Accessibility, mass timber, liveability and safety are the focus of major changes coming to the BC Building Code.
The province has adopted new building and fire codes 2024. The changes include updates to Plumbing Systems Book II and adoption of the National Fire Code 2020 as the BC Fire Code. The BC Building Code applies across the province, except on some federal lands and in the City of Vancouver, which has its own building bylaw.
The BC Codes 2024 will come into effect on March 8, 2024, and will apply to building permits applied for on or after that date. Adaptable dwellings and earthquake-design changes will come into effect on March 10, 2025 to allow additional engagement.
The implementation window will allow construction and housing-industry professionals more time to review the changes and complete any necessary training. It will also allow an easier transition for housing projects underway.
KEY UPDATES
Cooling
Following the deadly 2021 heat wave and climate change, the building code will require all new residential buildings to provide one living space that is designed not to exceed 26 C. This may require a cooling appliance such as air conditioning in many parts of the province, depending on weather and site conditions.
Accessibility
New accessibility requirements include designated wheelchair spaces in event facilities, more inclusive signage for wayfinding and safety, full-size change tables in universal washrooms and assisted-listening systems for individuals with hearing loss.
For adaptable dwellings, all new homes in large residential buildings and ground-floor suites in small buildings will have accessible clearances through doorways, added space to maneuver in a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, the placement of switches and other controls at an accessible height, and reinforced bathroom walls to enable the future installation of grab bars.
The updated provincial code will also require power-operated doors in all building entrances and universal washrooms, and an elevator in all large two- and three-storey apartment buildings.
Mass timber
Proposed changes to the building code will expand the use of mass timber to build taller buildings and to make stronger communities.
These changes will allow buildings, such as schools, shopping centres and housing to be built faster, leading to a better environment and economy.
The proposed code changes would enable taller mass timber buildings, as many as 18 storeys for residential and office buildings, instead of the current 12-storey limit. The changes would also allow for more exposed mass timber or fewer layers of encapsulation in buildings, depending on a building’s height, and allow more building types.
“As we take historic steps to build more homes for people faster, we are also taking action to make sure homes are safe, accessible and more resilient to climate change,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing. “We have to find ways to innovate and build differently.”
