The government of British Columbia has recently made updates to the BC Building Code (BCBC) in order to allow for single egress stair (SES) designs in low- and mid-rise buildings. This change eliminates the previous requirement for a second egress stairwell per floor in buildings up to six storeys, opening up new possibilities for housing projects on smaller lots and in different configurations.

By allowing for SES designs, the BCBC update aims to provide more flexibility for multi-bedroom apartments, increase density within transit-oriented developments, and potentially improve energy efficiency in buildings. Provincial minister of housing Ravi Kahlon emphasized the importance of innovating and building differently to address the housing shortage and meet the needs of individuals and families.

It is important to note that all new SES designed buildings will need to adhere to specific safety measures, such as sprinklers, smoke-management systems, and wider stairwells. These changes were developed following the release of a report in June 2024, which included input from industry professionals and stakeholders in the fire services community.

Moving forward, the provincial ministry of housing will continue to work with the Office of the Fire Commissioner to address any safety concerns raised during the engagement process. By implementing these updates to the BCBC, British Columbia aims to not only increase housing supply but also provide more options for residents to live, grow, and prosper in the communities they call home.

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