CSE (California Supplemental Exam) ARE
A means of egress consists of three separate and distinct parts:
Exit access The Exit Exit discharge
Exposure Categories reflect how ground surface irregularities affect design wind pressure. Exposure conditions vary from the most protected to the least protected:
Exposure B most protected to D least protected: • Exposures are determined by "ground surface roughness" that arise from natural topography and vegetation as well as from constructed features. • Surface Roughness B - Urban and suburban areas, wooded areas or other terrain with numerously closely spaced obstructions. • Surface Roughness C - Open terrain with scattered obstructions having heights generally less than 30 feet. • Surface Roughness D - Flat, unobstructed areas and water surfaces outside hurricane-prone regions.
Who is Factory Mutual & what do they do?
Factory Mutual (FM Approvals) a. Visit the FM Global website for more information. • Mission Statement/About - FM Approvals certifies industrial and commercial products and services for companies worldwide. When a product or service meets the standards of FM Approvals, it is issued the "FM APPROVED" mark to signify it will perform as expected and support property loss prevention. FM Approvals backs its evaluations with scientific research and testing and lists more than 45,000 certified products and services in its Approval Guide. • Develop standards mainly for the property insurance industry. • FM Approved products are oftentimes required on projects at the request of the Insurance Company that is providing the policy on the building. • Some of the products that may bear the FM Approved label include; i. Fire department connections ii. Wall hydrants iii. Fire hose iv. Fire doors v. Heat & smoke vents vi. Skylights
Geological conditions affect the type of foundations to be selected. What types of soil warrant different types of foundations?
For soil's that are stable and have a high bearing capacity like bed rock, typical footings in stem walls can be used. For soils that are expensive, or have a high water table, piles and grade beams or mat foundation's should be considered.
A City's Zoning Ordinance is the primary tool for implementing the _________________.
General Plan
The California Coastal Zone:
Generally extends 1,000 yards inland from the mean high tide line. In significant coastal estuarine habitat and recreational areas it extends inland to the first major ridge line or five miles from the mean high tide line, whichever is less. In developed urban areas, the boundary is generally less than 1,000 yards. - Excerpt from NOAA website (check NOAA out).
Who is the Gypsum Association & what do they do?
Gypsum Association (GA) a. Visit the Gypsum Association website for more information. • Mission Statement/About - The mission of the Gypsum Association, a not-for-profit trade association founded in 1930, is to promote the use of gypsum while advancing the development, growth, and general welfare of the gypsum industry in the United States and Canada on behalf of its member companies. • GA publishes the Fire Resistance Design Manual that may be used for fire-rated walls and partitions, floor/ceiling systems, roof/ceiling systems, and to protect columns, beams, and girders.
Enforcing agencies for schools & hospitals:
Hospitals Enforcing Agency: Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development - (OSHPD) • Enforcement for Hospitals and Medical Care Buildings; i. Provides plan review and inspection for structural , mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and energy conservation requirements. ii. Office of the State Fire Marshall for fire and panic safety requirements • Architect must perform periodic review of construction (Contract Administration), prepare reports for submittal to the enforcement agency, and review reports prepared by others • Owner must hire a qualified inspector who will prepare reports for submittal to the enforcement agency and review reports by others • General Contractor must prepare reports for submittal to the enforcement agency and review reports by others Public Schools Enforcing Agency: Division of the State Architect - (DSA) • Applies to public schools K-12 and community colleges • Division of the State Architect is jurisdictional authority i. Plans & Specifications are reviewed and approved by the Division of the State Architect (we'll review this agency in Category IIB) including review of structural, fire & life safety, and accessibility • Architect, referred to as "Design Professional in General Responsible Charge", is required to provide Construction Administration Services • Changes to drawings and specifications must be approved by DSA • The project owner (school or community college district) must hire a DSA-certified inspector to oversee construction • Conclusion of construction, design professionals, inspector, and contractor shall submit verified reports with DSA indicating work has been performed in compliance with approved plans and specifications
What is the difference between projects that are in the city vs unincorporated parts of the city in terms of local agency review?
If project is in Incorporated city, the 6 Local Agencies listed below will all be local/municipal agencies, i.e. City of Los Angeles Planning Department, City of Los Angeles Building & Safety. HOWEVER, if project is in unincorporated area, the 6 Local Agencies listed below will be County Agencies, i.e. County of Los Angeles Planning Department, County of Los Angeles Building Department. - Planning Department - Building & Safety Department - Transportation Department - Department of Public Works - Fire Department - Police Department
What makes a project a "public project"?
If there is ANY amount of public money in a project, it is considered a public project. Even if 95% is private funding and only 5% public funds, the project would still be considered a public project and our drawings, specifications and bidding documents would have to include provisions of the California Public Contract Code.
What's involved in submitting Final Lien Releases?
Let's review AIA Document A201, General Conditions- Article 9 .10 Final Completion and Final Payment Contractor submits to the Architect final Application for Payment. Architect issues a final Certificate of Payment which states that the work has been completed in accordance with the Contract Documents, and the entire balance to be due the Contractor is due and payable Contractor must submit to the Architect; • Affidavit that payrolls, bills for materials and equipment, and other indebtedness have been paid or satisfied • Submit AIA G706A - Contractor's Affidavit Of Release of Liens • Certificate stating that Contractor's insurance is in effect • Written statement that Contractor knows of no substantial reason that the insurance will not be renewable • Consent of surety • Proof of release of all applicable liens - lien releases from subcontractors, vendors and material suppliers
Expiration of license, and renewal of unexpired licenses:
Licenses expire on the last day of the birth month of the license holder in each odd numbered year following the issuance or renewal of the license. A license which has expired may be renewed anytime within five years after its expiration. A license which is not renewed within five years after its expiration may not be renewed, restored, or re-issued.
Essential Services Buildings Enforcing Agency:
Local agency is the enforcement agency (County or Local Building & Safety Department if a facility not owned by the State of California) Division of the State Architect (DSA) - if State owned facility or facility leased by the State • Architect must perform periodic review of construction (Contract Administration), prepare reports for submittal to the enforcement agency, and review reports prepared by others • Owner must hire a qualified inspector who will prepare reports for submittal to the enforcement agency and review reports by others • General Contractor must prepare reports for submittal to the enforcement agency and review reports by others
One way to improve air quality is to make sure that filters on HVAC equipment are changed regularly. These filters have ratings that follow the MERV system. Describe this system and some of the point ratings associated with it for different types of buildings:
MERV: Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value The rating should be 13 or better for optimum performance. Ratings: 17 to 20 for electronics in pharmaceutical manufacturing clean rooms 13 to 16 for hospital and general surgery 9 to 12 for superior residential, better commercial, hospital laboratories 5 to 8 for better residential, general commercial, industrial work spaces 1 to 4 for residential window mounted AC units
Who is the U.S. Access Board, and what do they do?
Mission Statement/About - The U.S. Access Board is an independent Federal agency devoted to accessibility for people with disabilities. The Board is structured to function as a coordinating body among Federal agencies and to directly represent the public, particularly people with disabilities. • The Access Board publishes the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) which serve as the minimum baseline for standards.
What is NFPA?
National Fire Protection Association • Mission Statement/About - The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global nonprofit organization, established in 1896, devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. • NFPA is widely known as a codes and standards organization. Our mission is to provide information and knowledge needed in today's ever-changing environment. Our 300 codes and standards are designed to minimize the risk and effects of fire by establishing criteria for building, processing, design, service, and installation around the world. • NFPA provides Codes and Standards, Public Education, Outreach and Advocacy, Training, Research, and Membership. • NFPA is the premier resource for fire data analysis, research, and analysis.
Does the city plan checker check for ADA compliance?
No. IMPORTANT: The Building and Safety plan checker is only reviewing the drawings for compliance with the accessibility provisions of the California Building Code, Chapter 11A or 11B. They do not review for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance.
Department of Building and Safety checks what?
Plan Check within the Department of Building and Safety (this is based on the City of Los Angeles, other municipalities may have slightly different processes): - Building Plan Check - Electrical Plan Check - Elevator Plan Check - Fire Sprinkler Plan Check - Grading Plan Check - Mechanical/HVAC Plan Check - Plumbing Plan Check • Some of the items the Building and Safety will review; - Specific design and construction requirements based on occupancy, building height, floor area, availability of firefighting capacity, etc. - Required fire resistance of structural elements, floors, ceilings, fire and party walls - Restrictions on building height - Requirements for compartmentation areas (fire areas) - Fire protection systems - Egress requirements, such as stairs, corridors, and doors - Light, ventilation, and other indoor environment requirements - Structural requirements for building components - Materials performance and specifications - Requirements for building service systems - Life safety issues - Means of egress - Energy compliance - Structural calculations
How to resolve conflicts between different local/regional/state agencies:
Process: a. Meet with local/regional/state officials: • Schedule meetings with local/regional/state officials before and during the Schematic Design Phase, to determine which codes and standards apply to lessen the chance of future conflicts. • Meet with officials again during each of the Design Phases to address any questions or issues in order to lessen the ongoing chance of conflicts. How to resolve conflicts between codes; • The California Building Code "Section 101.7.3 Conflicts" states that "when requirements of this code conflict with the requirements of any other part of the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, the most restrictive requirements shall prevail." • If the issue is not about one being more restrictive than the other, schedule meeting with the two or more agencies that are responsible for enforcing the code and request they issue you written direction on which one to follow. • Bring the Owner to the meetings How to resolve conflicts between agencies; • Schedule meeting with the two or more agencies that are responsible for enforcing the area of conflict and request they issue you written direction on which one to follow. • Bring Owner to meetings
DSA does what exactly?
Provides design review and construction oversight for the following building types including DSA-Structural Safety (DSA-SS) and DSA-Access Compliance (DSA-AC); i. K-12 Public Schools (per the Field Act) ii. Community Colleges (per the Field Act) iii. Essential Services Buildings that are owned by the State or State facilities on leased land (per the Essential Services Buildings Seismic Safety Act) • Provides DSA-Access Compliance (DSA-AC) plan review ONLY for; i. University of California and California State University for campus projects ii. State Owned Buildings • Programs and Services; i. Construction Projects - reviews construction projects under its jurisdiction for compliance with Title 24 (see above) ii. Codes and Policies - one of several state agencies that propose changes to the California Building Standards Code through the Building Standard Commission iii. Certification Programs - DSA certifies project inspectors and testing lab facilities for use on which DSA has jurisdiction. iv. Access Compliance - provides access compliance services for public schools and state funded construction. v. Sustainability - committed to creating sustainable educational facilities.
What is the role of the "public agency"in the CEQA process?
Public agency determines if the activity is a "project", if it is a project, the public agency determines if the project is exempt from compliance with CEQA. There are two types of exemptions: Statutory Exemptions, & Categorical Exemptions. Statutory Exemptions are projects which the California legislature has decided are not subject to CEQA procedures and policies. Categorical Exemptions are projects which the secretary of the resources agency has determined do not usually have a significant effect on the environment.
