Building Code Updated To Support More Homes In B.C.

More multi-bedroom apartment options will soon be available with changes to the BC Building Code, allowing single exit stair designs in low- and mid-rise buildings.

“With people struggling to find housing that meets their needs, we have to find ways to innovate and build differently,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing.

“By adjusting B.C.’s building code to allow single egress stair buildings, we can not only boost housing supply, but also create more options for people and families who need larger layouts and more bedrooms. This will allow people to live, grow and prosper in the communities they call home.”

The Province has updated the BCBC to remove the code requirement for a second exit stairwell per floor in buildings up to six storeys.

The change will make it possible to build housing projects on smaller lots and in different configurations, while allowing more flexibility for multi-bedroom apartments, more density within areas of transit-oriented developments and the potential to improve energy efficiency in buildings.

Previously, the BCBC called for at least two stairwells in buildings three storeys and higher.

All newly designed buildings will require specific safety measures, including sprinklers, smoke-management systems and wider stairwells.

Single egress stair building designs build on advancements in fire and life safety, while requiring only one stairwell.

The building designs are currently implemented in major cities, such as Seattle and New York, and support the supply of more homes for people where development was previously not possible due to lot size, cost of land assembly and other limitations.

The Province says it will continue working with other partners across Canada to carry on discussions about how their building codes can be innovated to include SES designs and other features aimed at helping increase housing supply.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.