Building A Garage In California

Building garages in California  may be different than other US locations because of the high wind exposures and earthquake (seismic) risk factors. The new building codes require special engineering for garage plans built in certain areas with high wind speed,exposure and severe earthquake risk categories. There are also many areas that allow the "prescriptive measures" (non-engineered) compliance with the code. Where calculations are required, it is necessary for the Professional Engineer (P.E) consultant to review, mark-up, stamp and sign the garage plans and calculations submitted for the building permit application.                
               

 Due to state-by-state professional licensing requirements, Behm Design Garage Plans cannot provide such additional engineering. However, customers often do use our stock garage plans by taking them to a local professional for the additional work. If a local jurisdiction does not impose special requirements, such that their required design parameters match ours, then the garage plans should work fine for getting the permit. If not, they can be returned as per our guarantee.              
                             
 If additional engineering is required, Behm Design garage plans are now available as electronic PDF downloads which may be easier for a consulting engineer or architect to work with in providing the additional engineering analysis and documentation. We have had many customers do this with our garage plans, especially in CA, where wind and seismic issues  require further design for extreme conditions. "Consulting Engineers" are listed in yellow pages and some of them work on small projects of this type. Also, builders and contractors are likely to have consultants for such work. Costs vary from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on location and work required. Although more costly than using just the straight stock garage plans it may still be the least expensive, if not only, way to get permittable and buildable garage plans in a difficult, high risk location/region.
                           
 If you are in such a region you can easily learn about wind and seismic requirements from your local building dept. or inspector. That is always the best source for correct and accurate information. Everything is spelled out in the building code so you can know what will be needed before you start planning the project and
purchasing garage plans. You can also call Jay Behm @ 1-800-210-6776 if you have questions.