The British Columbia Building Code | Section 9.1. | General
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.1. General
9.1.1. Application
9.1.1.1. Application
1) The application of this Partshall be as described in Subsection 1.3.3.of Division A. (See Note A-9.1.1.1.(1)
regarding application to seasonally and intermittently occupied buildings.)
9.1.2. Reserved
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.10. Fire Protection
9.10.1. Definitions and Application
9.10.1.1. Sloped Roofs
1) For the purposes of this Section, roofs with slopes of 60° or more to the horizontal that are adjacent to a room
or space intended for occupancy shall be considered as a wall.
9.10.1.2. Testing of Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
1) Where life safety and fire protection systems and systems with fire protection and life safety functions are
integrated with each other, they shall be tested as a whole in accordance with CAN/ULC-S1001, “Integrated Systems
Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems,” to verify that they have been properly integrated.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.9.1.(1).)
9.10.1.3. Items under Part3 Jurisdiction
1) Tents, air-supported structures, transformer vaults, walkways, elevators and escalators shall conform to Part3.
2) Where rooms or spaces are intended for an assembly occupancy, such rooms or spaces shall conform to Part3.
3) Basements containing more than 1 storey or exceeding 600m
2
in area shall conform to Part3.
4) Where rooms or spaces are intended for the storage, manufacture or use of hazardous or explosive material,
such rooms or spaces shall conform to Part3. (SeeNoteA-3.3.1.2.(1).)
5) Except as provided in Article3.3.5.8., facilities for the dispensing of fuel shall not be installed in any building.
6) Openings through floors that are not protected by shafts or closures shall be protected in conformance with
Subsection3.2.8. (Seealso Sentence9.9.4.7.(1).)
7) Chutes and shafts shall conform to Subsection3.6.3. except where they are entirely contained within a
dwelling unit.
8) Sprinkler systems shall be designed, constructed and installed in conformance with Articles3.2.5.12.
to3.2.5.15. and3.2.5.17.
9) Standpipe and hose systems shall be designed, constructed and installed in conformance with Articles3.2.5.8.
to3.2.5.11. and3.2.5.17.
10) Fire pumps shall be installed in conformance with Articles3.2.5.17. and3.2.5.18.
11) Where fuel-fired appliances are installed on a roof, such appliances shall be installed in conformance with
Article3.6.1.5.
9.10.1.4. Items under Part6 Jurisdiction
1) In kitchens containing commercial cooking equipment used in processes producing grease-laden vapours,
theequipment shall be designed and installed in conformance with Article6.3.1.7. (SeeNoteA-9.10.1.4.(1).)
9.10.2. Occupancy Classification
9.10.2.1. Occupancy Classification
1) Except as provided in Article9.10.2.2., every building or part thereof shall be classified according to its major
occupancy as belonging to one of the groups or divisions described in Table9.10.2.1.
Table 9.10.2.1.
Occupancy Classifications
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.2.1.(1)
Group Division Description of Major Occupancies
(1)
C – Residential occupancies
D – Business and personal services occupancies
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.10.2.2. Custodial, Convalescent and Residential Care Homes
1) Children’s custodial homes and convalescent homes for ambulatory occupants living as a single housekeeping
unit in a dwelling unit with sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons are permitted to be classified as
residential occupancies.
2) A care facility accepted for residential use pursuant to provincial legislation is permitted to be classified as a
residential occupancy, provided
a) occupants live as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit with sleeping accommodation for not more
than 10 persons,
b) smoke alarms are installed in conformance with Subsection
9.10.19.,
c) emergency lighting is provided in conformance with Article 9.9.12.3., and
d) the building is sprinklered throughout.
9.10.2.3. Group A, Division 2, Low Occupant Load
1) This Part may apply to a Group A, Division 2 assembly occupancy that is permitted by Article 3.1.2.6. to be
classified as a Group D, business and personal services occupancy, provided the building in which the assembly occupancy
is located complies with Sentence 1.3.3.3.(1) of Division A.
(See Note A-3.1.2.6.)
9.10.2.4. Major Occupancies above Other Major Occupancies
1) Except as permitted in Article9.10.2.4., in any building containing more than one major occupancy in which
one major occupancy is located entirely above another, the requirements of Article9.10.8.1. for each portion of the
building containing a major occupancy shall be applied to that portion as if the entire building was of that major
occupancy.
9.10.2.5. Buildings Containing More Than One Major Occupancy
1) In a building containing more than one major occupancy, where the aggregate area of all major occupancies in a
particular group or division does not exceed 10% of the floor area on the storey on which they are located, they need
not be considered as major occupancies for the purposes of Articles9.10.8.1. and9.10.2.3. provided they are not
classified as GroupF, Division2 occupancies.
9.10.3. Ratings
9.10.3.1. Fire-Resistance and Fire-Protection Ratings
1) Where a fire-resistance rating or a fire-protection rating is required in this Section for an element of a building,
such rating shall be determined in conformance with
a) the test methods described in Part3,
b) the calculation method presented in AppendixD, or
c) the construction specifications presented in Tables9.10.3.1.-A and9.10.3.1.-B.
E–Mercantile occupancies
F 2 Medium-hazard industrial occupancies
F3
Low-hazard industrial occupancies (Does not include storage garages
serving individual dwelling units)
Notes to Table9.10.2.1.:
(1) See Note A-3.1.2.1.(1).
Table 9.10.2.1.
Occupancy Classifications
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.2.1.(1)
Group Division Description of Major Occupancies
(1)
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.10.3.2. Flame-Spread Ratings
1) Where a flame-spread rating is required in this Section for an element of a building, such rating shall be
determined in accordance with the test methods described in Part3, or in accordance with AppendixD.
2) Unless the flame-spread rating is referred to herein as a “surface flame-spread rating,” it shall apply to any
surface of the element being considered that would be exposed by cutting through it as well as to the exposed surface
of the element.
9.10.3.3. Fire Exposure
1) Floor, roof and ceiling assemblies shall be rated for exposure to fire on the underside.
2) Exterior walls shall be rated for exposure to fire from inside the building, except that such walls need not
comply with the temperature rise limitations required by the standard tests referred to in Article9.10.3.1. if such
walls have a limiting distance of not less than 1.2m, and due allowance is made for the effects of heat radiation in
accordance with the requirements in Part3.
3) Interior vertical fire separations required to have fire-resistance ratings shall be rated for exposure to fire on
each side.
9.10.3.4. Suspended Membrane Ceilings
1) Where a ceiling construction has a suspended membrane ceiling with lay-in panels or tiles which contribute
to the required fire-resistance rating, hold down clips or other means shall be provided to prevent the lifting of such
panels or tiles in the event of a fire.
9.10.4. Building Size Determination
9.10.4.1. Mezzanines not Considered as Storeys
1) Except as required by Sentences(2) and9.10.4.2.(1), the space above a mezzanine is permitted to be excluded
from the calculation of building height, provided
a) the aggregate area of mezzanines that are not superimposed does not exceed 10% of the floor area of the
building in which they are located, and
b) the area of mezzanine in a suite does not exceed 10% of the area of that suite on the storey on which it is
located.
2) Except as required by Sentence9.10.4.2.(1), the space above a mezzanine need not be considered as a storey in
calculating the building height, provided
a) not less than 60% of the horizontal plane separating the mezzanine from the room or floor space in which it
is located is open, and
b) except from within enclosed spaces described in Sentence(3), the space above the mezzanine is used as an
open area without partitions or subdividing walls higher than 1 070mm above the mezzanine floor.
(See also Note A-3.2.1.1.(3).)
3) The space above a mezzanine conforming to Sentence(2) is permitted to include an enclosed space whose
area does not exceed 10% of the open area of the room in which the mezzanine is located, provided the enclosed
space does not obstruct visual communication between the open space above the mezzanine and the room in which it
is located.
4) For the purpose of determining occupant load, the areas of mezzanines that are not considered as storeys shall
be added to the floor area of the storey on which they are located. (SeeNoteA-9.10.4.1.(4).)
5) Platforms and catwalks intended solely for periodic inspection and maintenance need not be considered as
floor assemblies or mezzanines for the purpose of calculating building height, provided
a) they are not used for storage, and
b) they are constructed with noncombustible materials, unless the building is permitted to be of combustible
construction.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.10.4.2. More Than One Level of Mezzanine
1) Each level of mezzanine that is partly or wholly superimposed above the first level of mezzanine shall be
considered as a storey in calculating the building height.
9.10.4.3. Basement Storage Garages
1) Where a basement is used primarily as a storage garage, the basement is permitted to be considered as a separate
building for the purposes of this Section provided the floor above the basement and the exterior walls of the basement
above the adjoining ground level are constructed as fire separations of masonry or concrete having a fire-resistance
rating of not less than 2h, except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.1.2.(2) and (3).
9.10.4.4. Roof-Top Enclosures
1) A roof-top enclosure shall not be considered as a storey in calculating the building height if the roof-top
enclosure is
a) provided for elevator machinery, a stairway or a service room, and
b) used for no purpose other than for service to the building.
9.10.5. Permitted Openings in Wall and Ceiling Membranes
9.10.5.1. Permitted Openings in Wall and Ceiling Membranes
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(2) and(4), a membrane forming part of an assembly required to have a
fire-resistance rating shall not be pierced by openings into the assembly unless the assembly has been tested and rated
for such openings.
2) A wall or ceiling membrane forming part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating is permitted
to be pierced by openings for electrical and similar service outlet boxes provided such outlet boxes are tightly fitted.
3) Where boxes referred to in Sentence(2) are located on both sides of walls required to provide a fire-resistance
rating, they shall be offset where necessary to maintain the integrity of the fire separation.
4) A membrane ceiling forming part of an assembly assigned a fire-resistance rating on the basis of
Table9.10.3.1.-B or AppendixD is permitted to be pierced by openings leading to ducts within the ceiling space
provided the ducts, the amount of openings and their protection conform to the requirements of AppendixD.
9.10.6. Construction Types
9.10.6.1. Combustible Elements in Noncombustible Construction
1) Where a building or part of a building is required to be of noncombustible construction, combustible elements
shall be limited in conformance with the requirements in Subsection3.1.5.
9.10.6.2. Heavy Timber Construction
1) Heavy timber construction shall be considered to have a 45min fire-resistance rating when it is constructed in
accordance with the requirements for heavy timber construction in Article3.1.4.7.
