CHBC · California Historical Building Code

Gravity loads & load path

CHBC requires a documented survey and evaluation of gravity load capacity and a continuous load path from all parts of a historic building to the ground, with strengthening where necessary.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

Overview

This area of the California Historical Building Code (CHBC) covers evaluation and required strengthening of historical structures for vertical (gravity) loads and the necessity of a continuous load path connecting all structural parts to the ground. The CHBC directs that the capacity of a building to resist gravity loads be evaluated and strengthened as necessary, and that the evaluation include all parts of the load path (see §8-705.1) .

It also requires a documented structural survey to determine framing, deterioration and how gravity and lateral systems interact (see §8-703.1) , and it mandates a complete, continuous load path—including connections—from every part of the structure to the ground so the building will act as a unit (see §8-706.3) . These provisions are applied with the CHBC’s preservation intent: allow reasonable alternatives where historic materials or methods remain, while preventing life‑threatening collapse.

In this section

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Historical Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CHBC § 8-705.1 High relevance — show source text

    8-705.1 Gravity loads. The capacity of the structure to resist gravity loads shall be evaluated and the structure strengthened as necessary. The evaluation shall include all parts of the load path. Where no distress is evident, and a complete load path is present, the structure may be assumed adequate by having withstood the test of time if anticipated dead and live loads will not exceed those historically present.

    8-705.2 Wind and seismic loads. The ability of the structure to resist wind and seismic loads shall be evaluated. Wind loads shall be considered when appropriate, but need not exceed 75 percent of the wind loads prescribed by the regular code. The evaluation shall be based on the requirements of Section 8-706.

    8.705.2.1 Any unsafe conditions in the lateral-load-resisting system shall be corrected, or alternative resistance shall be provided. When strengthening is required, additional resistance shall be provided to meet the minimum requirements of the CHBC. The strengthening measures shall be selected with the intent of meeting the performance objectives set forth in Section 8-701.2. The evaluation of structural members and structural systems for seismic loads shall consider the inelastic performance of structural members and their ability to maintain load-carrying capacity during the seismic loadings prescribed by the regular code.

    8.705.2.2 The architect or engineer shall consider additional measures with minimal loss of, and impact to, historical materials which will reduce damage and needed repairs in future earthquakes to better preserve the historical structure in perpetuity. These additional measures shall be presented to the owner for consideration as part of the rehabilitation or restoration.

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    STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS

    SECTION 8-706 LATERAL LOAD REGULATIONS

    8-706.1 Seismic forces. Strength-level seismic forces used to evaluate the structure for resistance to seismic loads shall be based on the R -values tabulated in the regular code for similar lateral-force-resisting systems including consideration of the structural detailing of the members where such R -values exist. Where such R -values do not exist, an appropriate R -value shall be rationally assigned considering the structural detailing of the members.

    Exceptions:

    1. The forces need not exceed 0.75 times the seismic forces prescribed by the regular code requirements.
    2. For Risk Category I, II or III structures, near-fault increases in ground motion (maximum considered earthquake ground motion of 0.2 second spectral response greater than 150 percent at 5 percent damping) need not be considered when the fundamental period of the building is 0.5 seconds in the direction under consideration.
    3. For Risk Category I or II structures, the seismic base shear need not exceed 0.30W.
    4. For Risk Category III or IV structures, the seismic base shear need not exceed 0.40W.

    8-706.1.1 When a building is to be strengthened with the addition of a new lateral force resisting system, the R -value of the new system can be used when the new lateral force resisting system resists at least 75 percent of the building’s base shear regardless of its relative rigidity.

    8-706.1.2 Evaluation and seismic improvement of unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings shall comply with the California Existing Building Code (CEBC), Appendix Chapter A1 2013 Edition, and as modified by the CHBC.

    Exceptions:

  • CHBC § 8-702.2 High relevance — show source text

    8-702.2 Nothing in these regulations shall prevent voluntary and partial seismic upgrades when it is demonstrated that such upgrades will improve life safety and when a full upgrade would not otherwise be required.

