Earthquake. This amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles, and is necessary due to the increased risk of
significant earthquakes in the County.
2306.2
2306.3
2307.2
2308.6.5.1
2308.6.5.2
Figure
2308.6.5.1
and Figure
2308.6.5.2
Geological The SEAOSC and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated damage to buildings and
structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were
not substantiated by cyclic testing. That
recommendation was consistent with a report to the
Governor from the Seismic Safety Commission of the
State of California recommending that code
requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated with
testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples
are based on monotonic testing and do not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner. In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted
by a private engineering firm to determine if wood
structural panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior as wood structural panels fastened with
common nails. The test result revealed that wood
structural panels fastened with staples demonstrated
much lower strength and stiffness than wood structural
panels fastened with common nails. It was
recommended that the use of staples as fasteners for
wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to Seismic Design Categories D, E, and F unless it can
be substantiated by cyclic testing. Furthermore, the
cities and unincorporated areas within the greater Los
Angeles/Long Beach region have taken extra measures
to maintain the structural integrity of the framing of
shear walls and diaphragms designed for high levels of
seismic forces by requiring wood sheathing be applied
directly over the framing members and prohibiting the
use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing. This
amendment is intended to prevent the undesirable
performance of nails when gypsum board softens due
to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid
material within the thickness of the gypsum board. This amendment continues the previous amendment
adopted during the 2007 code adoption cycle.
2308.6.8.1 Geological With the higher seismic demand placed on buildings and structures in this region, interior walls can easily be called upon to resist over half of the seismic loading
imposed on simple buildings or structures. Without a
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
continuous foundation to support the braced wall line,
seismic loads would be transferred through other
elements such as non-structural concrete slab floors,
wood floors, etc. The purpose of this amendment is to
limit the use of the exception to structures assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B, or C where lower
seismic demands are expected. Requiring interior
braced walls be supported by continuous foundations is
intended to reduce or eliminate the poor performance of buildings or structures. This amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles, and is necessary due to the
increased risk of significant earthquakes in the County.
Table
2308.6.1
Geological This amendment specifies minimum sheathing
thickness and nail size and spacing so as to provide a
uniform standard of construction for designers and
buildings to follow. This is intended to improve the
performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands placed on
buildings or structure in this region. This proposed
amendment reflects the recommendations by the
SEAOSC and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force,
which investigated the performance deficiencies
observed in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles, and is necessary
due to the increased risk of significant earthquakes in the County.
2308.6.9 Geological Due to the high geologic activities in the Southern California area and the required higher level of
performance of buildings and structures, this
amendment limits the use of staple fasteners in
resisting or transferring seismic forces. In September
2007, limited cyclic testing data was provided to the
ICC, Los Angeles Chapter Structural Code Committee,
showing that stapled wood structural shear panels do
not exhibit the same behavior as nailed wood structural shear panels. The test results of stapled wood
structural shear panels demonstrated much lower
strength and drift than nailed wood structural shear
panel test results. Therefore, the use of staples as
fasteners to resist or transfer seismic forces shall not be permitted without being substantiated by cyclic testing.
This amendment is a continuation of a similar
amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
3115;
Table
3115.8.5.3
Climatic,
Geologic
The greater Los Angeles/Long Beach region is situated
over a vast array of earthquake fault systems capable
of producing major earthquakes, including, but not
limited to, the recent 1994 Northridge Earthquake. The
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
region is further impacted by construction of buildings and structures utilizing traditional construction materials that impact the amount of energy, air quality,
greenhouse gas emission and construction waste in the
area. The proposed amendment addresses structural
design requirements specific to intermodal shipping
containers, reduce environmental impact of unused and
unrecycled intermodal shipping containers, and
increase sustainability by reducing consumption of
traditional construction materials. The proposed
modification needs to be incorporated into the code to
assure that new buildings and additions to existing
buildings utilizing intermodal shipping containers are
designed and constructed in accordance with the scope
and objectives of the California Building Code and
California Green Building Standards Code.