9.10.7. Steel Members
9.10.7.1. Protection of Steel Members
1) Except as permitted in Article3.2.2.3., structural steel members used in construction required to have a
fire-resistance rating shall be protected to provide the required fire-resistance rating.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.10.8. Fire Resistance and Combustibility in Relation to
Occupancy, Height and Supported Elements
9.10.8.1. Fire-Resistance Ratings for Floors and Roofs
1) Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, the fire-resistance ratings of floors and roofs shall conform to
Table9.10.8.1. (SeeSubsection9.10.2. for mixed occupancies and Subsection9.10.21. for construction camps.)
9.10.8.2. Fire-Resistance Ratings in Sprinklered Buildings
1) The requirements in Table9.10.8.1. for roof assemblies to have a fire-resistance rating are permitted to be
waived in sprinklered buildings where
a) the sprinkler system is electrically supervised in conformance with Sentence3.2.4.9.(3), and
b) the operation of the sprinkler system will cause a signal to be transmitted to the fire department in
conformance with Sentence3.2.4.7.(4).
9.10.8.3. Fire-Resistance Ratings for Walls, Columns and Arches
1) Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, all loadbearing walls, columns and arches in the storey
immediately below a floor or roof assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required for the
supported floor or roof assembly.
2) Reserved.
9.10.8.4. Support of Noncombustible Construction
1) Where an assembly is required to be of noncombustible construction and to have a fire-resistance rating, it shall
be supported by noncombustible construction.
9.10.8.5. Service Rooms
1) Construction supporting a service room need not conform to Article9.10.8.3.
9.10.8.6. Mezzanines
1) Mezzanines required to be counted as storeys in Articles9.10.4.1. and9.10.4.2. shall be constructed in
conformance with the requirements for “Floors Except Floors over Crawl Spaces” in Table9.10.8.1.
9.10.8.7. Roofs Supporting an Occupancy
1) Where a portion of a roof supports an occupancy, that portion shall be constructed as a fire separation having a
fire-resistance rating conforming to the rating for “Floors Except Floors over Crawl Spaces” in Table9.10.8.1.
9.10.8.8. Floors of Exterior Passageways
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), the floor assembly of every exterior passageway used as part of a
means of egress shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min or be of noncombustible construction.
Table 9.10.8.1.
Fire-Resistance Ratings for Structural Members and Assemblies
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.8.1.(1)
Major Occupancy
Maximum Building Height,
storeys
Minimum Fire-Resistance Rating by Building Element, min
Floors Except Floors over
Crawl Spaces
Mezzanine Floors Roofs
Residential (Group C) 3 45 45 –
All other occupancies
245– –
3454545
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
2) No fire-resistance rating is required for floors of exterior passageways serving buildings of GroupD, E or F
major occupancy that are not more than 2storeys in building height.
3) No fire-resistance rating is required for floors of exterior passageways serving a single dwelling unit where no
suite is located above or below the dwelling unit.
9.10.8.9. Crawl Spaces
1) Where a crawl space exceeds 1.8m in height or is used for any occupancy or as a plenum in combustible
construction or for the passage of flue pipes, it shall be considered as a basement in applying the requirements in
Article9.10.8.1.
9.10.8.10. Application to Houses
1) Table9.10.8.1. does not apply to
a) a dwelling unit that has no other dwelling unit above or below it,
b) reserved, or
c) a dwelling unit that is not above or below another major occupancy.
9.10.8.11. Part3 as an Alternative
1) The fire-resistance ratings of floors, roofs, loadbearing walls, columns and arches need not conform to this
Subsection if such assemblies conform in all respects to the appropriate requirements in Section3.2.
9.10.9. Fire Separations between Rooms and Spaces within Buildings
9.10.9.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to fire separations required between rooms and spaces in buildings, except between
rooms and spaces within a dwelling unit.
9.10.9.2. Continuous Barrier
1) Except as permitted in Article9.10.9.3., a wall or floor assembly required to be a fire separation shall be
constructed as a continuous barrier against the spread of fire and retard the passage of smoke.
2) Reserved.
3) The continuity of a fire separation shall be maintained where it abuts another fire separation, a floor, a ceiling,
a roof, or an exterior wall assembly. (SeeNoteA-3.1.8.3.(4).)
4) Reserved.
9.10.9.3. Openings to be Protected with Closures
1) Except as permitted in Articles9.10.9.5.,9.10.9.6. and9.10.9.7., openings in required fire separations shall
be protected with closures conforming to Subsection9.10.13.
2) Reserved
9.10.9.4. Floor Assemblies
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(2) to(4), all floor assemblies shall be constructed as fire separations.
2) Floor assemblies contained within dwelling units need not be constructed as fire separations.
3) Floor assemblies for which no fire-resistance rating is required by Subsection9.10.8. and floors of mezzanines
not required to be counted as storeys in Articles9.10.4.1. and9.10.4.2. need not be constructed as fire separations.
4) Where a crawl space is not required by Article9.10.8.9. to be constructed as a basement, the floor above it
need not be constructed as a fire separation.
9.10.9.5. Interconnected Floor Spaces
1) Interconnected floor spaces shall conform to Subsection3.2.8.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.10.9.6. Penetration of Fire Separations
(SeeNoteA-3.1.9.)
1) Piping, tubing, ducts, chimneys, wiring, conduit, electrical outlet boxes and other similar service equipment
that penetrate a required fire separation shall be tightly fitted or fire stopped to maintain the integrity of the
separation. (SeeNoteA-9.10.9.6.(1).)
2) Penetrations of a firewall shall be sealed at the penetration by a fire stop that, when subjected to the fire test
method in CAN/ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems,” has an FT rating not less than the fire-resistance rating
for the fire separation.
3) Except as provided in Sentences(4) to(12) and Article9.10.9.7., pipes, ducts, electrical boxes, totally
enclosed raceways or other similar service equipment that partly or wholly penetrate an assembly required to have a
fire-resistance rating shall be noncombustible unless the assembly has been tested incorporating such equipment.
(SeeNoteA-3.1.9.2.(1).)
4) Electrical wires or similar wiring enclosed in noncombustible totally enclosed raceways are permitted to partly
or wholly penetrate an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at
the time of testing as required in Sentence(3).
5) Single conductor metal-sheathed cables with combustible jacketting that are more than 25mm in overall
diameter are permitted to penetrate a fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating without being
incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in Sentence(3), provided the cables are not grouped
and are spaced a minimum of 300mm apart.
6) Electrical wires or cables, single or grouped, with combustible insulation or jacketting that is not totally
enclosed in raceways of noncombustible material, are permitted to partly or wholly penetrate an assembly required to
have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in
Sentence(3), provided the overall diameter of the wiring is not more than 25mm.
7) Combustible totally enclosed raceways which are embedded in a concrete floor slab are permitted in an
assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as
required in Sentence(3), where the concrete provides not less than 50mm of cover between the raceway and the
bottom of the slab.
8) Combustible outlet boxes are permitted in an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being
incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in Sentence(3), provided the opening through the
membrane into the box does not exceed 160cm
2
.
9) Combustible water distribution piping is permitted to partly or wholly penetrate a fire separation that is
required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in
Sentence(3), provided the piping is protected with a fire stop in conformance with Sentence3.1.9.5.(4).
10) Combustible sprinkler piping is permitted to penetrate a fire separation provided the fire compartments on each
side of the fire separation are sprinklered.
11) Sprinklers are permitted to penetrate a fire separation or a membrane forming part of an assembly required to
have a fire-resistance rating without having to meet the fire stop requirements of Sentence(1), provided the annular
space created by the penetration of a fire sprinkler is covered by a metal escutcheon plate in accordance with
NFPA13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems.”
12) Combustible piping for central vacuum systems is permitted to penetrate a fire separation provided the
installation conforms to the requirements that apply to combustible drain, waste and vent piping specified in
Sentences9.10.9.7.(2) to(6).
13) Fire dampers are permitted to penetrate a fire separation or a membrane forming part of an assembly required
to have a fire-resistance rating without having to meet the fire stop requirements of Sentence(1), provided the fire
damper is
a) installed in conformance with NFPA80, “Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives,” or
b) specifically designed with a fire stop.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.10.9.7. Combustible Drain, Waste and Vent Piping
(SeeNoteA-3.1.9.)
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(2) to(6), combustible piping shall not be used in any part of a drain, waste
and vent piping system where any part of that system partly or wholly penetrates a fire separation required to have a
fire-resistance rating or penetrates a membrane that contributes to the required fire-resistance rating of an assembly.
2) Combustible drain, waste and vent piping not located in a vertical shaft is permitted to penetrate a fire
separation required to have a fire-resistance rating or a membrane that forms part of an assembly required to have a
fire-resistance rating provided the piping is sealed at the penetration by a fire stop that has an Frating not less than the
fire-resistance rating required for the fire separation.
3) The rating referred to in Sentence(2) shall be based on CAN/ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems,”
with a pressure differential of 50 Pa between the exposed and unexposed sides, with the higher pressure on the
exposed side.
4) Combustible drain piping is permitted to penetrate a horizontal fire separation or a membrane that contributes
to the required fire-resistance rating of a horizontal fire separation, provided it leads directly from a noncombustible
watercloset through a concrete floor slab.
5) Combustible drain, waste and vent piping is permitted on one side of a vertical fire separation provided it is not
located in a vertical shaft.
6) In buildings containing 2 dwelling units only, combustible drain, waste and vent piping is permitted on one
side of a horizontal fire separation.
9.10.9.8. Collapse of Combustible Construction
1) Combustible construction that abuts on or is supported by a noncombustible fire separation shall be constructed
so that its collapse under fire conditions will not cause collapse of the fire separation.
9.10.9.9. Reduction in Thickness of Fire Separation by Beams and Joists
1) Where pockets for the support of beams or joists are formed in a masonry or concrete fire separation, the
remaining total thickness of masonry and/or grout and/or concrete shall be not less than the required equivalent
thickness shown for TypeS monolithic concrete in TableD-2.1.1. in AppendixD for the required
fire-resistance rating.
9.10.9.10. Concealed Spaces above Fire Separations
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), a horizontal service space or other concealed space located above a required
vertical fire separation shall be divided at the
fire separation b
y an equivalent fire separation within the space.