    SECTION 8-703 STRUCTURAL SURVEY

    8-703.1 Scope. When a structure or portion of a structure is to be evaluated for structural capacity under the CHBC, it shall be surveyed for structural conditions by an architect or engineer knowledgeable in historical structures. The survey shall evaluate deterioration or signs of distress. The survey shall determine the details of the structural framing and the system for resistance of gravity and lateral loads. Details, reinforcement and anchorage of structural systems and veneers shall be determined and documented where these members are relied on for seismic lateral resistance.

    8-703.2 The results of the survey shall be utilized for evaluating the structural capacity and for designing modifications to the structural system to reach compliance with this code.

    8-703.3 Historical records. Past historical records of the structure or similar structures may be used in the evaluation, including the effects of subsequent alterations.

    SECTION 8-704 NONHISTORICAL ADDITIONS AND NONHISTORICAL ALTERATIONS

    8-704.1 New nonhistorical additions and nonhistorical alterations which are structurally separated from an existing historical building or structure shall comply with regular code requirements.

    8-704.2 New nonhistorical additions which impose vertical or lateral loads on an existing structure shall not be permitted unless the affected part of the supporting structure is evaluated and strengthened, if necessary, to meet regular code requirements.

    Note: For use of archaic materials, see Chapter 8-8.

    SECTION 8-705 STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS

    8-705.1 Gravity loads. The capacity of the structure to resist gravity loads shall be evaluated and the structure strengthened as necessary. The evaluation shall include all parts of the load path. Where no distress is evident, and a complete load path is present, the structure may be assumed adequate by having withstood the test of time if anticipated dead and live loads will not exceed those historically present.

    8-705.2 Wind and seismic loads. The ability of the structure to resist wind and seismic loads shall be evaluated. Wind loads shall be considered when appropriate, but need not exceed 75 percent of the wind loads prescribed by the regular code. The evaluation shall be based on the requirements of Section 8-706.

    8.705.2.1 Any unsafe conditions in the lateral-load-resisting system shall be corrected, or alternative resistance shall be provided. When strengthening is required, additional resistance shall be provided to meet the minimum requirements of the CHBC. The strengthening measures shall be selected with the intent of meeting the performance objectives set forth in Section 8-701.2. The evaluation of structural members and structural systems for seismic loads shall consider the inelastic performance of structural members and their ability to maintain load-carrying capacity during the seismic loadings prescribed by the regular code.

    8.705.2.2 The architect or engineer shall consider additional measures with minimal loss of, and impact to, historical materials which will reduce damage and needed repairs in future earthquakes to better preserve the historical structure in perpetuity. These additional measures shall be presented to the owner for consideration as part of the rehabilitation or restoration.

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    STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS

  • CHBC § 8-706 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION 8-706 LATERAL LOAD REGULATIONS

    8-706.1 Seismic forces. Strength-level seismic forces used to evaluate the structure for resistance to seismic loads shall be based on the R -values tabulated in the regular code for similar lateral-force-resisting systems including consideration of the structural detailing of the members where such R -values exist. Where such R -values do not exist, an appropriate R -value shall be rationally assigned considering the structural detailing of the members.

    Exceptions:

    1. The forces need not exceed 0.75 times the seismic forces prescribed by the regular code requirements.
    2. For Risk Category I, II or III structures, near-fault increases in ground motion (maximum considered earthquake ground motion of 0.2 second spectral response greater than 150 percent at 5 percent damping) need not be considered when the fundamental period of the building is 0.5 seconds in the direction under consideration.
    3. For Risk Category I or II structures, the seismic base shear need not exceed 0.30W.
    4. For Risk Category III or IV structures, the seismic base shear need not exceed 0.40W.

    8-706.1.1 When a building is to be strengthened with the addition of a new lateral force resisting system, the R -value of the new system can be used when the new lateral force resisting system resists at least 75 percent of the building’s base shear regardless of its relative rigidity.

    8-706.1.2 Evaluation and seismic improvement of unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings shall comply with the California Existing Building Code (CEBC), Appendix Chapter A1 2013 Edition, and as modified by the CHBC.

    Exceptions:

    1. Alternative standards may be used on a case-by-case basis when approved by the authority having jurisdiction. It shall be permitted to exceed the strength limitation of 100 psi in Section A108.2 of the CEBC when test data and building configuration supports higher values subject to the approval of the authority having jurisdiction.
    2. CEBC Section A102.2 shall not apply to Qualified Historical Buildings in Risk Category III buildings and other structures whose primary occupancies are public assembly with an occupancy load greater than 300.

