Province Seeks Input On Building Code Updates

The Province is looking for input on changes to the BC Building Code.

“Our government is committed to more accessible, safer and more climate-resilient buildings for people, now and in the future,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing.

“That is why we are updating the BC Building Code to ensure that buildings and spaces across the province reflect the needs of everyone. We look forward to reviewing feedback from experts and the public to ensure that the changes we are proposing will provide benefits in the years to come.”

The proposed changes are based on the 2020 National Model Codes with some B.C.-specific variations to reflect the province’s geography, climate, local government needs, industry practices and provincial priorities, such as accessibility.

A four-week public review invites interested parties to review and comment on a variety of proposed building code changes, including:
 

1. accessibility and adaptable dwellings
2. cooling requirements
3. mass timber construction
4. earthquake design
5. radon safety, and
6. ventilation in houses

People can learn about the proposed changes and provide feedback through an online survey on the government’s website.

The survey is open until June 16, 2023.

The Ministry of Housing will review and says it will consider all feedback in drafting the updated code.

The Province anticipates adopting the updated code this year and bringing it into force by December.