Building Code Guides (BCGs) and Building Official Determinations (BODs) provide answers about the application of building codes and outline optional alternates. BODs are typically smaller in scope and address simpler questions. Code Guides provide a comprehensive alternative to a complicated set of code requirements.
BOD 96-01: Elevated Private Driveways
QUESTION: What are the structural loading requirements for elevated driveways and parking decks on private property?
RESPONSE: Elevated driveway structures and parking decks may be subjected to the loading caused by heavy vehicles, including but not limited to garbage trucks, delivery trucks and moving vans, even when located on private property. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) requires elevated driveways or decks that are constructed in the street right-of-way to meet the same vehicle live load as the adjacent street or shoulder: AASHTO HS-20 design truck as a minimum (see illustration below). To meet PBOT standards, elevated driveway structures and parking decks constructed on private property shall be designed to support the same vehicle load as the adjacent street or shoulder: HS-20 design truck as a minimum.
If an elevated private driveway or parking deck is part of any fire apparatus access, that access must be designed and constructed to meet AASHTO HS-25 loading per requirements of the Oregon Fire Code.
See OSSC 1607.8 for additional requirements concerning structural design loads for heavy vehicles on private property structures.
HISTORY: Code Guide OSSC/16/#2 replaced Code Guide UBC/23/#2 which replaced Policy & Procedures # D-39. Updates 7/1/96, 3/1/99, and 9/16/16. Revised from Code Guide OSSC/16/#2 to building official determination format August 2, 2024.
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