CA Codes for Mass Timber Buildings: Project Approvals and Fire Performance

Now with expanded code provisions for mass timber buildings in the July 2021 California Building Code (CBC) updates, the construction of tall mass timber structures up to 18 stories is possible. These provisions are based on three new construction types introduced in the 2021 International Building Code—Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C—with CBC amendments. This event, intended for building officials and plan reviewers who are assessing specific projects as well as building designers working on mass timber designs, will address practical details related to implementing the provisions in California. Following a review of mass timber’s fire performance, the State Fire Marshall’s office will describe the process undertaken to adopt the new provisions, and why the California Building Standards Commission unanimously approved them. An interactive discussion on project approvals, plan reviews, and building official interactions on mass timber buildings will lend key insights into what those having jurisdictional authority can look for on project submittals, and what those submitting project drawings can expect for review and feedback.

Attendees Earn 3.5 AIA/CES HSW LUs, 3.5 PDH credits or 0.35 ICC credits

Agenda:

8:30am: Welcome & Mass Timber Introduction – Chelsea Drenick, WoodWorks

9:00am: State of California’s Perspective on Mass Timber – Katie Harrell, California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection

9:30am: Mass Timber Fire Testing to Establish Tall Wood Code Changes – Paul Armstrong, AWC Western Regional Manager

10:20am: Mass Timber Code Provisions in the CBC – Chief Greg Andersen, CAL FIRE

10:50am: Mass Timber Fire Design – Bevan Jones, Holmes

11:20am–12:30pm: Challenges and Opportunities for Cities: Assessing Mass Timber Project Approvals – Panel Discussion

For questions or additional information, please contact:

Jaime Krohn, CMP
jaime@woodworks.org | Ph: 312-841-8272