Appendix C Climatic,
Geologic,
Voluntary
appendix
Los Angeles County is a diverse region with both
densely populated urban areas and rural areas with
various agricultural and animal husbandry
establishments. Many areas of the County have been
designated as Fire Hazard Severity Zones due to the
increased risk of fire caused by low humidity, strong
winds, and dry vegetation, particularly the rural areas, which are often used for agricultural purposes.
Furthermore, the greater Los Angeles/Long Beach
region is situated over a vast array of earthquake fault systems capable of producing major earthquakes,
including, but not limited to, the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. Due to the need for agricultural buildings to perform appropriately in the County due to its geology
and climate, adoption of building standards for such
structures is required.
Appendix H Climatic,
Administrative,
Voluntary
appendix
Los Angeles County is a diverse region with both
densely populated urban areas and rural areas with
various signs used in the County. The Los Angeles
region is situated over a vast array of earthquake fault systems capable of producing major earthquakes,
including, but not limited to, the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. In addition, weather events occur
seasonally with high winds such as the Santa Ana
Winds. Due to the need for signs to perform well in the County due to its climate and geology, adoption of
building standards for signs is required.
H103.1 Los Angeles County is a diverse region with both densely populated urban areas and rural areas with
various signs used in the County. The greater Los
Angeles/Long Beach region is situated over a vast
array of earthquake fault systems capable of producing
major earthquakes, including, but not limited to, the
1994 Northridge Earthquake. This provision is amended
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
to cross-reference to applicable legal provisions and
also to ensure that signs are located in such a way as
to avoid damage to adjacent structures and people
given the potential for earthquakes in the County.
H103.2 Geologic,
Administrative,
Voluntary
appendix
Los Angeles County is a diverse region with both
densely populated urban areas and rural areas with
various signs used in the County. The greater Los
Angeles/Long Beach region is situated over a vast
array of earthquake fault systems capable of producing
major earthquakes, including, but not limited to, the
1994 Northridge Earthquake. This provision is amended
to cross-reference to applicable legal provisions and
also to ensure that sign projections and clearances are located in such a way as to avoid damage to adjacent
structures and people given the potential for
earthquakes in the County.
H104.1 Geologic,
Voluntary
appendix
The greater Los Angeles/Long Beach region is situated
over a vast array of earthquake fault systems capable
of producing major earthquakes, including, but not
limited to, the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. Due to the
risk of geologic activities in the Southern California
area, buildings and structures require a high level of
performance, which is directly proportional to the weight of a structure. By adding the weight of a sign to the
identification placard, it will improve the ability to
provide structural verification in the event of damage or future modifications.
H105.1 Administrative,
Voluntary
appendix
The amendment provides a cross reference to Chapter
24 for user convenience.
H106.1,
H106.2
Administrative,
Voluntary
appendix
This change corrects a call out from the model electrical code to the relevant local electrical code and clarifies that a separate electrical permit is required for user
convenience.
H110.1 Climatic,
Voluntary
appendix
Due to the potential for severe local weather conditions with torrential rain, it is necessary to clarify that no portions of the roof sign and supporting members may
interfere with proper roof drainage to prevent the
potential for roof collapse due to water accumulation.
H116 Climatic,
Voluntary
appendix
Due to the potential for severe local weather with high speed winds and hot, dry conditions, it is necessary that the most recent test standards as specified in Chapter
35 are adopted in lieu of the older test standards
specified in Section H116. This ensures that the risk
from fires is minimized.
J101.1 to
J101.9
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised to include erosion and sediment
control measures to address the complex and diverse
set of soil types and geologic conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
J101.10 Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Section revised to maintain safety and integrity of public or private property adjacent to grading sites due to the complex and diverse set of soil types, climates, and
geologic conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
J103.1 –
J103.2 and
Figure
J103.2
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised to provide adequate control of grading operations typical to the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region due to the complex and
diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic
conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region.
J104.2.1 –
J104.4
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised or added to provide adequate control
of grading operations typical to the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region due to the complex and
diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic
conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region.
