CodeNews is not active on mainstream Socialist Media Propaganda Platforms due to their censorship of facts and analyses that do not fit their agendas.
According to Psychology Today:
"Groupthink is a phenomenon that occurs when a group of well-intentioned people makes irrational or non-optimal decisions spurred by the urge to conform or the belief that dissent is impossible. The problematic or premature consensus that is characteristic of groupthink may be fueled by a particular agenda - or it may be due to group members valuing harmony and coherence above critical thought."
DATE
PROVINCE OR JURISDICTION
NEWS
2021 Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice
Notice
- Notice - Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice 2021
Practice, which was adopted in Alberta's Private Sewage Systems Disposal Regulation.
The 2015 version of the of the Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice will continue to remain in-force until October 31, 2022 and applies to permit applications received up to October 31, 2022.
Permit applications received on or after November 1, 2022 must meet the requirements for the new version in regards to sewage system design and installation.
Congratulations to the Province of Alberta for providing adequate time for everyone to prepare for the new 2021 edition before it comes into effect on November 1, 2022 ....!
2019 Building Code
2018 Canadian Electrical Code
STANDATA
Building Code Interpretation
Electrical Code Interpretation
- 19-BCI-025/18-ECI-009 - Lightning Protection Systems
2018 Building Code
2019 Vancouver Building By-law
The Guide contains:
- Updated information regarding the roles, responsibilities, and activities of key participants in the building regulatory system
- New flow charts and internal links for better navigability on digital displays
- Information related to the new Professional Governance Act
- References to practice guidelines published by the Architectural Institute of BC and Engineers and Geoscientists BC
2019 Vancouver Building By-law
For users of the binder version of the By-law, the revised pages may be downloaded for printing.
2018 Building Code
An on-line survey is being conducted from October 28, 2021 to December 9, 2021 to obtain feedback about barriers and priorities to enhance accessibility requirements in new buildings. Feedback will be accepted until 4pm on December 9, 2021.
Background information about the BC Building Code has been posted to help you fill out the survey.
2019 Building Code
2019 Alberta Fire Code
STANDATA
Building Code Interpretation
Fire Code Interpretation
- 19-BCI-017R1/19-FCI-002R1 - Fixed fire suppression and exhaust systems – cooking, cleaning, and maintenance
- the applicable requirements of the National Fire Code-2019 Alberta Edition and the National Building Code-2019 Alberta Edition for fixed fire suppression and exhaust systems for commercial cooking
- the training requirements for kitchen exhaust cleaning personnel within the Province of Alberta.
2012 Building Code
Public Consultation
- Fall 2021 Consultation
The code amendment proposals in the Fall 2021 Consultation consist of:
- Existing technical variations between Ontario's Building Code and the National Construction Codes
- Ontario-only changes
- Low-impact existing technical variations
The proposed changes will be discussed during focused engagement sessions with selected stakeholders starting in November, 2021.
Comments on the proposed changes are due by December 4, 2021.
- Winter 2022 Consultation
A further consultation is planned in 2022 on changes related to the new 2020 Canadian National Construction Codes and a separate notice requesting feedback will be announced at a later date.
The Proposed Changes for the Next Edition of Ontario's Building Code (Fall Consultation) - Proposal Number 21-MMAH030 was posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry on October 20, 2021.
The following documents are available for download:
- Executive Summary: Proposed Changes for the Next Edition of Ontario's Building Code
- Proposed Building Code Changes – Existing Technical Variations and Ontario-only Changes
- Proposed Building Code Changes – Low-Impact Existing Variations
Let's not cripple our industires by shooting outselves in the foot.
IN OTHER WORDS: DON'T THROW OUT THE BABY WITH THE BATHWATER.
2015 National Plumbing Code of Canada
STANDATA Plumbing Bulletin
Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice
STANDATA Private Sewage Bulletin
- 19-PBC-014(REV2) - Drainage systems municipal requirement
The purpose of this bulletin is to inform the plumbing industry of requirements for installations where the sewage from a plumbing system is discharged into a municipal sewage collection system.
- 21-PSB-001 - Part 10 - Privies
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide clarity on the alarm requirement for on-site wastewater treatment systems.
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Building and Development Branch
The Planning and Growth Division will consist of:
- Provincial Land Use Plans Branch
- Planning Policy Branch
- Building and Development Branch
2018 Canadian Electrical Code
STANDATA Electrical Bulletins
STANDATA Electrical Variance
2019 Alberta Building Code
2019 Alberta Fire Code
STANDATA Fire Variance
- 18-ECB-010 - 2018 CE Code Part 1 Section 10 ground and bonding
- 18-ECB-062 - Section 62 - fixed electric heating system
- 18-ECV-012-102 - Rule 12-102 insulated conductors
- 19-FCV-026 - Pine Cliff Energy Ltd. Portable fire extinguishers at unstaffed remote facilities
2012 Building Code
Public Consultation on "Tiny Homes" and Remote Inspections
The announcement was posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry on September 8, 2021.
Comments are due by October 23, 2021.
Download a discussion paper titled "Discussion Paper – Proposed Changes to the Building Code for Tiny Homes and Remote Inspections - August 2021"
2012 Building Code
Building Code Guides
- 2020 Code and Guide for Sewage Systems (price: $40.00)
- 2020 Code and Guide for Plumbing (price: $40.00)
- 2020 Ontario Code and Construction Guide for Housing (price: $90 for the softcover version)
All guides are available for purchase at the Publications Ontario web site.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA
Building Code Interpretation
Fire Code Interpretation
- 19-BCI-024 / 19-FCI-019 - Overnight Childcare
2012 Building Code
Transit Corridor Lands
Properties that fall on, or within 30 meters of, the designated transit corridor lands for this project are subject to certain conditions set out in the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020. This includes the requirement to obtain a corridor development permit from Metrolinx to build, alter, or place a building or other structure on designated transit corridor lands, in addition to any required municipal permits, licences and/or approvals before work can proceed.
As of June 3, 2021, corridor development permits are applicable law under the Ontario Building Code for any building permit application on, or within 30 metres of, the designated transit corridor lands for the Ontario Line in the City of Toronto.
Background:
On December 16, 2020, the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing made Ontario Regulation 762/20, to amend Ontario's Building Code to update the list of applicable laws to align with the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020.
On March 12, 2021, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation delegated certain functions, including the administration of corridor development permits, in the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 to Metrolinx. This delegation of functions was intended to streamline project delivery and support accelerated completion of priority transit projects.
For more information:
- Contact Metrolinx by e-mail at: development.coordinator@metrolinx.com
- Visit Metrolinx's Third Party Projects Review web site
La R�gie du b�timent du Qu�bec
- Qualification and continuing mandatory training for contractors
As of April 1, 2022, construction supervisors will have to complete a minimum of 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years. This requirement will affect more than 21,000 companies.
The RBQ is setting up unique, updated, computerized exams, which will allow for accelerated marking, a rigorous validation of skills and the faster issuance of licenses.
- Increase the number of Inspectors and Inspections
The RBQ plans to increase its presence in the field by hiring almost 130 new staff by 2022. Of these, more than 70% will focus on inspections and investigations.
- Information for the Public
The RBQ plans to provide more information to consumers to help them make informed choices concerning their contractors. The complaint process will also be revised as well as the protection offered to the public.
Le Bureau de normalisation du Qu�bec
Dry rot is a fungus that feeds on wood and destroys it. It is a destructive and hard-to-control fungus that frequently attacks houses in Quebec.
Download a free copy of BNQ Standard 3009-610, "Dry Rot Contamination of Dwellings - Investigation and Rehabilitation of the Building" contains information concerning best practices for decontamination work, corrective work and communication with the customer.
This publication is only available in the French language.
Le Bureau de normalisation du Qu�bec
The consultation, in the French language, commenced on July 5, 2021 and will end on October 3, 2021.
To comment on the proposed standard, visit the BNQ Consultation web site.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA
Errata to the Building Code
- 19-BCE-002 Errata 2
National Research Council of Canada
National Guide for Wildland-Urban Interface Fires
The Guide is intended to mitigate the growing risk of damage and loss due to Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) fires by improving the resilience of buildings, infrastructure and communities to wildfire.
This 162 page Guide provides support for diminishing the risk in the WUI areas of Canada and includes information on:
• hazard and exposure assessment
• vegetation management and construction measures
• community planning and resources
• emergency planning and outreach
The Guide is a comprehensive resource for anyone working towards minimizing the impact of WUI fires on buildings, infrastructure and communities and improving their resilience, including local governments and authorities, planners, emergency managers, developers, insurers, and property owners.
