Building Codes
As far as parameterization goes, the construction process for ordinary buildings (offices, homes, etc.) is relatively simple. First, building code perscribes seismic design parameters to a site. The exact parameters differ based on the exact publication. Before 2004, Washington followed the Uniform Building Code (UBC) which assigned seismic design parameters based off seismic zones. This lead to
Washington State adopted its first formal buildng code in 1975 and had some level of seismic deisgn by 1955.