J105.1-
J105.14
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised or added to provide adequate control
of grading operations typical to the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region due to the complex and
diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic
conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region.
J106.1 Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Section revised to require more stringent cut slope
ratios to address the complex and diverse set of soil
types and geologic conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
J107.1-
J107.7
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised to provide more stringent fill
requirements for slope stability and settlement due to
the complex and diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
J107.8 –
J107.9
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised to provide more stringent inspection
and testing requirements for fill slope stability due to the complex and diverse set of soil types, climates, and
geologic conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
J108.1 –
J108.4
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised to provide more stringent slope
setback requirements to address the complex and
diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic
conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region.
J109.1 –
J109.3
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised to provide more stringent drainage
and terracing requirements to address the complex and
diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic
conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region.
J109.5 Geological Subsection added to provide for adequate outlet of 65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
Topographical
Climatic
drainage flows due to the diverse set of soil types,
climates, and geologic conditions that exist in the
greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
J110.1 -
J110.8.5
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Sections revised or added to provide for State
requirements of storm water pollution prevention and
more stringent slope planting, and slope stability
requirements to control erosion due to the complex and
diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic
conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles
County/Long Beach region.
J111 Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Section revised to reference additional standards for
soils testing due to the complex and diverse set of soil types, climates, and geologic conditions that exist in the greater Los Angeles County/Long Beach region.
Appendix P
P101.1,
P102.1,
P103.1,
P103.4,
P107.1
Administrative,
Voluntary
appendix,
Geological
Topographical
Climatic
Adoption of this appendix is necessary because strict
compliance with State and local standards and laws
would prevent, hinder, or delay the mitigation of the
effects of a declared shelter crisis, local emergency or state of emergency. The modifications to this appendix
are administrative in nature, to provide clarification of various provisions of the language of this voluntary
Appendix.
P106.1 Climatic Los Angeles County is subject to extreme temperatures, and many of these membrane structures
will be erected and occupied during severe weather
events. It is necessary to include this amendment to
ensure the safety, health, and comfort of the occupants is maintained during extreme heat and cold.
P110.1.1,
P110.1.2
Administrative These sections are a cross reference to the State Plumbing Code requirement for user convenience and
is not adding a new building standard nor enacting a
more restrictive requirement. To the extent findings are requested, see prefatory language in this Section.
P110.3 Climatic,
Voluntary
appendix
The County may utilize mobile restroom facilities that
are physically separate from the living facilities. Due to the potential for severe local weather conditions, with extreme temperatures or torrential rain, the distance to the restroom facilities required for the comfort, safety, and health of displaced people should be reduced to
300 feet or as determined by the Building Official.
Electrical Code
Electrical Code Amendments
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
CODE
SECTION
CONDITION EXPLANATION
220.41 Climatic The County of Los Angeles is a densely populated area with varying and occasionally immoderate temperatures
and weather conditions. This creates the need for
highly efficient buildings to reduce demand on the
electrical grid and, in turn, reduce the use of fossil fuels and improve air quality. The proposed amendment will
provide a cost-effective means for homeowners to
increase energy savings and reduce the demand on the
electrical grid by requiring the installation of an energy storage system for current or future use, with minimal
need for additional construction and modification of the existing electrical system.
Mechanical Code
Mechanical Code Amendments
CODE
SECTION
CONDITION EXPLANATION
501.1 Climatic Additional Health Department requirements are necessary due to local air quality concerns.
510.1.6 Geological High geologic activities, such as seismic events, in the Southern California area necessitate this local
amendment for bracing and support.
603.7.1.1 Geological High geologic activities, such as seismic events, in the Southern California area necessitate this local
amendment for bracing and support.
1114.4 Geological High geologic activities, such as seismic events, in the Southern California area necessitate this local
amendment to reduce damage and potential for toxic
refrigerant release during a seismic event caused by
shifting equipment and to minimize impacts to the
sewer system in such an event.
