The 2020 National Model Codes were released, providing an updated set of model construction codes that will make Canadian homes and buildings safer and more accessible, while responding to climate change. The new Codes include the National Building Code of Canada 2020, the National Fire Code of Canada 2020, the National Plumbing Code of Canada 2020, and the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2020.
“These new Codes are more reflective of the current world we live in,” said Kevin Griffiths, Chair, Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC). “Thanks to these updates, it will be easier for Canadians with accessibility considerations to navigate different spaces; large farm buildings are now included in the Codes to reflect the evolving agricultural sector; and energy performance levels have been introduced to make buildings more energy efficient.”
Highlights from the new Codes include:
Code users are invited to download the Codes and review the changes that apply to their work. The 2020 Codes include nearly 400 changes developed through an open, transparent, and consensus-based process that included expert volunteers from across Canada. As part of the development process, the public was given an opportunity to review and comment on all proposed changes before the Codes were finalized. Current provincial and territorial building, fire, plumbing and energy regulations will remain in effect until the 2020 Codes are adopted, with or without modifications, by the provincial or territorial authorities having jurisdiction.
Discussions about the 2025 National Model Codes are already underway. The CCBFC encourages the involvement of industry, general interest and regulatory experts in the process to make sure that the best available knowledge drives meaningful change.
The 2020 Codes are available through the National Research Council of Canada (NRC)’s Publications Archive in a free electronic format for download. To purchase the publications in print format, an order can be placed online through the NRC’s Virtual Store.
The National Model Codes are developed by the CCBFC on a five-year cycle and are published by the NRC.
The Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) is a committee of volunteer industry practitioners, construction technology experts, building users and operators, and regulators. The CCBFC is responsible for the development of the National Model Codes.
Members are selected from across Canada for their individual interests and expertise rather than as delegates of any association or group. They are selected with a view to providing broad technical and geographical representation and are appointed by the National Research Council of Canada.