operate and non-compliant with the standard.

D. 50 in. (1250 mm) exceeds the maximum permitted height and would be a code violation.

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1. NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances, 2022 Edition. Chapter 6, Section 6.4.2 states: "PIVs shall be set so that the top of the post is 36 in. to 40 in. (900 mm to 1000 mm) above final grade."

2. Oklahoma State University, Fire Protection Publications. Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances, IFSTA, 4th Edition. Chapter 4, "Valves," page 89, discusses PIV installation, referencing the NFPA 24 requirement for the top of the post to be 36 to 40 inches above grade for accessibility.