2019 Vancouver Plumbing By-law
Revision 2
The consolidated edition of the 2019 Vancouver Plumbing By-law (including Revision 2) is posted here.
A "Point in time" folder has been created which allows you to view the content as it read prior to June 1, 2021. The "Point in time" folders are accessible within each Part (if applicable).
Amendments to the 2019 Vancouver Building By-law (Book I) effective as of June 1, 2021 will be published later this year.
Also, the Chief Building Official of Vancouver had advised earlier, on June 1, 2021, that Section D-2.11. in Appendix D of the January 1, 2021 consolidation of the Vancouver Building By-law amendments was not correctly updated along with the rest of the online Building By-law amendments. This omission has now been corrected, and consolidated text matching the enactment of Building By-law #12715 has now included removing the discrepancy between this and other versions.
Canadian Free Trade Agreement
The Agreement is intended to:
- Reduce or eliminate differences and variations in the technical provision of construction codes in Canada;
- Ensure timely adoption of construction codes;
- Transform the national code development system to meet the needs of all parties;
- Provide freely available national and construction codes.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA
Building Code Variance
- 19-BCV-020 - Structural insulated panels
2017 National Energy Code for Buildings.
The following NECB 2017 on-line training courses are self-paced and interactive:
- NECB 2017 Training – Navigating and Applying the Code (20 minutes - provides a general overview for all users)
- NECB 2017 Training – Contractor (4 hours - offers a more detailed explanation of selected technical requirements and the prescriptive, trade-off and performance compliance paths)
- NECB 2017 Training – Designer (4 hours - offers a more detailed explanation of selected technical requirements and the prescriptive, trade-off and performance compliance paths)
- NECB 2015/2017 – Full Compliance Checklist: Designer Perspective (12 minutes)
- NECB 2015/2017 – Abridged Compliance Checklist: Designer Perspective (7 minutes)
- NECB 2015/2017 – Full Compliance Checklist: Enforcement Perspective (12 minutes)
- NECB 2015/2017 – Abridged Compliance Checklist: Enforcement Perspective (7 minutes)
These training materials complement the NECB 2017, which is available in print format in the NRC Virtual Store, and in free electronic format from the NRC Publications Archive.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA
Building Code Variance
- 19-BCV-019 - Interior stairways for roof access to HVAC equipment
Alberta Private Sewage Systems SOP
Due to the temporary nature of work camps, it is difficult to apply the Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice (SOP) to this industry. Alberta Municipal Affairs has developed this guidance document to clarify existing and new requirements for sewage treatment and disposal systems in the work camp industry. This guidance document applies to daily sewage effluent volumes of less than 25 m3 (5500 Imperial gallons). Greater effluent volumes (more than 25 m3) are under the jurisdiction of Alberta Environment and Parks. The guidance document applies to existing work camp variance holders, new variance applications, and management plans. These guidelines ensure consistent requirements are maintained and enforced throughout the work camp industry.
2019 Vancouver Building and Plumbing By-laws
A "Point in time" folder has been created which allows viewing the content as it read prior to January 1, 2021. The "Point in time" folders are accessible within each Part if applicable.
For users of the binder versions of the By-laws, the revised sections of the By-laws may be downloaded from:
- Vancouver Building By-law (Book I)
- Vancouver Plumbing By-law (Book II)
TSSA
Gaseous Fuels Code Adoption Document
Propane Code Adoption Document
Oil and GasPipelineSystems CodeAdoption Document
Significant changes made by this new CAD amendment include:
- Adoption of the B149.1-20 Natural gas and propane installation code (with Ontario amendments) including the addition of:
- Annex O "Field Approval of Special Effects";
- Annex P "Installation of piping or tubing in rocky areas":
- Annex Q"Mandatory Safety Checks for Residential (one or two family dwelling) Natural Draft Boilers Equipped with a Draft Control Device 300,000 Btuh or less":
- Annex R "Existing B-Vent (not certified for exterior applications) which has been installed outdoors":
- Annex S "Mobile Food Service Equipment".
- Adoption of TSSA Field Approval Code TSSA-FA-2020 (which adopts B149.3-20)
- Adoption of TSSA Digester, Landfill & Biogas Code TSSA-DLB-2020 (which adopts B149.6-20)
- Adoption of TSSA High Pressure piping Code TSSA-HPP-2020
- Adoption of TSSA Field Approval Code for Mobile Food Service Equipment", TSSA-MFSE-2020
The major changes implemented in CAD FS-254-20 were:
- Adoption of B149.2-20 for propane storage and handling requirements
- Adoption of, B149.5-20 for propane vehicle conversion requirements
- Adoption of B149.1-20 for appliances and equipment on highway vehicles, mobile units, etc. when propane is used for fuel purposes
- Adoption of TSSA-FA-2020 -Field Approval Code for appliances on those units that are not approved
- Adoption of Mobile Food Service Equipment Code for appliances on those units that are not approved
2019 Building Code
STANDATA
Building Code Interpretation
Building Code Variance
Building Code Bulletin
- Building Code Interpretation 19-BCI-023 - Manufactured engineering components
The purpose of this interpretation is to provide clarification when manufactured engineered components need not be designed by a registered engineering professional.
- Building Code Variance 19-BCV-001R1 - Relocatable industrial accommodation labeling
The purpose of this variance is to recognize the acceptability of CSA A277 certification in place of the Alberta labeling program for relocatable industrial camp buildings.
- Building Code Bulletin 19-BCB-007R1 - Permits under the building discipline
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide guidance on when a building permit is required.
Construction Code
Chapter I.1 – Energy Efficiency of Buildings, and National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2015 (amended)
This new document is published by the National Research Council of Canada on behalf of the R�gie du b�timent du Qu�bec.
The document sets out technical requirements for the energy efficient design and construction of new buildings, additions, and public swimming pools in Quebec. These requirements are expected to improve the overall energy performance of buildings by 27.9%, on average, relative to the existing energy efficiency requirements in effect in Quebec since 1983.
The document contains both new Chapter I.1, Energy Efficiency of Buildings, of the Quebec Construction Code and an amended National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2015 clearly indicating the changes adopted by the province of Quebec. With its reader-friendly format, this document is an indispensable tool for building designers, energy consultants and subcontractors, construction professionals, and regulatory officials in Quebec.
National Building Code
National Fire Code
National Plumbing Code
National Energy Code for Buildings.
Recent model national codes available for direct download include:
- National Building Code of Canada: 2015, Publication date: 2015-01-01 (PDF, 21 MB)
- National Plumbing Code of Canada: 2015, Publication date: 2015 (PDF, 4 MB)
- National Fire Code of Canada: 2015, Publication date: 2015-01-01 (PDF, 4 MB)
- National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings: 2015, Publication date: 2015 (PDF, 4 MB)
- Erratum: National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings: 2015 (PDF, 619 KB)
- National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings: 2017, Publication date: 2017 (PDF, 4 MB)
- User's Guide: National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2015, Publication date: 2019 (PDF, 3 MB)
- Structural Commentaries (User's Guide: NBC 2015: Part 4 of Division B), Publication date: 2017 (PDF, 8 MB)
- Illustrated User's Guide: NBC 2015 Part 9 of Division B: Housing and Small Buildings, Publication date: 2018 (PDF, 13 MB)
2019 Building Code
The following Codes are listed:
Codes Currently In Force in Alberta:
- National Building Code – 2019 Alberta Edition (PDF, 23 MB)
- National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2017 (PDF, 4.5 MB)
- ABC 2014: In force from May 1, 2015 to November 30, 2019 (PDF, 17 MB)
- ABC 2006: In force from September 2, 2007 to April 30, 2015 (PDF, 17 MB)
- ABC 1997: In force from June 1, 1998 to September 1, 2007 (PDF, 17 MB)
- ABC 1990: In force from September 1, 1991 to May 31, 1998 (PDF, 17 KB)
- NECB 2011: In force from November 1, 2015 to November 30, 2019
General Regulation –
Building Code Administration Act
Barrier-FreeDesign Building Code Regulation –
Building Code Administration Act
the General Regulation – Building Code Administration Act on January 28, 2021. This regulation adopts the following National Codes of Canada in New Brunswick:
- National Building Code of Canada 2015
- National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2011
Both regulations came into force on February 1, 2021.