Plumbing Code
Plumbing Code Amendments
CODE
SECTION
CONDITION EXPLANATION
304.1 Geological
Topographical
The County of Los Angeles is a densely populated area
with buildings constructed within a region where water
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
Climatic is scarce and domestic water service is impacted by immoderate and varying weather conditions, including
periods of extended drought. The proposed measures
will require buildings to be more water efficient and
allow greater conservation of domestic water due to
these local conditions.
601.2.3 Geological
Topographical
Climatic
The County of Los Angeles is a densely populated area
with buildings constructed within a region where water
is scarce and domestic water service is impacted by
immoderate and varying weather conditions, including
periods of extended drought. The proposed measures
will require buildings to be more water efficient and
allow greater conservation of domestic water due to
these local conditions.
721.3 Geological
Topographical
To allow for the proper operation of existing Los
Angeles County sewer infrastructure and establish
consistency with Title 20 – Utilities – of the Los Angeles County Code, Division 2 (Sanitary Sewers and
Industrial Waste) due to local soil conditions and
topography.
728.1 to
728.6
Geological
Topographical
To allow for the proper operation of existing Los
Angeles County sewer infrastructure and establish
consistency with Title 20 – Utilities – of the Los Angeles County Code, Division 2 (Sanitary Sewers and
Industrial Waste) due to local soil conditions and
topography.
Table H
101.8
Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions and to provide protections for native, protected oak trees that are consistent with Title 22 – Zoning and Planning – of the Los Angeles County Code, Chapter 22.174 (Oak
Tree Permits).
Table H
201.1(1)
Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions, sewer capacity, and sewage treatment.
Table H
201.1(2)
Geological
Topographical
To establish consistency with requirements of the
County Health Department for sewer capacity and
sewage treatment due to local soil conditions.
Table H
201.1(3)
Geological
Topographical
To establish consistency with requirements of the
County Health Department for sewer capacity and
sewage treatment due to local soil conditions.
Table H
201.1(4)
Geological
Topographical
To establish consistency with requirements of the
County Health Department for sewer capacity and
sewage treatment due to local soil conditions.
H 301.1 Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions.
H 401.3 Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions.
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
H 601.5 Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions.
H 601.8 Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions.
H 701.2 Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements for protection of local groundwater due to local soil conditions.
H 1001.1 Geological
Topographical
To establish more restrictive requirements to prevent
earth movement based on local soil and seismic
conditions.
H 1101.6 Geological To establish more restrictive requirements to prevent earth movement based on local soil and seismic
conditions.
Appendix S Climatic To establish requirements for solar thermal energy systems based on provisions in the Uniform Solar,
Hydronics and Geothermal Code (USHGC), which is
developed by the International Association of Plumbing
and Mechanical Officials. The County of Los Angeles is
a densely populated area, with elevated levels of
greenhouse gas emissions. Standards to regulate the
installation of solar thermal energy systems will
facilitate safe and efficient installations of these
systems to improve local air quality, thereby improving the health of the County's residents, businesses and
visitors.
Residential Code
Residential Code Amendments
CODE
SECTION
CONDITION EXPLANATION
R301.1.3.2 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. After the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, the Wood
Frame Construction Joint Task Force recommended
that the quality of woodframe construction needed to be greatly improved. The Task Force recommended that
structural plans be prepared by the engineer or
architect so that plan examiners, building inspectors,
contractors, and special inspectors may logically follow and construct the seismic force-resisting systems as
presented in the construction documents. For buildings
or structures located in Seismic Design Category D0,
D1, D2, or E that are subject to a greater level of
seismic forces, the requirement to have a California
licensed architect or engineer prepare the construction 65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
documents is intended to minimize or reduce structural
deficiencies that may cause excessive damage or
injuries in woodframe buildings. Involvement of a
registered professional will minimize the occurrence of structural deficiencies such as plan and vertical
irregularities, improper shear transfer of the seismic
force-resisting system, missed details or connections
important to the structural system, and the improper
application of the prescriptive requirements of the
California Residential Code.