What does the County Flood Control District do & is it a regional or local agency?
Regional agency that does the following: a. The County Flood Control District is a regional agency that protects people, property and watersheds from damage or destruction from flood and storm waters. b. Similar to the AQMD, for the Project Scenario portion of the Exam, there will be a County Flood Control District wherever the project is located. c. County Flood Control Districts typically have plans in place for reduction of storm water runoff, elimination of dry weather runoff, reduction of pollutants entering the storm drain system, expansion for uses for habitat and open space, and recreational opportunities.
After a determination by the Lead Agency to prepare an Environmental Impact, what happens next?
Report, the Notice of Preparation will be prepared; • Notice of Preparation (NOP) - a brief notice sent by the lead agency to notify the responsible agencies, trustee agencies, and involved federal agencies that the lead agency plans to prepare an EIR for the project. The purpose of the notice is to solicit guidance from those agencies as to the scope and content of the environmental information to be included in the EIR. • Notice of Completion (NOC) - is a brief notice released by the lead agency as soon as it has completed a draft CEQA document for public review and comment. m. Public Review Period occurs after the following (we already looked at this earlier, but it is important and occurs AFTER the draft EIR or Negative Declaration is available); • Lead Agency files Notice of Completion and gives public notice of availability of draft EIR for review i. The period for public and agency review is 30 days minimum and 60 days maximum to review a draft EIR. ii. When a draft EIR is sent to the State Clearinghouse, the review period shall not be less than 45 days. • Lead Agency gives public notice of availability of Negative Declaration iii. The period for public and agency review must be at least 20 days to review a Negative Declaration. iv. When the Negative Declaration is sent to the State Clearinghouse, the review period shall be 30 days. • State Clearinghouse coordinates the state-level review of environmental documents that are prepared pursuant to the CEQA. It is a division of the Governor's Office of Planning and Research.Once a decision has been reached on the project (either approval of the final EIR or approval of the Negative Declaration by the Lead Agency), a Notice of Determination will be filed; • Notice of Determination (NOD) - a brief notice filed by a public agency after it approves or determines to carry out a project subject to the requirements of CEQA i. State Agency files the form at the Office of Planning and Research. The Public Review Period occurs AFTER the Draft EIR Local Agency files the form at the County Clerk of each county in which the project will be located.
Minimum Warranty Periods:
Review AIA Document, A201 General Conditions - Article 12.2.2 After Substantial Completion • Contractor must correct any work found not to be in compliance with Contract Documents within 1 year of Substantial Completion.
Roles of the Architect, Contractor, and Owner during Close-out Procedures:
Role of the Architect: a. Issue Certificate of Substantial Completion b. Completes final walk thru with Owner and Contractor c. Issue final Certificate for Payment d. Submit final Architect's invoice to Owner e. Assemble and file for future reference complete project and cost records for both construction and professional services Role of the Contractor a. Provides punch list b. Submits warranties, maintenance contracts & instructions to Owner c. Deliver replacement & maintenance stock of material as required to Owner d. Instruct Owner in maintenance & operations e. Clean-up construction debris f. Submits final Application for Payment g. Submits full lien releases Role of the Owner a. Makes final payment to Architect b. Makes final payment to Contractor c. Files Notice of Completion
What are the 2 state & 2 federal agencies that may be involved in the habitats of endangered species?
State agencies: 1. California Department of Fish and wildlife 2. California Environmental Protection Agency Federal: 3. U.S. Fish and Wildlife service 4. US Environmental Protection Agency
How do Special Inspections work? How does a project team/client know what is required?
Steel - Inspection of the following: • Material verification for high strength bolts • High strength bolts • Material verification of structural steel • Material verification of weld filler materials • Welding of structural steel • Steel joint frame details for compliance with construction documents Concrete - Inspection of the following: • Reinforcing steel • Reinforcing steel and welding • Bolts and anchors • Verifying use of required design mix • Sample concrete during placement for subsequent strength testing (core test) • Shotcrete (sprayed on concrete mixture) • Proper curing temperatures and techniques • Prestressed concrete • Erection of precast members • Formwork • Seismic Resistance structural systems • High Load diaphragms in wood frame construction (shear walls) • Structural Masonry • Pile foundations • Smoke Control systems • Sprayed fire-resistant materials for surface conditions, application, thickness, density, and bond strength • Exterior insulation and finish systems • Non-standard grading, excavation, cut and fill Client pays for all special inspections & structural engineer provides a list of required inspections on their drawings. Special Inspections are not mentioned anywhere in the AIA Contracts. They are a California Regulation in the California Building Code.
What is the difference between a Stop Notice & a Bonded Stop Notice?
Stop Notice: a. Procedures for Stop Notice are similar to Mechanics Lien b. Stop Notice is a lien against funds c. Stop notices can be used on private or public projects • Private projects - serve Stop Notice to Lender • Public Projects - serve Stop Notice to Owner of Public Work d. When pursuing liens, Stop Notice is the only lien available for public projects (mechanics liens are not allowed to be utilized on public projects) Bonded Stop Notice - a stop notice presented to a construction lender accompanied by a bond with good and sufficient sureties for 125 % of the claim. If a Bonded Stop Notice is presented to the lender, the lender does not have the option to withhold funds.
In regards to safety where is tempered glass required by the building code?
Tempered glass is required in stairways, doors, and shower rooms.
What is the name of the act whose main purpose is to prevent the construction of buildings use for human occupancy on the surface trace of active faults?
The Alquist-Priolo Act
Architects duties regarding substantial completion, final completion & certificates for payment:
The Architect will conduct inspections to determine the date of Substantial Completion and the date of Final Completion, issue Certificates of Substantial Completion, forward written warranties and related documents to the Owner, and issue a final Certificate for Payment.
What is CEQA?
The California Environmental Quality Act I acted in 1970, The California Environmental Quality Act is a statute that requires state and local agencies to identify the significant environmental impacts of their actions and to avoid or mitigate those impacts if feasible. The two Basic purposes of CEQA are to inform governmental decision makers and the public about the potential significant effects, if any, a proposed activities on the environment and to provide opportunities for other agencies and the public to review and comment on draft environmental documents. Important: CEQA is not an agency, it is an act. Plans are not submitted to CEQA, this is a common misunderstanding among candidates!
Which agency regulates the practice of architecture?
The California architects board or CAB. CAB is managed by the Department of consumer affairs.
What is the California Code of Regulations?
The California code of regulations is divided into 28 titles. The California Building Standards Code is also called Title 24, & is published every three years. Many candidates, practicing architects and title 24 engineers currently misunderstand that title 24 is a reference to energy calculations that are submitted to the local government department. Title 24 can be wrongly perceived as only compliance with the energy code, and the energy code is just one small part of title 24, namely part 6.
The California Energy Code:
The Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings were established in 1978 in response to a legislative mandate to reduce California's energy consumption. The standards are updated periodically to allow consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods. Published by the California Energy Commission Mission Statement/About - The California Energy Commission is the state's primary energy policy and planning agency. Created by the Legislature in 1974 and located in Sacramento. Enforcement: a. Building Permit - is an electrical, plumbing, mechanical, building, or other permit or approval, that is issued by an enforcement agency, and that authorizes any construction that is subject to Part 6 of the California Buildings Standards Code. b. Clearing Up Confusion - The California Energy Code is NOT Title 24, although most plan checkers will refer to it as such and ask you for "Title 24 calcs" when submitting drawings for plan check. They are really asking for the documents that illustrate compliance with Part 6 of the California Energy Code. c. Compliance with the Energy Code is plan checked by the local Building & Safety plan checker and enforced in the field by the local building official. Mandatory requirements for achieving energy efficiency in the following areas; a. Space conditioning equipment b. Water heating equipment c. Glazing requirements d. Building envelope e. Building fenestration f. Insulation requirements g. Lighting systems and equipment Two methods of compliance: • Performance Approach • Prescriptive Approach Climate Zones - there are 16 Climate Zones in California used in the compliance methods.
What does the Transportation Department check for?
The Transportation Department may review the plans for the following; • Traffic flow, increase in intensity • Location of curb cuts on main roads and side streets, also location in relation to intersections • Types of traffic signals and directional signage
Who enforces ADA?
The US department of justice
Which parties sign the change order?
The change order is signed by the owner, the contractor, and the architect
What is the Field Act, & what does it do?
The field act was enacted after March 10, 1933, when the 6.3 Long Beach earthquake destroyed 70 schools and another 120 suffered major structural damage. The field act is governed under the education code. The purpose is to protect children and staff from death and injury in public schools grades K through 14 (both K12 & community college) and protect the public investment in school buildings during and after earthquakes. Plans and specifications are reviewed and approved by the division of the state architect. The architect is considered "design professional in general responsible charge" and is required to provide construction administration services. Changes to the drawings and specifications must be approved by DS a. The project owner must hire a DSA certified inspector to oversee the construction. At the conclusion of construction, the design professionals, the inspector, and the contractor, shall submit verify reports with the essay indicating work has been performed in compliance with the approved plans and specifications.
What is the EPA, and what is their purpose?
The mission of the environmental protection agency is to protect human health and safeguard the natural environment. This includes air, water and land.
The Coastal Zone for the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) includes:
The open water, marshes and mudflats of greater San Francisco Bay, and areas 100 feet inland from the line of highest tidal action. The boundary also includes: the Suisun marsh and buffer zone: managed wetlands diked off from the Bay; and open waters diked off from the Bay and used in salt production. - Excerpt from NOAA website.
Where do you requirements for examination appear?
The requirements for examination appear in both the business and professions code: chapter 3, Division 3, and the California code of regulations: Title 16 Division 2.
Use of the word "certify" or "certification" by a licensed architect:
The use of the word certified or certification by a licensed architect in the practice of architecture constitutes an expression of professional opinion regarding those facts are findings that are the subject of the certification. These do not constitute a warranty or guarantee, either expressed or implied.
What 3 ways can you modify the contract?
There are three ways to change or modify the Contract (the Agreement between the Owner and Contractor), Architect's Supplemental Instructions, Change Order, and Construction Change Directive. You can also review A201 - General Conditions, Article 7 Changes In The Work for more information. 1. Supplemental Instructions - AIA G710 a. Additional instructions or interpretations prepared by Architect b. Minor changes in work c. Assist Architect in performing obligations as interpreter of contract documents d. NO change in contract time or sum e. Only requires the Architect's Signature 2. Change Order - AIA G701 a. Prepared by Architect b. Change in time OR cost to the original contract (either one or both) c. Description of the change and cost or time adjustment d. Signed by the Architect, Owner, and Contractor 3. Construction Change Directive - AIA G714 a. Written order prepared by the Architect b. Signed by the Architect and Owner c. Directs a change in work prior to agreement on adjustment in the Contract Sum, or Contract Time d. Is used in the absence of total agreement on the terms of a Change Order e. Can also be used in fast-track projects
What does the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) do?
Visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for more information. • Mission Statement/About - the Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains native fish, wildlife, plant species and natural communities for their intrinsic and ecological value and their benefits to people. This includes habitat protection and maintenance in a sufficient amount and quality to ensure the survival of all species and natural communities. The department is also responsible for the diversified use of fish and wildlife including recreational, commercial, scientific and educational uses. • Environmental Review and Permitting: i. California Endangered Species Act - administers and enforces the Act ii. California Environmental Quality Act Review (CEQA) consults with lead and responsible agencies and provides biological expertise to review and comment upon environmental documents. iii. Lake and Streambed Alteration Program - if the project will adversely affect fish and wildlife resources, a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement will be prepared which includes conditions necessary to protect fish and wildlife resources. iv. Timberland Conservation Program - may issue permits for road construction across streams when endangered species are involved. • Marine Life Protection Act - implementation of a regional approach to redesigning (marine protected areas) MPAs along the 1,100 mile California Coastline. • Some of the main concerns of the DFW; i. Disturbance of natural habitat of fish, wildlife, and plant species ii. Disturbance of water and food supply of native species iii. Presence of endangered species iv. Construction measures to minimize impact on fish, wildlife, plants, and other natural resources.
Who is Warnock Hersey and what do they do?
Warnock Hersey by Intertek (WH) a. Visit the Warnock Hersey at Intertek's website for more information. • Mission Statement/About - Intertek is a global testing, inspecting, and certification company and the Warnock Hersey (WH) mark is one part of the company. • The WH Mark can be found on more than 6,500 products ranging from fire doors and builders' hardware to hearth, plumbing and construction products.
Does an architect need to sign and stamp drawings that unlicensed individuals are allowed to design?
Yes. This includes stamping & signing and even those types of structures unlicensed individuals are allowed to design as clarified by the California architects board newsletter spring 2007. This requirement applies to all types of projects since it address a responsibility imposed on the architect, and not the project.
What is a Conditional Use Permit (from the Planner's Training Series, Office of Planning & Research):
a. A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) allows a city or county to consider special uses which may be essential or desirable to a particular community, but which are not allowed as a matter of right within a zoning district, through a public hearing process. b. A conditional use permit can provide flexibility within a zoning ordinance. c. Another traditional purpose of the conditional use permit is to enable a municipality to control certain uses which could have detrimental effects on the community. d. Consideration of a CUP is a discretionary act. A CUP application tendered by a project proponent is considered at a public hearing and, if approved, is generally subject to a number of pertinent conditions of approval. Depending on local ordinance requirements, hearings are typically held by a board of zoning, the planning commission, or a zoning administrator. The owners of property near the site are sent advance notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing.
Post Contract Services include:
a. Maintenance and operational programming b. Start-up assistance c. Record drawing d. Warranty review e. Post contract evaluation
Who is responsible for filing the Notice of Completion & what are the benefits of filing?
a. Not required to be filed but the Owner is highly encouraged to file the Notice of Completion to reduce the lien period (90 days if Notice of Completion not filed) in which Contractors and Subcontractors can file a claim of lien per the following • for Prime Contractors, reduces the lien period to 60 days • for Subcontractors, reduces the lien period to 30 days b. Notice of Completion is filed at the County Recorder's Office c. The Architect does not file the Notice of Completion but can aid the Owner by directing them to the County Recorders' Office
Limiting professional liability exposure according to the Architects Practice Act:
a. Not responsible for damage caused by unauthorized changes to signed and stamped documents (as long as authorization was not unreasonably withheld) b. Signing and stamping of documents does not impose a legal duty to observe the construction of fixed works c. Construction Observation means periodic observation of completed work to determine general compliance with the plans, specifications, reports, or other contract documents, not superintendence of construction processes, site conditions, operations, equipment, personnel, or safety d. Architects who perform voluntary building inspection at the site of an emergency at the request of a local official shall not be liable in negligence for any damage caused by good faith but negligent inspection (only within 30 days of emergency) - Excerpts from the Architects Practice Act
How can you as the Architect protect the Owner from Liens?
a. Require the Contractor to purchase a Performance Bond and Payment Bond (AIA-A312-2010) b. Receive signed lien releases from subcontractors at time of payment c. Architect process contractor's request for payment in a timely manner d. Collect and hold retainage e. Recommend the Owner file the Notice of Completion with the County Recorder to reduce lien period f. Collect Contractor's Affidavit of Release of Liens (AIA-G706A)
Hospital Facilities Seismic Safety Act
a. Seismic safety legislation - Seismic Retrofit Program SB 1953 was passed by the California Legislature in 1994 following the Northridge earthquake b. Northridge earthquake caused 23 hospitals to suspend some or all of their services c. Establishes Three seismic safety deadlines: • by 2002 - major non-structural systems such as back up generators, exit lighting, etc must be braced • by 2013 (originally 2008) - all general acute-care inpatient buildings at risk of collapsing during a strong earthquake must be rebuilt, retrofitted or closed. City or County owned hospitals have the opportunity to request an extension to 2020, provided they rebuild the facility • by 2030 - all hospital buildings in the state must be operational following a major earthquake d. Enforced by Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD)
Bidding and Negotiation - architect's responsibilities:
a. Send out Contractors' Qualification Statements b. Send out Invitation to Bidders / Instructions to Bidders c. Send out bid documents d. Respond to RFIs (request for information) e. Issue addenda f. Attend pre-bid conference g. Assist owner in reviewing bids h. Documentation and distribution of bidding results
Site Accessibility Requirements:
a. Sidewalks • No steps or abrupt level changes exceeding 1/2" • Walkways min. width 48" (exception - clear width may be reduced to 36" if enforcing agency determines compliance would create undue hardship) • Max. surface cross slope is 1/4" b. Accessible parking / van parking • Spaces minimum 9'x18' with 5' wide no parking strip at typical parking stall and 8' wide no parking strip at van parking stall c. Curb cuts • provide detectable warning strips, max. slope 8.33% d. Passenger loading zones • When provided, passenger drop-off and loading zones are to be located on accessible route of travel • Where provided, 1 passenger drop-off and loading zone provides and access aisle which is at least 5' wide and 20' long adjacent and parallel to vehicle pull-up space
What does the Department of Public Works check for?
a. The Department of Public Works builds City's streets, installs its sewers, constructs storm drains, rights-of-way, and service facilities b. Typically consists of the following divisions (using City of Los Angeles, Department of Public Works as an example) • Bureau of Engineering • Department of Sanitation • Street Lighting • Street Services c. The Department of Public Works may review the plans for the following; • Water supply to the site • Waste water from the site • Storm water runoff • Electrical service to and from the site • Street lighting on the project • Improvements in the right-of-way
What does the Fire Department check for?
a. The Fire Department may review the plans for the following; • Fire suppression systems such as sprinklers • Egress requirements in the building as well as outside • Fire lanes and emergency access • Location of fire hydrants and standpipes • Fire truck turnarounds
What does the Police Department check for?
a. The Police Department may review the plans for the following; • Communication system • Site lighting for safety at night • Security of entrances and exits • Emergency response plan/system in place depending on building use
Hierarchy of Jurisdictions:
a. The hierarchy of federal, state, and local agencies is not clear and straightforward. I know some people believe state agencies take precedence over local agencies. There are too many factors involved including type of project, location of project, and the municipality involved to make a blanket statement. I don't think it is that black and white so I will leave that decision up to you. b. Each project and the related agencies will have to be understood in order to develop a thorough understanding of priority agencies and jurisdictional authority. In any case, local regulations may not be more lenient than state regulations as local regulations need to comply with state law. Every project has to comply with all Federal, State, Regional, and Local laws, codes, and regulations. It's part of our job to navigate the web and speak to the right people to make sure we are including all appropriate agencies during the ENTIRE PROCESS.
What are all the different Testing Standards (Refer to Knowledge Statement #25):
a. UL - Underwriters Laboratories b. ANSI - American National Standards Institute c. ASTM International - American Society for Testing and Materials d. FM - Factory Mutual, FM Approvals e. WH - Warnock Hersey f. GA - Gypsum Association g. ASHRAE - American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers
The door and stair requirements for accessibility:
b. Doors • Doorways shall have a minimum clear opening of 32" with the door open 90 degree, measured between the face of the door and the opposite stop • Every required exit doorway shall be not less than 3'-0" wide and not less than 6'-8" in Height • Level landing and clear area in direction of door swing to be minimum 60" in length c. Stairs • Stairways shall have handrails on each side • Stairways required to be more than 88" wide shall have at least 1 intermediate handrail for each 88" of required width • Exceptions i. Stairways 44" or less in width can have 1 handrail • Handrail height is 34" - 38" above the nosing of the tread • Extending handrails extend a min. of 12" beyond the top of the nosing and 12" plus tread width beyond the bottom nosing • Handrails projecting from a wall to have 1 1/2" space between wall and handrail • Handgrip portion of handrails to have a cross section 1 1/4" to 1 1/2" • Minimum depth of stair treads is 11" • Open risers are not permitted • Nosings do not project more than 1 1/2" past the face of the riser below
Accessibility requirements for ramps:
d. Ramps • A path of travel with a slope greater than 1:20 (5% gradient) is considered a ramp • The width of ramps is as required for stairways and exits. Pedestrian ramps have a minimum width of 48" • Pedestrian ramps serving entrances to building where the ramp is the only exit discharge or serves an occupant load of 300 or more shall have a minimum width of 60" • Ramps serving Group R occupancies shall have a 36" clear width when the occupant load is less than 60" • The maximum slope of ramps serving any exit way or slope in the path of travel is 1:12 (8.33% gradient) • The minimum landing width is 60". The minimum landing length in the direction of ramp run is 60" • Cross slope of ramp surfaces not to be greater than 1:50 (2% slope)
More ADA dimensions:
f. Egress Doors • Minimum 6'-8" high • Minimum clear width of 32" (which essentially means a minimum 36" door) • Must swing in direction of travel when serving occupant load of more than 50 g. Stairways • Minimum 44" wide, except when serving occupant load of less than 50 • Minimum 36" wide for occupant load less than 50 • Minimum 80" headroom at any point • Stair treads minimum depth of 11" • Stair risers minimum height of 4" and maximum height of 7" (a few exceptions in residential and utility uses where risers can be maximum 7 3/4" and treads minimum 10") h. Ramps • Cross slope minimum 1 in 48 (2.1%) • Ramps are limited to vertical rise of 30" between intermediate landings • Ramps in a means of egress may not exceed 1 in 12 (8%) slope • Width of ramps shall not be less than width of corridors • Length of landings shall be minimum 60" i. Exit Signs • Must be provided at exits and exit-access doors • Must be clearly visible and not be more than 100' from any point in the exit access corridor j. Handrails & Guards • Must extend horizontally for 12" beyond top of riser • Between 34" and 38" in height • Minimum diameter of 1 1/4" and maximum diameter of 2" • Guards are minimum 42" in height
There are 7 Mandatory Elements of the General Plan, what are they?
i. Land Use - designates the general location of housing, business, industry, open space, recreational facilities, educational facilities, public buildings, solid waste facilities, areas subject to flooding, other categories of public and private uses of land ii. Circulation Element - infrastructure plan addressing the circulation of people, goods, energy, water, sewage, storm drainage, and communications including major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals, other local public utilities and facilities iii. Housing Element - requires local governments to adequately plan to meet their existing and projected housing needs. Must be updated every five years. iv. Conservation Element - addresses the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, including water, forests, soils, rivers, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, mineral, and other natural resources. v. Open Space Element - guides the preservation and conservation of "open space land", including preservation of natural resources, managed production of resources (forest lands, mineral deposits), outdoor recreation, and public health and safety. vi. Noise Element - purpose is to limit the exposure of the community to excessive noise levels as well as identify major noise sources, such as highways and freeways, primary arterials and major local streets, train lines, commercial and general aviation vii. Safety Element - protect the community from fire, floods, earthquakes, landslides, and other natural and manmade hazards. • Annual Reports i. General law cities, applicable charter cities, and counties are required to file annual progress reports on the implementation of their General Plan with their local legislative body, OPR and the Department of Housing and Community Development. These reports are due April 1st of each year.
