A new edition of the BC Building Code (BCBC) is expected to be enacted December 2023.
The new BCBC will substantially be the 2020 National Building Code of Canada, with a limited number of B.C. amendments. Part 10 of Division B and Part 2 of Division C, both unique to British Columbia, will be brought forward to the 2023 BCBC. The special treatment of encapsulated mass timber (EMTC), with the limitation to certain municipalities, will be dropped, and EMTC will be permitted throughout the province. EMTC allows wood construction in buildings of 7 to 12 storeys.
The AIBC has been working with our partners at the Building and Safety Standards Branch (BSSB), Engineers and Geoscientists BC, Building Officials Association of BC (BOABC), Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC), and BC Housing to develop continuing education in preparation for the new code.
Upcoming training and continuing education opportunities include:
- Part 1, 2, and 3 will be presented by the AIBC in a one day course scheduled for January 2024
- Part 4 will be presented by EGBC early in 2024
- Parts 7 and 9 will be presented in-person by BOABC from November 21 to 23 at the River Rock Casino & Resort in Richmond. There are also several online courses available. BOABC programs are open to all, more information can be found on their website: boabc.org.
There are no anticipated changes for Part 10, as recent changes were implemented in May 2023. Parts 5 and 6 will be addressed by the AIBC and EGBC later in 2024, as needs dictate.
Registrants may also attend an upcoming City of Vancouver webinar on new Rainwater Management Requirements for Part 3 Buildings (note: registration closes October 10).
More information and registration details for the upcoming continuing education opportunities will be shared on the AIBC website, once available. If you have any questions about the upcoming changes to the BC Building Code, please email PracticeAdvice@aibc.ca.