2) Where a horizontal service space or other concealed space is located above a required vertical fire separation
other than a vertical shaft, such space need not be divided as required in Sentence(1) provided the construction
between such space and the space below is constructed as a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than
that required for the vertical fire separation, except that where the vertical fire separation is not required to have a
fire-resistance rating greater than 45min, the fire-resistance rating of the ceiling may be reduced to 30min.
9.10.9.11. Separation of Residential Occupancies
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), residential occupancies shall be separated from all other major occupancies
by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), a major occupancy classified as a residential occupancy shall be separated
from other major occupancies classified as mercantile or medium-hazard industrial occupancies by a fire separation
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2h.
3) Where not more than 2 dwelling units are located in a building containing a mercantile occupancy, such
mercantile occupancy shall be separated from the dwelling units by a fire separation having not less than 1h
fire-resistance rating.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.10.9.12. Residential Suites in Industrial Buildings
1) Not more than one suite of residential occupancy shall be contained within a building classified as a GroupF,
Division2 major occupancy.
9.10.9.13. Separation of Suites
1) Except as required in Article9.10.9.14. and as permitted by Sentences(2) and (3), a suite shall be separated
from adjoining suites by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min.
2) In sprinklered buildings, suites of business and personal services occupancy and mercantile occupancy that are
served by public corridors conforming with Clause3.3.1.4.(4)(b) are not required to be separated from each other by
fire separations.
3) No fire separation is required between suites of business and personal services occupancy.
9.10.9.14. Separation of Residential Suites
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3) and Article9.10.21.2., suites in residential occupancies shall be
separated from adjacent rooms and suites by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min.
2) Sleeping rooms in boarding and lodging houses where sleeping accommodation is provided for not more than
8 boarders or lodgers need not be separated from the remainder of the floor area as required in Sentence(1) where the
sleeping rooms form part of the proprietor’s residence and do not contain cooking facilities.
3) Dwelling units that contain 2or more storeys including basements shall be separated from the remainder of the
building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h. (SeeNoteA-3.3.4.4.(1).)
4) Reserved.
9.10.9.15. Separation of Public Corridors
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), public corridors shall be separated from the remainder of the
building by a fire separation having not less than a 45min fire-resistance rating.
2) In other than residential occupancies
, no fire-
resistance rating is required for fire separations between a public
corridor and the remainder of the building if
a) the floor area is sprinklered,
b) the sprinkler system is electrically supervised in conformance with Sentence3.2.4.9.(3), and
c) the operation of the sprinkler system will cause a signal to be transmitted to the fire department in
conformance with Sentence3.2.4.7.(4).
3) In other than residential occupancies, no fire separation is required between a public corridor and the remainder
of the building if
a) the floor area is sprinklered,
b) the sprinkler system is electrically supervised in conformance with Sentence3.2.4.9.(3),
c) the operation of the sprinkler system will cause a signal to be transmitted to the fire department in
conformance with Sentence3.2.4.7.(4), and
d) the corridor exceeds 5m in width.
4) Reserved.
9.10.9.16. Separation of Storage Garages
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), a storage garage shall be separated from other occupancies by a fire
separation having not less than a 1.5h fire-resistance rating.
2) Except as permitted in Sentence(3), storage garages containing 5motor vehicles or fewer shall be separated
from other occupancies by a fire separation of not less than 1h.
3) Where a storage garage serves only the dwelling unit to which it is attached or in which it is built, it shall be
considered as part of that dwelling unit and the fire separation required in Sentence(2) need not be provided between
the garage and the dwelling unit.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
4) Except as provided in Sentence(5), where a storage garage is attached to or built into a building of
residential occupancy,
a) an air barrier system conforming to Subsection9.25.3. shall be installed between the garage and the remainder
of the building to provide an effective barrier to gas and exhaust fumes, and
b) every door between the garage and the remainder of the building shall conform to Article9.10.13.15.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.9.16.(4).)
5) Where membrane materials are used to provide the required airtightness in the air barrier system, all joints
shall be sealed and structurally supported.
9.10.9.17. Separation of Repair Garages
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), a repair garage shall be separated from other occupancies by a fire
separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2h.
2) Ancillary spaces directly serving a repair garage, including waiting rooms, reception rooms, tool and parts
storage areas and supervisory office space, need not be separated from the repair garage but shall be separated from
other occupancies as required in Sentence(1).
3) The fire separation referred to in Sentence(1) shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h, where
a) the building is not more than one storey in building height,
b) the building is operated as a single suite, and
c) the only occupancy other than the repair garage is a mercantile occupancy.
4) Except as provided in Sentence(5), where a building containing a repair garage also contains a dwelling unit,
an air barrier system conforming to Subsection9.25.3. shall be installed between the dwelling unit and the suite
containing the garage to provide an effective barrier to gas and exhaust fumes. (SeeNoteA-9.10.9.16.(4).)
5) Where membrane materials are used to provide the required airtightness in the air barrier system, all joints
shall be sealed and structurally supported.
9.10.9.18. Exhaust Ducts Serving More Than One Fire Compartment
1)
Where a vertical ser
vice space contains an exhaust duct that serves more than one fire compartment, the duct
shall have a fan located at or near the exhaust outlet to ensure that the duct is under negative pressure.
2) Individual fire compartments referred to in Sentence(1) shall not have fans that exhaust directly into the duct
in the vertical service space.
9.10.9.19. Central Vacuum Systems
1) A central vacuum system shall serve not more than one suite.
9.10.9.20. Multiple Tenant Self Storage Warehouses
1) Multiple tenant self storage warehouses shall comply with Article 3.3.5.9.
9.10.10. Service Rooms
9.10.10.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to service rooms in all buildings except rooms located within a dwelling unit.
9.10.10.2. Service Room Floors
1) The fire-resistance rating requirements in this Subsection do not apply to the floor assembly immediately
below a service room.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.10.10.3. Separation of Service Rooms
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and Articles9.10.10.5. and9.10.10.6., service rooms shall be separated
from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h when the floor
area containing the service room is not sprinklered.
2) Where a room contains a limited quantity of service equipment and the service equipment does not
constitute a fire hazard, the requirements in Sentence(1) shall not apply.
9.10.10.4. Location of Fuel-Fired Appliances
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3) and Article9.10.10.5., fuel-fired appliances shall be located in a
service room separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having not less than a 1h
fire-resistance rating.
2) Except as required in the appliance installation standards referenced in Sentences6.2.1.5.(1),9.33.5.2.(1)
and9.33.5.3.(1), fuel-fired space-heating appliances, space-cooling appliances, service water heaters and laundry
appliances need not be separated from the remainder of the building as required in Sentence(1), where the appliances
serve
a) not more than one room or suite, or
b) a building with a building area of not more than 400m
2
and a building height of not more than 2storeys.
3) Sentence(1) does not apply to fireplaces and cooking appliances.
9.10.10.5. Incinerators
1) Service rooms containing incinerators shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2h.
2) The design, construction, installation and alteration of each indoor incinerator shall conform to NFPA82,
“Incinerators and Waste and Linen Handling Systems and Equipment.”
3) Every incinerator shall be connected to a chimney flue conforming to the requirements in Section9.21. and
serving no other appliance.
4) An incinerator shall not be located in a room with other fuel-fired appliances.
9.10.10.6. Storage Rooms
1) Rooms for the temporary storage of combustible refuse in all occupancies or for public storage in residential
occupancies shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having not less than a 1 h
fire-resistance rating, except that a 45min fire separation is permitted where the fire-resistance rating of the floor
assembly is not required to exceed 45min, or where such rooms are sprinklered.
9.10.11. Firewalls
9.10.11.1. Required Firewalls
1) Except as provided in Article9.10.11.2., a party wall on a property line shall be constructed as a firewall.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.4.(1).)
9.10.11.2. Firewalls Not Required
1) In a building of residential occupancy in which there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, a party
wall on a property line between dwelling units need not be constructed as a firewall provided it is constructed as a fire
separation having a
fire-resistance rating of not less than a 1 h.
2) Reserved.
3) The wall described in Sentence(1) shall provide continuous protection from the top of the footings to the
underside of the roof deck.
4) Any space between the top of the wall described in Sentence(1) and the roof deck shall be tightly filled with
mineral wool or noncombustible material.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.10.11.3. Construction of Firewalls
1) Where firewalls are used, the requirements in Part3 shall apply.
9.10.12. Prevention of Fire Spread at Exterior Walls and between Storeys
9.10.12.1. Termination of Floors or Mezzanines
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and in Articles9.10.1.3. and9.10.9.5., the portions of a floor area or
mezzanine that do not terminate at an exterior wall, a firewall or a vertical shaft, shall terminate at a vertical fire
separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the floor assembly that terminates at
the separation.
2) A mezzanine need not terminate at a vertical fire separation where the mezzanine is not required to be
considered as a storey in Articles9.10.4.1. and9.10.4.2.
9.10.12.2. Location of Skylights
1) Where a wall in a building is exposed to a fire hazard from an adjoining roof of a separate unsprinklered fire
compartment in the same building, the roof shall contain no skylights within a horizontal distance of 5m of the
windows in the exposed wall.
9.10.12.3. Exterior Walls Meeting at an Angle
1) Except as provided in Article9.9.4.5., where exterior walls of a building meet at an external angle of 135° or
less, the horizontal distance from an unprotected opening in one exterior wall to an unprotected opening in the other
exterior wall shall be not less than 1.2m, where these openings are
a) in different fire compartments, or
b) in different dwelling units.
2) The exterior wall of each fire compartment referred to in Sentence(1) within the 1.2m distance shall have a
fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the interior vertical fire separation between the compartment and
the remainder of the building.
9.10.12.4. Protection of Soffits
1) This Article applies to the portion of any soffit enclosing a projection that is
a) less than 2.5m vertically above a window or door, and
b) less than 1.2m from either side of the window or door.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.12.4.(1).)
2) Except as provided in Sentences(4) and(5), the construction described in Sentence(1) shall have no
unprotected openings and shall be protected in accordance with Sentence(3), where the soffit encloses
a) a common attic or roof space that spans more than 2suites of residential occupancy and projects beyond the
exterior wall of the building,
b) a floor space where an upper storey projects beyond the exterior wall of a lower storey and
i) a fire separation is required at the floor between the two, or
ii) reserved, or
i) a floor space where an upper storey
projects beyond the exterior wall of a lower store
y, and the projection
is continuous across a vertical fire separation separating two suites., or
ii) reserved.
