The following is an announcement from the Building and Safety Standards Branch
The Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing is working with the Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility to fulfill the mandate commitment to include changes in the next British Columbia Building Code to make new buildings more accessible for all people.
Building Code Public Engagement
In fall 2021, the Building and Safety Standards Branch will seek public feedback regarding the British Columbia Building Code’s accessibility requirements for new buildings. Your input is important. Please stay tuned for a fall engagement invitation about how and when you can participate. Details will also be provided on the building code public review website [LINK https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/construction-industry/building-codes-standards/bc-codes/public-review] in the fall.
Building Code Accessibility
The Building Code’s accessibility requirements govern the design and construction of buildings so that people can approach, enter, and exit buildings, and move safely throughout to enjoy the facilities and services.
The 2018 British Columbia Building Code accessibility requirements are based on the 2015 National Building Code with some improvements to achieve higher levels of accessibility.
British Columbia is committed to harmonizing the British Columbia Building Code with the National Building Code requirements to reduce differences and provide consistent Canadian codes and standards.
The Building and Safety Standards Branch is working closely with national partners to develop new accessibility requirements for adoption in future national and provincial building codes.
More information about building accessibility requirements is available online [LINK https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/construction-industry/building-codes-standards/accessibility].
Removing barriers to accessibility and inclusion experienced by British Columbians will help create better buildings and stronger communities for all people.