Exit requirements/dimensions:
m. Exits • All spaces within each story shall have access to the minimum number of approved independent exits as specified in Table 1021.1 based on the occupant load of the story. 1-500: 2 exits per story, 501-1000: 3 exits per story, More than 1000: 4 exits per story n. Vertical Exit Enclosures • Vertical exit enclosures (stairways) connecting less than 4 stories are to have 1 hour fire-rating • Vertical exit enclosures connecting 4 stories or more shall have a 2 hour fire-rating o. Exit Discharge • Exits shall discharge directly to the exterior of the building with exceptions that may not exceed 50% of the number and capacity of required exits per section 1027.1 • Egress Courts are open spaces that provide access to a public way from one or more exits. • The width of egress courts shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but such width shall not be less than 44 inches. Egress courts serving Group R-3 and U occupancies shall not be less than 36 inches in width. The required width of egress courts shall be unobstructed to a height of 7 feet
What is a General Plan & who authors/monitors it?
• A General Plan is the local government's long-term blueprint for development. OPR (governor's office of planning & research) is responsible for updating the General Plan Guidelines - the "how to" resource for drafting a General Plan. OPR also monitors General Plan implementation with annual progress reports from cities and counties, and grants general plan extensions for qualified cities and counties. • Visit the General Plan Page of the OPR and click on General Plan Guidelines to view/download. • Every municipality shall adopt/implement a General Plan
Assembly Group A - defined as having 50 or more occupants & has the following 5 categories:
• A-1 Assembly areas with fixed seating (performing arts, movie theaters) • A-2 Assembly areas where food and drink are consumed (restaurants night clubs) • A-3 Assembly for places of worship, recreation, or amusement, and other assembly areas that do not fit into other Group A (Libraries, Museums, Church) • A-4 Assembly areas for viewing if indoor sporting events • A-5 Assembly areas for participation or viewing of outdoor sporting events
How do different project types affect time needed to conduct Contract Administration?
• Architect required to perform contract administration on Essential Services Buildings, Public Schools and Community Colleges, and Hospitals. • Architect performs contract administration as a standard of practice for non-essential services buildings. • Different projects types will require different amounts of contract administration. Essential Services Buildings, Hospitals, Public Schools and Universities will require more work and time. • It is important to properly understand the Contract Administration required by each project type to determine the Architect's fees.
To prepare for a flood; (Excerpt from the FEMA Website):
• Avoid building in a flood prone area unless you elevate and reinforce structure • Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electrical panel if susceptible to flooding • Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into drains • Seal walls of basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage
Occupancy Category (Section 1604.5) - Buildings shall be assigned an occupancy category (I-IV) in accordance with Table 1604.5 (Occupancy Categories of Building & Other Structures). Those 4 categories are the following:
• Category I - Buildings and other structures that represent a low hazard to human life in the event of a failure; i. Agricultural facilities ii. Certain Temporary Facilities iii. Minor Storage Facilities • Category II - Buildings or other structures not categorized in I, III, or IV • Category III - Buildings and other structures that represent a substantial hazard to human life in the event of a failure; i. Covered structures whose primary occupancy is public occupancy with occupant load greater than 300 ii. Schools iii. Health Care Facilities iv. Detention Facilities • Category IV - Buildings or other structures designated as essential facilities (don't confuse with the Essential Services Buildings); i. Hospitals with surgery or emergency treatment facilities ii. Fire, Rescue, and Police Stations iii. Designated Emergency Shelters iv. Power-generating Stations v. Water Treatment Facilities required to maintain water pressure for fire suppression • Values for loads and strengths are to be increased by the factors based on the importance of the structure. Essential Facilities may have an increased factor up to 1.5.
Plan Check - There are generally three types of Plan Checks available (some municipalities may only offer one or two). The following are from the Los Angeles Department of Building & Safety website;
• Counter Plan Check i. Counter Plan Check offers the convenience and expedience of having a plan review and obtaining a permit without the need to make an appointment. The type of plans that are typically reviewed at the counter are small and medium size projects, such as tenant improvements, small office and retail buildings that can be reviewed in approximately 45-60 minutes. • Appointment Plan Check i. Similar to Counter Plan check, Appointment Plan Check allows you to get the same interaction with the Plan Check Engineer except by appointment. Appointment Plan Check is available for slightly more complex projects that can be reviewed within 1½ hours. • Regular Plan Check i. Large, more complex, or projects requiring time consuming review are submitted for regular plan check. At the time of submittal, plans are screened for completeness and the appropriate plan check fees is required to be paid.
Door hardware ADA dimensions:
• Exit doors shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or any special knowledge or effort (there are a few exceptions but beyond our scope) • Locking/Latching Doors - if hand operated, to be operable with a single effort (lever, panic bar, push/pull) • Opening Hardware - hand activated door opening hardware shall be centered between 30" and 44" above floor
Essential Services Buildings as defined per Section 16007:
• Fire Station • Police Station • Emergency Operations Center • California Highway Patrol • Sheriff's Office • Emergency Communication Dispatch Center *For the Project Scenario part of the Exam, it's unlikely that you will be told your project is an essential services building, so KNOW this list! Exempt buildings per Section 16010; • One story Type V construction less than 2000 s.f. • Type II N construction less than 2000 s.f.
Coastal Development Permit Not Required for (Section 30610):
• Improvements to existing single-family dwellings • Improvements to any structure other than single-family residence or public works facility provided the improvements do not adversely affect the environment, public access, or involve a change in use contrary to the California Coastal Act • Maintenance dredging of existing navigation channels or moving dredged material from those channels to a disposal area outside the coastal zone, pursuant to a permit from the United States Army Corps of Engineers • Repair or maintenance activities that do not result in an addition to, or enlargement or expansion of, the object of those repair or maintenance activities provided there are no adverse impacts to the environment • Any category of development, or any category of development within a specifically defined geographic area, that the commission, after public hearing, determines there are no significant adverse environmental impacts • The installation, testing, and placement in service or the replacement of any necessary utility connection between an existing service facility and any development provided no significant environmental impacts are found, including scenic resources • The replacement of any structure, other than a public works facility, destroyed by a disaster • Any activity anywhere in the coastal zone that involves the conversion of any existing multiple unit residential structure to a time-share project • Any proposed development which the executive director finds to be a temporary event which does not have any significant adverse impact upon coastal resources
California Coastal Commission Exemptions for Single Family Residences (Section 30610.1):
• It is not located between the first public road and the sea or immediately adjacent to the inland extent of any beach or of the mean high tide line where there is no beach • Is a legal lot as of the effective date of this section and conforms with the minimum lot size and lot use designations of the applicable general plan and zoning ordinances • Is not located within an area known to the affected local government, or designated by any other public agency, as a geologic hazard area or as a flood hazard area • Is no more than 250 feet from an existing improved road adequate for use throughout the year • Can be served by an adequate water supply that is legally available for use either by means of a well or by means of a connection to a water system with sufficient capacity to serve such lot or lots
Description of the Agency terms referred to in CEQA:
• Lead Agency (for example, the local planning department, but could also be a State agency) - the public agency that has primary responsibility to complete the environmental review process required by CEQA. The Lead Agency is responsible for coordinating with the project applicant, the public, and other agencies during the review process. • Responsible Agency - the public agency or agencies with discretionary approval authority over a portion of a CEQA project (for example, the Air Quality Management District can be a responsible agency and consult with the Lead Agency) and interfaces directly with the Lead Agency. • Commenting Agency - a public agency with "jurisdiction by law" over a particular natural resource, but is neither a lead agency or a responsible agency. For example, the Air Quality Management District (AQMD) is the sole and exclusive local agency in the district (area served in Southern California) with the responsibility for comprehensive air pollution control, and therefore reviews and comments on the air quality analysis in environmental documents submitted to the AQMD. • Trustee Agency - a state agency having jurisdiction by law over natural resources affected by a project which are held in trust for the people of the State of California.
Key Dimensions for ADA access for elevators:
• Minimum clear width for elevator doors is 36" (when approved by building official, min. door width may be reduced to 32") • Elevator floor buttons are located no higher than 54" above the floor for side approach, 48" for front approach
What does California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) do?
• Mission Statement/About - Caltrans manages more than 50,000 miles of California's highway and freeway lanes, provides inter-city rail services, permits more than 400 public-use airports and special-use hospital heliports, and works with local agencies. Caltrans carries out its mission of improving mobility across California with six primary programs: Aeronautics, Highway Transportation, Mass Transportation, Transportation Planning, Administration and the Equipment Service Center. • If project on or near state highway, Caltrans will be concerned with traffic signals, curb cuts, access to the site, power poles, light poles or any work located on or near the right of way. • Encroachment Permit: i. What is an Encroachment? An "encroachment" is defined in Section 660 of the California Streets and Highways Code as "any tower, pole, pole line, pipe, pipeline, fence, billboard, stand or building, or any structure, object of any kind or character not particularly mentioned in the section, or special event, which is in, under, or over any portion of the State highway rights of way. "Special event" means any street festival, sidewalk sale, community-sponsored activity, or community-approved activity." - from the Caltrans website ii. When is an Encroachment Permit Required? An encroachment permit must be obtained for all proposed activities related to the placement of encroachments within, under, or over the State highway rights of way. Some examples of work requiring an encroachment permit are: utilities, excavations, encroachment renewals, advertisements (when allowed by statute), vegetation planting or trimming, surveys, mail boxes, driveways, installation or removal of tire chains for compensation, special events, and commercial filming activities. - from the Caltrans website
What does the California Department of Environmental Protection (Cal-EPA) do?