R301.1.5 Geological
Topographical
Due to the local topographical and geological conditions of the sites within the greater Los Angeles region and
their susceptibility to earthquakes, this technical
amendment is required to address and clarify special
needs for buildings constructed on hillside locations. A joint Structural Engineers Association of Southern
California (SEAOSC) and Los Angeles City Joint Task
Force investigated the performance of hillside building failures after the Northridge Earthquake. Numerous
hillside failures resulted in loss of life and millions of dollars in damage. These criteria were developed to
minimize the damage to these structures and have
been in use by the City and County of Los Angeles for
several years.
R301.2.2.6 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. Due to the high geologic activities in the Southern California area and the necessary higher level of
performance required for buildings and structures, this local amendment limits the type of irregular conditions as specified in the 2022 California Residential Code.
Such limitations are recommended to reduce structural
damage in the event of an earthquake. The County of
Los Angeles and cities in this region have implemented
these extra measures to maintain the structural integrity of the framing of the shear walls and all associated
elements when designed for high levels of seismic
loads.
R301.2.2.11 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. Due to the high geologic activity in the Southern California area and the necessary higher level of
performance required for buildings and structures, this local amendment limits the potential anchorage and
supporting frame failure resulting from additional
weight. There is no limitation for weight of mechanical and plumbing fixtures and equipment in the
International Residential Code. Requirements from
ASCE 7 and the International Building Code would
permit equipment weighing up to 400 lbs. when
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
mounted at 4 feet or less above the floor or attic level without engineering design. Where equipment exceeds
this requirement, it is the intent of this amendment that a registered design professional be required to analyze if the floor support is adequate and structurally sound.
Table
R302.1(2)
Geological This amendment will not allow unprotected openings (openings that do not resist the spread of fire) to be in the exterior wall of a residential building that is located on a property line. This amendment is necessary due to
local climatic conditions. The hot, dry weather
conditions of late summer in combination with the Santa Ana winds creates an extreme fire danger. Residential
buildings with unprotected openings located on a
property line may permit fires to spread from the inside of the building to adjacent properties and likewise from exterior properties to the interior of the building.
R337.1.1 Geological Extends the application of Chapter R337 to include additions, alterations, and/or relocated buildings. Many areas of Los Angeles County have been designated as
Fire Hazard Severity Zones due to low humidity, strong
winds, and dry vegetation. Additions, alterations, and/or relocated buildings have the same fire risk as new
buildings.
R337.1.3 Climatic Extends the application of Chapter R337 to include additions, alterations, and/or relocated buildings. Many areas of Los Angeles County have been designated as
Fire Hazard Severity Zones due to the increased risk of fire caused by low humidity, strong winds, and dry
vegetation. Additions, alterations, and/or relocated
buildings have the same fire risk as new buildings.
R337.1.3.1 Climatic Extends the application of Chapter R337 to include additions, alterations, and/or relocated buildings. Many areas of Los Angeles County have been designated as
Fire Hazard Severity Zones due to the increased risk of fire caused by low humidity, strong winds, and dry
vegetation. Additions, alterations, and/or relocated
buildings have the same fire risk as new buildings.
R337.3.5.2 Climatic Disallows the use of wood-shingle/wood-shake roofs due to the increased risk of fire in Los Angeles County caused by low humidity, strong winds, and dry
vegetation in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
R337.3.5.2.2 Climatic Disallows the use of wood-shingle/wood-shake roofs due to the increased risk of fire in Los Angeles County caused by low humidity, strong winds, and dry
vegetation in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
R337.4.4 Climatic Disallows the use of wood-shingle/wood-shake roofs due to the increased risk of fire in Los Angeles County caused by low humidity, strong winds, and dry
vegetation in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
R337.5.2 Climatic Disallows the use of wood-shingle/wood-shake roofs due to the increased risk of fire in Los Angeles County caused by low humidity, strong winds, and dry
vegetation in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
R401.1 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. Wood foundations, even those that are
preservative-treated, encounter a higher risk of
deterioration when contacting the adjacent ground. The
required seismic anchorage and transfer of lateral
forces into the foundation system necessary for 2-story structures and foundation walls could become
compromised at varying states of wood decay. In
addition, global structure overturning moment and
sliding resistance is reduced when utilizing wood
foundations as opposed to conventional concrete or
masonry systems. However, non-occupied, single-story
storage structures pose significantly less risk to human safety and may utilize the wood foundation guidelines
specified in this Chapter
R403.1.2
R403.1.3.6
R403.1.5
Figure
R403.1.5
Climatic
Geological
Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to
the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. These amendments require minimum
reinforcement in continuous footings and stepped
footings to address the problem of poor performance of
plain or under-reinforced footings during a seismic
event. These amendments implement the
recommendations of SEAOSC and the Los Angeles
City Joint Task Force resulting from their investigation of the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. Interior walls can
easily be called upon to resist over half of the seismic loading imposed on simple buildings or structures.
