In California's seismic design requirements, buildings located in Seismic Design Category D must comply with which specific CBC provisions for structural irregularities?
Correct Answer
B) Irregularities are permitted but require peer review and enhanced detailing per CBC Section 1613A
CBC Section 1613A.1 requires that buildings with structural irregularities in Seismic Design Category D undergo peer review and enhanced detailing. California's seismic provisions are more stringent than the base IBC, reflecting the state's high seismic risk and lessons learned from past earthquakes.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
CBC Section 1613A.1 reflects California's more stringent approach to seismic design compared to the base IBC. In SDC D, structural irregularities (both vertical and horizontal) are permitted but trigger additional requirements: independent peer review of the structural design and enhanced detailing to compensate for the irregularity's effect on seismic performance. California's amendments to the IBC address lessons learned from earthquakes like Northridge (1994) and Loma Prieta (1989).
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: No additional requirements beyond standard design
SDC D absolutely imposes additional requirements beyond standard design. Saying there are 'no additional requirements' would be true only for lower seismic categories. SDC D structures face the full weight of California's enhanced seismic provisions due to the state's high seismic hazard.
Option C: Vertical irregularities prohibited, horizontal irregularities require special analysis
It is incorrect that vertical irregularities are prohibited while horizontal irregularities only require special analysis. California's approach under CBC Section 1613A does not blanket-prohibit one type while allowing the other — both types are permitted with appropriate peer review and enhanced detailing requirements.
Option D: Both vertical and horizontal irregularities are prohibited
Prohibiting both vertical and horizontal irregularities entirely is too restrictive. Real-world buildings often have functional or aesthetic requirements that create structural irregularities. California's code allows irregularities in SDC D but requires additional engineering scrutiny and detailing to manage the associated seismic risk.
Memory Technique
SDC D irregularities = 'Demanding peer review.' The higher the stakes (higher SDC), the more expert eyes must review the design. Irregularities are allowed but must be justified and detailed by multiple engineers.
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