1808.7.3 Bracing at Tops of Piles

Piles shall be braced to provide lateral stability and resist eccentric loads and moments in all directions. Three or more piles connected by a rigid cap shall be considered braced, provided that the piles are located in radial directions from the centroid of the group not less than 60 degrees (1 rad) apart. A two-pile group in a rigid cap shall be considered to be braced along the axis connecting the two piles. Methods used to brace piles shall be subject to the approval of the commissioner.

Piles supporting walls shall be driven alternately in lines spaced at least 1 foot (305 mm) apart and located symmetrically under the center of gravity of the wall load carried, unless effective measures are taken to provide for eccentricity and moments due to lateral forces, or the wall piles are adequately braced. A single row of piles without bracing is permitted for one and two-family dwellings and lightweight construction not exceeding two stories or 35 feet (10 668 mm) in height, provided the centers of the piles are located within the width of the wall.