foundation spreading restraint

[fugeeo]

I would like to visit a consensus on use of grade beams for High Seismic Regions SDC D generally [not necessarily liquefaction region], to keep intact residential construction. With Faults along many regular boundaries, it seems of consequence not to require foundation elements to be tied when separated a distance so to minimize separation potentials. Appreciate any comments.

 

[WesternJeb]

I am commercial, not residential in SDC D. I don't remember the last time I used spread footings without grade beams. We typically have to have a slab turn down for frost depth, so why not use it to tie the footings together and take some footing sizes down?

In residential, I know the grade beam reinforcing is much more relaxed too.