Province Seeks Feedback on Building Code

The national building code has changed again and Nova Scotia wants feedback on how the province should respond.

Nova Scotians are invited to provide written comments on proposed amendments to the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations.

The proposed changes to the regulations were released today. The amendments are needed to adopt the national codes as the new minimum standards for construction in the province. These codes include: 2020 National Building Code, 2020 National Plumbing Code, and the 2020 National Energy Code for Buildings.

The Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing says, “These updated regulations will align the provincial building code with the latest National Building Code standards and improve safety and accessibility for Nova Scotians.” John Lohr added, “The new national codes also provide guidance and set performance tiers to enhance energy efficiency.”

The new national codes use a tiered system that provides a roadmap to increasing energy efficiency standards. This may help move the industry toward net-zero in building construction of over the coming years.

The proposed changes are expected to take effect on January 1, 2024, starting with tier 1 of the 2020 national codes, with tiers 2 and 3 rolling out over four years.

The Province worked on the proposed changes with the Nova Scotia Building Advisory Committee and the Accessibility Directorate.

The deadline for public comments is Friday, September 29. The proposed changes are available at https://novascotia.ca/building-code-regulations-public-notice/.

Add your comments below.