VanPlex Plexperts · BC Multiplex Resource
BC Building Code
Indexed on VanPlex Plexperts — the BC multiplex civic-programs and reference directory.
The BC Building Code (BCBC) is the construction regulation that governs buildings across British Columbia. It adopts the National Building Code of Canada and adds BC-specific amendments. The current edition is the 2024 BC Building Code, which came into effect March 8, 2024. The City of Vancouver does not use the BCBC. Vancouver enacts its own Vancouver Building By-law, which is based on the 2024 BCBC but passed separately by city council.
Why multiplex builders care
Every multiplex permit application is judged against this code.
Every multiplex permit application is judged against this code. Part 9 (combustible construction up to 4 storeys) covers most BC multiplexes and is cheaper and faster to permit than Part 3, which applies to larger or taller buildings. A 2024 change matters directly to small lots: BC now allows a single exit stair in residential buildings up to 6 storeys, with sprinklers, smoke management, wider stairwells, and a 24-person-per-floor limit. Removing the second stair frees up floor area, which can make an apartment building feasible on a 33-foot-wide lot that could not fit two stairs before.
Key documents
The actual PDFs, programs, and forms you'll use.
2024 BC Building Code
Current edition, in effect since March 8, 2024.
BC Codes errata and revisions
Official list of dated revisions to the 2024 code, including the single egress stair change.
Vancouver Building By-law (2025 edition)
Vancouver-specific code based on the 2024 BCBC. Generally in effect since September 15, 2025.
How to use it
- 1
Confirm which code applies. Projects inside Vancouver city limits follow the Vancouver Building By-law, not the BCBC. Everywhere else in BC, the BCBC applies.
- 2
Check your construction part. Most multiplexes are Part 9 (combustible, up to 4 storeys). Going taller or larger pushes you into Part 3, which costs more and takes longer to permit.
- 3
Note the dated cut-offs. The 2024 code applies to permits applied for after March 8, 2024. Earthquake and adaptable dwelling unit requirements apply to permits applied for on or after March 10, 2025.
- 4
For small or narrow lots, ask your architect whether the single exit stair allowance (in effect since August 27, 2024) lets you fit more units or wider suites.
Recent updates
2024-03-08
2024 BC Building Code came into effect, adopting the National Building Code with BC amendments.
Read more2024-08-27
Revision 3 took effect, allowing single exit (single egress) stair residential buildings up to 6 storeys with sprinklers, smoke management, wider stairs, and a 24-person-per-floor limit.
Read more2025-03-10
Earthquake and adaptable dwelling unit requirements began applying to permits applied for on or after this date.
Read more2025-09-15
Vancouver Building By-law 2025 edition generally came into effect, based on the 2024 BCBC with Vancouver-specific provisions.
Read moreOfficial links
Go to the source.
Related resources
BC Bill 44 — Housing Statutes Amendment Act
The November 2023 provincial law that requires every BC municipality to allow multiplex on lots previously zoned single-family. The legal foundation for every BC multiplex.
BC Energy Step Code
BC's tiered energy-efficiency standard for new construction. Step 4 is the multiplex sweet spot for CMHC MLI Select bonuses; Step 5 approaches Passive House.
BC Housing
Provincial Crown agency that licenses every BC residential builder and runs the mandatory 2-5-10 new home warranty system.
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