• Mission Statement/About - The California Environmental Protection Agency is charged with developing, implementing and enforcing the state's environmental protection laws that ensure clean air, clean water, clean soil, safe pesticides and waste recycling and reduction. • Administers and enforces the California Clean Water act via the State Water Resources Control Board • Administers and enforces the Clean Air Act via the Air Resources Board • Agencies that are under the umbrella of Cal-EPA; i. Air Resources Board ii. Department of Pesticide Regulation iii. Department of Toxic Substances Control iv. Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment v. State Water Resources Control Board
What does Division of the State Architect (DSA) do?
• Mission Statement/About - The Division of the State Architect provides design and construction oversight for K-12 schools, community colleges, and various other state-owned and leased facilities. The Division also develops accessibility, structural safety, fire and life safety, and historical building codes and standards utilized in various public and private buildings throughout the State of California. • Division of the California Department of General Services • DSA reviews projects for; i. Structural Safety ii. Fire and Life Safety iii. Accessibility Requirements iv. Energy Efficiency if project has applied for incentive • Provides design review and construction oversight for the following building types including DSA-Structural Safety (DSA-SS) and DSA-Access Compliance (DSA-AC); i. K-12 Public Schools (per the Field Act) ii. Community Colleges (per the Field Act) iii. Essential Services Buildings that are owned by the State or State facilities on leased land (per the Essential Services Buildings Seismic Safety Act) • Provides DSA-Access Compliance (DSA-AC) plan review ONLY for; i. University of California and California State University for campus projects ii. State Owned Buildings • Programs and Services; i. Construction Projects - reviews construction projects under its jurisdiction for compliance with Title 24 (see above) ii. Codes and Policies - one of several state agencies that propose changes to the California Building Standards Code through the Building Standard Commission iii. Certification Programs - DSA certifies project inspectors and testing lab facilities for use on which DSA has jurisdiction. iv. Access Compliance - provides access compliance services for public schools and state funded construction. v. Sustainability - committed to creating sustainable educational facilities.
State Water Resources Control Board:
• Mission Statement/About - The State Water Board's mission is to preserve, enhance and restore the quality of California's water resources, and ensure their proper allocation and efficient use for the benefit of present and future generations. • There are 9 Regional Water Quality Control Boards (Regional Boards) which develop and enforce water quality objectives and implementation plans that will best protect the State's Waters, recognizing local differences in climate, topography, geology, and hydrology. Water Quality monitoring after a project is complete usually falls under the Regional Water Quality Control Board Make sure you are familiar with the Regional Water Quality Control Boards. It's important to realize, no matter where your Project Scenario project is located, there will be a Regional Water Quality Control Board potentially reviewing the project.
What is ANSI, and what do they do?
• Mission Statement/About - To enhance both the global competitiveness of U.S. business and the U.S. quality of life by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, and safeguarding their integrity. • Definition - ANSI is a private non-profit organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for products, services, processes, systems, and personnel in the United States. - from the Wikipedia website • ANSI standard - is a document, established by consensus, that provides rules, guidelines, or characteristics for activities or their results • ANSI also accredits qualified organizations to develop American National Standards. However, ANSI itself does NOT develop standards! • ANSI A117.1 is the Standard on Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities i. ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) published by the Access Board references the illustrations and text of ANSI A117 (i.e. ADAAG is based on the ANSI A117.1 Standards)
What does the Air Resources Board do?
• Mission Statement/About - To promote and protect public health, welfare and ecological resources through the effective and efficient reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering the effects on the economy of the state. • Division of the California Environmental Protection Agency. • Administers and enforces the California Clean Air Act and Federal Clean Air Act. • Monitors air quality and generates reports. • Provides the Business Assistance Program to assist small businesses in understanding and complying with air quality regulations. • Regional Air Quality Management Districts (AQMDs) typically have jurisdiction over businesses and other stationary sources and the Air Resources Board is responsible for reducing emissions from mobile sources such as cars and trucks.
Key Components of the California Building Code (These are also the key elements that the Building Department will be reviewing during plan check);
• Occupancy Type • Construction Type • Building or Floor Area • Building Height • Exits/Egress • Building Separation and Shafts • Fire Protection • Fire Extinguishing Systems • Accessibility Requirements • Engineering Requirements
What items are considered to be additional services?
• Programming • MulXple preliminary designs • Measured drawings • ExisXng faciliXes surveys • Site EvaluaXon and Planning - B203 • Building informaXon modeling • Civil engineering • Landscape design • Architectural Interior Design - B252 • Value Analysis - B204 • Detailed cost esXmaXng • On-site project representaXon • Conformed construcXon documents • As-designed record drawings • As-constructed record drawings • Post occupancy evaluaXon • Facility Support Services - B210 • Tenant-related services • CoordinaXon of Owner's consultants • TelecommunicaXons/data design • Security EvaluaXon and Planning - B206 • Commissioning - B211 • Extensive environmentally responsible design • LEED CerXficaXon - B214 • Fast-track design services • Historic PreservaXon - B205 • Furniture, Furnishings, and Equipment Design -B253 (Notice renderings and models ARE NOT listed under Additional Services)
Types of Specifications
• Proprietary Specification - specifies specific products or material assemblies including manufacturers' names. Two types of Proprietary Specifications; i. Open Specification - often called "equal specs", typically includes three or more trade names with a provision "or approved equal." ii. Closed Specification - specifies a single trade name and typically doesn't allow for substitution. NOTE: Closed Specifications are not allowed on Public projects, with a few minor exceptions as noted in KS #41. • Performance Specification - describes the performance criteria for a particular product or system.
What is the purpose and scope of the California Green Building Code (Cal Green)?
• Purpose - Improve public health, safety, and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings through the use of building concepts having a reduced negative impact or positive environmental impact and encouraging sustainable construction practices in the following categories; • Planning and design • Energy Efficiency • Water efficiency and conservation • Material conservation and resource efficiency • Environmental quality • Voluntary Tiers • Scope - Shall apply to the planning, design, operation, construction, use, and occupancy of every newly constructed building or structure, unless otherwise indicated in this Code, throughout the State of California.
What Types of Development Require a Coastal Development Permit?
• Quick Summary (From the California Coastal Commission Brochure): i. placement of any solid material or structure ii. change in land use density or intensity (including any land division) iii. change in intensity of water use or access to water iv. removal of major vegetation • From the Coastal Act (Section 30601): i. Developments between the sea and the first public road paralleling the sea or within 300 feet of the inland extent of any beach or of the mean high tide line of the sea where there is no beach, whichever is the greater distance ii. Developments located on tidelands, submerged lands, public trust lands, within 100 feet of any wetland, estuary, stream, or within 300 feet of the top of the seaward face of any coastal bluff iii. Any development which constitutes a major public works project or a major energy facility
• Residential Groups in R:
• R-1 Occupants are transient, sleeping in their rooms less than 30 days ———(hotels, motels, boarding houses - all transient) • R-2 Occupants are permanent sleeping in buildings containing more than ______2 dwelling units (apartment houses, dormitories) • R-3 Occupants are permanent in nature and not classified in R-1, R-2, ______R-3.1, R-4, or I - R-3.1 Facilities licensed by a governmental agency for a residentially based ______24 hour care facility providing accommodations for six or fewer ______clients of any age • R-4 Residential care or assisted living facilities
What are the differences between Shop Drawings, Product Data, and Samples?
• Shop drawings are drawings, diagrams, schedules, and other data specially prepared for the Work. • Product Data are illustrations, standard schedules, performance charts, instruction, brochures, diagrams, and other information by the Contractor to illustrate materials or equipment for some portion of the Work. • Samples are physical examples that illustrate materials, equipment, or workmanship and establish standards by which the Work will be judged. • Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples and similar submittals are not Contract Documents. Their purpose is to demonstrate the way by which the Contractor proposes to conform to the Contract Documents. • The Contractor shall review Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples and similar submittals for compliance with the Contract Documents, approve and submit to the Architect for review. • By submitting Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples and similar submittals, the Contractor represents to the Owner and the Architect that the Contractor has 1. reviewed and approved them, 2. determined and verified materials, field measurements and field construction criteria or will do so, and 3. checked and coordinated information with the Contract Documents.
Describe Shop Drawings, Product Data, and Samples - who is responsible for what?
• Shop drawings are drawings, diagrams, schedules, and other data specially prepared for the Work. • Product Data are illustrations, standard schedules, performance charts, instruction, brochures, diagrams, and other information by the Contractor to illustrate materials or equipment for some portion of the Work. • Samples are physical examples that illustrate materials, equipment, or workmanship and establish standards by which the Work will be judged. • Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples and similar submittals are not Contract Documents. Their purpose is to demonstrate the way by which the Contractor proposes to conform to the Contract Documents. • The Contractor shall review Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples and similar submittals for compliance with the Contract Documents, approve and submit to the Architect for review. • By submitting Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples and similar submittals, the Contractor represents to the Owner and the Architect that the Contractor has 1. reviewed and approved them, 2. determined and verified materials, field measurements and field construction criteria or will do so, and 3. checked and coordinated information with the Contract Documents.
Some impacts a project can have on the environment (EIR):
• Storm water runoff • Parking implications • Pollution from equipment • Damage to wildlife & plants • Increase in traffic • Noise - street, traffic, transportation, use • Soil erosion • Modification to wetlands • Alterations of stream beds • Excessive or uncontrolled site lighting
Steps involved in obtaining the Building Permit:
• The Building Permit can only be obtained after ALL agencies have signed off on the project. • The Owner can obtain the Building Permit • The General Contractor can obtain the Building Permit and will have to show license and proof of workers compensation insurance • The Architect does not obtain the permit. We can get drawings "Permit Ready" or "Ready to Issue" when all of the plan check corrections have been addressed and approvals obtained. At this point, we usually hand the drawings to the Owner or Contractor to "pull" the Building Permit.
What is the The Permit Streamlining Act?
• The Permit Streamlining Act requires public agencies to follow standardized time limits and procedures for specified types of land use decisions. • Upon receipt of a project application containing a statement identifying the application as being for a "development permit," an agency has 30 calendar days to notify the applicant, in writing, of whether or not the project application is complete enough for processing. • The Permit Streamlining Act is reminiscent of a flashing light. It turns on when an application is submitted, off when accepted as complete and the environmental review (CEQA) process begins, and on again after the CEQA determination has been made. i. within 60 days of project found to be exempt or negative declaration is adopted ii. decision (approve or deny) within 180 days of when EIR is certified for the project - from the Public Notice and Land Use Planning website
ADA Compliance:
• There is NO plan check compliance for ADA standards (there generally will be on federal projects, but it is unlikely you will have a federal project as part of the Project Scenario). • IMPORTANT: The Building and Safety plan checker is only reviewing the drawings for compliance with the accessibility provisions of the California Building Code, Chapter 11A or 11B. They do not review for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. • I have had candidates tell me at the LIVE! Seminar that they have had plan checkers instruct them to remove ADA language on the plans because they are not checking plans for ADA compliance. • Owner is ultimately responsible for compliance with ADA requirements. For example, the Owner is the person who would be named in a lawsuit. If the Architect failed to adhere to the ADA standards, the Owner would probably turn around and sue the Architect after the Owner has been sued, but the Owner would be sued by the Department of Justice. • Architects are expected, as licensed professionals, to be knowledgeable of the ADA standards, notify the Owner, and incorporate the standards into the drawings • Architects are expected to comply with both the accessibility provisions of the California Building Code and the ADA standards.