3) Protection required by Sentence(2) shall be provided by
a) noncombustible material having a minimum thickness of 0.38mm and a melting point not below 650°C,
b) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum board installed according to CSAA82.31-M,
“Gypsum Board Application,”
c) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
d) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
e) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.12.4.(3).)
4) In the case of a soffit described in Sentence(1) that is at the edge of an attic or roof space and completely
separated from the remainder of that attic or roof space by fire blocks, the requirements in Sentence(2) do not apply.
5) Where all suites spanned by a common attic or roof space or situated above or below the projecting floor are
sprinklered, the requirements of Sentence(2) do not apply, provided that all rooms, including closets and bathrooms,
having openings in the wall beneath the soffit are sprinklered, notwithstanding any exceptions in the sprinkler
standards referenced in Article3.2.5.12.
9.10.13. Doors, Dampers and Other Closures in Fire Separations
9.10.13.1. Closures
1) Except as provided in Article9.10.13.2., openings in required fire separations shall be protected with a closure
conforming to Table9.10.13.1. and shall be installed in conformance with Chapters2 to 14 of NFPA80, “Fire
Doors and Other Opening Protectives,” unless otherwise specified herein. (Seealso Article9.10.3.1.)
9.10.13.2. Solid Core Wood Door as a Closure
1) A 45mm thick solid core wood door is permitted to be used where a minimum fire-protection rating of
20min is permitted or between a public corridor and a suite provided that the door conforms to CAN/ULC-S113,
“Wood Core Doors Meeting the Performance Required by CAN/ULC-S104 for Twenty Minute Fire Rated Closure
Assemblies.” (SeeNoteA-9.10.13.2.(1).)
2) Doors described in Sentence(1) shall have not more than a 6mm clearance beneath and not more than
3mm at the sides and top.
9.10.13.3. Unrated Wood Door Frames
1) Doors required to provide a 20min fire-protection rating or permitted to be 45mm solid core wood shall be
mounted in a wood frame of not less than 38mm thickness where the frame has not been tested and rated.
9.10.13.4. Doors as a Means of Egress
1) Doors forming part of an exit or a public means of egress shall conform to Subsection9.9.6. in addition to this
Subsection.
9.10.13.5. Wired Glass as a Closure
1) Wired glass conforming to Article9.6.1.2. which has not been tested in accordance with Article9.10.3.1. is
permitted as a closure in a vertical fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating of not more than 1h provided
such glass is not less than 6mm thick and is mounted in conformance with Sentence(2).
Table 9.10.13.1.
Fire-Protection Ratings for Closures
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.13.1.(1)
Required Fire-Resistance Rating of Fire Separation Minimum Fire-Protection Rating of Closure
30 or 45 min 20 min
(1)
1 h 45 min
(1)
1.5 h 1 h
2 h 1.5 h
3 h 2 h
4 h 3 h
Notes to Table9.10.13.1.:
(1) See Article 9.10.13.2.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
2) Wired glass described in Sentence(1) shall be mounted in fixed steel frames having a metal thickness of not
less than 1.35mm and a glazing stop of not less than 20mm on each side of the glass.
3) Individual panes of glass described in Sentence(1) shall not exceed 0.8m
2
in area or 1.4m in height or
width, and the area of glass not structurally supported by mullions shall not exceed 7.5m
2
.
9.10.13.6. Steel Door Frames
1) Steel door frames forming part of a closure in a fire separation, including anchorage requirements, shall
conform to CAN/ULC-S105, “Fire Door Frames Meeting the Performance Required by CAN/ULC-S104.”
9.10.13.7. Glass Block as a Closure
1) Glass block that has not been tested in accordance with Article9.10.3.1. is permitted as a closure in a fire
separation required to have a fire-resistance rating of not more than 1h. (SeeArticle9.20.9.6.)
9.10.13.8. Maximum Size of Opening
1) The size of an opening in an interior fire separation, even where protected with a closure, shall not exceed
11m
2
, with no dimension greater than 3.7m, when the fire compartments on both sides of the fire separation are
not sprinklered.
2) The size of an opening in an interior fire separation, even where protected with a closure, shall not exceed
22m
2
, with no dimension greater than 6m, when the fire compartments on both sides of the fire separation
are sprinklered.
9.10.13.9. Door Latch
1) Every swing type door in a fire separation shall be equipped with a latch.
9.10.13.10. Self-closing Device
1) Except as described in Sentence(2), every door in a fire separation shall have a self-closing device.
2) Self-closing doors are not required between public corridors and suites in business and personal services
occupancies, except in dead-end corridors.
9.10.13.11. Hold-Open Devices
1) Where hold-open devices are used on doors in required fire separations, they shall be installed in accordance
with Article3.1.8.14.
9.10.13.12. Service Room Doors
1) Swing-type doors shall open into service rooms containing fuel-fired equipment where such doors lead to
public corridors or rooms used for assembly but shall swing outward from such rooms in all other cases.
9.10.13.13. Fire Dampers
1) Except as permitted by Sentences(2) to(5) and Sentence9.10.5.1.(4), a duct that penetrates an assembly
required to be a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating shall be equipped with a fire damper in conformance with
Articles3.1.8.4. and3.1.8.10.
2) A fire damper is not required where a noncombustible branch duct pierces a required fire separation provided
the duct
a) has a melting point not below 760°C,
b) has a cross-sectional area less than 130cm
2
, and
c) supplies only air-conditioning units or combined air-conditioning and heating units discharging air at not
more than 1.2m above the floor.
3) A fire damper is not required where a noncombustible branch duct pierces a required fire separation around an
exhaust duct riser in which the airflow is upward provided
a) the melting point of the branch duct is not below 760°C,
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
b) the branch duct is carried up inside the riser not less than 500mm, and
c) the exhaust duct is under negative pressure as described in Article9.10.9.18.
4) Noncombustible ducts that penetrate a fire separation separating a vertical service space from the remainder of
the building need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation provided
a) the ducts have a melting point above 760°C, and
b) each individual duct exhausts directly to the outside at the top of the vertical service space.
5) A duct serving commercial cooking equipment and piercing a required fire separation need not be equipped
with a fire damper at the fire separation. (Seealso Article6.3.1.7.)
9.10.13.14. Fire Stop Flaps
1) Fire stop flaps in ceiling membranes referred to in Sentence9.10.5.1.(4) shall
a) conform to CAN/ULC-S112.2, “Fire Test of Ceiling Firestop Flap Assemblies,” and
b) activate at a temperature approximately 30°C above the normal maximum temperature that occurs in the
ducts, whether the air duct system is operating or shut down.
9.10.13.15. Doors between Garages and Dwelling Units
1) A door between an attached or built-in garage and a dwelling unit shall be tight fitting and weather-stripped
to provide an effective barrier against the passage of gas and exhaust fumes and shall be fitted with a self-closing
device.
2) A doorway between an attached or built-in garage and a dwelling unit shall not be located in a room intended
for sleeping.
9.10.13.16. Door Stops
1) Where a door is installed so that it may damage the integrity of a fire separation if its swing is unrestricted,
door stops shall be installed to prevent such damage.
9.10.14. Spatial Separation Between Buildings
9.10.14.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to buildings other than those to which Subsection9.10.15. applies.
9.10.14.2. Area and Location of Exposing Building Face
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2),
the area of an exposing building face shall be
a) taken as the exterior wall area facing in one direction on any side of a building, and
b) calculated as the total area measured from the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling.
2) If a
building is divided by fire separations into fire compartments, the area of exposing building face is permitted
to be calculated for each fire compartment, provided the
fire separations have a fire-resistance rating not less than
45min.
3) For the purpose of using Table9.10.14.4.-A to determine the maximum aggregate area of unprotected
openings in an irregularly shaped or skewed exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a
vertical plane located so that there are no unprotected openings between the vertical plane and the line to which the
limiting distance is measured. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
4) For the purpose of using Table9.10.14.5.-A to determine the required type of construction, cladding and
fire-resistance rating for an irregularly shaped or skewed exterior wall,
a) the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical plane located so that no portion of the
actual exposing building face is between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is
measured, and
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
b) the value for the maximum area of unprotected openings (seesecond column of Table9.10.14.5.-A) shall be
determined using the limiting distance measured from the location described in Clause(a).
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
9.10.14.3. Limiting Distance and Fire Department Response
1) Except for the purpose of applying Sentences9.10.14.4.(2),(3),(8) and(9), and Sentences9.10.14.5.(3),(8)
and(13), a limiting distance equal to half the actual limiting distance shall be used as input to the requirements of this
Subsection, where
a) the time from receipt of notification of a fire by the fire department until the first fire department vehicle
arrives at the building exceeds 10min in 10% or more of all calls to the building, and
b) any storey in the building is not sprinklered.
(SeeNotesA-3.2.3. andA-3.2.3.1.(8).)
9.10.14.4. Openings in Exposing Building Face
1) Except as provided in Sentences(6) to(10), the maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings in an
exposing building face shall
a) conform to Table9.10.14.4.-A,
b) conform to Subsection3.2.3., or
c) where the limiting distance is not less than 1.2m, be equal to or less than
i) the limiting distance squared, for residential occupancies, business and personal services occupancies and
low-hazard industrial occupancies, and
ii) half the limiting distance squared, for mercantile occupancies and medium-hazard industrial occupancies.
2) Openings in a wall having a limiting distance of less than 1.2m shall be protected by closures, of other than
wired glass or glass block, whose fire-protection rating is in conformance with the fire-resistance rating required for the
wall. (SeeTable9.10.13.1.)
Table 9.10.14.4.-A
Maximum Aggregate Area of Unprotected Openings in Exterior Walls
(1)
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.4.(1)
Occupancy
Classification of
Building
Maximum
Total Area
of
Exposing
Building
Face, m
2
Maximum Aggregate Area of Unprotected Openings,
% of Exposing Building Face Area
Limiting Distance, m
Less
than 1.2
1.2 1.5 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 12.0 16.0 20.0 25.0
Residential,
business and
personal
services, and
low-hazard
industrial
30 079123988100–––––
40 078113269100–––––
50 078102857100–––––
100078918345684100–––
Over 1000 7 7 8 121928405592100–
Mercantile and
medium-hazard
industrial
30 0446204480100––––
40 044616346197100–––
50 044514295079100–––
100 0 4 4 4 9 17 28 42 60 100 – –
Over 100 0 4 4 4 6 10 14 20 27 46 70 100
Notes to Table9.10.14.4.-A:
(1) See also Sentences (6) and (7) to calculate the maximum permitted area of unprotected openings in sprinklered buildings or where wired glass or glass blocks are used.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
3) Except for buildings that are sprinklered and for openable windows having an unobstructed opening equal to
0.35m
2
installed in accordance with Sentences9.9.10.1.(1) and(2), where the limiting distance is 2m or less,
individual unprotected openings shall be no greater than
a) the area stated in Table9.10.14.4.-B, or
b) where the limiting distance is equal to or greater than 1.2m, the area calculated by
where
Area = area of the unprotected opening, and
LD = limiting distance.
