The San Jose City Council has approved a mandatory Soft Story Retrofit Ordinance and Program, which will go into effect on April 1, 2025.
This ordinance targets certain wood-frame buildings with at least three residential units built before 1990, which are particularly vulnerable to earthquakes due to their structural design.
The ordinance aims to enhance public safety, protect property, reduce community costs, and minimize owner liability. It was developed following extensive research and outreach, including a $4.6 million FEMA grant to assist property owners with retrofit costs. The program prioritizes public health and safety, equity, and cost control.
While all buildings have a uniform screening deadline, the City broke down its compliance schedule into three groups based on its construction dates and unit numbers. Furthermore, the design, permit, and construction deadlines are on a tiered schedule. Please refer to the table below for details.
| Group Number | Construction Date | Number of Units | Screening Deadline | Design, Permit, and Construction Deadlines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | Before January 1, 1978 | 5 or more units | October 1, 2026 | April 1, 2030 |
| Group 2 | Between January 1, 1978, and January 1, 1990 | 5 or more units | October 1, 2026 | April 1, 2031 |
| Group 3 | Before January 1, 1990 | 3 or more units | October 1, 2026 | April 1, 2032 |
Soft-story retrofits are important because they enhance the safety of buildings and protect occupants during earthquakes. There are many soft-story retrofit options designed specifically for different building construction types, configurations, locations, and construction dates. By strengthening weak points in the structure, retrofits can prevent catastrophic damage and loss of life. When in doubt, please contact one of our experts for more information.
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