Who is responsible for Permits, Fees, Notices, and Compliance with Laws?
• Unless otherwise provided in the Contract Documents, the Contractor shall secure and pay for the building permit as well as for other permits, fees, licenses, and inspections by government agencies necessary for proper execution and completion of the Work. • If the Contractor knowingly performs Work in violation of laws, codes, and regulations, the Contractor shall assume responsibility of the Work and bear the costs of correction. • Concealed or Unknown Conditions - If the Contractor encounters concealed or unknown conditions during construction, the Contractor shall promptly notify Owner and Architect before conditions are disturbed and in no event later than 21 days after first observance. • If the Contractor encounters human remains, archeological sites, or wetlands not indicated in the Contract Documents, the Contractor shall immediately suspend Work and notify Owner and Architect. Upon receipt of such notice, the Owner shall take action to obtain governmental authorization required to resume operations.
What kind of projects does the Cal Green code apply to?
- Applies to all occupancy types - Applies to newly constructed buildings - Applies to building additions of 1000 ft.² or greater - Applies to building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more.
What are some of the laws written by Congress that provide authority to the EPA to write regulations?
- Clean Air Act - Clean Water Act - Toxic Substances Control Act - Endangered Species Act - National Environmental Policy Act - Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA - more commonly known as Superfund)
State Agencies that may be involved in the wetland approval process:
1. California Department of Fish and Wildlife 2. California Environmental Protection Agency 3. State Water Resources Control Board 4. California Coastal Commission (wetlands in the coastal zone only) 5. State Lands Commission (wetlands on State owned properties)
What are the 3 applicable regulations (or acts) involving endangered species?
1. California Endangered Species Act 2. Federal Endangered Species Act 3. California Environmental Quality Act
State agencies include:
1. California coastal commission 2. State water resources control Board 3. California Department of Fish and wildlife 4. California department of environmental protection 5. Air resources Board 6. California department of transportation 7. Division of the state architect (DSA) 8. Office of state wide health planning and development (OSHPD) 9. Governor's office of planning and research
Name some elements of interior air quality that need to be considered:
1. Carbon monoxide 2. Radon (gases from the earth) 3. VOC's (from carpet, paint, mill work) 4. Mold and mildew (Provide proper ventilation for wet spaces) 5. Particulates (ash, pollen, etc)
What does the California coast select manage in terms of recreation areas?
1. Coastal area suited for water oriented recreational activities that cannot be readily provided an inland water area shall be protected for such uses. 2. Oceanfront land suitable for recreational use shall be protected for recreational use and development unless present and for seeable future demand for public or commercial recreational activities that could be accommodated on the property is already adequately provided for in the area. 3. Oceanfront land that is suitable for coastal dependent aquaculture shall be protected for that use, and proposals for aquaculture facility is located on those sites shall be given priority, except over other coastal dependent developments or uses. 4. Increased recreational boating use of coastal waters shall be encouraged, in accordance with this division by developing dry storage areas, increasing public launching facilities, providing additional berthing space and existing harbors, limiting non-water dependent land uses that can just access Corredor's and preclude boating support facilities, providing harbor is for refuge, and by providing for new building facilities in natural harbors, new protected water areas, and an area stretch from dryland.
What ask maybe grounds for suspension or revocation of an architectural license?
1. Conviction of certain crimes substantially related to the duties of an architect 2. Violation of the architects practice act 3. Fraud in obtaining a license 4. Impersonation 5. Aiding an unlawful practice 6. Signing others plans or instruments of service 7. Fraud in practice of architecture 8. Negligence or willful misconduct 9. Incompetency or recklessness 10. Disciplinary action taken by another public agency 11. Failure to report settlement for fraud, deceit, negligence, and competency, or recklessness in excess of $5000 (within 30 days).
What are the five ways to mitigate the disturbance of flora and fauna?
1. Designate no disturbance zones on site 2. Replant disturbed areas to other areas of the site 3. Minimize disturbing to natural water supply on the site 4. Minimize night site lighting as to not disturb the fauna 5. Maintain wildlife/use corridors throughout the site
Putting it Together - what are the beginning 5 steps of starting a project?:
1. Determine Occupancy Group 2. Determine Type of Construction 3. Determine Location of building on the property 4. Determine the Allowable Floor Area 5. Determine Height and Number of Stories
First steps in determining requirements for different building types:
1. Determine project type a. Public - include provisions in the bidding documents that incorporate the requirements of the Public Contract Code. b. Essential Services Building - include provisions in the drawings and specifications that incorporate provisions of the Essential Services Buildings Seismic Safety Act. c. Public Schools (K-12 and community colleges) - include provisions in the drawings and specifications that incorporate provisions of the Field Act. d. Private projects 2. Specialized Building Types a. Essential Services Buildings - Fire Station, Police Station, Emergency Operations Center, California Highway Patrol Office, Sheriff's Office, Emergency Communications Dispatch Center b. Assembly - Church, Synagogue, Movie Theater c. Public - Library, Schools & Auditoriums d. Gas Stations e. Laboratories
What are the 3 main components to the Coastal Commission's public access policy's?
1. Development shall not interfere with the publics right of access to the sea were acquired through use or legislative authorization, including, but not limited to, the use of dry sand in rocky coastal beaches to the first line of terrestrial vegetation. 2. Public access from the nearest public roadway to the shoreline and along the coast shall be provided in new development projects except where the following occurs: inconsistent with Public Safety, military security needs, or protection of fragile coastal resources. 3. Public facilities, including parking areas or facilities, shall be distributed throughout an area so as to mitigate against the impacts of overcrowding or overuse by the public of any single area.
How is the Coastal Act administered?
1. Development within the coastal zone may not commence until a coastal development permit has been issued by either the coastal commission or a local government that has a commission certified local coastal program (LCP). 2. After an LCP has been finally approved, the commissions coastal permitting authority over most new development is transferred to the local government, which applies the requirements of the LCP in reviewing proposed new developments.
In regards to obtaining discretionary approvals from regulatory agencies, the entire project approval process can be summarized into the following three steps:
1. Entitlements phase 2. Building and safety plan check and other local agencies 3. Obtaining the building permit
Federal agencies include:
1. Environmental protection agency 2. Federal aviation administration 3. US Army Corps of Engineers 4. US Fish and wildlife 5. Federal emergency management agency 6. US Coast Guard
How is the practice of architecture administered?
1. Examination 2. Licensure 3. Enforcement
Fun facts about earthquake faults!
1. Fault zones are plotted on the topographic map at a scale of 1 inch equals 2000 feet 2. The zones very in with, but the average is about 1/4 mile wide 3. An "active" fault is one that has ruptured within the last 11,000 years 4. If an active fault is found, a structure for human occupancy cannot be placed over the trace of the fault and must be set back 50 feet (generally) from the fault.
Describe the The Change Order Process:
1. General Contractor notifies in writing of the proposed change or the Owner may also request a change be made 2. Architect completes a Proposal Request (AIA G709) detailing the Work associated with the change and sends to Contractor 3. Contractor submits to Architect response with impact of Cost and Time of the proposed work 4. Architect reviews the impact of Cost and Time with the Owner 5. If Owner decides not to go ahead with the work, Architect notifies Contractor and nothing more happens 6. If Owner decides to go ahead with Work, the Architect prepares the Change Order and all three parties, Architect, Owner, and Contractor sign the Change Order Document.
Which types of insurance are required by the B102, owner/architect agreement?
1. General liability 2. Automobile liability 3. Workers compensation (if you have employees) 4. Professional liability
What are six factors that affect wetland health?
1. Habitat Alteration: converting wetlands to housing and farming that can easily displays or destroy wetlands 2. Hydrological Modification: Levys dams or any other unnatural structure that can affect water flow 3. Biological Invasion: from non-native species 4. Pollution 5. Overharvesting: of native plants and fish species 6. Climate Change: change in annual rainfall amounts and/or temperature
What are the three types of agencies?
1. Local 2. Regional 3. State
What is the difference between a General Plan & a Specific Plan?
1. Master Plan: Implement the General Plan through the use of maps and designated zones for allowable land uses, identify open space, restrictions on building use. Specific Plan 2. Community Plan or Specific Neighborhood (historical or similar) Plan. The Specific Plan will often take precedence over local master plan. For example, Venice is part of the City of Los Angeles. Let's assume the zoning code allows 30' for maximum building height in certain residential areas, including Venice. However, in certain areas of Venice, near the beach and the canals, the maximum building height is only 25'. That is covered in the Venice Specific Plan.
In addition to programming, what services would be considered additional services:
1. Multiple site evaluation 2. Site suitability studies 3. Site planning 4. Master planning 5. Preliminary design 6. Preliminary cost estimating 7. Scheduling 8. Market analysis 9. Detailed existing facility evaluation 10. Environmental suitability 11. Services and support of owners other consultants
Name the five items required to be on the architect stamp:
1. Name of the Architect 2. License Number 3. Renewal Date (renew every two years, in the odd year) 4. "State of California" 5. "Licensed Architect"
What are the different types of environmental groups?
1. National Groups: Sierra Club, National Audubon Society, Green Peace, National Wildlife Federation, National Conservancy, National Resources Defense Counsel, Americas Rivers 2. State of California: Sierra Club, California League of Conservation Voters, Keep California Beautiful, California Wilderness Coalition, California Native Plant Society, Friends of the River, CalTrout 3.Northern California: Mono Lake Committee, Mount Diablo interpretive association, sierra Nevada Forest Protection Campaign, Mendocino Environmental Center, South Yuba River Citizens League, Big Sur Land Trust, Sierra Foothill Conservancy, Restore Hetch Hetchy 4. Southern California: Friends of the LA River, Heal the Bay, Ballona Valley Preservation League, San Diego River Park, San Diego Zoological Society, San Diego Bay Keeper, Surfrider Foundation, San Diego Clean Water Alliance
Qualifications of applicant for an architectural license include:
1. Not having committed acts or crimes constituting grounds for denial 2. Applicant shall demonstrate to the board satisfaction knowledge of interior and exterior barrier free design 3. The applicant must have completed eight years of training and educational experience in architectural work. A five year degree from an approved architectural school shell equal five years of training.
Local agencies include:
1. Planning 2. Building and safety 3. Public works 4. Transportation 5. Fire department 6. Police department
In terms of accessibility provisions of the California building code, What 2 types of projects would be exempt?
1. Privately funded single-family homes and duplexes. 2. Privately funded multi family projects of 3 or less units in a condominium project.
What are the five different types of insurance an architect should carry?
1. Professional Liability (e & o) 2. General Liability 3. Worker's Compensation 4. Automobile Insurance 5. Property Insurance
What are the four types of seismic maps in California?
