The main objective of this research is to examine the behavior of high-strength concrete(HSC) columns. Eight test columns in one-third scale were tested under the conditions of cyclic lateral force and a constant axial load equal to 30% of the column axial load capacity. The $200{ imes}200mm$ square columns were reinforced with eight DB bars constituting a longitudinal steel ratio of 2.54% of the column cross-sectional area. The main experimental parameters were volumetric ratio of transverse reinforcement(${ ho}_s$=1.58, 2.25 percent), tie configuration(Type H, Type C, Type D) and tie yield strength($f_{yh}$=548.8 and 779.1 MPa). It was found that the hysteretic behaviour and ultimate deformability of HSC columns were influenced by the amount and details of transverse reinforcement in the potential plastic hinge regions. Columns of transverse reinforcement in the amount 42 percent higher than that required by seismic provisions of ACI 318-02 showed ductile behavior. At 30% of the axial load capacity, it is recommended that the yield strength of transverse reinforcement be held equal to or below 548.8 MPa. Correlations between the calculated damage index and the damage progress are proposed.