§ 15.26.030. Purpose.

A.

Level 1 Screening—Non-Engineered Analysis (Prescriptive).

1.

This Chapter establishes standards for non-engineered analysis (prescriptive) without requiring plans or structural calculations prepared by a registered design professional to screen residential buildings for the potential capacity to resist seismically induced lateral loads and potentially identify critical structural deficiencies which would foment catastrophic collapse. Sufficient documentation shall be submitted to accurately establish existing conditions. When the Building Official determines that existing conditions are beyond the scope of these standards, a Level 2 Evaluation shall be submitted by the owner to the Building Official.

2.

These standards are intended to screen residential buildings for potential critical structural deficiencies in the lateral force resisting system but will not necessarily quantify the level of risk for property damage and injury to occupants and loss of life from an earthquake.

3.

Alternate details and methods equivalent to or exceeding these standards are permitted when approved by the Building Official. Sufficient written documentation shall be submitted by the owner to substantiate such equivalency, as determined by the Building Official.

B.

Level 2 Evaluation—Engineered Analysis (Non-Prescriptive).

1.

This Chapter also allows an owner to perform an engineered analysis (non-prescriptive) which is equivalent to or exceeds the standards set forth in this Chapter for a non-engineered analysis (prescriptive). Structural calculations shall be prepared by a registered design professional. Analysis and documentation with respect to lateral strength, deflection, and soil capacity shall be in accordance with the Oakland Building Construction Code and approved by the Building Official.

Exception: Pursuant to California Health and Safe Code Sections 19160 et seq., the provisions of Appendix A4 of the International Existing Building Code and associated amendments promulgated by the Structural Engineers Association of California may be used for evaluating residential buildings.

2.

Engineered methods (non-prescriptive) for evaluating critical structural deficiencies may incorporate the standards set forth in this Chapter for a non-engineered analysis (prescriptive) if approved by the Building Official.

(Ord. No. 12966, § 2, 7-28-2009)