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Update: Extending Application of the 2018 Code’s Adaptable Dwelling Unit and Seismic Requirements for In-Stream Projects

The Province has updated the Ministerial Order adopting the 2024 edition of the British Columbia Building Code. A news release announcing the amendment is available on BC Gov News.

The amended Order exempts in-stream projects that had substantial design work completed according to the 2018 BC Building Code from the application of the 2024 BC Building Code’s adaptable dwelling unit and seismic requirements until March 8, 2027, provided that certain criteria are met. The change helps avoid potential construction delays, additional costs, and impact on project feasibility if buildings designed to the 2018 BC Building Code need to be redesigned to meet the 2024 requirements.

To download a free copy of the BC Codes 2024 and the amending Order, please visit the Building and Safety Standards’ website.

Update: Standardized Housing Designs & Single Exit Stair Buildings

Standardized Housing Designs

The Province has commissioned standardized, customizable residential designs and a companion catalogue for people building small-scale, multi-unit housing on lots previously zoned for single-family homes and duplexes. The digital designs are free to the public and can be used by builders, designers, and homeowners to build accessory dwelling units, duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, and townhomes. Local governments can also choose to fast track approval of the designs to expedite permitting and development.

Single Exit Stair Buildings

Code changes allowing the design and construction of single exit stair buildings came into effect on August 27, 2024.

An information bulletin will be published soon and will explain the new single exit stair code requirements. Please check the Technical Bulletins – Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca) webpage.

To find out more you may visit the provincial website.

Update: Enabling Single Exit Stair Buildings

Revision 3 to the BC Building Code came into force on August 27, 2024. The code revision enables permissions for the design and construction of new residential multi-family single exit stair buildings.

The BC Building Code changes:

  • Enable single exit stair buildings, up to 6 storeys in height,
  • Limit the occupancy load to 24 people, per floor,
  • Limit the travel distance to the exit,
  • Provide automatic sprinkler systems throughout buildings, including balconies,
  • Manage smoke movement and include other fire protections, and
  • Require high-level local fire department and high-level building operations and management to ensure ongoing fire system inspections.

The code changes are in force now. You can read more about them on BC Gov News and access Revision 3 of the BC Building Code on the Errata & Revisions page of the Building Codes and Standards website.

Additionally, new Technical Bulletins for BC Building Code 2024 have been published and you can expect to find more added as they are finalized.

Added CSA Standards to BOABC Library

In response to requests from members, the Association has added additional standards to the CSA subscription service that is complimentary for members.

The following standards have been added:

  • CSA B214 – Installation code for hydronic heating systems
  • CSA B64.10 – Selection and installation of backflow devices
  • CAN/CSA B128.1 – Design and installation of non-potable water systems
  • CSA B805/ICC 805 – Rainwater harvesting systems
  • CSA A82.31-M – Gypsum board application
  • CSA Z241 – Park model mobile homes
  • CSA C22.1:21 – Canadian electrical code, Part 1 (25th Edition), safety standard for electrical installations
  • ASME A112.18.1-2018/CSA B125.1-18 (R2023) – Plumbing supply fittings
  • CSA Z252:23 – Volumetric modular construction
  • CSA SPE 17:23 – HVAC Guide for Part 9 Homes
  • CSA-S406 – Specification of permanent wood foundations
  • CSA B125.3 – Plumbing fittings
  • CSA B481 – Grease interceptors

If you need help accessing your subscription to the CSA standards library, please contact the Association at info@boabc.org.

Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes

Staff from the Building and Safety Standards Branch made members aware of changes to the national code development system through previous presentations at Association zone meetings and conferences.

The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) is the new body responsible for the development of Canada’s National Model Codes, which contain objectives related to health, safety, the protection of buildings from fire and structural damage and the protection of the environment.

The CBHCC, which is made up of representatives from provincial, territorial, and federal public services, approves the content of the National Model Codes and works within a system of groups that provide oversight, advice, and develop proposed changes.

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