4) The spacing between individual unprotected openings described in Sentence(3) that serve a single room or
space described in Sentence(5) shall be not less than
a) 2m horizontally of another unprotected opening that is on the same exposing building face and serves the single
room or space, or
b) 2m vertically of another unprotected opening that serves the single room or space, or another room or space on
the same storey.
5) For the purpose of Sentence(4), “single room or space” shall mean
a) two or more adjacent spaces having a full-height separating wall extending less than 1.5m from the interior
face of the exterior wall, or
b) two or more stacked spaces that are on the same storey.
6) The maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings shall be not more than twice the area determined
according to Sentence(1), where the unprotected openings are glazed with
a) wired glass in steel frames, as described in Article9.10.13.5., or
b) glass blocks, as described in Article9.10.13.7.
7) Where the building is sprinklered, the maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings shall be not more than
twice the area determined according to Sentence(1), provided all rooms, including closets and bathrooms, that are
adjacent to the exposing building face and that have unprotected openings are sprinklered, notwithstanding any
exemptions in the sprinkler standards referenced in Article3.2.5.12.
8) The maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings in an exposing building face of a storage garage need not
comply with Sentence(1), where
a) all storeys are constructed as open-air storeys, and
b) the storage garage has a limiting distance of not less than 3m.
9) The maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings in an exposing building face of a storey that faces a street
and is at the same level as the stre
et need not comply with Sentence(1), where the limiting distance is not less
than 9m.
10) Except as provided in Sentence(11), for garages or accessory buildings that serve a single dwelling unit only
and are detached from any building, the maximum aggregate area of glazed openings shall comply with the
requirements for unprotected openings.
11) The limits on the area of glazed openings stated in Sentence(10) need not apply to the exposing building face
of a detached garage or accessory building facing a dwelling unit, where
Table 9.10.14.4.-B
Maximum Concentrated Area of Unprotected Openings
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.4.(3)
Limiting Distance, m Maximum Area of Individual Unprotected Openings, m
2
1.2 0.35
1.5 0.78
2.0 1.88
Area 0.24 (2
LD – 1.2)²
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on
the property.
9.10.14.5. Construction of Exposing Building Face and Walls above Exposing Building Face
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(3) to(14), each exposing building face and any exterior wall located above
an exposing building face that encloses an attic or roof space shall be constructed in conformance with
Table9.10.14.5.-A. (SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(1).) (Seealso Subsection9.10.8.)
2) Except as provided in Sentences(3) to(8), cladding on exposing building faces and exterior walls located above
exposing building faces that enclose an attic or roof space, for buildings or fire compartments where the maximum
permitted area of unprotected openings is more than 10% of the exposing building face, need not be noncombustible
where the wall assembly complies with the requirements of Clause3.1.5.5.(1)(b) when tested in conformance with
CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
3) Except as provided in Sentences(4) to(8) and permitted by Sentence(9), cladding on exposing building faces
and on exterior walls located above exposing building faces of buildings or fire compartments where the maximum
permitted area of unprotected openings is more than 25% but not more than 50% of the exposing building face need
not be noncombustible, where
a) the limiting distance is greater than 5.0m,
b) the limiting distance is greater than 2.5m where the area and width-to-height ratio of the exposing building
face conform to Table9.10.14.5.-B,
c) the building or fire compartment is sprinklered,
d) the cladding
i) conforms to Subsections9.27.6.,9.27.7.,9.27.8. or9.27.9.,
ii) is installed without furring members, or on furring not more than 25mm thick, over gypsum sheathing
at least 12.7mm thick or over masonry, and
Table 9.10.14.5.-A
Minimum Construction Requirements for Exposing Building Faces
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.5.(1)
Occupancy
Classification of Building or
Fire Compartment
Maximum Area of Unprotected
Openings Permitted, % of
Exposing Building Face Area
Minimum Required
Fire-Resistance Rating
Typeof Construction
Required
Typeof Cladding Required
Residential, business and
personal services, and
low-hazard industrial
0 to 10 1 h Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 10 to 25 1 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 25 to 50 45 min
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 50 to < 100 45 min
Combustible or
noncombustible
Combustible or
noncombustible
Mercantile and
medium-hazard industrial
0 to 10 2 h Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 10 to 25 2 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 25 to 50 1 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 50 to < 100 1 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Combustible or
noncombustible
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Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
iii) after conditioning in conformance with ASTM D 2898, “Accelerated Weathering of
Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing,” has a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when
tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), or
e) the cladding
i) conforms to Subsection9.27.12.,
ii) is installed with or without furring members over a gypsum sheathing at least 12.7mm thick or over
masonry,
iii) has a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) does not exceed 2mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements.
4) Except as provided in Sentence(5), where a garage or accessory building serves one dwelling unit only and is
detached from any building, the exposing building face
a) need not conform to the minimum required fire-resistance rating stated in Table9.10.14.5.-A, where the
limiting distance is 0.6m or more,
b) shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min, where the limiting distance is less than 0.6m, and
c) need not conform to the type of cladding required by Table9.10.14.5.-A, regardless of the limiting distance.
5) The requirements regarding fire-resistance rating, type of construction and type of cladding need not apply to
the exposing building face of a detached garage or accessory building facing a dwelling unit, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the
property.
6) Except as provided in Sentence(7), combustible projections on the exterior of a wall that are more than 1m
above ground level and that could expose an adjacent building to fire spread shall not be permitted within
a) 1.2m of a property line or the centre line of a public way, or
b) 2.4m of a combustible projection on another building on the same property.
7) Except as provided in Sentences(9) to(12), Sentence(6) shall not apply to
a) buildings containing 1 or 2 dwelling units only, and
b) detached garages or accessory buildings, where
i) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one
dwelling unit,
ii)
the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
iii) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the
property.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(7).)
8) Where combustible projections on an exposing building face are permitted by Sentence(7), are totally enclosed
and constructed with solid faces, such as for fireplaces and chimneys, and extend within 1.2m of a property line,
a) the construction of the face and sides of the projection shall comply with the corresponding requirements for
exposing building faces for limiting distances less than 1.2m as stated in Sentence(2) or(3), and
Table 9.10.14.5.-B
Maximum Allowable Area and Ratio of Width to Height of Exposing Building Face
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.5.(3)
Maximum Ratio of Width to Height of Exposing Building Face Maximum Area of Exposing Building Face, m
2
1:1 88
2:1 102
3:1 129
4:1 161
5:1 195
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
b) where the underside of the projection is more than 0.6m above finished ground level, it shall be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick noncombustible material,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(8).)
9) Except as provided in Sentence(11), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of not more than
0.45m, projecting roof soffits shall not be constructed above the exposing building face. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
10) Except as provided in Sentence(11), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of more than
0.45m, the face of roof soffits shall not project to less than 0.45m from the property line. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
11) The face of a roof soffit is permitted to project to the property line, where it faces a street, lane or public
thoroughfare. (SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(11) and 9.10.15.5.(10).)
12) Where roof soffits project to less than 1.2m from the property line, the centre line of a lane or public
thoroughfare, or an imaginary line between two buildings or fire compartments on the same property, they shall
a) have no openings, and
b) be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick sheet steel,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
13) Heavy timber and steel columns need not conform to the requirements of Sentence(1), provided the limiting
distance is not less than 3m.
14) Non-loadbearing wall components need not have a minimum fire-resistance rating, where the building
a) is 1 storey in building height,
b) is of noncombustible construction,
c) is classified as a low-hazard industrial occupancy and used only for low fire load occupancies, such as
power-generating plants or plants for the manufacture or storage of noncombustible materials, and
d) has a limiting distance of 3m or more.
9.10.15. Spatial Separation Between Houses
9.10.15.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to
a) buildings that contain only dwelling units and have no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, and
b) accessory buildings that serve a building described in Clause (a).
9.10.15.2. Area and Location of Exposing Building Face
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3),
the area of an exposing building face shall be
a) taken as the exterior wall area facing in one direction on any side of a building, and
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
b) calculated as
i) the total area measured from the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling,
ii) reserved
, or
iii) except as provided in Sentence(3
), where Table9.10.15.4. is used to determine the maximum aggregate
area of glazed openings, the area of any number of individual vertical portions of the wall measured from
the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling. (SeeNoteA-9.10.15.4.(2).)
2) If a building is divided by fire separations into fire compartments, the area of exposing building face is permitted
to be calculated for each fire compartment provided the fire separations have a fire-resistance ratings not less than
45min.
3) Where the exposing building face of any section of an exterior wall enclosing a single room or space, or
combination room and space, has a limiting distance of 2m or less, that section of the exposing building face serving
the room or space shall not be divided into portions for the purpose of calculating area of exposing building face.
(SeeSentence9.10.15.4.(5) and NoteA-9.10.15.4.(2).)
4) For the purpose of using Table9.10.15.4. to determine the maximum permitted area of glazed openings in
an irregularly shaped or skewed exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical plane
located so that there are no glazed openings between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is
measured. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
5) In determining the required cladding-sheathing assembly and fire-resistance rating for an irregularly shaped or
skewed exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical plane located so that no
portion of the actual exposing building face is between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is
measured. (SeeArticle9.10.15.5. and NoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
9.10.15.3. Limiting Distance and Fire Department Response
1) Except for the purpose of applying Sentences9.10.15.2.(2),9.10.15.4.(3) and9.10.15.5.(13), a limiting
distance equal to half the actual limiting distance shall be used as input to the requirements of this Subsection, where
a) the time from receipt of notification of a fire by the fire department until the first fire department vehicle
arrives at the building exceeds 10min in 10% or more of all calls to the building, and
b) any storey in the building is not sprinklered.