CodeNews.ca thanks:
Dana Scherf, P.Eng.,
Director, Code and Life Safety,
Principal; Senior Code Consultant
Morrison Hershfield
Construction Code
Chapter III, Plumbing
The main changes introduced by this regulation are:
- more stringent and comprehensive requirements for potable water conservation
- new articles to address the use of stainless steel piping
- a ban on the installation of piping containing asbestos
- updating the editions of the referenced standards
- the introduction of a standard on oil separators, which governs their manufacture and performance in order to restrict oil discharges into sewers (among others, for mechanical maintenance garages)
- adding additional benchmarks to meet the requirement to sell certified plumbing products
Ventilation and Transmission of COVID-19 in Schools and Care Facilities
The report is titiled: "VENTILATION ET TRANSMISSION DE LA COVID-19 EN MILIEU SCOLAIRE ET EN MILIEU DE SOINS RAPPORT DU GROUPE D'EXPERTS SCIENTIFIQUES ET TECHNIQUES (JANVIER 2021)"
This 38 page report was prepared by a group of scientific and technical experts along with the R�gie du b�timent du Qu�bec and made 19 recommendations.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA
Application for Barrier-Free Relaxation
View the latest version of the form on the Alberta Municipal Affairs website, where you can download a .pdf version of the Application for Barrier-Free Relaxation or you can submit the application electronically.
Gas Code Regulation
STANDATA Gas Code Variance
STANDATA Gas Safety Information Bulletin
- 20-GVC-02-Rev1 - Engineer authentication at oil and gas production facilities
- 20-GCB-02 [Rev2] - Sidewall vent terminations
- 20-GCB-03 [Rev2] - Walkways and guard rails
- 20-GCB-04 [Rev2] - Gas fired appliances used for heating Buildings Under Construction
- 20-GCB-05 [Rev8] - Non-certified appliances and equipment require special inspection and approval
- 20-GCB-06 [Rev2] - Door air heaters, Direct fired makeup air heaters, and Non-recirculating direct gas-fired industrial air heaters
- 20-GCB-07 [Rev2] - Appliances and equipment require special certification for installation at high altitude
- 20-GCB-08 [Rev2] - Liquefied petroleum gas storage vessel installations
- 20-GCB-09 [Rev3] - Propane/natural gas utility connections
- 20-GCB-10 [Rev3] - Fuel gas pressure piping in plants
- 20-GCB-11 [Rev2] - Propane storage tanks designed for 200 PSIG
- 20-GCB-12 [Rev4] - Outdoor propane appliances located on roofs, decks and balconies
- 20-GCB-13 [Rev4] - Residential appliance venting, vent connectors and liners
- 20-GCB-14 [Rev3] - Temporary heat for construction sites
- 20-GCB-15 [Rev2] - Mechanically vented appliances
Gas Code Regulation
Notices
- CSA-B149.1-20 - Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code – This code provides the minimum requirements for the installation of natural gas and propane appliances and equipment downstream of a natural gas meter or from a propane distributor's tank.
- CSA-B149.2-20 – Propane Storage and Handling Code – This provides the minimum requirements for the storage, handling, transportation and transfer of propane.
- CSA-B149.3-20 – Code for the field approval of fuel-related components on appliances and equipment – This code applies to the requirements for site specific fuel burning appliances and equipment for which there is no recognized Canadian standard.
- CSA-B149.5-20 – Installation Code for Propane Fuel Systems and Tanks on Highway Vehicles – This code applies to the installation of propane fuel system components and tanks on highway vehicles for the provision of motive power.
- CSA-B108-18 – NGV Refuelling Stations Installation Code – This code applies to natural gas fuelling stations that may be used for fleet and public dispensing operations.
- CSA-B109-17 – Natural Gas for Vehicles Installation Code – This code applies to the installation, servicing, and repair of natural gas fuel systems on highway vehicles for the provision of motive power.
The following additional Gas Code Notices were issued:
- Notice - Servicing intervals for pressure relief valves on tanks 2500 USWG and less
- Notice - Code requirements for propane fuel tanks
- Notice - Field approvals, permits and variances
Gas Code Regulation
STANDATA Gas Notice
- Must be immediately removed from operation.
- Shall not be installed, sold or offered for sale within Alberta.
2019 Building Code
2019 Fire Code
STANDATA Building Code Bulletin
STANDATA Fire Code Interpretation
- Paul Chang, Provincial Building Administrator, has authorized the issuance of the following STANDATA Building Code Bulletin:
- 19-BCB-007 - Permits under the building discipline
- Tina Parker, Provincial Fire Administrator, has authorized the issuance of the following STANDATA Fire Code Interpretation:
- 19-FCI-013 - Use of Containers, Portable Tanks and Transportation Tanks For The Ongoing Storage And Dispensing Of Flammable Liquids And Combustible Liquids
2012 Building Code
The hardcopy binder insert version of Amendment Package #9 (Publication #: 300410) is expected to be available "around January 25, 2021" at a cost of $40.00, according to Publications Ontario.
Download the 140 page free .pdf copy of Amendment Package #9 from the Publications Ontario eCommerce store.
Amendment Package #9 contains the following amendments to the 2012 Building Code Compendium:
- O. Reg. 209/20 to address the delivery of Building Code services such as reviewingbuilding permit applications and conducting inspections related to COVID-19 effective May 11, 2020.
- Building Code Act changes that recognize the Minister's authority to make regulations described undersection 34 of the Act effective July 21, 2020.
- O. Reg. 511/20 to add requirements for community benefits charges to the list of applicablelaw effective September 18, 2020.
- O. Reg. 762/20 to revise the following effective December 16, 2020:
- the list of applicable law to reference section 3 of the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 with respect to the issuance of a permit under that section;
- minor errors and omissions through housekeeping changes;
- two spent provisions related to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA Building Code Interpretation
- 19-BCI-002R1 - Barrier-Free Design Requirements: Relaxations
This interpretation is intended to clarify when a request for relaxation of barrier-free requirements is appropriate.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA Building Code Bulletin
- 19-BCB-006 - Architects or Engineers Providing the Professional Design Services of the Other
2012 Building Code
The regulation came into force on December 16, 2020.
According to the Ontario government's e-bulletin:
O. Reg. 762/20 includes a number of housekeeping changes to correct minor errors and omissions.
The housekeeping changes harmonize with the National Building Code (NBC) and in general:
- Corrects errors in equations and data taken from the NBC,
- Adds information, such as references and names of organizations, that was omitted,
- Supports public safety, and
- Reduces redundancies.
Two spent provisions related to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act were deleted. These amendments do not add any new technical requirements to the Building Code or change the intended meaning of the provisions.
In addition, updates were made to the applicable law sections to align with the passage of the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020.
O. Reg. 762/20 is the second amendment to the Ontario Building Code made by a Mininster's regulation. Code amendments prior to O. Reg. 762/20 and O. Reg. 511/20 had been made by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
O. Reg. 762/20 was:
- Made on December 16, 2020
- Filed on December 16, 2020
- Published on e-Laws on December 17, 2020
- Printed in The Ontario Gazette on January 2, 2021
- Announced to code users in the Ontario government's CodeNews e-bulletin #310 on January 5, 2021
If a government wants its citizens to follow the law, it should announce the law as soon as possible BEFORE the law comes into force.
Ontario is quickly becoming a banana republic as far as the rule of law is concerned.
2012 Building Code
- $117 fee for initial registration or reinstatement or annual renewal of registrations for:
- building officials
- on-site sewage system installers
- other designers
- $185 fee for initial registration or reinstatement of registrations for designers or design firms
- $139 fee for annual renewal of registrations for designers or design firms
- $40 fee for updating class of registrations for designers or design firms
- $442 fee for initial registration or reinstatement of registrations for registered code agencies
- $326 fee for annual renewal of registrations for registered code agencies
- $75 fee for updating class of registrations for registered code agencies
- $194 application fee to the Building Code Commission
- $11,000 application fee to the Building Materials Evaluation Commission
- $637 application fee for a Minister's Ruling pursuant to Article 2.4.1.2. of Div. C of the Ontario Building Code
2018 Building Code
Building Accessibility Handbook
The 2018 British Columbia Building Code is based substantially on the 2015 National Building Code. The handbook is a separate resource that provides explanatory text and illustrations to support Code users to better understand and apply the complex Code requirements to make buildings more accessible.
