The BC Building Code (BCBC) is changing to allowing single egress stair (SES) designs in low- and mid-rise buildings.

The province has updated the BCBC to remove the code requirement for a second egress, or exit, stairwell per floor in buildings up to six storeys. This change will make it possible to build housing projects on smaller lots and in different configurations, while allowing more flexibility for multi-bedroom apartments, more density within areas of transit-oriented developments and the potential to improve energy efficiency in buildings. Previously, the BCBC called for at least two egress stairwells in buildings three storeys and higher.

To ensure the continuing safety for residents, all new SES designed buildings will require specific safety measures, including sprinklers, smoke-management systems and wider stairwells.

Single egress stair building designs build on advancements in fire and life safety, while requiring only one egress stairwell. These building designs are currently implemented in major cities, such as Seattle and New York, and support the supply of more homes for people where development was previously not possible due to lot size, cost of land assembly and other limitations.

“By adjusting B.C.’s building code to allow single egress stair buildings, we can not only boost housing supply, but also create more options for people and families who need larger layouts and more bedrooms,” said Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon.

The province said it will continue working with other partners across Canada to carry on discussions about how their building codes can be innovated to include SES designs and other features aimed at helping increase housing supply. This includes looking to see how government can develop standards to permit other design innovations, such as mixed-use occupancies, underground parking, and alternate requirements for two- to three-storey SES buildings.