    8-706.1.3 All deviations from the detailing provisions of the lateral-force-resisting systems shall be evaluated for stability and the ability to maintain load-carrying capacity at the expected inelastic deformations.

    8-706.2 Existing building performance. The seismic resistance may be based upon the ultimate capacity of the structure to perform, giving due consideration to ductility and reserve strength of the lateral-force-resisting system and materials while maintaining a reasonable factor of safety. Broad judgment may be exercised regarding the strength and performance of materials not recognized by regular code requirements. (See Chapter 8-8, Archaic Materials and Methods of Construction.)

    8-706.2.1 All structural materials or members that do not comply with detailing and proportioning requirements of the regular code shall be evaluated for potential seismic performance and the consequence of non-compliance. All members that would be reasonably expected to fail and lead to collapse or life threatening injury when subjected to seismic demands shall be judged unacceptable, and appropriate structural strengthening shall be developed.

    8-706.3 Load path. A complete and continuous load path, including connections, from every part or portion of the structure to the ground shall be provided for the required forces. It shall be verified that the structure is adequately tied together to perform as a unit when subjected to earthquake forces.

  • CHBC § 8-706.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    8-706.3 Load path. A complete and continuous load path, including connections, from every part or portion of the structure to the ground shall be provided for the required forces. It shall be verified that the structure is adequately tied together to perform as a unit when subjected to earthquake forces.

    8-706.4 Parapets. Parapets and exterior decoration shall be investigated for conformance with regular code requirements for anchorage and ability to resist prescribed seismic forces.

    An exception to regular code requirements shall be permitted for those parapets and decorations which are judged not to be a hazard to life safety.

    8-706.5 Nonstructural features. Nonstructural features of historical structure, such as exterior veneer, cornices and decorations, which might fall and create a life safety hazard in an earthquake, shall be evaluated. Their ability to resist seismic forces shall be verified, or the feature shall be strengthened with improved anchorage when appropriate.

    8-706.5.1 Partitions and ceilings of corridors and stairways serving an occupant load of 30 or more shall be investigated to determine their ability to remain in place when the building is subjected to earthquake forces.

    8-706.5.2 Seismic forces used to evaluate and improve nonstructural components and their anchorage, where required, shall comply with ASCE 41 or need not exceed 0.75 times the seismic forces prescribed by the requirements of the regular code.

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    8-8 ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION

    SECTION 8-801 PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE

    8-801.1 Purpose. The purpose of the CHBC is to provide regulations for the use of historical methods and materials of construction that are at variance with regular code requirements or are not otherwise codified, in buildings or structures designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC require enforcing agencies to accept any reasonably equivalent alternatives to the regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.

    8-801.2 Intent. It is the intent of the CHBC to provide for the use of historical methods and materials of construction that are at variance with specific code requirements or are not otherwise codified.

    8-801.3 Scope. Any construction type or material that is, or was, part of the historical fabric of a structure is covered by this chapter. Archaic materials and methods of construction present in a historical structure may remain or be reinstalled or be installed with new materials of the same class to match existing conditions.

    SECTION 8-802 GENERAL ENGINEERING APPROACHES

    Strength values for archaic materials shall be assigned based upon similar conventional codified materials, or on tests as hereinafter indicated. The archaic materials and methods of construction shall be thoroughly investigated for their details of construction in accordance with Section 8-703. Testing shall be performed when applicable to evaluate existing conditions. The architect or structural engineer in responsible charge of the project shall assign allowable stresses or strength levels to archaic materials. Such assigned strength values shall not be greater than those provided for in the following sections without adequate testing, and shall be subject to the concurrence of the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 8-803 NONSTRUCTURAL ARCHAIC MATERIALS

  • CHBC § 1102.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    1102.4 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code. Site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Building and Califor- nia Fire Codes.

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    ADDITIONS

    SECTION 1103—STRUCTURAL

    [BS] 1103.1 Additional gravity loads. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity loadcarrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the addition and its related alterations shall be considered to be an altered element subject to the requirements of Section 805.2. Any existing element that will form part of the lateral load path for any part of the addition shall be considered to be an existing lateral load-carrying structural element subject to the requirements of Section 1103.2.

    Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling units or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition together comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the California Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .

    [BS] 1103.2 Lateral force-resisting system. Where the addition is structurally independent of the existing structure, existing lateral load-carrying structural elements shall be permitted to remain unaltered. Where the addition is not structurally independent of the existing structure, the lateral force-resisting system of the existing structure and its addition acting together as a single structure shall comply with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 of this code.

    Exceptions:

    1. Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the Cali- fornia Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
    2. Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the addition considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the addition ignored shall be permitted to remain unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 of this code . For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction.

    When calculating demand-capacity ratios for wind, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code or the code wind forces in effect at the time. When calculating demand-capacity ratios for earthquake, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 304.3.1 or the full seismic forces in effect at the time.

  • CHBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    Tabulated values are applicable to construction where gravity loads bear on top of wall, and conditions where gravity loads from floor construction are transferred to wall
    from a wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. See Tables R608.6(1), R608.6(2) and R608.6(3).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    DR = Design Required.
    a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an effective wind area of
    10 square feet, topographic factor,Kzt, equal to 1.0, and Risk Category II.
    b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
    c. See Section R608.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
    d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the height of the wall in inches from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the above-grade wall.
    e. Interpolation is not permitted. For intermediate values of basic wind speed, heights of stem wall and above-grade wall, and design lateral soil load, use next higher value.
    f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table as indicated by shaded cells, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000
    psi is permitted.
    g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum spacings shown are
    the values calculated for the specified bar size. In waffle and screen-grid walls where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the wall
    shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches such as, 12, 24, 36 and 48, that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement with a yield
    strength of less than 60,000 psi and bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R608.5.4.7 and Table R608.5.4(2).
    h. Height of stem wall is the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground.
    i. Where the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground is equal to or greater than 4 feet, the stem wall shall be laterally supported at the top
    and bottom before backfilling. Where the wall is designed and constructed to be continuous with the above-grade wall, temporary supports bracing the top of the stem wall
    shall remain in place until the above-grade wall is laterally supported at the top by floor or roof construction.
    j. See Table R608.3 for tolerances on nominal thicknesses, and minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores for waffle-and screen-grid
    walls.
    k. Tabulated values are applicable to construction where gravity loads bear on top of wall, and conditions where gravity loads from floor construction are transferred to wall
    from a wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall.

  • CHBC § 420.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: Where the existing building is divided into smoke compartments and the addition does not result in any individual smoke compartment exceeding the size and travel distance requirements in Section 420.6 of the California Building Code, additional smoke barriers are not required.

    1101.6 Enhanced classroom acoustics. In Group E occupancies, enhanced classroom acoustics shall be provided in all classrooms in the addition with a volume of 20,000 cubic feet (565 m [3] ) or less. Enhanced classroom acoustics shall comply with the reverberation time in Section 808 of ICC A117.1.

    1101.7 Occupiable roofs. Where a new occupiable roof is added to a building or structure, the occupiable roof shall comply with the provisions of the California Building Code .

    SECTION 1102—HEIGHTS AND AREAS

    1102.1 Height limitations. An addition shall not increase the height of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings.

    1102.2 Area limitations. An addition shall not increase the area of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings unless fire separation as required by the California Building Code is provided.

    1102.3 Fire protection systems. Existing fire areas increased by the addition shall comply with Chapter 9 of the California Building Code .

    Exception: Nonoccupiable appendages, such as elevator and exit stairway shafts, shall be permitted beyond that permitted by the California Building Code .

    1102.4 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code. Site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Building and Califor- nia Fire Codes.

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    ADDITIONS

    SECTION 1103—STRUCTURAL

    [BS] 1103.1 Additional gravity loads. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity loadcarrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the addition and its related alterations shall be considered to be an altered element subject to the requirements of Section 805.2. Any existing element that will form part of the lateral load path for any part of the addition shall be considered to be an existing lateral load-carrying structural element subject to the requirements of Section 1103.2.

    Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling units or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition together comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the California Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .

  • CHBC § 319.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    319.1.3 For state-owned and community college buildings, where unreinforced masonry is not bearing, it may be used only to resist applied lateral loads. Where unreinforced masonry walls are part of the structure they must be assessed for stability under the applicable nonstructural evaluation procedure.