Some key changes include:
- A refreshed title to reflect the intention of the handbook, which is to support universal design and access to and throughout buildings;
- Incorporating the British Columbia Building Code 2018 accessibility design requirements as well as intent statements and attributions to provide the reasons for requirements and support Code application;
- Renewed commentary, to increase clarity and readability, and illustrations, to represent diverse building occupants; and
- Links to leading standards, programs, and resources to provide additional accessibility guidance.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA Building Code Variance
- 19-BCV-018 - Adhered Masonry Veneer-Generic Engineered Details for Part 9 Residential Buildings
Variance 19-BCV-018 permits the use of Dr. Hagel's pre-engineered solution as an alternative to Forms and Letters from building envelope professionals (engineers) required for adhered masonry veneers required by the Authorities Having Jurisdiction in the province of Alberta when using the products and installation procedures found in Dr. Hagel's report.
2018 Canadian Electrical Code
STANDATA Electrical Code
Bulletins, Variances, and Interpretations
- LEG-ECR-003 Electric Railways
This Bulletin provides clarification on which electrical safety codes apply to an electric railway, and more specifically, the traction power system.
- 18-ECB-026 Section 26 – Installation of electrical equipment
This Bulletin provides clarification on:
Rule 26-600 - Location of panelboards
Rule 26-656 - Arc fault protection of branch circuits for dwelling units (exemption for freezers from AFCI protection)
Rule 26-706 - Tamper-resistant receptacles in child care facilities
Rule 26-724 - Receptacles for fixed island counters in dwelling units
- 18-ECI-064 Section 64 – Renewable energy systems
This Interpretation provides clarification on solar photovoltaic (PV) dc arc fault protection and how this relates to rodent protection requirements.
- 18-ECV-064-218 Rule 64 – 218 Photovoltaic rapid shutdown
This Variance to Rule 64-218(4) permits a fire alarm system that is interconnected with a Solar PV System to initiate photovoltaic rapid shutdown of the Solar PV System if the the fire alarm system enters an alarm condition.
Canadian Free Trade Agreement
The RTC believes that, once all parties implement the Construction Codes Reconciliation Agreement, the agreement will result in:
- The reduction or elimination of variations in the technical requirements of Construction Codes
- Participating parties have agreed to identify variations and exceptions for the current (2015) National Codes and, within six months of the effective date for subsequent editions of Construction Codes going forward.
- After 2025, any new codes will be further harmonized with applicable National Codes and with leading practices from the provinces and territories, subject to exceptions provided for under the agreement.
- The timely adoption of Construction Codes
- Participating parties have agreed to make Construction Codes effective within 24 months of the next (2020) National Codes, and within 18 months of subsequent codes (2025 and after).
- A transformed National Code Development System to meet the needs of all jurisdictions.
- By 2021, the National Code Development System will be transformed to integratethe provincial/territorial code development processes into the national process. The new code development system will be more responsive, more agile, and will result in fewer variations in the next (2025) edition of the Codes and as future codes are developed.
- Participating parties have agreed to develop an implementation plan and report progress to RCT annually.
- Freely available National Codes
- National Codes are now available for free in a digital format, and with unlimited access.
In September, 2020, CodeNews.ca requested the Ontario Building and Development Branch to provide a copy of the Agreement, so that CodeNews readers can acquaint themselves with the Agreement.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA Building Code Variance
- 19-BCV-017 - Vented Soffit Protection
On November 10, 2020, Paul Chang, Provincial Building Administrator, Alberta Municipal Affairs, clarified that item b) located at the top of page 3 of the Variance should read as:
b) not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum board installed according to CSA A82.31-M, "Gypsum Board Application,"
Intumescent coatings on a vented fiberglass or metal substrate are produced in Alberta by Genics Inc.
2019 Building Code
STANDATA Private Sewage Bulletin
- 20-PSB-001 [Rev. 1] Training – Private Sewage Systems
2019 Building Code
STANDATA Private Sewage Bulletin
- 20-PSB-001 Training – Private Sewage Systems
- Onsite Wastewater Practitioner Training Program
- Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice Update Training
2017 Building Code
The Honourable Chuck Porter, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing for the Province of Nova Scotia, amended the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations to add that the accessibility provisions will apply to an existing building if there is a change of its use into a restaurant, in the manner set forth in Schedule "A" of N.S. Reg. 148/2020.
Earlier, on October 1, 2020, the Governor in Council had made N.S. Reg. 138/2020 to add the definition of a "restaurant" in Section 2 of the Food Safety Regulations.
2019 Building Code
2019 Fire Code
STANDATA Variance
User's Guide
This 106 page user's guide incorporates Standata Variance 19-BCV-014 / 19-FCV-019 and applicable excerpts from the National Building Code – 2019 Alberta Edition and the National Fire Code – 2019 Alberta Edition.
In order to advance the use of encapsulated mass timber construction (EMTC) in Alberta, the Variance permits EMTC up to 12 storeys in building height anywhere in Alberta provided the conditions in the Variance are complied with. A Variance provides an alternative solution of approximately equivalent or greater safety performance to the prescriptive requirements of the codes. Construction that complies with this Variance is permitted just as if the building were constructed under code requirements.
TSSA
Fuel Oil Regulation O. Reg. 213/01
Fuel Oil Distributor Audit Program
The TSSA intends to introduce a fuel oil distributor audit program on November 1, 2020. The program will require distributors to demonstrate compliance with Fuel Oil Regulation, O. Reg. 213/01.
This new program was developed in response to a recommendation from the Auditor General of Ontario for TSSA to have greater oversight of the risks with fuel oil tanks.
2019 Building Code
Building STANDATA
- 19-BCB-005 - Fire Stop Technical Judgements
2012 Building Code
2007 Fire Code
Key elements of the Agreement include:
- Greater alignment of technical requirements in Ontario's Codes with the National Construction Codes, meaning that Ontario's Codes will be more harmonized with those in effect in other provinces and territories.
- Timely and consistent adoption of Construction Codes across Canada so that the same rules are in place at the same time.
- A transformed national code development system, including a new governance structure that will be more responsive to provinces and territories.
- Access to free National Construction Codes across Canada (in digital format).
While signing the Agreement means that the technical content of Ontario's Building and Fire Codes will begin to more closely reflect that of the National Construction Codes and Codes across the country, Ontario intends to maintain certain variations and exceptions in its Building Code and Fire Code that will differ from the National Construction Codes.
CodeNews.ca has requested the Ontario Building and Development Branch to provide a copy of the Agreement, so that CodeNews readers can acquaint themselves with the Agreement.
2019 Vancouver Building and Plumbing By-laws
The link to the "snapshot" of these documents is provided as courtesy to users of the Vancouver Building By-law wishing to familiarize themselves with the general substance of changes of the By-law (General & Plumbing Systems). These are transitory documents provided "as is", that will neither be supported nor updated, and will be superseded by the final published documents. The link to the temporary preview "snapshot" will be deactivated once the amendments have been finalized within the consolidated online Building By-law. By-law development can occur quickly, and users should contact the City of Vancouver for the latest information.
2012 Building Code
The Regulation was made on September 15, 2020 and was filed on September 18, 2020 and comes into force on the later of the day section 1 of Schedule 17 to the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020 comes into force and the day the Regulation is filed.
Recent changes to the Planning Act through Bill 197, COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020 had given municipalities the authority to establish by-laws to impose community benefits charges for the development or redevelopment of land that is greater than 10 residential units or for buildings or structures with more than five storeys.
The community benefits charges are intended to fund municipal infrastructure for community services, such as land for parks, affordable housing and child care facilities.
O. Reg. 511/20 added the new requirements for community benefits charges to the definition of "applicable law" in the Ontario Building Code to ensure that building permits are not issued until the Chief Building Official receives, with the building permit application, confirmation that the building permit applicant has paid community benefits charges to the municipality, provided any required facilities, services or matters, or arrangements have been made for such payments or facilities. This does not apply to conditional building permits.
National Building Code
National Fire Code
National Plumbing Code
National Energy Code for Buildings.
It had been anticipated that the next editions of the model National Codes would be available in 2020.
Codes Canada has announced that the publication date of the updated National Model Codes has been extended.
The next editions are anticipated to be available in December 2021.
The Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC), in collaboration with the provinces and territories, continues to work on addressing feedback from the fall 2019 and winter 2020 National Codes public review processes, to ensure that all comments are carefully considered.
The committees of the CCBFC are currently finalizing updates to the National Building, Fire, and Plumbing Codes, and the National Energy Code for Buildings.
2019 Fire Code
Fire STANDATA
- 19-FCI-018 - Certification of Contractors for Storage Tank Systems
Building Code Act
The Protecting Tenants and Strengthening Community Housing Act, 2020 amends the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, the Housing Services Act, 2011, the Building Code Act, 1992 and repeals the Ontario Mortgage and Housing Corporation Act.
