Port Coquitlam is gearing up for a last minute rush on building permit applications before changes to the B.C. building code come into effect in December.
Anyone constructing or renovating a building in Port Coquitlam has until 4 p.m. on Dec. 19 to submit building permit applications before B.C.'s new building, plumbing and fire codes kick in. The soon-to-be outdated building code was last revised in 2006.
The introduction of the 2012 BC Building Code, BC Plumbing Code and BC Fire Code on Dec. 20 will bring a number of changes for new construction and building alterations, as well as fire safety in new and existing buildings.
Changes include:
Seismic requirements for new homes,
Requirement for a smoke alarm in every bedroom,
Ability for people with cognitive or physical limitations to occupy three-storey wood-frame buildings with sprinklers,
New method for sizing water pipes in buildings,
Ability for rainwater to be collected and used in non-potable water systems,
Updated fire sprinkler standards, and
Introduction of a new exit sign symbol (the running man symbol).
The codes establish minimum standards for health, safety, accessibility, energy, fire and structural protection of buildings. They also address water efficiency and protection of buildings from fire, water and sewer damage. The building and plumbing codes apply throughout the province except for some federal lands and the City of Vancouver, while the fire code applies throughout the province.
The codes can be obtained through print and online subscription from the Queen's Printer. Visit www.bccodes.ca or call 1-800-663-6105 for information. The building code is also available for reference for free at public libraries.
For information and resources related to the new codes, visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/building or contact the Building Division at 604-927-5444 or [email protected].
