The Province has updated the Ministerial Order adopting the 2024 edition of the British Columbia Building Code. A news release announcing the amendment is available on BC Gov news.
The amended Order exempts in-stream projects that had substantial design work completed according to the 2018 BC Building Code from the application of the 2024 BC Building Code’s adaptable dwelling unit and seismic requirements until March 8, 2027, provided that certain criteria are met. The change helps avoid potential construction delays, additional costs, and impact on project feasibility if buildings designed to the 2018 BC Building Code need to be redesigned to meet the 2024 requirements.
In-stream projects are projects for which:
- a development permit application and drawings have been submitted to a local authority in relation to the building before March 8, 2024, or
- a rezoning application and drawings have been submitted to a local authority in relation to the building before March 8, 2024, or
- drawings have been prepared before March 8, 2024.
In-stream projects have until before March 8, 2027, to apply for a building permit under the 2018 Code’s adaptable dwelling unit and seismic requirements, when the exemption expires. This change provides certainty for developers that have ongoing projects and helps prevent delays and additional costs associated with potential re-design.
Any project that does not meet the criteria for an exemption and applies for a building permit on or after March 10, 2025, must comply with the entire BC Building Code 2024, including the adaptable dwelling unit and seismic requirements.
To download a free copy of the BC Codes 2024 and the amending Order, please visit the Building and Safety Standards’ website.
The Building and Safety Standards Branch is continuing to work with partners to develop and deliver educational events and materials. Please check their website regularly to access up-to-date code resources and technical bulletins including B24-10 Application of the 2024 BC Building Code.