The Act amends the Building Code Act, 1992 by enabling the future creation of an administrative authority. The changes are enabling in nature and allow for the administrative authority to deliver delegated services. These amendments will come into force at a later date, upon proclamation.
While no decisions have been made about what specific services a future administrative authority would deliver, based on consultation feedback, the government has decided not to pursue the development of a framework to enable the use of certified professionals.
The government has announced that the province will continue to engage stakeholders on the governance and accountability requirements a future administrative authority would have to adhere to, how it would fund its operations, and the services it would deliver.
Transforming and modernizing the delivery of building code services also responds to the public health and safety recommendations from the Elliot Lake Commission of Inquiry.
Safety Codes Act
Ministerial Order
The temporary changes include:
- an optional Public Health Facilities Temporary Permits Application Form (Microsoft Word .docx format) and a supportive Public Health Facilities Guide (Microsoft Word .docx format) to expedite permitting for temporary pandemic-related health facilities,
- ability to modify or suspend permit requirements for other types of temporary facility construction or operations (provided the permit cannot be reasonably obtained as a result of the pandemic and does not pose serious danger to people or property).
Building Code Act
Schedule 1 of the Act proposes to amend the Building Code Act, 1992 to transfer the power to make Building Code regulations, from the Lieutenant governor in Council to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Schedule 1 also makes a number of other changes to theBuilding Code Act, 1992.
Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000
Elevating Devices O. Reg. 209/01
- Provide the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) with the ability to impose administrative penalties for non-compliance with elevator laws under the Act and its regulations.
- Require the reporting of elevator outage data to TSSA and require that TSSA publish this data online.
You may use the Feedback Form to submit comments by August 4, 2020.
2019 Fire Code
Fire STANDATA
- 19-FCI-015 National Fire Code – 2019 Alberta Edition (NFC(AE)) Storage Tank System Inspections and Inventory Control
Construction Code
Chapter I.1, Energy efficiency of buildings
The regulation aims to improve the energy performance of commercial, institutional and industrial buildings as well as large residential buildings and the new chapter is set to come into force on June 27, 2020.
However, a transitional period of 18 months provides for the regulation to take full effect on December 27, 2021.
For more information, see:
- the May 13, 2020 Press Release issued by the R�gie du b�timent du Qu�bec
- overview of the Energy efficiency regulation for buildings other than small residential buildings
Over the next few months, the RBQ, in collaboration with Energy Transition Quebec (TEQ), will publish various tools to help construction professionals understand and apply the new requirements. To make it easier to locate, the RBQ has created the Energy Efficiency Web section. In addition to including all the information relating to the new regulations, this section also groups together the regulatory provisions relating to the energy performance of small residential buildings in force since 2012.
Congratulations to the R�gie du b�timent du Qu�bec for increasing the cost of construction during the greatest economic depression of the last 100 years - you guys deserve the Order of Stalin medal.
2017 Building Code
The proposed amendments will require any new restaurants (as defined within the Food Safety Regulations made under Section 105 of the Heath Protection Act), including spaces within existing buildings, to be completely constructed in accordance with the barrier-free requirements contained in the Nova Scotia Building Code.
This would include an accessible path of entry into the restaurant from the exterior of the building and access to barrier-free washroom facilities. This will align the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations with the decision by the Nova Scotia Human
Rights Tribunal regarding accessibility within restaurants.
Written comments on the proposed amendments to the Regulations are welcome on or before August 12, 2020 and should be forwarded to:
Joe Rogers
Building Code Coordinator
Office of the Fire Marshal
P.O. Box 231
Halifax Central
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2M4
These changes are identical to the changes sent out in March, however due to the COVID-19 situation, it was felt true public notice had not been given. See the News at CodeNews entry for 09-MAR-2020 below.
2020 Guide for Maintaining Building Plumbing After an Extended Vacancy
QUEBEC
2020 Guide de recommandations pour las remise en service des r�seaux d'eau des b�timents inoccup�s
Two months earlier, the R�gie du b�timent du Qu�bec had produced a "Guide to Recommissioning Water Distribution Systems in Unoccupied Buildings", in association with:
- Polytechnique Montr�al
- Universit� du Qu�bec � Trois-Rivi�res
- Corporation des ma�tres m�caniciens en tuyauterie du Qu�bec
- Ville de Laval
- minist�re de la Sant� et des Services sociaux du Qu�bec
- le minist�re de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques du Qu�bec
2019 Building Code
2019 Fire Code
Elevating Devices Codes Regulation
Joint STANDATA
- 19-FCI-016, 19-BCI-022, 13-EDI-001, 18-CECI-007 Existing Elevator Moderization/Fire Alarm Interface
The interpretation was issued jointly by:
- Tina Parker, Provincial Fire Administrator
- Clarence C. Cormier, P.Eng., Provincial Electrical Administrator
- Dean Bruce, Provincial Elevating Devices Administrator
- Paul Chang, Provincial Building Administrator
Alberta has ONE single body overseeing all construction. Joint multidisciplinary interpretations are easy in Alberta.
2019 Building Code
Safety Tips
The following Safety Tips are available, in (.pdf) on the Safety Code Council of Alberta website:
Updated in April, 2020:
- Secondary Suite Standards
Updated in January, 2020:
- Carbon Monoxide Alarm Home Installation
- Solid Fuel Burning Appliances (Fireplaces)
- Smoke Alarms for your Home
- Compressed Gas Storage
- Escape Rooms
- Exit Signs
- Fire Doors
- Fire Watch Requirements During Shutdown of Fire Protection Systems
- Propane Used as an Engine Fuel in Equipment Other Than Motor Vehicles
- Spray Booths and Spray Coating Processes
- Storage of Aerosol Products
- Unsecured or Vacant Buildings
- Mobile Fuel Vending
Updated in October, 2019:
- Do I need a Building Permit?
Updated in July, 2019
- Additions to Residence
- Finishing your Basement
- Building a Wood Deck
- Exterior Stairs to your Home
- Building a Detached Residential Garage
- Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, and Spas
- Cooktops - Location and Clearance Space
- Private Sewage Treatment Systems
- Private Sewage Treatment Systems Separation Distances
2019 Building Code
Notice
Building STANDATA
- A Notice clarifying the classification of a distillery has been posted.
- The following Building STANDATA are now available:
- 19-BCI-020 - Integrated Testing Coordinator - This interpretation provides clarification on the expectation for qualifications of an integrated testing coordinator.
- 19-BCI-021 - Occupancy Classification Supportive Living Accommodations - This interpretation is to clarify the application of the Safety Codes Act and the National Building Code-2019 Alberta Edition in determining the occupancy classification of buildings as intended for clients receiving various levels of supportive living accommodation.
- 19-BCB-001R1 - Steel Building Systems
2012 Building Code
The Ministry states that:
- The amendment requires that municipal building officials continue to review permit applications and conduct construction inspections by providing that the time periods in the Building Code remain in effect for all construction projects, even when the municipal offices are closed because of the COVID-19 outbreak.
- The amendment also establishes that conditional permits can be issued for non-essential construction during the COVID-19 outbreak.
- The amendment will remain in effect for as long as municipal building department offices are closed to the public for in-person services due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
2021 Gas Codes
CSA-B149.1-20
CSA-B149.2-20
CSA-B149.3-20
CSA-B149.5-20
- CSA-B149.1-20 - Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code – This code provides the minimum requirements for the installation of natural gas and propane appliances and equipment downstream of a natural gas meter or from a propane distributor's tank.
- CSA-B149.2-20 – Propane Storage and Handling Code – This provides the minimum requirements for the storage, handling, transportation and transfer of propane.
- CSA-B149.3-20 – Code for the field approval of fuel-burning appliances and equipment – This code applies to the requirements for site specific fuel burning appliances and equipment for which there is no recognized Canadian standard.
- CSA-B149.5-20 – Installation Code for Propane Fuel Systems and Tanks on Highway Vehicles – This code applies to the installation of propane fuel system components and tanks on highway vehicles for the provision of motive power.
2018 Building Code
Revision 3
A "Point in time" folder has been created which allows users to view the content of the BC Building Code as it read prior to April 30, 2020. The "Point in time" folders are accessible within each Part if applicable.
Users of the binder version of the BC Building Code can download a .pdf copy of the updated pages.
