Los Angeles reversed course last month on a regulation that had barred skyscrapers from having slanted roofs or spires. Most high-rises in the city have flat-topped roofs due to a decades-old rule meant to boost fire safety by requiring helicopter landing pads atop tall buildings.
The rule was unique among large cities in the U.S., according to city officials. New technology and design techniques have removed the need for such a rule, city officials say.
Architects had decried the old rule, saying it restricted creative building tops and prevented L.A. from having a distinctive skyline.
Under the new rule, builders will be able to construct high-rises that don’t have a helicopter pad on the roof if they include other safety features such as a fire service elevator or another set of exit stairs, automatic sprinklers, and a video surveillance system.
“Anyone who’s been to New York or cities like Shanghai, Hong Kong, and even San Francisco can see how the tops of building can help to define the identity of a city,” former City Councilman Mike Woo told the Los Angeles Times. “But for Los Angeles, for years, we have limited ourselves.”
(http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-skyscraper-flat-top-fire-rule-spires-20140929-story.html)
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
Washington D.C.’s flattened skyline can be a virtue
Zoning ordinance that ties building heights to width of streets dictates form.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
Silicon Valley cities considering taxes aimed at large employers
The aim is to offset the impact on housing costs and homelessness by tech companies.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
OSHA proposes new crane operator safety rule
Would provide long-term clarity on certification requirements.
Codes and Standards | May 29, 2018
Government support helping to drive demand for green building materials
Market projects to grow 12.5% annually between 2013 and 2019.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2018
‘Amazon tax’ could slow Seattle’s construction boom
City imposes employer head count tax to fund affordable housing.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2018
AAMA releases 2017/2018 fenestration market studies
Offers forecasts of industry trends.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2018
Registration open for 2018 National Energy Codes Conference
U.S. Department of Energy event to be held July 15th-17th in Austin.
Codes and Standards | May 21, 2018
New standard tests quietness of floors
ASTM International method will help manufacturers test their flooring materials.
Codes and Standards | May 17, 2018
California will require solar panels on most new homes
Projected to add $10,000 to cost of new homes.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2018
New resources offer tips on off-site construction
NIBS documents address using pre-cast concrete, and commercial and legal considerations of modular construction.
