The provincial government is set to amend the BC Building Code to enable the expanded use of mass timber construction in a very tall way.

Currently, the maximum height of a mass timber building under provincial regulations is 12 storeys, but the forthcoming changes would increase this to 18 storeys — an increase of 50%.

This would apply to not just buildings with residential uses but also office uses.

“These proposed mass timber building code changes align with our recent work to deliver more homes near transit hubs by allowing taller buildings and more sustainable housing options near transit,” said Ravi Kahlon, BC Minister of Housing, in a statement.

“These changes will also help reduce carbon pollution, support the forestry sector, create jobs, build more homes and lead to more vibrant, healthier communities.”

Also, the changes will allow more exposed mass timber or fewer layers of encapsulation in buildings, depending on the building’s height, and more building types using mass timber construction, such as schools, shopping centres, and industrial facilities.

After it is given final approval, the code changes are expected to be formalized in Spring 2024.

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