(SeeNotesA-3.2.3. andA-3.2.3.1.(8).)
9.10.15.4. Glazed Openings in Exposing Building Face
1) Except as provided in Sentence(6), the maximum aggregate area of glazed openings in an exposing building
face shall
a) conform to Table9.10.15.4.,
b) conform to Subsection3.2.3., or
c) where the limiting distance is not less than 1.2m, be equal to or less than the limiting distance squared.
2) Where the limits on the area of glazed openings are determined for individual portions of the exterior wall,
as described in Sentence 9.10.15.2.(3), the maximum aggregate area of glazed openings for any portion shall conform
to the values in the row of Table9.10.15.4. corresponding to the maximum total area of exposing building face
(seecolumn 1 of the Table) that is equal to the sum of all portions of the exposing building face.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.15.4.(2).)
3) Except for
buildings t
hat are sprinklered and for openable windows having an unobstructed opening equal to
0.35 m
2
installed in accordance with Sentences9.9.10.1.(1) and(2), where the limiting distance is 2m or less,
individual glazed openings or a group of glazed openings in an exposing building face shall not exceed 50% of the
maximum allowable aggregate area of glazed openings determined in Sentence(1).
4) The spacing between individual glazed openings or a group of glazed openings
described in Sentence(3)
serving a single room or space described in Sentence(5) shall be not less than
a) 2m horizontally of another glazed opening that is on the same exposing building face and serves the single
room or space, or
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
b) 2m vertically of another glazed opening that serves the single room or space, or another room or space on the
same storey.
5) For the purpose of Sentence(4), “single room or space” shall mean
a) two or more adjacent spaces having a full-height separating wall extending less than 1.5m from the interior
face of the exterior wall, or
b) two or more stacked spaces that are on the same storey.
6) The limits on the area of glazed openings shall not apply to the exposing building face of a dwelling unit facing
a detached garage or accessory building, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on
the property.
9.10.15.5. Construction of Exposing Building Face of Houses
1) Except as provided in Sentences(4) and(13), each exposing building face and any exterior wall located above
an exposing building face that encloses an attic or roof space shall be constructed in conformance with Sentences(2)
and(3)
a) for the exposing building face as a whole, or
b) for any number of separate portions of the exposing building face (seeSubclause9.10.15.2.(1)(b)(iii),
Sentence9.10.15.4.(2), and NoteA-9.10.15.4.(2)).
(Seealso Subsection9.10.8.)
2) Except as provided in Sentences(4) and(5), where the limiting distance is less than 0.6m, the exposing
building face and exterior walls located above the exposing building face that enclose an attic or roof space shall have a
fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min, and
a) the cladding shall be metal or noncombustible cladding installed in accordance with Section9.20.,9.27.
or9.28. (seeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(1)),
b) the cladding shall
i) conform to Subsection9.27.12.,
ii) be installed without furring members over gypsum sheathing at least 12.7mm thick or over masonry,
iii) have a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) not exceed 2mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements, or
c) the wall assembly shall comply with Clause3.1.5.5.(1)(b) when tested in conformance with
CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
Table 9.10.15.4.
Maximum Area of Glazed Openings in Exterior Walls of Houses
Forming Part of Sentences 9.10.15.4.(1) and (2)
Maximum Total
Area of
Exposing
Building Face,
m
2
Maximum Aggregate Area of Glazed Openings, % of Exposing Building Face Area
Limiting Distance, m
Less
than 1.2
1.2 1.5 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 12.0 16.0 20.0 25.0
30 079123988100–––––
40 078113269100–––––
50 078102857100–––––
100 078918345684100–––
Over 1000778121928405592100–
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
3) Except as provided in Sentence(4), where the limiting distance is equal to or greater than 0.6m and less than
1.2m, the exposing building face and any exterior wall located above the exposing building face that encloses an attic or
roof space shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min, and
a) the cladding shall be metal or noncombustible cladding installed in accordance with Section9.20., 9.27. or
9.28. (seeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(1)),
b) the cladding shall
i) conform to Subsection9.27.6.,9.27.7.,9.27.8.,9.27.9., or9.27.10.,
ii) be installed without furring members, or on furring not more than 25mm thick, over gypsum sheathing
at least 12.7mm thick or over masonry, and
iii) after conditioning in conformance with ASTMD2898, “Accelerated Weathering of
Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing,” have a flame-spread rating not greater than25 when
tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2),
c) the cladding shall
i) conform to Subsection9.27.12.,
ii) be installed with or without furring members over gypsum sheathing at least12.7mm thick or over
masonry,
iii) have a flame-spread rating not greater than25 when tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) not exceed 2mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements, or
d) the wall assembly shall comply with Clause3.1.5.5.(1)(b) when tested in conformance with
CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
4) The requirements regarding fire-resistance rating and type of cladding-sheathing assembly shall not apply to
the exposing building face or projections from an exposing building face of a dwelling unit facing a detached garage or
accessory building, or a garage or accessory building facing a dwelling unit, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on
the property.
5) Except as provided in Sentence(6), combustible projections on the exterior of a wall that are more than 1m
above ground level and that could expose an adjacent building to fire spread shall not be permitted within
a) 1.2m of a property line or the centre line of a public way, or
b) 2.4m of a combustible projection on another building on the same property.
6) Except as provided in Sentences(8) to(11), Sentence(5) shall not apply to
a) bu
ildings containing 1or2 dwelling units only, and
b) detached garages or accessory buildings, where
i) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
ii) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
iii) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on
the property.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(7).)
7) Where combustible projections on an exposing building face are permitted by Sentence(6), are totally enclosed
and constructed with solid faces, such as for fireplaces and chimneys, and extend within 1.2m of a property line,
a) the construction of the face and sides of the projection shall comply with the corresponding requirements for
exposing building faces for limiting distances less than 1.2m as stated in Sentence(2) or(3), and
b) where the underside of the projection is more than 0.6m above finished ground level, it shall be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick noncombustible material,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(8).)
8) Except as provided in Sentence(10), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of not more than
0.45m, projecting roof soffits shall not be constructed above the exposing building face. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
9) Except as provided in Sentence(10), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of more than
0.45m, the face of roof soffits shall not project to less than 0.45m from the property line. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
10) The face of a roof soffit is permitted to project to the property line, where it faces a street, lane or public
thoroughfare. (SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(11) and 9.10.15.5.(10).)
11) Where roof soffits project to less than 1.2m from the property line, the centre line of a lane or public
thoroughfare, or an imaginary line between two buildings or fire compartments on the same property, they shall
a) have no openings, and
b) be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick sheet steel,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
12) For buildings of combustible construction, materials installed to provide the required protection for soffits may
be covered with a combustible or noncombustible finish material.
13) Heavy timber and steel columns need not conform to the requirements of Sentence(1), provided the limiting
distance is not less than 3m.
9.10.16. Fire Blocks
9.10.16.1. Required Fire Blocks in Concealed Spaces
1) Vertical concealed spaces in interior walls and exterior walls shall be separated by fire blocks
a) one from the other, and
b) from horizontal concealed spaces.
2) Horizontal concealed spaces in attics, roof spaces, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces shall be separated by
fire blocks
a) one from the other, and
b) from vertical concealed spaces.
3) Fire blocks shall be provided at all interconnections between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces in
interior coved ceilings, drop ceilings and soffits where the exposed construction materials within the concealed spaces
have a surface flame-spread rating greater than 25.
4) Fire blocks shall be provided at the top and bottom of each run of stairs where they pass through a floor
containing concealed space in which the exposed construction materials within the space have a surface flame-spread
rating greater than25.
5) Unsprinklered concealed spaces of combustible construction created by a ceiling, roof space or unoccupied attic
space shall be separated by fire blocks into compartments
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Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
a) not more than 60m in greatest dimension, and
b) where such space contains exposed construction materials having a surface flame-spread rating greater than25,
not more than 300m
2
in area.
6) No dimension of the concealed space described in Clause(5)(b) shall exceed 20m.
7) Concealed spaces in mansard or gambrel style roofs, exterior cornices, balconies and canopies of combustible
construction in which the exposed construction materials within the space have a surface flame-spread rating exceeding
25 shall have vertical fire blocks at intervals of not more than 20m and at points where such concealed spaces extend
across the ends of required vertical fire separations.
9.10.16.2. Required Fire Blocks in Wall Assemblies
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), fire blocks shall be provided to block off concealed spaces within wall
assemblies, including spaces created by furring,
a) at each floor level,
b) at each ceiling level where the ceiling contributes to part of the required fire-resistance rating, and
c) at other locations within the wall, so that the distance between fire blocks does not exceed 20m horizontally
and 3m vertically.
2) Fire blocks described in Sentence(1) are not required, provided
a) the insulated wall assembly contains not more than one concealed air space whose horizontal thickness is not
more than 25mm,
b) the exposed construction materials within the space are noncombustible,
c) the exposed construction materials within the space, including insulation, but not including wiring, piping or
similar services, have a flame-spread rating of not more than 25, or
d) the concealed wall space is filled with insulation.
9.10.16.3. Fire Block Materials
1) Except as permitted by Sentences(2) and(3), fire blocks shall be constructed of materials that will remain in
place and prevent the passage of flames for not less than 15min when subjected to the standard fire exposure in
CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials.”
2) Fire blocks are deemed to comply with Sentence(1) if they are constructed of not less than
a) 0.38mm sheet steel,
b) 12.7mm gypsum board,
c) 12.5mm plywood, OSB or waferboard, with joints having continuous supports,
d) 2 layers of 19mm lumber with joints staggered, or
e) 38mm lumber.
3) In a building permitted to be of combustible construction, semi-rigid fibre insulation board produced from
glass, rock or slag is permitted to be used to block the vertical space in a double-frame wall assembly formed at the
intersection of the floor assembly and the walls, provided the width of the vertical space does not exceed 25mm and
the insulation board
a) has a density not less than 45kg/m
3
,
b) is securely fastened to one set of studs,
c) extends from below the bottom of the top plates in the lower storey to above the top of the bottom plate in the
upper storey, and
d) completely fills the portion of the vertical space between the headers and between the wall plates.
(SeeNoteA-3.1.11.7.(7).)