Without a continuous foundation to support the braced
wall line, seismic loads would be transferred through
other elements such as non-structural concrete slab
floors, wood floors, etc. Requiring interior braced walls to be supported by continuous foundations is intended
to reduce or eliminate the poor performance of
buildings or structures.
R404.2 Climatic
Geological
No substantiating data has been provided to show that
wood foundations are effective in supporting structures and buildings during a seismic event while being
subject to deterioration caused by the presence of
water and other materials detrimental to wood
foundations in the soil. Wood foundations, when they
are not properly treated and protected against
deterioration, have performed very poorly and have led
to slope failures. Most contractors are typically
accustomed to construction in dry weather in the
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
Southern California region and are not generally
familiar with the necessary precautions and treatment
of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic events
and wet applications. With the higher seismic demand
placed on buildings and structures in this region,
coupled with the dryer weather conditions, it is the
intent of this amendment to reduce or eliminate
potential problems resulting from the use of wood
footings and foundations.
R501.2 Geological Due to the high geologic activities in the Southern California area and the necessary higher level of
performance required for buildings and structures, this local amendment limits the potential anchorage and
supporting frame failure resulting from additional
weight. There is no limitation for weight of mechanical and plumbing fixtures and equipment in the
International Residential Code. Requirements from
ASCE 7 and the International Building Code would
permit equipment weighing up to 400 lbs. when
mounted at 4 feet or less above the floor or attic level without engineering design. Where equipment exceeds
this requirement, it is the intent of this amendment that a registered design professional be required to analyze if the floor support is adequate and structurally sound.
R503.2.4
Figure
R503.2.4
Geological Section R502.10 of the Code does not provide any prescriptive criteria to limit the maximum floor opening size, nor does Section R503 provide any details to
address the issue of shear transfer near larger floor
openings. With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, it is important to ensure that a complete load path is provided to reduce
or eliminate potential damage caused by seismic
forces. Requiring blocking with metal ties around larger floor openings and limiting opening size is consistent
with the requirements of Section R301.2.2.2.5.
Table
R602.3(1)
Table
R602.3(2)
Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. In September 2007, limited cyclic testing data was provided to the ICC Los Angeles Chapter Structural
Code Committee showing that stapled wood structural
shear panels do not exhibit the same behavior as the
nailed wood structural shear panels. The test results of the stapled wood structural shear panels demonstrated
lower strength and drift than the nailed wood structural shear panel test results. Therefore, the use of staples as fasteners for shear walls sheathed with other
materials shall not be permitted without being
substantiated by cyclic testing.
R602.3.2 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to 65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
Table
R602.3.2
the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. The County of Los Angeles and cities in this
region have taken extra measures to maintain the
structural integrity of the framing of the shear walls
when designed for high levels of seismic loads by
eliminating single top plate construction. The
performance of modern day braced wall panel
construction is directly related to an adequate load path extending from the roof diaphragm to the foundation
system.
R602.10.2.3 Geological The greater Los Angeles region is a densely populated area having buildings and structures constructed over
and near a vast array of fault systems capable of
producing major earthquakes, including, but not limited, to the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. Plywood shear
walls with high aspect ratio experienced many failures
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies a minimum braced wall length to
meet an aspect ratio consistent with other sections of
the California Residential Code, and to assure that new buildings and additions to existing buildings are
designed and constructed in accordance with the scope
and objectives of the California Residential Code. This is intended to improve the performance level of
buildings and structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and reduce and limit potential
damage to property. This proposed amendment reflects
the recommendations by SEAOSC and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the
poor performance observed during the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake.