2019 Building Code
Building STANDATA
- 19-BCI-019 - Mobile/Temporary Cooking Equipment
2018 Building Code
Revision 3
Revision 3 is an amendment to the British Columbia Building Code 2018 to adopt the 2016 edition of the CSA Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators. This change aligns with Ministerial Order No. M259 which similarly amends the Elevating Devices Safety Regulation under the Safety Standards Act. The 2016 edition includes requirements for:
• Customized maintenance control programs; and
• Testing of elevators and moving walkways.
The online British Columbia Building Code 2018 will be updated to reflect the Revision 3 changes. Customers with binder copies of the British Columbia Building Code, will be able to print the updated code sections online at www.bccodes.ca shortly.
Technical Safety BC has published a notification about this change available on its website. Questions about elevating devices, including permits, should be directed to Technical Safety BC.
If you have any questions about British Columbia Building Code changes, please email:
2019 Building Code
2019 Fire Code
Building STANDATA
Fire STANDATA
Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990
Ontario Regulation 165/20, made on April 22, 2020 (7:20 pm) and filed on April 22, 2020 extends and renews Emergency Orders made under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until May 6, 2020.Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997
Fire Marshal's Communiqu� 2020-07, dated April 9, 2020, announced that Ontario Regulation 73/20, made under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act had been filed on March 20, 2020.
O. Reg. 73/20 suspended the limitation periods of any provision of any statute, regulation, rule, by-law or order of the Government of Ontario for the duration of the emergency, retroactive to March 16, 2020, and in particular:
- Extends time to request a Fire Marshal Review
- Extends th time to submit supporting information for a Fire Marshal Review
- Extends the compliance date for Fire Marshal Review Decisions
- Extends the time for appeals to the Fire Safety Commission
Fire Marshal's Communiqu� 2020-09, dated April 14, 2020, announced that Ontario Regulation 144/20, made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, was filed and came into force on April 11, 2020. See further details in the News at CodeNews entry for 17-APR-2020.
The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management (OFMEM) has provided further information on O. Reg. 73/20 and O. Reg. 144/20 in its e-Bulletin #003/20, dated April 17, 2020.
Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990
EMERGENCY ORDERS:
Subsequent Emergency Orders, made as Ontario Regulations,
- severely curtailed freedom of assembly
- closed recreational amenities
- closed places of non-essential business
- allow a police officer or any other provincial offences officer to enforce the Orders (O. Reg. 114/20)
O. Reg. 130/20 and O. Reg. 131/20, made on April 7, 2020, revoked the power of Ontario municipalities to prohibit and regulate with respect to noise made in connection with the following:
- Construction projects and services in a municipality associated with the healthcare sector, including new facilities, expansions, renovations and conversion of spaces that could be repurposed for health care space, at any time of the day or night.
- Any other construction activity in a municipality between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Exemptions for temporary health or residential facilities from the Building Code Act, the Ontario Building Code, Municipal Zoning By-laws, Interim Control By-laws, and Site Plan Control:
The Ontario government recognized the urgent necessity to increase capacity and address pressures on the hospital system resulting from the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, including supporting hospitals to find alternative accommodation or care for patients. The government also recognized the need to support municipalities to find alternative sleeping accommodations for individuals as part of the response to the COVID-19 coronavirus, including to help maintain physical distancing. However, certain legislative provisions are impeding the ability to quickly establish facilities for the care, welfare, safety and shelter of individuals, including emergency shelters and hospitals.
Therefore, O. Reg. 141/20 was made on April 9, 2020 to exempt:
- the construction of a temporary health or residential facility,
- the conversion of all or part of an existing building or structure to a temporary health or residential facility,
- and the use of a temporary health or residential facility
O. Reg. 141/20 requires the Architect, Professional Engineer, and the Chief Building Official to fulfill certain conditions before the facility or a part of the facility can be occupied.
O. Reg. 141/20 is retroactive to March 17, 2020.
Exemption for temporary health or residential facilities from certain requirements in the Fire Code:
O. Reg. 144/20 was made on April 11, 2020 to exempt a temporary health or residential facility from Articles 2.1.2.2. and 2.9.1.1. and Part 9 of Division B of the Ontario Fire Code.
O. Reg. 144/20 requires that an owner, or future owner, of a temporary health or residential facility shall notify the Chief Fire Official of the location of the temporary health or residential facility prior to or as soon as practicable after,
(a) construction of the temporary health or residential facility begins;
(b) conversion of the building or structure into a temporary health or residential facility begins; or
(c) the use of the building or structure is changed to that of a temporary health or residential facility.
O. Reg. 144/20 came into force on April 11, 2020
2007 Ontario Fire Code
2015 Ontario Fire Code Compendium
- O. Reg. 33/19 with amendments to the Fire Code for hazardous extraction operations, out-of-service firefighters' elevators, and housekeeping changes that update and clarify requirements.
- Amendments to the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997 related to the limitation period for initiating prosecutions, expanded cost recovery, and increases to maximum fines.
Building Code Act, 1992
Bill 184 contains four schedules:
- Schedule 1 amends the Building Code Act, 1992
- Schedule 2 amends the Housing Services Act, 2011
- Schedule 3 enacts the Ontario Mortgage and Housing Corporation Repeal Act, 2020
- Schedule 4 amends the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
If the administration of any of the provisions of the Act is delegated to the administrative authority, the board of directors of the authority must appoint a director. Depending on which provisions are delegated, the board of directors may be required to appoint a chief building inspector or a licensing registrar, or both.
2019 Building Code
2019 Fire Code
CSA B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code
STANDATA
The following Building Code/Plumbing Code Bulletin was issued:
The following Building Code Interpretations were issued:
The following Building Code/Gas Code Interpretation was issued:
The following Building Code Interpretation was issued:
The following Building Code Interpretation was issued:
The following joint Fire/Building Code Variance was issued:
The following Fire/Building Code Variance was issued:
The following Fire Code Bulletin was issued:
The following joint Fire/Building Code Variance was issued:
The following Fire/Building Code Variance was issued:
The following Building Code Interpretation/Plumbing Code Bulletin was issued:
The following Building Code/Plumbing Code Bulletin was issued:
The following joint Building/Gas Code Interpretation was issued:
2017 Building Code
The proposed amendments will require any new restaurants (as defined within the Food Safety Regulations made under Section 105 of the Heath Protection Act), including spaces within existing buildings, to be completely constructed in accordance with the barrier-free requirements contained in the Nova Scotia Building Code, including an accessible path of entry into the restaurant from the exterior of the building and access to barrier-free washroom facilities. A Questions and Answers Guide has been prepared to assist code users.
The proposed amendments are intended to align the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations with a decision by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Tribunal regarding accessibility within restaurants.
Written comments on the proposed amendments to the Regulations may be sent on or before April 24, 2020 to:
Joe Rogers, Building Code Coordinator, Office of the Fire Marshal, P.O. Box 231, Halifax Central, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2M4
2012 Building Code
On February 28, 2020, the Ontario government had posted ERO notice number 019-1406 on the Environmental Registry, that it is holding a public consultation on several proposed regulatory matters pertaining to Community Benefits Authority under the Planning Act, the Development Charges Act, and the Building Code Act.
In particular, the Ontario government is proposing to amend Ontario Regulation 332/12 (Building Code) in order to amend the list of applicable laws. It is proposed that the Building Code be amended to add the community benefits charge authority to the list of items under Article 1.4.1.3 (Definition of Applicable Law) in Division A. This amendment would establish a mechanism for ensuring the payment of community benefits charges prior to the issuance of a building permit.
The consultation closes at 11:59 p.m. on March 30, 2020.
2019 Building Code
2019 Fire Code
STANDATA
Variance
- 19-BCV-014 / 19-FCV-019 - 12-storey encapsulated mass timber construction
Many thanks to Paul Chang, Provincial Building Administrator, Alberta Municipal Affairs for notifying CodeNews.ca.
2019 Fire Code
STANDATA
Bulletins & Variances
- 19-FCV-014 - Alliance Pipeline Ltd. – Portable Fire Extinguishers at Remote Facilities
- 19-FCV-015 - Torxen – Portable Fire Extinguishers at Remote Facilities
- 19-FCV-016 - Alliance Pipeline Ltd. – Portable Fire Extinguishers at Remote Facilities
- 19-FCV-017 - ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. - – Portable Fire Extinguishers at Remote Facilities
- 19-FCB-002 - Portable Fire Extinguishers
- 19-FCB-003 - Maintenance of fire protection devices within residential suites of multi-family buildings
2012 Building Code
- The proposed Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 (if passed) would allow the Lieutenant Governor in Council to designate land as transit corridor land.
- New development on or near the transit corridor land would require a corridor development permit.