9.10.16.4. Penetration of Fire Blocks
1) Where fire blocks are pierced by pipes, ducts or other elements, the effectiveness of the fire blocks shall be
maintained around such elements.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.10.17. Flame-Spread Limits
9.10.17.1. Flame-Spread Rating of Interior Surfaces
1) Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, the exposed surface of every interior wall and ceiling,
including skylights and glazing, shall have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than 150.
2) Except as permitted in Sentence(3), doors need not conform to Sentence(1) provided they have a surface
flame-spread rating of not more than 200.
3) Doors within dwelling units, other than garage doors, need not conform to Sentences(1) and(2).
9.10.17.2. Ceilings in Exits or Public Corridors
1) At least 90% of the exposed surface of every ceiling in an exit or unsprinklered ceiling in a public corridor shall
have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
9.10.17.3. Walls in Exits
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), at least 90% of the exposed surfaces of every wall in an exit shall have a
surface flame-spread rating of not more than25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
2) At least 75% of the wall surface of a lobby used as an exit in Article9.9.8.5. shall have a surface flame-spread
rating of not more than 25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
9.10.17.4. Exterior Exit Passageways
1) Where an exterior exit passageway provides the only means of egress from the rooms or suites it serves, the wall
and ceiling finishes of that passageway, including the soffit beneath and the guard on the passageway, shall have a
surface flame-spread rating of not more than 25, except that up to 10% of the total wall area and 10% of the total
ceiling area is permitted to have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than 150.
9.10.17.5. Walls in Public Corridors
1) At least 90% of the total wall surface in any unsprinklered public corridor shall have a surface flame-spread
rating of not more than 75, or at least 90% of the upper half of such walls shall have a surface flame-spread rating of
not more than25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
9.10.17.6. Calculation of Wall and Ceiling Areas
1) Skylights, glazing, combustible doors, and combustible light diffusers and lenses shall not be considered in the
calculation of wall and ceiling areas in this Subsection.
9.10.17.7. Corridors Containing an Occupancy
1) Where a public corridor or a corridor used by the public contains an occupancy, the interior finish materials
used on the walls or ceiling of such occupancy, shall have a surface flame-spread rating in conformance with that
required for
public corridors.
9.10
.17.8. Light Diffusers and Lenses
1) Light diffusers and lenses having flame-spread ratings that exceed those permitted for the ceiling finish, shall
conform to the requirements of Sentence3.1.13.4.(1).
9.10.17.9. Combustible Skylights
1) Individual combustible skylights in corridors required to be separated from the remainder of the building by
fire separations shall not exceed 1 m
2
in area and shall be spaced not less than 1.2m apart.
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.10.17.10. Protection of Foamed Plastics
(SeeNoteA-3.1.4.2.)
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), foamed plastics that form part of a wall or ceiling assembly shall
be protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within attic or roof spaces, crawl
spaces, wall assemblies and ceiling assemblies
a) by one of the interior finishes described in Subsections9.29.4. to9.29.9.,
b) provided the building does not contain a GroupC major occupancy, by sheet metal that
i) is mechanically fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
ii) is not less than 0.38mm thick, and
iii) has a melting point not less than 650°C, or
c) by any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Sentence3.1.5.15.(2).
(SeeNoteA-3.1.4.2.(1)(c).)
2) A walk-in cooler or freezer consisting of factory-assembled wall, floor or ceiling panels containing foamed
plastics is permitted to be used, provided the panels
a) are protected on both sides by sheet metal not less than 0.38mm thick having a melting point not less
than 650°C,
b) do not contain an air space, and
c) have a flame-spread rating, determined by subjecting a sample panel with an assembled joint typical of field
installation to the applicable test described in Subsection3.1.12., that is not more than that permitted for the
room or space in which they are located or that they bound.
3) Thermosetting foamed plastic insulation having a flame-spread rating of not more than 200 is permitted to be
used in factory-assembled doors in storage garages serving single dwelling units provided that
a) the insulation is covered on the interior with a metallic foil,
b) the assembly has a flame-spread rating of not more than 200, and
c) the assembly incorporates no air spaces.
9.10.17.11. Walls and Ceilings in Bathrooms
1) The interior finish of walls and ceilings in bathrooms within suites of residential occupancy shall have a surface
flame-spread rating of not more than 200.
9.10.17.12. Coverings or Linings of Ducts
1) Where a covering or a lining is used with a duct, such lining or covering shall have a flame-spread rating
conforming to Article3.6.5.4. or 9.33.6.4.
9.10.18. Alarm and Detection Systems
9.10.18.1. Access Provided through a Firewall
1) Where access is provided through a firewall, the requirements in this Subsection shall apply to the floor areas
on both sides of the firewall as if they were in the same building.
9.10.18.2. Fire Alarm System Required
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(3) and(4), a fire alarm system shall be installed in buildings in which a
sprinkler system is required by this Part.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(5), a fire alarm system shall be installed
a) in every building that contains more than 3 storeys, including storeys below the first storey,
b) where the total occupant load exceeds 300, or
c) when the occupant load for any major occupancy in Table9.10.18.2. is exceeded.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
3) In buildings in which a sprinkler system has been installed in accordance with NFPA13D, “Installation of
Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes,” a fire alarm system need not be
installed.
4) In buildings that contain fewer than 9 sprinklers conforming to Sentence3.2.5.12.(4), a fire alarm system
need not be installed.
5) A fire alarm system is not required in a residential occupancy where an exit or public corridor serves not more
than 4suites or where each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.
9.10.18.3. Design and Installation Requirements
1) Except as stated in Sentence(2) and as required by this Subsection, where fire alarm, fire detection and smoke
detection devices and systems are installed, these devices and systems and their installation shall conform to
Subsection3.2.4.
2) The following Articles in Subsection3.2.4. regarding fire alarm systems do not apply to Part9 buildings:
Articles3.2.4.1.,3.2.4.10.,3.2.4.11.,3.2.4.12.,3.2.4.13. and3.2.4.22.
9.10.18.4. Rooms and Spaces Requiring Heat Detectors or Smoke Detectors
1) Where a fire alarm system is required, every public corridor in buildings of residential occupancy and every exit
stair shaft shall be provided with smoke detectors.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), if a fire alarm system is required in a building that is not sprinklered, fire
detectors shall be installed in the following spaces:
a) storage rooms not within dwelling units,
b) service rooms not within dwelling units,
c) janitors’ rooms
d) rooms in which hazardous substances are to be used or stored (seeNoteA-3.3.1.2.(1)),
e) elevator hoistways, chutes and dumbwaiter shafts, and
f) laundry rooms in buildings of residential occupancy, but not those within dwelling units.
3) Heat detectors and smoke detectors described in Sentence(2) are not required in dwelling units or in sprinklered
buildings in which the sprinkler system is electrically supervised and equipped with a water flow alarm.
9.10.18.5. Smoke Detectors in Recirculating Air-Handling Systems
1) Except for a recirculating air system serving not more than one dwelling unit
, where a fire alarm system is
required to
be installed, every recirculating air-handling system shall be designed to prevent the circulation of smoke
upon a signal from a duct-type smoke detector where such system supplies more than one suite on the same floor or
serves more than 1storey.
9.10.18.6. Portions of Buildings Considered as Separate Buildings
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), where a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less
than 1h separates a portion of a building from the remainder of the building and there are no openings through the
fire separation other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and conduit, the requirements for fire alarm and detection
systems may be applied to each portion so separated as if it were a separate building.
Table 9.10.18.2.
Maximum Occupant Load for Buildings without Fire Alarm Systems
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.18.2.(2)
Major Occupancy Classification Occupant Load Above which a Fire Alarm System is Required
Residential 10 (sleeping accommodation)
Business and personal services, Mercantile 150 above or below the first storey
Low- or medium-hazard industrial 75 above or below the first storey
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
2) The permission in Sentence(1) to consider separated portions of a building as separate buildings does not
apply to service rooms and storage rooms.
9.10.18.7. Central Vacuum Systems
1) Central vacuum cleaning systems serving more than one suite or storey in buildings equipped with a fire alarm
system shall be designed to shut down upon activation of the fire alarm system.
9.10.18.8. Open-Air Storage Garages
1) A fire alarm system is not required in a storage garage conforming to Article3.2.2.90. provided there are no
other occupancies in the building.
9.10.19. Smoke Alarms
9.10.19.1. Required Smoke Alarms
1) Except as permitted by Article9.10.19.8., smoke alarms conforming to CAN/ULC-S531, “Standard for
Smoke Alarms,” shall be installed in
a) each dwelling unit, and
b) each sleeping room not within a dwelling unit, and
c) reserved.
9.10.19.2. Sound Patterns of Smoke Alarms
1) The sound patterns of smoke alarms shall
a) meet the temporal patterns of alarm signals (seeNoteA-3.2.4.18.(2)), or
b) be a combination of temporal pattern and voice relay.
9.10.19.3. Location of Smoke Alarms
1) Within dwelling units, sufficient smoke alarms shall be installed so that
a) there is at least one smoke alarm installed on each storey, including basements, and
b) on any storey of a dwelling unit containing sleeping rooms, a smoke alarm is installed
i) in each sleeping room, and
ii) in a location between the sleeping rooms and the remainder of the storey, and if the sleeping rooms are
served by a hallway, the smoke alarm shall be located in the hallway.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.19.3.(1).)
2) A smoke alarm required by Sentence(1) shall be installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S553,
“Installation of Smoke Alarms.”
3) Smoke alarms required in Article9.10.19.1. and Sentence(1) shall be installed on or near the ceiling.
9.10.19.4. Power Supply
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), smoke alarms described in Sentence9.10.19.1.(1) shall
a) be installed with permanent connections to an electrical circuit (seeNoteA-3.2.4.20.(7)(a)),
b) have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm, and
c) in case the regular power supply to the smoke alarm is interrupted, be provided with a battery as an alternative
power source that can continue to provide power to the smoke alarm for a period of no less than 7days in the
normal condition, followed by 4minutes of alarm.
2) Where the building is not supplied with electrical power, smoke alarms are permitted to be battery-operated.
3) Suites of residential occupancy are permitted to be equipped with smoke detectors in lieu of smoke alarms,
provided the smoke detectors
a) are capable of independently sounding audible signals within the individual suites,
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
b) except as permitted in Sentence(4), are installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire
Alarm Systems,” and
c) form part of the fire alarm system.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.4.20.(8).)