Table
R602.10.3(3) Geological Due to the high geologic activities in the Southern California area and the necessary higher level of
performance of buildings and structures, this local
amendment reduces or eliminates the allowable shear
values for shear walls sheathed with lath, plaster, or
gypsum board. The poor performance of such shear
walls sheathed with other materials in the 1994
Northridge Earthquake was investigated by SEAOSC
and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force. The County
of Los Angeles and cities in this region have taken extra measures to maintain the structural integrity of the
framing of the shear walls when designed for high
levels of seismic loads.
Table
R602.10.4
Geological 3/8" thick 3 ply-plywood shear walls experienced many failures during the Northridge Earthquake. This
amendment specifies minimum WSP sheathing
thickness and nail size and spacing, so as to provide a uniform standard of construction to improve the
performance level of buildings and structures, given the 65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
potential for higher seismic demands placed on
buildings or structure in this region. This proposed
amendment reflects the recommendations by SEAOSC
and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force following the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. In September 2007, cyclic
testing data was provided to the Los Angeles Chapter
Structural Code Committee showing that stapled wood
structural shear panels underperformed nailed wood
structural shear panels. Test results of the stapled
wood structural shear panels appeared much lower in
strength and drift than the nailed wood structural shear panel test results.
Table
R602.10.5
Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. The poor performance of such shear walls
sheathed in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake was
investigated by SEAOSC and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force. The County of Los Angeles and cities
in this region have taken extra measures to maintain
the structural integrity with respect to the "maximum
shear wall aspect ratios" of the framing of the shear
walls when designed for high levels of seismic loads.
This amendment is consistent with the shear wall
aspect ratio provision of Section 4.3.4 of AWC SDPWS2015.
Figure
R602.10.6.1
Geological 3/8" thick 3 ply-plywood shear walls experienced many failures during the Northridge Earthquake. The poor
performance of shear walls in the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake was investigated by SEAOSC and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force. Box nails were observed
to cause massive and multiple failures of the typical
3/8" thick 3 ply-plywood during the Northridge
Earthquake. The County of Los Angeles and cities in
this region have taken extra measures to maintain the
structural integrity of the framing of the shear walls
when designed for high levels of seismic loads. The
performance of modern day braced wall panel
construction is directly related to an adequate load path extending from the roof diaphragm to the foundation
system.
Figure
R602.10.6.2
Geological 3/8" thick 3 ply-plywood shear walls experienced many failures during the Northridge Earthquake. The poor
performance of such shear walls in the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake was investigated by SEAOSC and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force. The County of Los
Angeles and cities in this region have taken extra
measures to maintain the structural integrity of the
framing of the shear walls when designed for high
levels of seismic loads. Box nails were observed to
cause massive and multiple failures of typical 3/8-inch 65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
thick plywood during the Northridge Earthquake. This
change to the minimum lap splice requirement is
consistent with Section 12.16.1 of ACI 318-11. This
amendment is a continuation of amendments adopted
during prior Code adoption cycles.
Figure
R602.10.6.4
Geological 3/8" thick 3 ply-plywood shear walls experienced many failures during the Northridge Earthquake. The poor
performance of such shear walls in the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake was investigated by SEAOSC and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force. The County of Los
Angeles and cities in this region have taken extra
measures to maintain the structural integrity of the
framing of the shear walls when designed for high
levels of seismic loads. The proposal in which "washers shall be a minimum of 0.229 inch by 3 inches by 3
inches in size" is consistent with Section R602.11.1 of the California Residential Code and Section 2308.3.1 of the California Building Code. This amendment is a
continuation of amendments adopted during prior Code
adoption cycle.
R606.4.4 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. The addition of the word "or" will prevent the use of unreinforced parapets in Seismic Design Category
D0, D1, or D2, or on townhouses in Seismic Design
Category C.
