Coast to Coast: Tall Timber Code and Design in California and New York

With adoption of tall timber provisions in the 2021 International Building Code, jurisdictions across the U.S. now permit mass timber buildings up to 18 stories, though implementation varies by region. California and New York have adopted these provisions with state and local amendments that directly influence design strategy, detailing, and coordination. This bi-coastal presentation provides an overview of tall timber code pathways and key design considerations. It also compares provisions in the California Building Code and New York State Building Code. Key topics include construction types, height and area limits, fire-resistance requirements, and timber exposure allowances. The session will examine design considerations for tall timber buildings, including structural systems, fire performance, and regional factors such as seismic demands in California and weather protection in New York. Built project examples will be shared for inspiration and to highlight opportunities unique to tall timber construction. Attendees will gain practical insight into navigating tall timber code requirements and identifying issues to address early in design to support more informed project development.

Seminar begins at 10:00am PT and 1:00pm ET.

Speakers: Chelsea Drenick, SE and Momo Sun, PE, P.Eng., LEED Green Associate | WoodWorks

Credits: Attendees can earn 1.5 AIA/CES HSW LUs, 1.5 PDH credits or 0.15 ICC credits for the seminar

Online Attendees:

• WoodWorks will send each attendee a certificate of completion within 2 weeks via email.
• Please note that to receive a certificate, attendees must stay for the duration of the event.

For questions or additional information, please contact:

LeeAnn Charpentier, CMP | leeann.charpentier@woodworks.org | (301) 633-0330

Image: 1510 Webster / oWOW / DCI Engineers / Photo Andrew Nelson