Torrance Soft-Story Ordinance
The City of Torrance enacted Ordinance #3916, a mandatory seismic retrofit program, aimed at enhancing the safety of commercial and multi-unit residential buildings. Effective April 11, 2023, this ordinance requires the evaluation and retrofitting of soft-story and wood-frame building types known to be vulnerable during seismic events.
The program focuses on structures such as wood-frame buildings with soft, weak, or open-front walls constructed before the 1976 Uniform Building Code, non-ductile concrete buildings, and steel-moment frame buildings. Eligible buildings must contain at least four dwelling units and have an open ground floor or basement space used for parking or other purposes. These potentially at-risk buildings are prevalent in areas prone to high seismic activity and may not meet current design standards, making them susceptible to significant damage during major earthquakes.
Torrance has established a phased timeline for property owners to ensure compliance. Within one year of receiving an official notice, owners must submit a screening report. Retrofit plans are required within two years, followed by permit approvals in the third year. Construction must begin within four years and be completed within five years to meet city requirements.
To proactively address these concerns, the Community Development Department’s Building and Safety Division is organizing workshops for building owners to discuss potential seismic deficiencies and the importance of structural retrofitting. These sessions aim to educate stakeholders on the benefits of reinforcing their properties to withstand seismic forces, thereby enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of severe damage.
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For property owners looking to strengthen their soft-story buildings, Retrofit1 offers comprehensive services to retrofit structures in compliance with soft-story retrofitting ordinances in Torrance, California. By partnering with our licensed contractors, you can ensure your soft-story building meets modern seismic safety standards, protecting both occupants and investments.
Contact Retrofit1 today to schedule a consultation and begin the process of safeguarding your soft-story building in Torrance against future seismic events.
