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Bootcamp: The California Historic Building Code

CHBC Bootcamp

It is California's most underutilized program to ensure lower project costs for the rehabilitation of historic buildings. Explore the unique provisions of the California Historic Building Code (CHBC) designed to protect the historic integrity of older structures while ensuring safety and accessibility. This workshop will provide an overview of how the CHBC applies to historic preservation projects, offering practical guidance for architects, engineers, conservators, and contractors working with heritage buildings. Learn from architects, structural engineers, and state government staff about real-world applications and case studies that demonstrate how the CHBC supports both preservation and modern building standards.

This bootcamp will be beneficial to a broad range of professionals and historic preservationists, including building officials, plan checkers, city planners, architects, engineers, project managers, and historic building owners.

  • Part One - Getting a Grounding in the CHBC - Oct 24, 10 - 1
  • Part Two - Earth: Structural Considerations and Case Studies - Nov 14, 10 - 1
  • Part Three – Fire: Safe Solutions for Historic Buildings and Landscapes - Nov 21, 10 - 1

You Will Be Able To...

  1. Understand the California Historic Building Code (CHBC) Framework
    Participants will gain foundational knowledge of the California Historic Building Code and its specific provisions that ensure both the preservation of historic structures and the safety, health, and welfare of occupants.
  2. Identify Safe and Cost-Effective Structural Solutions for Historic Buildings
    Attendees will learn how the CHBC facilitates safe structural interventions, particularly in seismic regions, by exploring real-world case studies that illustrate balancing preservation with modern safety requirements.
  3. Evaluate Fire Safety Measures for Historic Buildings and Landscapes
    Participants will be able to assess fire safety strategies that are compliant with the CHBC, ensuring both the preservation of historic fabric and adherence to contemporary fire protection standards.
  4. Apply Accessibility Provisions in Historic Building Projects
    Professionals will learn how the CHBC provisions address accessibility issues in a manner that protects the historic integrity of buildings while ensuring compliance with ADA standards, thereby improving the welfare of all users.
Part 1 - Getting a Grounding in the CHBC - October 24, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

October 24, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
This session provides a comprehensive introduction to the California Historic Building Code (CHBC). Participants will explore the key provisions of the code, gaining insight into how it facilitates the preservation of historic structures while ensuring public health, safety, and accessibility. This foundational workshop is ideal for professionals new to the CHBC or those seeking a refresher on its core principles.

Part 2 - Earth: Structural Considerations and Case Studies - Nov 14, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

November 14, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Focusing on the structural aspects of historic preservation, this session delves into the unique challenges of stabilizing and retrofitting historic buildings, particularly in seismic regions. Attendees will examine case studies that highlight successful applications of the CHBC to address structural safety while maintaining historic integrity. This is essential for architects, engineers, and conservators working with heritage structures.

Part 3 – Fire: Safe Solutions for Historic Buildings and Landscapes - Nov 21, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

November 21, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

This session addresses the critical issue of fire safety in historic buildings and landscapes. Participants will explore innovative and compliant fire protection strategies that ensure the safety of both the structures and their occupants. Real-world examples will illustrate how fire safety measures can be integrated without compromising the historical and cultural value of these sites.