Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
(OP)
I am looking for the source of maximum allowable soil bearing pressures i can use without a soil investigation and report. I've only been able to find the requirements spelled out in one or two cities in these two states. Is there a good website or source that would end my frustration with the lack of info spelled out by the state.





RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
Soil investigations are only good for the particular site where your project is. I would recommend that you engage a local geotechnical engineer for the area where your project is.
I don't know what your frustration should be about. All civil and structural engineers are cognizant of the soils issue. We do no projects without a soil report.
Did a job once where we were told that the ground was good for 3000 psf. After the structure started to tilt, a very quick boring of the ground found that we had 95 feet of mud.
RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
If you have to design a project without a soils report, check with you local agency about what values they would allow. This includes lateral EFP and passive pressure values.
RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
RE: Seismic site classes for AZ and CA
Sorry, but engineers should know better.
Now that I am off my soapbox, I would suggest contacting the local building official where the project will be located. I have encountered some building officials that will not grant a building permit without a geotechnical report regardless of what the code says.