Check this page for updates related to building information and bulletins
New BC Building Code is effective December 10, 2018
The new BC Building Code is effective December 10, 2018 and will apply to building permits applied for on or after that date.
Some important BC-specific code changes introduced in the 2018 BC Building Code include:
- Increasing building accessibility for persons with disabilities;
- Improving the energy efficiency of buildings to require compliance with new building energy efficiency codes and standards;
- Providing a variation to the National Building Code requirements for mid-rise combustible buildings to require 10 percent street frontage and exterior cladding with increased fire resistance; and
- Updating radon data, based on recent studies. Proposed change will include Whistler as location in BC requiring radon rough-ins.
For more information about the 2018 BC Building and Plumbing Code: 2018 BC Codes
For a summary of 2018 BC Building Code Changes and technical bulletins:
- Summary of changes
- General technical bulletin
- Accessibility bulletin
- Mid-rise combustible construction bulletin
- New Radon Rough-in Requirements
BC Energy Step Code
Learn more about the implementation of BC Energy Step Code in Whistler.
BULLETINS
Building
Snow loads
RMOW Permits and Inspections Bulletin – Snow Loads
This bulletin provides new ground snow load calculation and clarifications on code requirements for snow loading within Whistler.
Due to the variation of snow buildup at different elevations within Whistler, Environment Canada was contracted by the RMOW to provide an updated ground snow load calculation for Whistler, based on specific site elevations. This request is in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the introduction section of Division B – Appendix C “Climatic and Seismic Information for Building Design in Canada” from the 2018 BC Building Code.
Fire Separations
RMOW Permits and Inspections Bulletin – Fire Separation
This bulletin provides clarification regarding the code requirements for fire separations for residential suites and multi-family residential units, as addressed in the 2018 BC Building Code.
Planning
In-ground Basement Floor Area Exclusion
RMOW Planning Bulletin – In-ground Basement Floor Area
This bulletin provides clarification regarding the misperceptions on the in-ground basement floor area exclusions; from Part 5 – Section 26.(1).(a).(ii). of the RMOW Zoning and Parking Bylaw No. 303, 2012.
