(A) The purpose of this subchapter is to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death and injury resulting from the effects of earthquakes on unreinforced masonry buildings constructed prior to the adoption and enforcement of Building Codes requiring earthquake resistant design. Such buildings are widely recognized for sustaining life-hazardous damage, including partial or complete collapse during moderate to strong earthquakes.
(B) The provisions of this subchapter are intended as minimum standards for structural seismic resistance established primarily to reduce the risk of injury and loss of life. Compliance with these standards will not necessarily entirely prevent injury or loss of life or prevent earthquake damage to rehabilitated buildings. This subchapter does not require alteration of existing electrical, plumbing, mechanical or fire safety systems unless they constitute a hazard to life or property.
(C) This subchapter provides systematic procedures and standards for identification and classification of hazards in unreinforced masonry buildings based on their present use and condition. Priorities, time periods and standards are also established under which these buildings are required to be structurally analyzed and strengthened or demolished.
('63 Code, § 9-7.101) (Ord. 504-C.S., passed 11-21-89)