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BC Codes 2024

Last updated on March 8, 2024

About the BC Codes 2024

BC Codes 2024 are largely based on the National Codes 2020 with some BC-specific variations to reflect the province’s geography, climate, local government needs, industry practices, and provincial priorities. Book I (General) and Book II (Plumbing Systems) together form the BC Building Code 2024.

National Code changes incorporated into BC Building Code 2024:

  • Enabling mass timber construction
  • Requiring rough-ins for radon safety province-wide

BC-specific changes effective March 2024:

  • 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

BC-specific changes effective March 2025:

  • 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

Access the 2024 Codes

BC Building Code 2024

  • Download the BC Building Code 2024 (PDF, 20 MB)
  • The document will be continually revised to improve usability. Users will be notified if this occurs.

BC Plumbing Code 2024

  • To obtain a copy of the BC Plumbing Code 2020, download a copy of the National Plumbing Code (NPC) 2020 and apply the unique to BC amendments established in the 2024 BC Building Code (Part 7 of Division B). Together, the NPC and the BC amendments will be the BC Plumbing Code 2024 (Book II Plumbing Systems).

BC Fire Code 2024

Note: Print publications are anticipated to be available for purchase online later in 2024. The Building and Safety Standards Branch will notify code users when the print publications are available.

Timing and relevant regulations

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.

The effective date for the new adaptable dwellings and earthquake design changes will be deferred to March 10, 2025, to allow additional engagement and sufficient training to enable low or no-cost design solutions.

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 for industry.

Timing and relevant regulations

2024 BC Codes

There are other BC building regulations in addition to the BC Codes.

Other educational resources

Visit the Building Officials’ Association of British Columbia website to explore and access educational materials related to the BC Codes 2024 changes.