1. Shaking 2. Fault Rupture 3. Seismic hazard zones for liquefaction and landslides 4. Tsunami Inundation Maps
What are the professionals to provide exemptions from the practice act for professionals as long as he or she practices in the profession for which he or she is registered, and they may not use the title architect:
1. Structural engineer 2. Professional engineer 3. Civil engineer 4. Landscape architect 5. Land surveyor 6. Contractors, are also exempt as long as they are providing services within the classification for which they are licensed. The services may include the preparation of shop & field drawings for work which he or she has contracted or offered to perform, and designing systems and facilities which are necessary to the completion of contracting services which he or she has contracted or offer to perform. However, a licensed contractor may not use the title architect, unless he or she hold a license as required in this chapter.
What are the five main climatic conditions to be concerned with?
1. Temperature 2. Humidity 3. Rainfall 4. Wind 5. Snowfall (Not Solar Orientation! Solar orientation is not a climatic condition, rather it is a Site Condition)
When having a construction manager as advisor, how do you some of the responsibilities transfer from the architect to the contractor, and which responsibilities are still held by the architect?
1. The construction manager and architect both provide administration of the contract 2. The CM will determine the work is being performed in accordance with the construction documents 3. The CM will keep the owner informed of the progress of the work 4. The CM will endeavor to guard the owner from defects in the work 5. The owner and the contractor shall communicate through the CM, and the CM will keep the architect in the loop 6. CM will review and certify applications for payment, but the architect still needs to approve these pay applications 7. The CM will prepare the change orders, but the architect still approves the change orders 8. The CM will prepare a construction change directive's, but the architect still needs to approve CCD's
What are some of the Agencies, Acts & Laws and regulations that may be applicable to the hazardous materials review process?
1. Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA): Federal program that regulates chemicals and their use/distribution 2. Comprehensive environmental response compensation and liability act (CERCLA): or more commonly known as "Superfund" which is a federal program that involves a complex process to clean up toxic sites for long-term cleanup processes. 3. Federal EPA's Brownfields Program: A program that is designed to empower states communities and other stakeholders to work together to prevent assess and safely clean up Brownfield sites. 4. California EPA's Brownfield program: this program is similar to the federal program but is local to California.
Federal Agencies that may be involved in the wetland approval process:
1. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 2. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (moving or placing materials such as dirt, rock, concrete, or culverts) 3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 4. National Resources Conservation Service (relating to agriculture and wetlands restoration)
Federal Agencies (4) that may be involved in the coastal review process:
1. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 2. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (projects along the shoreline, marinas, harbors, ports) 3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 4. U.S. Coast Guard (Marine Environmental Protection)
The Big Four - Many wetland or stream projects will require four main permits or approvals:
1. USACE 404 Permit - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act is the primary federal program regulating activities in wetlands. 2. RWQCB 401 Certification - Regional Water Quality Control Board, Section 401 of the Federal Clean Water Act specifies that states must certify any activity subject to a permit issued by a federal agency, such as the USACE, meets all state water quality standards. In California, the State and regional water boards are responsible for certification activities subject to USACE Section 404 Permits. 3. Streambed Alteration Agreement - California Department of Fish and Wildlife, regulates activities that would alter the flow, bed, banks, channel, or associated riparian (zone between land and a river or stream) areas of a river, stream, or lake. 4. CEQA Compliance - California Environmental Quality Act, the goal of CEQA is to maintain a high-quality environment by requiring that public agencies identify, avoid, and mitigate the significant environmental effects on projects where feasible.
When is a written contract not required?
1. When professional services rendered with a client that will not pay compensation 2. Arrangement as to the basis for compensation is similar to services provided in the past for the same client 3. If the client knowingly states in writing, after full disclosure of this section, that a writing which complies with the requirements of this section is not required 4. Professional services rendered to a registered professional engineer
Commissioning is required for new buildings of how many SF?
10,000 ft.² Testing and Adjusting of systems is required for new buildings that are less than 10,000 ft.² or new systems to serve an addition or alteration.
Describe the idea of defensible space in terms of a fire hazard:
100 feet of defensible space is the law as of 2005. Measures include trimming up of branches above 6 feet, clearing of all dry brush and pineneedles, keeping a low green defensible space around the house with plants that are fire resistant, cleaning gutters and making sure there are no flammable materials sitting on the roof or in gutters. Also using a spark arrester on the chimney, and using appropriate roofing types (class A) in fire hazard zones. Also consider fire resistive walls, ceilings and floors assembies as required.
Who is ASTM and why do they do?
ASTM International (formally known as the American Society for Testing and Materials): • Mission Statement/About - is an international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services. • ASTM has developed and maintains more than 12,000 standards • ASTM standards have been adopted or incorporated into many federal, state, and municipal government regulations. • ASTM International publishes yearly the Annual Book of ASTM Standards • List of Construction Standards developed by ASTM (consisting of more than 1300 standards); i. Adhesive Standards ii. Building Standards iii. Cement Standards and Concrete Standards iv. Fire Standards and Flammability Standards v. Masonry Standards vi. Road Standards and Paving Standards vii. Roofing Standards viii. Thermal Insulation Standards ix. Wood Standards x. Steel Standards
What is the AQMD & what do they do? Are they a regional or local agency?
Air Quality Management District _ Regional Agency (not local): a. Air Quality Management Districts are regional agencies located throughout California to regulate and control emission primarily from stationary sources. b. For the Project Scenario portion of the Exam, there will be a Regional Air Quality Management District wherever the project is located. Under the Federal Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes health-based air quality standards that all states must achieve. The California Clean Air Act also establishes requirements for cities and counties to meet. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) develops plans and regulations designed to achieve these public health standards by reducing emissions from business and industry. AQMD's Governing Board adopts plans and regulations for the region and then submits them to the California Air Resources Board and the Federal EPA for approval. By law, AQMD has jurisdiction over businesses and other stationary sources, while the California Air Resources Board is responsible for reducing emissions from mobile sources, such as cars and trucks.
Who is ASHRAE & what do they do?
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) a. Visit the ASHRAE website for more information. • Mission Statement/About - ASHRAE, founded in 1894, is an international organization of over 50,000 persons. ASHRAE fulfills its mission of advancing heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world through research, standards writing, publishing and continuing education. • ASHRAE writes standards for the purpose of establishing consensus for; i. methods of test for use in commerce ii. performance criteria for use as facilitators with which to guide the industry • ASHRAE publishes the following three types of voluntary consensus standards; iii. Method of Measurement or Test iv. Standard Design v. Standard Practice
What is ADAAG?
Americans With Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines Title III also states that all new construction (construction, modification, or alterations) must be fully compliant with the ADAAG.
What is informed consent?
And architect shall not materially alter the scope or objective of a project without first fully informing the client in obtaining the consent of the client in writing.
Reimbursable Expenses - What are considered Reimbursable Expenses according to the AIA:
B102, Article 6.2; • Transportation and out of town travel • Long distance services, data and communication services, project websites • Fees paid for securing approval of authorities having jurisdiction over the Project • Printing, reproductions, plots • Expense of overtime work requiring higher than regular rates, if authorized in advance by the Owner • Renderings, models, mock-ups, professional photography, and presentation materials requested by the Owner • Architect's Consultant's expense of professional liability insurance dedicated exclusively to the Project • All taxes levied on professional services and on reimbursable expenses • Site office expenses
What are the 3 agencies involved in managing the coastline in California?
Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), California Coastal Commission is one of California's two designated coastal management agencies for the purpose of administering the (Federal) Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) in California. The most significant provisions of the federal CZMA give state coastal management agencies regulatory control (federal consistency review authority) over all federal activities and federally licensed, permitted or assisted activities, wherever they may occur (i.e., landward or seaward of the respective coastal zone boundaries fixed under state law) if the activity affects coastal resources. Examples of such federal activities include: outer continental shelf oil and gas leasing, exploration and development; designation of dredge material disposal sites in the ocean; military projects at coastal locations; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers fill permits; certain U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permits; national park projects; highway improvement projects assisted with federal funds; and commercial space launch projects on federal lands. Federal consistency is an important coastal management tool because it is often the only review authority over federal activities affecting coastal resources given to any state agency. • The coastal zone established by the Coastal Act does not include San Francisco Bay, where development is regulated by the Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC).
Rules for non structural components:
Ceilings: • Suspended • Attached to rigid subframe • DSA - requires horizontal restraint points to be placed not more than 12' x 12' on center for DSA structural enforcement projects (Section 1614A.1.12-6b). • OSHPD - requires horizontal restraint points to be placed not more than 8' x 12' on center for OSHPD enforcement projects (Section 1614A.1.12-6a). Lighting Fixtures: • Surface mounted to structure • Suspended from structure • Supported by suspended ceiling grid, surface mounted, or hung from suspended ceiling • All recessed or drop-in light fixtures shall be supported directly from the structure above with a minimum of two 12 gauge wires located diagonally at opposite corners. Support wires may be slightly loose to allow the fixture to seat in the grid system (Section 1614A.1.12-7). • Lighting fixtures weighing more than 56 pounds shall be supported directly above by approved hangers
What does the Department of Public Health do?
Check out the County of Los Angeles' Department of Public Health for more information. • The Environmental Health Division is concerned with the following areas; • Beaches • Body Art • Chemical Hazards • Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit • Food • Housing • Indoor Air • Landfills • Lead Hazards • Pests • Public Pools • Recycled Water • Septic Tanks • Water Wells CSEprep.com ©2010-2017 Knowledge Statement #37
What is a "Parallel Design-Permitting Process"?
City of Los Angeles offers a Parallel Design-Permitting Process (from the DBS website); • The Parallel Design-Permitting Process for major project developments allows the design process and the permitting process run concurrently. We will start to plan check your plans at the conceptual design phase and continue to provide plan check, correction verification, and code consultation services to you throughout your various design phases. When you complete your final drawings, the building permit is ready to be issued. The benefits for a development project are as follow: - Identify and correct code violations early on and avoid cumbersome revisions to finished design. - Identify clearances and obtain sign-offs from other agencies early on and avoid unexpected clearances. - Reduce overall permit processing time, start and complete construction ahead of schedule. - Reduce project cost due to time savings.
