BC Building Code 2018
Last updated on April 9, 2025Learn about the BC Building Code 2018 requirements. Download a copy, read about code requirements, view revisions and access bulletins.
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BC Building Code 2018
The Building Code 2018 is based on the 2015 National Building Code of Canada with some B.C. specific changes. This edition was in effect for building permits applied for from December 10, 2018 to March 7, 2024.
The earthquake design and adaptability requirements from the 2018 BC Building Code remain applicable to in-stream projects. The 2018 code will continue to apply to building permits applied for until March 9, 2025.
- Ministerial Order adopting the BC Building Code 2018 (PDF, 290.39KB)
- Ministerial Order extending BC Building Code 2018 earthquake design and adaptability provisions to March 8, 2027 (PDF, 189.7KB)
BC Building Code 2018 is available for free online. Printed copies are available at many B.C. public libraries or for purchase from King's Printer.
Summary of 2018 code changes
Updated to the BC Building Code 2018 included:
- Enhancing accessibility requirements
- Energy efficiency to reference new building energy codes and standards
- Mid-rise combustible construction with a change specific to B.C.
- Revised earthquake design and climatic data
- Radon protection to comply with data established by local authorities and in the instances where this data is not available, code users can refer to the updated table in the code
- Updates to airborne sound transmission ratings
- Updates to stairs, ramps, handrails and guards, including an increase to the run dimensions for residential dwellings
The BC Building Code 2018 clarified requirements for:
- Factory constructed buildings
- Exit signs
- Standards and specification for windows, doors and skylights
- Heritage buildings
Review all code revisions from BC Building Code 2012 to BC Building Code 2018 (PDF, 1.4MB)
Revisions to BC Building Code 2018
5 revisions were made to the 2018 code before it was replaced by the 2024 BC Building Code in March 2024.
- Review 2018 code revisions and supporting documentation
Bulletins for BC Building Code 2018
- Find bulletins for this code