R606.12.2.2.3 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. Reinforcement using longitudinal wires for
buildings and structures located in high seismic areas is not as ductile as deformed rebar. Having vertical
reinforcement closer to the ends of masonry walls helps to improve the seismic performance of masonry
buildings and structures.
R803.2.4 Geological Section R802 of the Code does not provide any prescriptive criteria to limit the maximum size of roof openings, nor does Section R803 provide any details to
address the issue of shear transfer near larger roof
openings. With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, it is important to ensure that a complete load path is provided to reduce
or eliminate potential damage caused by seismic
forces. Requiring blocking with metal ties around larger roof openings and limiting the size of openings is
consistent with the requirements of Section R301.2.2.6.
R1001.3.1 Geological Los Angeles County is prone to seismic activity due to the existence of active faults in the Southern California area. The performance of fireplaces/chimneys without
anchorage to the foundation has been observed to be
65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
inadequate during major earthquakes. The lack of
anchorage to the foundation results in overturn or
displacement.
Appendix
AZ
AZ101.1,
AZ102.1,
AZ103.1,
AZ103.4,
AZ107.1
Administrative,
Voluntary
Appendix
Climatic
Geologic
Topographical
Adoption of this appendix is necessary because strict
compliance with state and local standards and laws
would prevent, hinder, or delay the mitigation of the
effects of a declared shelter crisis or other emergency.
The modifications to this appendix are administrative in nature, to provide clarification of various provisions of the language of this voluntary Appendix.
AZ106.1 Climatic,
Voluntary
Appendix
Los Angeles County is subject to extreme
temperatures, and many of these membrane structures
will be erected and occupied during severe weather
events. It is necessary to include this amendment to
ensure the safety, health, and comfort of the occupants is maintained during extreme heat and cold.
AZ110.1.1,
AZ110.1.2
Administrative,
Voluntary
Appendix
These sections are simply a cross reference to the
State Plumbing Code requirement for user convenience
and is not adding a new building standard nor enacting
a more restrictive requirement. To the extent findings
are requested, see prefatory language in this Section.
AZ110.3 Climatic,
Voluntary
Appendix
The County may utilize mobile restroom facilities that
are physically separate from the living facilities. Due to the potential for severe local weather conditions, with extreme temperatures or torrential rain, the distance to the restroom facilities required for the comfort, safety, and health of displaced people should be reduced to
300 feet or as determined by the Building Official.
Existing Building Code
Existing Building Code Amendments
CODE
SECTION
CONDITION EXPLANATION
302.6.1 to
302.6.3
Geologic The greater Los Angeles/Long Beach region is a densely populated area having buildings constructed
over and near a vast array of fault systems capable of
producing major earthquakes, including, but not limited to, the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. The purpose of the
amendments is to prevent inadequate construction or
bracing to increase resistance to horizontal forces, thus minimizing hazards to life or property in the event of an earthquake.
302.7 Geologic The greater Los Angeles/Long Beach region is a 65320.00001\40834514.2
Ordinance No. 2022-605
November 15, 2022
densely populated area having buildings constructed
over and near a vast array of fault systems capable of
producing major earthquakes, including, but not limited to, the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. The purpose of the
amendment is to minimize injuries caused by shattering
glass in the event of an earthquake.
A401.2 Geologic,
Administrative,
Voluntary
Appendix
The greater Los Angeles/Long Beach region is situated
over a vast array of earthquake fault systems capable
of producing major earthquakes, including, but not
limited to, the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. The
purpose of this amendment is to provide voluntary
building standards to constituents that are performing
seismic retrofitting for existing structures.
A404.1 Geologic,
Administrative,
Voluntary
Appendix
The greater Los Angeles/Long Beach region is situated
over a vast array of earthquake fault systems capable
of producing major earthquakes, including, but not
limited to, the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. The
purpose of this amendment is to provide voluntary
building standards to constituents that are performing
seismic retrofitting for existing structures. Due to these factors, the County requires a licensed architect or
engineer stamp and approval of the construction
documents.