- The proposed consequential amendment to the Building Code would require a person to obtain a corridor development permit before the issuance of a building permit.
2019 Vancouver Building and Plumbing By-laws
On February 13, 2020, the City of Vancouver announced that the electronic digital versions of the 2019 Vancouver Building and Plumbing By-laws are now accessible for on-line viewing at no cost.The Province of Ontario was the first jurisdiction in Canada to make its Building Code available for free download TWENTY YEARS AGO.
In the past year, the National Research Council, the Alberta Government, and the B.C. Government have finally recognized the wisdom of Ontario's pioneering policy decision of twenty years ago:
YOU CANNOT EXPECT THE PEOPLE TO OBEY THE LAW, IF THE PEOPLE HAVE TO PAY MONEY TO FIND OUT WHAT THE LAW IS.
2018 Building Code
Information Bulletins
The following Information Bulletins were posted/updated recently:
Information Bulletin No. B19-04
Changes to the BC Building Code for Secondary Suites
Dated: December 12, 2019
The Province of British Columbia is working to remove barriers to the creation of more affordable housing, including secondary suites. Previously, secondary suites could only be built in single detached homes and could not exceed a certain size. Effective December 12, 2019, the BC Building Code will allow the construction of new secondary suites in more types of houses, such as duplexes and row housing. Size restrictions for secondary suites have also been removed. This will provide local governments with more options for land use planning.
This bulletin provides further information about Revision 2 of the BC Building Code 2018 (BC Code) for the design and construction of new secondary suites in more building types.
Information Bulletin No. B19-05
Secondary Suites, Changes to Design and Construction Requirements
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2
Dated: December 12, 2019
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information about Revision 2 changes to the British Columbia Building Code 2018 (BC Code) for the design and construction of new secondary suites. Changes are effective December 12, 2019 and apply to projects for which a permit is applied for on or after this date.
A separate bulletin B19-04 discusses how the BC Code changes to secondary suite requirements
may impact land use planning.
Information Bulletin No. B19-06-R
Revision 2 to the British Columbia Building Code 2018
Dated: December 12, 2019
Revised: December 18, 2019
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information about Revision 2 changes to the British Columbia Building Code (BC Code). Changes are effective December 12, 2019 and apply to projects for which a permit is applied for on or after this date.
Information Bulletin No. B19-07
New Provisions for Encapsulated Mass Timber Construction
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2
Dated: December 12, 2019
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information about Revision 2 additions to the British Columbia Building Code 2018 (BC Code) related to the early and localized adoption of provisions for encapsulated mass timber construction (EMTC). The additions are effective December 12, 2019 and apply to projects for which a permit is applied for on or after this date.
Information Bulletin No. B19-08
Changes to the BC Energy Step Code for Part 3 and Part 9 Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2
Dated: December 20, 2019
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information about Revision 2 changes to the British Columbia Building Code 2018 (BC Code) related to the BC Energy Step Code (which forms part of the BC Code). The changes are effective December 12, 2019 and apply to projects for which a permit is applied for on or after this date within participating jurisdictions.
For British Columbia Code interpretation questions, you are invited to e-mail your inquiry to the British Columbia Building and Safety Standards Branch.
Building Code Commission
Building Materials Evaluation Commission
- all Building Code Commisison Rulings
- all Building Materials Evaluation Commission Authorizations
- all Minister's Rulings approving the use of materials, systems and designs endorsed by the CCMC
In the future, Building Code Commisison Rulings will be available only on CanLII, the Canadian Legal Information Institute, web site. CanLII has posted 8 BCC Rulings that were issued in 2019.
The only way to obtain a copy of an earlier (pre-2019) BCC Ruling is to e-mail a request to: codeinfo@mah.gov.on.ca.... and wait ....... and wait ........ and wait ........ and wait ......... and wait ...... and wait .....
Building Materials Evaluation Commission Authorizations
The Ministry still publishes a list of current and valid BMEC Authorizations.
However, the only way to obtain a copy of a BMEC Authorization is to:
- send a request via email to: codeinfo@mah.gov.on.ca or
- call by telephone to 416-585-4234
Since Minister's Rulings approving the use of materials, systems and designs endorsed by the Canadian Construction Materials Centre will no longer be available on-line, the only way to obtain a copy of a Minister's Ruling will be to
- send a request via email to: codeinfo@mah.gov.on.ca or
- call by telephone to 416-585-4234
2019 Alberta Building Code
On January 24, 2020, Alberta Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu announced that Alberta will allow wood-building construction for up to 12 storeys. Alberta will become the first province in Canada to allow the practice province-wide. The announcement was part of Alberta's Red Tape Reduction Awareness Week.Todayville.com reported that Minister Madhu stated:
"Not only will this decision support the forestry industry and land developers, it will provide affordability to homebuyers, bolster employment, and give Alberta a competitive advantage. We made this change knowing that mass timber products are safe and that these buildings will meet all necessary standards."
Electrical STANDATA
Bulletins, Variances, Interpretations
- 18-CECB-10 - Section 10: Grounding and Bonding
- 18-CECB-18 - Section 18: Hazardous locations
- 18-CEVC-10-102 - Rule 10 – 102 Grounding electrodes (number of rods)
- 18-CEVC-64-216 PV AFP - Arc-Fault protection requirements for ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems
- 16-AEUCI-2 - Section 2: General Rules : administrative
- 18-CEBC-0 - Section 0: Object, scope, and definitions
- 18-CEBC-2 - Section 2: General Rules : administrative
2012 Building Code
The summary is very factual and does not provide any background regarding the rationale for the changes.
CCBFC
National Building Code
National Fire Code
National Plumbing Code
- National Building Code of Canada 2015 (NBC)
- National Fire Code of Canada 2015 (NFC)
- National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2017 (NECB)
- Updates to the documents referenced in the 2015 and 2017 National Model Codes
The CCBFC has published a Summary of Significant Changes and a Listing of All Changes.
CodeNews.ca thanks our loyal reader, Brad Smale, Chief Building Official, Township of Norwich, for alerting us to this news.
Fire Safety Act
Fire Safety Regulations
Some of the changes include::
- Adoption of the National Research Council 2018 Revisions and Errata to the National Fire Code 2015.
- Changing the name Nova Scotia School Board Association (no longer in existence) in the list of members on the Fire Safety Advisory Council to Education Common Service Bureau.
- Updated to include references to B3 (Care Occupancy) and B2 (Treatment Occupancy) in four locations. This change should have been made when the 2010 Code was adopted and the new occupancy B3 was introduced into the codes but was overlooked.
- In order to allow the insurance industry flexibility to formulate their own Insurance Industry Fire Reports templates (rather than the forms contained in the regulations or using QuattroPro), wording has been changed to ensure that all the information required by the Office of the Fire Marshal is contained in the reports when reporting preliminary insurance reports and final insurance reports.
- To be consistent with the National Fire Code, Section 30 is changed from Net Occupant Load to Occupant Load.
- The OFM issue licenses to qualified applicants engaged in the business of servicing portable fire extinguishers. Clarity has been provided in Section 19 to reflect the current process and practice already in place.
- The following reference documents have been updated to more recent editions to ensure consistency with the Fire Code and industry standards:
- CAN/ULC-S109 "Standard Method for Flame Tests of Flame-Resistant Fabrics and Films" from the 2003 Edition to the 2014 Edition.
- Display Fireworks Manual to Display Fireworks Manual, 2010 Edition.
- Pyrotechnics Special Effects Manual to Special Effects Pyrotechnics Manual, Edition 3, 2014.
- An explanatory note to an Appendix at the end of Part 8: " 8.1.1.1.(1) Part 8 is intended to provide a guide to the minimum level of life safety in boarding, lodging, rooming and private rest homes that were occupied as such prior to the enforcement of the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations or a Municipal Building By-Law. The Authority Having Jurisdiction may use this Part when it is their opinion that the level of life safety will be achieved through its application in such buildings. It is not intended to be used as a substitute for the Code if one was in force at the time the building was occupied for the use. Alterations to these buildings are expected to meet the Code of the day."