    319.1.4 Public schools. [DSA-SS] For public schools, unreinforced masonry shall not be used to resist in-plane or out-of-plane seismic forces or superimposed gravity loads.

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    PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    319.1.5 Public schools. [DSA-SS] Wood horizontal diaphragms and wood vertical shear walls shall consist of either diagonal lumber sheathing or structural panel sheathing. Braced horizontal diaphragms may be acceptable when approved by DSA. Straight lumber sheathing may be used as diaphragms or shear walls only when overlain with structural panel sheathing. Let-in bracing, plaster (stucco), hollow clay tile, gypsum wallboard and particleboard sheathing shall not be relied upon to resist seismic forces.

    319.2 Existing conditions. The existing condition and properties of the entire structure must be determined and documented by thorough inspection of the structure and site, review of all available related construction documents, review of geotechnical and engineering geologic reports, and performance of necessary testing and investigation. Where samples from the existing structure are taken or in situ tests are performed, they shall be selected and interpreted in a statistically appropriate manner to ensure that the properties determined and used in the evaluation or design are representative of the conditions and structural circumstances likely to be encountered in the structure as a whole. Adjacent structures or site features that may affect the retrofit design shall be identified.

    The entire load path of the seismic-force-resisting system shall be determined, documented and evaluated. The load path includes all the horizontal and vertical elements participating in the structural response: such as diaphragms, diaphragm chords, diaphragm collectors, vertical elements such as walls frames, braces; foundations and the connections between the components and elements of the load path. Repaired or retrofitted elements and the standards under which the work was constructed shall be identified.

    Data collection in accordance with ASCE 41 shall meet the following minimum levels: 1. [BSC] For state-owned buildings, the requirements shall be met following the data collection requirements of ASCE 41, Section 6.2.

    2. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] For public schools and community college buildings constructed in conformance with the Field Act, visual condition assessment and usual material testing is required unless a more extensive level is required by ASCE 41, Section 6.2.

    3. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] For public schools and community college buildings not constructed in conformance with the Field Act, comprehensive condition assessment and material testing is required, unless a more extensive level is required by ASCE 41, Section 6.2.

    Concrete material requirements and testing for public school and community college buildings shall also comply with Sections 1911A and 1909.5 of the California Building Code, respectively.

  • CHBC § 5A-4 Medium relevance — show source text

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    PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD

    the requirements for new construction for flood design. For new foundations, foundations raised or extended upward, and replacement foundations, the foundations shall be in compliance with the requirements for new construction for flood design.

    For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas established in California Building Code, Section 1612 A .3, any additions that do not constitute substantial improvement of the existing structure , as defined in Chapter 2, are not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply:

    1. The addition shall not create or extend a nonconformity of the existing building or structure with the flood-resistant construction requirements.
    2. The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or structure or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 A of the California Building Code .

    502 A .3 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element whose vertical load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the addition and its related alterations shall be considered to be an altered element subject to the requirements of Section 503 A .3. Any existing element that will form part of the lateral load path for any part of the addition shall be considered to be an existing lateral load-carrying structural element subject to the requirements of Section 502A.4 .

    502 A .4 Existing structural elements carrying lateral load. Where the addition is structurally independent of the existing structure, existing lateral load-carrying structural elements shall be permitted to remain unaltered. Where the addition is not structurally independent of the existing structure, the lateral force-resisting system of the existing structure and its addition acting together as a single structure shall comply with Section 1609 A and 1613A of the California Building Code .

    Exceptions: For incidental and minor additions:

    1. Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the addition considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the addition ignored shall be permitted to remain unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Sections 1609 A and 1613 A of the California Building Code . For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction. When calculating demand-capacity ratios for wind, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 1609 A of the California Building Code or the code wind forces in effect at the time.
  • CHBC § 1612.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas established in Section 1612.3 of the California Building Code, or Section R322 of the California Residential Code, as applicable, any additions that do not constitute substantial improvement of the existing structure are not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply:

    1. The addition shall not create or extend a nonconformity of the existing building or structure with the flood-resistant construction requirements.
    2. The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or structure or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 of the California Building Code or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.

    [BS] 502.3 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element whose vertical load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the addition and its related alterations shall be considered to be an altered element subject to the requirements of Section 503.3. Any existing element that will form part of the lateral load path for any part of the addition shall be considered to be an existing lateral load-carrying structural element subject to the requirements of Section 502.3.

    Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition together comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the Cali- fornia Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .

    [BS] 502.4 Existing structural elements carrying lateral load. Where the addition is structurally independent of the existing structure, existing lateral load-carrying structural elements shall be permitted to remain unaltered. Where the addition is not structurally independent of the existing structure, the lateral force-resisting system of the existing structure and its addition acting together as a single structure shall comply with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and with Section 304.3.1 of this code.

    Exceptions:

    1. Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the addition considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the addition ignored shall be permitted to remain unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Sections 1609 and 1613 of the California Building Code . For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction. When calcu

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    PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD

  • CHBC § 405.2.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BS] 405.2.4 Substantial structural damage to gravity load-carrying components. Gravity load-carrying components that have sustained substantial structural damage shall be retrofitted to comply with the applicable provisions for dead, live and snow loads in the California Building Code . Undamaged gravity load-carrying components, including undamaged foundation components, that receive dead, live or snow loads from retrofitted components shall also be retrofitted if required to comply with these design loads.

    [BS] 405.2.4.1 Lateral force-resisting elements. Regardless of the level of damage to vertical elements of the lateral forceresisting system, if substantial structural damage to gravity load-carrying components was caused primarily by wind or seismic effects, then the building shall be evaluated in accordance with Section 405.2.3.1 and, if noncompliant, retrofitted in accordance with Section 405.2.3.3.

    Exceptions:

    1. Buildings assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B or C whose substantial structural damage was not caused by earthquake need not be evaluated or retrofitted for load combinations that include earthquake effects.
    2. One- and two-family dwellings need not be evaluated or retrofitted for load combinations that include earthquake effects.

    [BS] 405.2.5 Substantial structural damage to snow load-carrying components. Where substantial structural damage to any snow load-carrying components is caused by or related to snow load effects, any components required to carry snow loads on roof framing of similar construction shall be repaired, replaced or retrofitted to satisfy the requirements of Section 1608 of the California Building Code .

    [BS] 405.2.6 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas, buildings that have sustained substantial damage shall be brought into compliance with Section 1612 of the California Building Code or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.

    SECTION 406—ELECTRICAL

    [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Not adopted by OSHPD. Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be in accordance with Title 24 Part 3 California Electrical Code (CEC).

    406.1 General. Repairs to existing electrical wiring and equipment shall be in accordance with the California Electrical Code.

    406.1.1 Reconditioned electrical equipment. Reconditioned electrical equipment shall comply with the California Electrical Code . Electrical equipment prohibited from being reconditioned by the applicable sections of the California Electrical Code shall not be reconditioned unless permitted by NFPA 99.

    406.1.2 Health care facilities. Portions of electrical systems being repaired in Group I-2, ambulatory care facilities and outpatient clinics shall comply with NFPA 99 requirements for repairs.

    SECTION 407—MECHANICAL

    407.1 General. Existing mechanical systems undergoing repair shall not make the building less complying than it was before the damaged occurred. [HCD 1, HCD 2 & BSC] Existing mechanical systems undergoing repair shall comply with the California Mechanical Code.

    SECTION 408—PLUMBING

    408.1 Materials. Plumbing materials and supplies shall not be used for repairs that are prohibited in the California Plumbing Code .

  • CHBC § 2306.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
    a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
    actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
    b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
    c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
    d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
    e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
    f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
    g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
    a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
    actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
    b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
    c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
    d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
    e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
    f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
    g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
    a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
    actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
    b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
    c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
    d.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly does “include all parts of the load path” mean in practice?

It means you must identify and evaluate every structural element and connection that transfers vertical loads (floors → beams → columns/walls → foundations → ground), not just isolated members; the CHBC explicitly requires the evaluation to include the whole load path (see §8-705.1) .

When can an existing gravity system be assumed adequate without retrofit?

If a structural survey shows no distress and a complete load path is present, the CHBC permits assuming adequacy where anticipated dead and live loads will not exceed historical loads, per §8-705.1 .

Who must perform the evaluation and what must it include?

An architect or engineer knowledgeable in historic structures must perform the structural survey; it must document framing, deterioration, reinforcement and anchorage where these are relied on for gravity or lateral resistance (see §8-703.1) .

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