Name some project performance objectives:
Comfort control: There are three main comfort control areas to be concerned with. These are related to the interior environment. 1. Interior air temperature 2. Internal lighting levels and daylighting levels 3. Noise controls
ADA dimensions for other elements (not critical to the exam):
Drinking fountains • Drinking fountain to be 18" minimum in depth, with a knee space of 27" minimum in height, 8" in depth from the front, and 30" in width • A toe clearance of 9" in height and 17" in depth from the front edge. A side approach drinking fountain is not acceptable Public Restrooms/Showers a. Urinals: • Where urinals are provided, at least 1 shall provide a clear floor space of 30" x 48" in front of the urinal to allow for forward approach • Walls within 24" front and sides of urinal to be smooth, hard, and non-absorbent up to 48" in height • Flush control height to be maximum 44" above the floor b. Lavatory • Provide clear floor space minimum 30" wide x 48" long, to allow for forward approach • Height to counter surface to be 34" maximum • Provide minimum 29" clearance from bottom of apron to floor, knee clearance under front lip to be minimum 27" high • Faucets to be lever-operated, push type, or electronically operated • Maximum height of mirror is 40" to the bottom edge of the reflecting surface c. Toilet Facilities • There shall be a 60" minimum circular turning diameter. If door opens into this area, it cannot encroach over 12" • Grab bar to withstand 250 lbs point load • Grab bar, side wall - minimum length 42" with front end positioned 24" in front of the water closet • Grab bar, rear wall - minimum length is 36" • Grab bar height is 33" above and parallel to the floor • Grab bar cross section 1 1/4" to 1 1/2" in diameter • Toilet to be minimum 17" to 19" maximum in height
Liability regarding building inspections:
Architects who perform voluntary building inspections at a site of an emergency at the request of a local official shall not be liable in negligence for any damage caused by good faith but negligent inspection.
What is the AIA B-132?
Construction manager as advisor contract. The involvement of the construction manager does not limit the liability of the architect, however some of the responsibilities may be reduced for the following contained with in the construction manager as advisor addition. It is important to understand the architect is still in the loop and approves: 1. change orders 2. construction change directive's 3. applications for payment.
What does FSC stand for?
FSC is the Forest Stewardship Council who certifies types of wood for sustainable construction.
Where would the CEQA notice of exemption be filed?
If a project is determined to be exempt from CQ a a notice of exemption may be filed: The state agency files the form at the office of planning and research. Local agency files the form at the county clerk of each county in which the project will be located.
What are the steps involved in the entitlement phase?
In this entitlement phase we are trying to obtain permission or approval for our project prior to produce in construction documents 1. Submit drawings to the local planning department 2. Review for compliance with CEQA 3. Review for compliance with zoning code and local ordinances 4. Review for compliance with local coastal program if in a coastal zone 5. Review for compliance with any specific plan areas 6. Attend any design review board/architectural review board meetings 7. Submit drawings to other regulatory agencies is required such as state and regional agencies. The local planning department may give you guidance but remember, as the license professional, you are responsible for having knowledge and understanding of the requirements of any relevant agency.
What is the punishment for practicing without a license or inappropriately selling oneself as an architect?
It is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $100, or more than $5000. Or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year or both.
Use of the term architect:
It shall be unlawful for any person to use a business name that includes as part of its title or description of services the term architect, architecture, or architectural, or any abbreviation or confusingly similar variations thereof. Unless that person is a business entity wherein an architect is: in management control of the professional services that are offered and provided by the business entity, and either the owner, or a part owner, or an officer, or an employee of the business entity.
What is the AIA B-102?
It's the standard form of agreement between an owner and an architect with out a predefined scope of architectural services. The scope of the services is not listed in this contract, so it only includes the terms and conditions of the contract, and needs to be paired With the B-201 which is the scope of services. This contract is also not a standalone contract, and needs to be paired with the B-102.
Can an architect in California set their business up as a limited liability company (LLC)?
No. Architects in California cannot form a limited liability company.
Can an architect stamp and sign documents that were not produced under his or her responsible control?
No. That said, responsible control does not mean architectural services need to be produced in the architects office. As long as the architect is maintaining responsible control, drawings can be produced in another part of the world or outsourced.
Now that we have an understanding of the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), let's take a look at the individual parts of Title 24. Please note the list below refers to the 2016 Codes as listed on the California Architects Board reference list of materials;
Part 1 - California Building Standards Administrative Code Part 2 - California Building Code Part 2.5 -California Residential Building Code Part 3 - California Electrical Code Part 4 - California Mechanical Code Part 5 - California Plumbing Code Part 6 - California Energy Code Part 7 - Vacant- formally California Elevator Safety Construction Code (See Cal. Code Regs., Title 8) Part 8 - California Historical Building Code Part 9 - California Fire Code Part 10 - California Existing Building Standards Code Part 11 - California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen Code) Part 12 - California Referenced Standards Code
Before starting a new project, one of the first visit should be to the ________________________\?
Planning Department One of the first visit should be to the local planning department to confirm the zoning, uses allowed, setbacks, building Heights, parking requirements and any other preliminary information related to the project. The planning department may also help you establish which agencies will be involved in the approval process, which will not. That said, it is up to the architect to investigate and find out all of the agencies that might be involved in your project. Do not rely on the local planning department or other agency to give you all of the information you need. It is the architect's duty to investigate.
What five elements are required in a contract between an architect and the client?
S.C.A.N.T. Services: description of services to be performed Compensation: basis of compensation Address: name, address, license number of an architect and name and address of client New services: additional services at an hourly rate Termination: description of procedure describing termination procedure
Definition of the California Coastal Zone:
The California Coastal Zone generally extends 1,000 yards inland from the mean high tide line. In significant coastal estuarine habitat and recreational areas it extends inland to the first major ridgeline or five miles from the mean high tide line, whichever is less. In developed urban areas, the boundary is generally less than 1,000 yards. - Excerpt from NOAA website.
Where can you find the actual CEQA act and it's guidelines:
The California public resources code, and Title 14 of the California code of regulations.
The following project types do not require an architectural license:
The architects practice act does not prohibit a person from preparing plans drawings are specifications for any of the following: 1. Single-family detached Wellings of wood frame construction no more than two stories and basement in height 2. Multiple dwelling units, no more than four, wood frame construction, no more than two stories and a basement in height 3. Garages or other similar structures of wood frame construction not more than two stories and a basement in height 4. Agricultural and ranch buildings of wood frame construction, unless the local building official deems it and undue risk to public health, safety, or welfare
The Coastal Zone for the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) includes what areas?
The open water, marshes and mudflats of greater San Francisco Bay, and areas 100 feet inland from the line of highest tidal action. The boundary also includes: the Suisun marsh and buffer zone: managed wetlands diked off from the Bay; and open waters diked off from the Bay and used in salt production. - Excerpt from NOAA website.
Responsible Control
The phrase responsible control means the amount of control over the content of all architectural instruments of service during the preparation that is ordinarily exercised by architects applying the professional standard of care.
What is the purpose of the scope of the California Existing Building Code?
The purpose is to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death or injury that may result from the effects of earthquakes on existing unreinforced masonry bearing walls. The scope shall apply to all existing buildings having at least one unreinforced masonry bearing wall.
How many seismic zones are in the US & in California?
There are 4 seismic shaking zones in the United States, in the higher the number the higher the earthquake danger. All of California lies within two shaking zones: zone 3, and zone 4. Zone 4 is located nearest to the active earthquake faults and poses the greatest hazard.
What three main concepts are important to understand in regards to site conditions?
Topographical, hydrological, and geological conditions.
Basic Wind Speed - The basic wind speed, in mph, for determination of the wind loads shall be determined by Figure 1609 of the California Building Code:
• Based upon the speed of a 3 second gust of wind • Basic Wind Speed on the West Coast is 85 mph with Special Wind Regions along the Eastside of the Sierra Mountain Range and portions of Southern California. Local jurisdictions should be consulted for more information about Special Wind Regions.
Exposure Categories reflects how ground surface irregularities affect design wind pressure. Describe how this works:
• Exposure conditions vary from the most protected to the least protected (Exposure B most protected to D least protected.) • Exposures are determined by "ground surface roughness" that arise from natural topography and vegetation as well as from constructed features. • Surface Roughness B - Urban and suburban areas, wooded areas or other terrain with numerously closely spaced obstructions. • Surface Roughness C - Open terrain with scattered obstructions having heights generally less than 30 feet. • Surface Roughness D - Flat, unobstructed areas and water surfaces outside hurricane-prone regions.
EIR - what are the stages & what do they mean?
• Negative Declaration - no significant impacts found upon the environment in respect to the project, the project may proceed as designed • Mitigated Negative Declaration - significant impacts found upon the environment in respect to the project, but the project can be revised/redesigned to avoid or mitigate significant impacts, and can move forward • Environmental Impact Report (EIR) - project has been found to have significant environmental impacts. Project may be slowed or halted until an EIR can be prepared, reviewed, and approved i. What is an Environmental Impact Report? It is a detailed report written by the Lead Agency describing and analyzing the significant environmental effects of a proposed project, identifying alternatives and discussing ways to reduce or avoid the possible environmental damage. An EIR is prepared when the Lead Agency finds substantial evidence that the project may have a significant effect on the environment. ii. Check out the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Environmental Impact Report for a good overview of an Environmental Impact Report.
What are the 5 Types of Construction?:
• Type I Steel, Reinforced Concrete, Masonry Construction, non-combustible structure required and fire-resistive • Type II Steel, Reinforced Concrete, Masonry Construction, non-combustible structure required and fire-resistive • Type III Steel, Reinforced Concrete, Masonry or Wood Construction, structural frame typically not wood • Type IV Heavy Timber • Type V Steel, Reinforced Concrete, Masonry or Wood Construction
g. Agencies that may be involved in the presence of hazardous materials review process:
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) • California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA) • California Air Resources Board (division of Cal/EPA) • Regional Air Quality Management District • State Water Resources Control Board
The California coastal act considers the following issues:
• shoreline public access and recreation • lower cost visitor accommodations • terrestrial and marine habitat protection • visual resources • landform alteration • agricultural lands • commercial fisheries • industrial uses • water quality • offshore oil and gas development • transportation • development design • power plants • ports • public works
The policies of the Coastal Act constitute the statutory standards applied to planning and regulatory decisions made by the California Coastal Commission and by local governments, pursuant to the Coastal Act. The Act addresses issues such as;
• shoreline public access and recreation • lower cost visitor accommodations • terrestrial and marine habitat protection • visual resources • landform alteration • agricultural lands • commercial fisheries • industrial uses • water quality • offshore oil and gas development • transportation • development design • power plants • ports • public works
Regional agencies include:
1. Air quality management District 2. County flood control District 3. Environmental health department 4. Regional water quality control board 5. Regional airport authorities
State Agencies (4) that may be involved in the coastal review process:
1. California Department of Fish and Wildlife 2. California Environmental Protection Agency 3. State Water Resources Control Board 4. California Coastal Commission (Coastal Zone)
What type of insurances are required by the state of California?
1. Workers compensation (if you have employees) 2. Automobile liability insurance (personal, and assuming you drive)
Whenever the board is considering an investigation for willful misconduct, and architect or a candidate for licensure shall respond to the boards request for information and or evidence within how many days of the mailed correspondence?
30 Days
Rules for architectural Corporations:
A professional architectural corporation is authorized to render professional services so long as the corporation and its shareholders, officers, directors, and employees rendering professional services are licensed architects, are in compliance with the Moscone-Knox professional corporation act.
What is the key differentiation between the topographical condition and a geological condition?
A topographical condition occurs at the surface of the site, while a geological condition happens under the surface of a site (underground).