BC Building Code Information

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BC Building Code 2018 Revision 5

Effective May 1, 2023. Applies to building permits applied for on or after May 1, 2023. 
 

Code Changes

Code Requirements:

  • Ministerial Order No. M40, amending the Building Act General Regulation effective May 1, 2023
  • Ministerial Order BA 2023 08, amending the BC Building Code effective May 1, 2023
  • The Building and Safety Standards Branch (Government of BC) will release more information in the coming weeks. Please email if you have questions.

What is the BC Energy Step Code?

Compliance with Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code will be required throughout British Columbia, including the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD). All newly constructed and substantially reconstructed homes will require pre-building permit energy modeling performed by a certified Energy Advisor. Energy Advisors will be required to return mid-construction and prior to occupancy to confirm that the work meets the pre-construction modeling. Occupancy permits will be contingent upon the CVRD Building Services branch receiving a compliant final energy advisor report.

Pre-permit energy modeling is most efficiently completed if performed during the design stage by way of a collaborative effort between the home designer and the energy advisor as early as possible in the process.

Health, fire, structural and general safety requirements are enforced to protect and promote the well-being of all residents of the Comox Valley Regional District. Homeowners are responsible for carrying out work, or having work carried out, in full accordance with British Columbia Building Code requirements and other applicable regulations.

About the British Columbia Building Code

The 2018 BC Building Code  establishes minimum standards for health, safety, accessibility, energy and fire and structural protection of buildings in British Columbia. The 2018 BC Plumbing Code establishes minimum standards for health, water efficiency and protection of the building or facility from water and sewer damage. The 2018 BC Fire Code  establishes minimum standards for health, safety and fire protection of buildings and facilities in British Columbia.

For more information about the 2018 British Columbia Building Code, Plumbing Code or Fire Code, and to get a copy, click here.