Pasadena Soft-Story Retrofit Ordinance – Stay Compliant with Cal-Quake

The City of Pasadena has implemented a Soft-Story Retrofit Ordinance to improve earthquake resilience and reduce the risk of structural failures in vulnerable buildings. If your property has a weak or open ground floor, you may be required to complete a mandatory seismic retrofit to remain compliant and protect your investment.

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At Cal-Quake, we provide expert structural assessments, engineering solutions, and full-service retrofitting to bring your building into compliance—quickly, affordably, and with minimal disruption to tenants.

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🔗 View the Official Pasadena Soft-Story Retrofit Ordinance Here

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What Is the Pasadena Soft-Story Ordinance?

The Pasadena Soft-Story Retrofit Ordinance was enacted to strengthen multi-unit buildings that are at high risk of collapse during earthquakes. These structures often feature tuck-under parking or large open spaces on the ground floor, which make them especially vulnerable to seismic activity.

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The ordinance requires property owners to complete a mandatory seismic retrofit within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties, financial liability, and safety risks for tenants and neighboring properties.

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Does your Property Require a Retrofit?

Your building may be subject to the Pasadena Soft-Story Ordinance under Ordinance No. 7345 if it meets the following criteria:

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✅ Wood-frame construction or contains wood-frame portions
✅ Constructed on or before November 12, 1976 (or determined by the Building Official to have been built under pre-1976 Building Code standards if no permit is found)
✅ Ground floor or basement contains parking or open floor space, leading to soft, weak, or open-front wall lines

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Not sure if your property is affected? Cal-Quake offers free property evaluations to determine if your building requires retrofitting.

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Order to Comply Timelines:​​​​​​​​​​​

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How Cal-Quake Can Help

We handle the entire seismic retrofitting process—from initial assessment to city approval—so you don’t have to worry about compliance.

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✅ Property Inspection & Structural Assessment – Our engineers evaluate your building’s vulnerabilities and retrofit requirements.
✅ Custom Seismic Engineering Plans – Designed to meet Pasadena’s strict retrofit guidelines.
✅ Permit Processing & Compliance Management – We handle all paperwork and city approvals.
✅ Seismic Strengthening & Construction – Installation of moment frames, shear walls, and other reinforcements.
✅ Final Inspection & Certification – Ensuring your building is fully compliant and earthquake-ready.

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Why Choose Cal-Quake for Your Pasadena Retrofit?

🔹 30+ Years of Experience – Trusted experts in seismic retrofitting and earthquake engineering.
🔹 Hassle-Free Compliance Management – We handle everything from engineering to final inspections.
🔹 Cost-Effective & Fast Turnaround – Competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.
🔹 Pasadena Ordinance Specialists – We stay up to date with local seismic safety regulations.

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Get Started Today – Free Consultation!
Don’t wait until it’s too late—earthquake retrofits protect lives, property, and your investment. Contact Cal-Quake today for a free consultation and ensure your building is compliant with Pasadena Soft-Story Retrofit Ordinance.

📞 Call us: 323-931-2969
📧 Email: info@cal-quake.com