New BC Building Code comes into effect March 2024

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. Buildings with permits in place under the BC Codes 2018 will generally not be affected by the new BC Codes (view the Ministerial Order adopting the BC Building Code 2024 for details). Code changes to be incorporated in 2024 include: 

• Enabling mass timber construction.
• Requiring rough-ins for radon safety province-wide.
• More complete and specific language for constructing extended rough-ins for radon subfloor depressurization systems.
• Adopting cooling requirements to provide one living space that does not exceed 26 degrees Celsius.
• Retaining existing ventilation requirements for systems serving single-dwelling units.

Code changes for new adaptable dwellings and earthquake design changes will come into effect March 10, 2025. This delay is to allow for additional engagement and sufficient training for low or no-cost design solutions. According to the Province of BC, this measured approach aims to balance accessibility and housing supply priorities and considers human rights, equity for all people, accessibility engagement feedback, product availability and affordability, and moderate-to-minimal impacts on the industry. Code changes to come into effect 2025 include: 

• Requiring 100% adaptable dwellings in large condominium and apartment buildings and the first-floor dwelling units in new small apartments and condominiums to be adaptable.
• Reinforcement of bathroom walls to allow future installation of grab bars.
• Early adopting national provisions to improve earthquake design changes for housing and small buildings with high seismic hazard values.

View the new 2024 building code

December 8, 2023