VICTORIA – Proposed updates to the B.C. Building Code are now available online for public input.

Three changes are proposed to provincial building regulations. Representatives from industry and local governments worked with the Province to develop these proposals. They represent the next steps in developing unified green provisions for the construction of new buildings in B.C.

1)      Building Code requirements for high-efficiency toilets (including dual-flush units) and urinals in new construction, which supports the Living Water Smart initiative, and the Province’s commitment to greening the BC Building Code.

2)      Optional regulation that enables local governments to require solar hot water ready construction for new single family houses. This proposal supports the 100,000 Solar Roofs Initiative.

3)      Updates to the Building Code Letters of Assurance, which supports the Modernization Strategy’s shift towards more clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities.

More information is available online at www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building. The deadline for comments on the proposed changes is September 14, 2009.

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Seumas Gordon

Media Relations Officer

Ministry of Housing and Social Development

250 387-6490