STANDATA
2019 Alberta Building Code
Building Code Bulletins
- 19-BCB-002 - Radon mitigation Part 6 requirements
- 19-BCB-001 - Steel building systems
STANDATA
2019 Alberta Building Code
Building Code Interpretations
- 19-BCI-001 - Application of 9.36 energy efficiency requirements to existing buildings
- 19-BCI-003 - Barrier-free access to stages
- 19-BCI-004 - Determination of grade
- 19-BCI-005 - Non-liquid disposal systems
- 19-BCI-006 - Photoluminescent exit signs
- 19-BCI-007 - Retaining walls
- 19-BCI-008 - Rooms containing gaseous chlorine
- 19-BCI-009 - Wind turbines
- 19-BCI-010 - Elevator operations and accessibility
Canadian Free Trade Agreement
Reconciliation Agreement for Canadian Registration Numbers for Pressure Equipment
- British Columbia
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
- Ontario
- Qu�bec
- Nova Scotia
- Prince Edward Island
- Yukon
- Northwest Territories
- Nunavut
Internal trade within Canada is a real mess. It is well known that Quebec is the least open to interprovincial trade.
The Montreal Economic Institute and the Canadian Constitution Foundation have reported that interprovincial trade barriers cost between $3,500 and $9,200 per Canadian household every year.
01-JAN-2015
DATE
SEMINAR
04-DEC-2019
He spoke at:Session WS111 - The 2020 Ontario Building Code Updates, in Room 701A of the South Building, to an audience of over 230 persons.
THIS PRESENTATION WAS SOLD OUTDOWNLOAD THE PRESENTATION SLIDE DECK
29-NOV-2018
He spoke at Session, TS103 - Ontario Building Code Update: Three of the Most Recent Changes You Need Know, on Thursday, November 29 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Room 715 of the South Building.
THIS PRESENTATION WAS SOLD OUT DOWNLOAD THE PRESENTATION SLIDE DECK
22-JUN-2018
27-APR-2018
21-MAR-2018
The Golden Triangle Chapter has opened the presentation to designers and other code users for a nominal fee of $40 for the seminar.
25-JAN-2018
- the retirement home changes that came into effect on July 1, 2017
- the "house" changes that came into effect on July 1, 2017
- the electric vehicle charging system changes that will come into effect on January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2020, as a result of O. Reg. 563/17
18-JAN-2018
- the retirement home changes that came into effect on July 1, 2017
- the "house" changes that came into effect on July 1, 2017
- the electric vehicle charging system changes that will come into effect on January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2020, as a result of O. Reg. 563/17
12-DEC-2017
- the retirement home changes that came into effect on July 1, 2017
- the "house" changes that came into effect on July 1, 2017
- the electric vehicle charging system changes that will come into effect on January 1, 2018
14-NOV-2017
CodeNews Consulting Corp., Consulting Architect, has prepared an additional presentation that will be of interest to architects, engineers, other designers, building officials, and builders on:
- Electric Vehicle Charging Systems (30 minutes long)
26-JUL-2017
Presentations are now available for your organization. CodeNews Consulting Corp., Consulting Architect, is not aware of the general availability of any presentations on the recent OBC changes. Therefore, CodeNews has prepared the following two presentations that will be of interest to architects, engineers, other designers, building officials, and builders:
- the retirement home changes (45 minutes long)
- the "house" changes (90 minutes long)
08-JUL-2015
The slide deck for this presentation contains slides from a presentation titled: "Mid-rise Wood Frame Buildings", dated April 7, 2015, presented by Alan Shaw, CBO, City of Sarnia, Vice President of the Ontario Building Officials Associaiton (OBOA). Use of the OBOA's material in this slide deck is authorized by Mike Seiling, President of the OBOA.
14:00-17:30
Friday
09-MAY-2014
The "New Accessibility Changes to the Building Code" presentation consists of Slide Deck 1 and Slide Deck 2 and references the following documents:
- O. Reg. 368/13, in MS Word format, containing the accessibility amendments to the 2012 Ontario Building Code
- An annotated version of the accessibility amendment, edited by Alek Antoniuk, showing the revisions to the 2012 Ontario Building Code
- Ontario government's "Final" Proposed Accessible Built Environment Standard, published in July, 2010
- Ontario MMAH's Public Consultation Paper on Proposed Building Code Accessibility Changes (Dec. 2012 to Mar. 2013)
01-APR-2014
13-FEB-2014
Keynote Speakers for the topic of Mid-Rise Wood Frame Construction were:
- Ineke Van Zeeland, M. Eng., ASFPE – Manager, Codes & Standards, Canadian Wood Council
- Alek Antoniuk, B.E.S., B. Arch., OAA – Code Consultant
- Evelyne Cardinal, OAA, MRAIC – Farrow Dreessen Architects Inc.
- Sean Tracey, P.Eng., MIFireE – Assistant Deputy Chief Community Standards, City of Ottawa
- Ontario's interest in mid-rise combustible construction
- Ontario's code consultations
- Fire safety during construction
- Ontario's policy dilemma
- Ontario's Building Code Act, 1992, S.O. 1992, c. 23
- Ontario's Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 4
- Bill 13 - Ontario Forestry Industry Revitalization Act
- Ontario 2011 Consultation on the Building Code, leading to the publication of the 2012 Ontario Building Code
- City of Toronto Avenues and Mid-Rise Buildings Study, May 2010 (Acrobat file size: 19MB)
- 2013 NFC Public Review Documents
22-JAN-2014
Alek Antoniuk's presentation is titled: "An Overview of the Accessibility Amendments to Ontario's Building Code" and is intended to cover the highlights of the changes to the 2012 Ontario Building Code resulting from the filing of O. Reg. 368/13, as they apply to "Part 3" multi-residential buildings.
The presentation references the following documents:
- The Ontario government's "Final" Proposed Accessible Built Environment Standard, published in July, 2010
- Ontario MMAH's Public Consultation Paper on Proposed Building Code Accessibility Changes (Dec. 2012 to Mar. 2013)
- O. Reg. 368/13, in MS Word format, containing the accessibility amendments to the 2012 Ontario Building Code
- O. Reg. 191/11, as amended by O. Reg. 413/12, containing the Accessibility Standard for the Built Environment for the Design of Public Spaces
- An annotated version of the accessibility amendment, edited by Alek Antoniuk, showing the revisions to the 2012 Ontario Building Code
10-DEC-2013
The presentation referenced the following documents:
- O. Reg. 332/12 (2012 Ontario Building Code,with no amendments)
- Official 2 Volume 2012 Ontario Building Code Compendium
- Ontario Building Code 2012 by Orderline
- Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing's 15 slide decks detailing the Significant changes in the 2012 Ontario Building Code
- Comparison of all 20,000+ editorial and technical changes between the 2006 and the 2012 Ontario Building Code
- Division A (Word file size: 770KB)
- Division B (Word file size: 24 MB)
- Division C (Word file size: 1 MB)
- CCBFC's 2013 National Codes Public Review
- Ontario MMAH's Building Code 2012 Consultation Paper on the Accessible Built Environment
RESCON News Letter
October 2015
September 2015
August 2015
and also asks the question: "Is Information on the OBC Accessibility (Barrier-Free) Changes Readily Accessible?"
May 2015
April 2015
March 2015
February 2015
December 2014
Regulatory reform is long overdue
I encourage you to read and comment on Alek Antoniuk's latest RESCON CodeLetter #3.
RESCON has long been an advocate of Regulatory Change in Ontario as we believe the current system that regulates Development/Building activities is no longer capable of responding in an efficient manner to the rapid changes in processing information and construction activities, resulting from the use of new and emerging technologies.
I asked Alek to tackle this subject, given that the expertise he developed while at the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing puts him in a unique position to share his perspective on this topic.
RESCON believes it's time to start a conversation between industry stakeholders and the regulators who control our Industry on how we can affect the changes that would benefit all by:
- Reducing redundant practices and minimizing red tape
- Recognizing entrepreneurial expertise
- Encouraging the use of emerging technologies
Join the conversation. Now is the time for action.
Michael Steele. B. Tech. (C.M.)
Director, Technical Standards / RESCON
Email: michael.steele@rescon.com
September 2014
August 2014
This web site is developed by Alek Antoniuk, OAA, BCIN #14661
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
cell: +1-416-856-0241
e-mail:
The e-mail address is a graphic to ward off spam robots .....!
Note that there is a "." (dot) between "alek" and "antoniuk".!
Alek Antoniuk, the principal of CodeNews Consulting Corp., Consulting Architect,
provides the following fee-based services to assist you:
We are prisoners in Canada, where we are not allowed to fly out of Canada to escape this gulag, without first being VACCINE RAPED, on orders from Turd'eau.
We are not allowed to eat inside a restaurant in Ontario, without first being VACCINE RAPED, on orders from the drug dealer who runs the province.
Posted by: carylcarylgeare0271171.blogspot.com
Source: https://www.codenews.ca/