4) Smoke detectors permitted to be installed in lieu of smoke alarms as stated in Sentence(3) are permitted to
sound localized alarms within individual suites, and need not sound an alarm throughout the rest of the building.
9.10.19.5. Interconnection of Smoke Alarms
1) Where more than one smoke alarm is required in a dwelling unit, the smoke alarms shall be wired so that the
activation of one alarm will cause all alarms within the dwelling unit to sound.
2) Reserved.
9.10.19.6. Silencing of Smoke Alarms
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), a manually operated device shall be incorporated within the circuitry of
a smoke alarm installed in a dwelling unit so that the signal emitted by the smoke alarm can be silenced for a period of
not more than 10 min, after which the smoke alarm will reset and sound again if the level of smoke in the vicinity is
sufficient to re-actuate it.
2) Suites of residential occupancy equipped with smoke detectors installed to CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire
Alarm Systems,” which are part of the fire alarm system in lieu of smoke alarms as permitted in
Sentence9.10.19.4.(3), need not incorporate the manually operated device required in Sentence(1).
9.10.19.7. Instructions for Maintenance and Care
1) Where instructions are necessary to describe the maintenance and care required for smoke alarms to ensure
continuing satisfactory performance, they shall be posted in a location where they will be readily available to the
occupants for reference.
9.10.19.8. Residential Fire Warning Systems
1) Except where a fire alarm system is installed or required in a building, smoke detectors forming part of a
residential fire warning system installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S540, “Residential Fire and Life Safety
Warning Systems: Installation, Inspection, Testing and Maintenance,” are permitted to be installed in lieu of all
smoke alarms required by Articles9.10.19.1. and9.10.19.3., provided that the fire warning system
a) is capable of sounding audible signals as stated in Articles9.10.19.2. and9.10.19.5.,
b) is powered as stated in Article9.10.19.4., and
c) is equipped with a silencing device as stated in Article9.10.19.6.
9.10.20. Firefighting
9.10.20.1. Windows or Access Panels Required
1) Except as provided in Sentence(3), a window or access panel providing an opening not less than 1 100mm
high and 550mm wide and having a sill height of not more than 900mm above the floor shall be provided on the
second and third storeys of every building in at least one wall facing on a street if such storeys are not sprinklered.
2) Access panels required in Sentence(1) shall be readily openable from both inside and outside or be glazed
with plain glass.
3) Access panels required in Sentence(1) need not be provided in
a) buildings containing only dwelling units where there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, or
b) reserved.
9.10.20.2. Access to Basements
1) Except for basements serving not more than one dwelling unit, each unsprinklered basement exceeding 25m in
length or width shall be provided with direct access to the outdoors to at least one street.
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
2) Access required in Sentence(1) may be provided by a door, window or other means that provides an opening
not less than 1 100mm high and 550mm wide, the sill height of which shall not be more than 900mm above
the floor.
3) Access required in Sentence(1) may also be provided by an interior stair accessible from the outdoors.
9.10.20.3. Fire Department Access to Buildings
1) Access for fire department equipment shall be provided to each building by means of a street, private roadway
or yard. (SeeNotesA-9.10.20.3.(1) andA-3.2.5.6.(1).)
2) Where access to a building as required in Sentence(1) is provided by means of a roadway or yard, the design
and location of such roadway or yard shall take into account connection with public thoroughfares, weight of
firefighting equipment, width of roadway, radius of curves, overhead clearance, location of fire hydrants, location of
fire department connections and vehicular parking.
9.10.20.4. Portable Extinguishers
1) Portable extinguishers shall be installed in all buildings, except within dwelling units, in conformance with the
British Columbia Fire Code.
9.10.20.5. Freeze Protection of Fire Protection Systems
1) Equipment forming part of a fire protection system that may be adversely affected by freezing temperatures
and that is located in an unheated area shall be protected from freezing.
9.10.21. Fire Protection for Construction Camps
9.10.21.1. Requirements for Construction Camps
1) Except as provided in Articles9.10.21.2. to9.10.21.9., construction camps shall conform to
Subsections9.10.1. to9.10.20.
9.10.21.2. Separation of Sleeping Rooms
1) Except for sleeping rooms within dwelling units, sleeping rooms in construction camps shall be separated from
each other and from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having not less than a 30min
fire-resistance rating.
9.10.21.3. Floor Assemblies between the First and Second Storey
1) Except in a dwelling unit, a floor assembly in a construction camp building separating the first storey and the
second storey shall be constructed as a fire separation having not less than a 30min fire-resistance rating.
9.10.21.4. Walkways Connecting Buildings
1) Walkways of combustible construction connecting buildings shall be separated from each connected building by
a fire separation having not less than a 45min fire-resistance rating.
9.10.21.5. Spatial Separations
1) Construction camp buildings shall be separated from each other by a distance of not less than 10m except as
otherwise permitted in Subsections9.10.14. and9.10.15.
9.10.21.6. Flame-Spread Ratings
1) Except in dwelling units and except as provided in Sentence(2), the surface flame-spread rating of wall and
ceiling surfaces in corridors and walkways, exclusive of doors, shall not exceed25 over not less than 90% of the
exposed surface area and not more than 150 over the remaining surface area.
2) Except within dwelling units, corridors that provide access to exit from sleeping rooms and that have a
fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min shall have a flame-spread rating conforming to the appropriate
requirements in Subsection9.10.17.
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Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.10.21.7. Smoke Detectors
1) Except in dwelling units, corridors providing access to exit from sleeping rooms in construction camp buildings
with sleeping accommodation for more than 10persons shall be provided with a smoke detector connected to the
building alarm system.
9.10.21.8. Portable Fire Extinguishers
1) Each construction camp building shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers in conformance with the
British Columbia Fire Code.
9.10.21.9. Hose Stations
1) Every construction camp building providing sleeping accommodation for more than 30persons shall be
provided with a hose station that is protected from freezing and is equipped with a hose of sufficient length so that
every portion of the building is within reach of a hose stream.
2) Hose stations required in Sentence(1) shall be located near an exit.
3) Hoses referred to in Sentence(1) shall be not less than 19mm inside diam and shall be connected to a central
water supply or to a storage tank having a capacity of not less than 4 500 L with a pumping system capable of
supplying a flow of not less than 5L/s at a gauge pressure of 300kPa.
9.10.22. Fire Protection for Gas, Propane and Electric Cooktops and Ovens
(SeeNoteA-9.10.22.)
9.10.22.1. Installation of Cooktops and Ovens
1) Except as required in Sentence(2), natural gas and propane cooktops and ovens shall be installed in accordance
with the Gas Safety Regulation. (Seealso Article9.34.1.1.)
2) Clearances for and protection around gas, propane and electric ranges shall be not less than those provided in
Articles9.10.22.2. and9.10.22.3.
9.10.22.2. Vertical Clearances above Cooktops
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), framing, finishes and cabinetry installed directly above the location of the
cooktop shall be not less than 750mm above the level of cooktop burners or elements.
2) The vertical clearance described in Sentence(1) for framing, finishes and cabinets located directly above the
location of the cooktop may be reduced to 600mm above the level of the elements or burners, provided the framing,
finishes and cabinets
a) are noncombustible, or
b) are protected by a metal hood that projects 125mm beyond the framing, finishes and cabinets.
9.10.22.3. Protection around Cooktops
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), combustible wall framing, finishes or cabinets within 450mm of
the area where the cooktop is to be located shall be protected above the level of the heating elements or burners by
material providing fire resistance at least equivalent to that provided by a 9.5mm thickness of gypsum board.
2) Counter-top splash boards or back plates that extend above the level of heating elements or burners need not
be protected as described in Sentence(1).
3) Except for cabinetry described in Article9.10.22.2., cabinetry located not less than 450mm above the level
of the heating elements or burners need not be protected as described in Sentence(1).
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
Section 9.10. Fire Protection
9.10.1. Definitions and Application
9.10.1.1. Sloped Roofs
1) For the purposes of this Section, roofs with slopes of 60° or more to the horizontal that are adjacent to a
room or space intended for occupancy shall be considered as a wall.
9.10.1.2. Testing of Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
1) Where life safety and fire protection systems and systems with fire protection and life safety functions are
integrated with each other, they shall be tested as a whole in accordance with CAN/ULC-S1001, “Integrated Systems
Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems,” to verify that they have been properly integrated.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.9.1.(1).)
9.10.1.3. Items under Part3 Jurisdiction
1) Tents, air-supported structures, transformer vaults, walkways, elevators and escalators shall conform to Part3.
2) Where rooms or spaces are intended for an assembly occupancy, such rooms or spaces shall conform to Part3.
3) Basements containing more than 1 storey or exceeding 600m
2
in area shall conform to Part3.
4) Where rooms or spaces are intended for the storage, manufacture or use of hazardous or explosive material,
such rooms or spaces shall conform to Part3. (SeeNoteA-3.3.1.2.(1).)
5) Except as provided in Article3.3.5.8., facilities for the dispensing of fuel shall not be installed in any building.
6) Openings through floors that are not protected by shafts or closures shall be protected in conformance with
Subsection3.2.8. (Seealso Sentence9.9.4.7.(1).)
7) Chutes and shafts shall conform to Subsection3.6.3. except where they are entirely contained within a
dwelling unit.
8) Sprinkler systems shall be designed, constructed and installed in conformance with Articles3.2.5.12.
to3.2.5.15. and3.2.5.17.
9) Standpipe and hose systems shall be designed, constructed and installed in conformance with Articles3.2.5.8.
to3.2.5.11. and3.2.5.17.
10) Fire pumps shall be installed in conformance with Articles3.2.5.17. and3.2.5.18.
11) Where fuel-fired appliances are installed on a roof, such appliances shall be installed in conformance with
Article3.6.1.5.
9.10.1.4. Items under Part6 Jurisdiction
1) In kitchens containing commercial cooking equipment used in processes producing grease-laden vapours,
theequipment shall be designed and installed in conformance with Article6.3.1.7. (SeeNoteA-9.10.1.4.(1).)
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.2. Occupancy Classification
9.10.2.1. Occupancy Classification
1) Except as provided in Article9.10.2.2., every building or part thereof shall be classified according to its major
occupancy as belonging to one of the groups or divisions described in Table9.10.2.1.
9.10.2.2. Custodial, Convalescent and Residential Care Homes
1) Children’s custodial homes and convalescent homes for ambulatory occupants living as a single
housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit with sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons are permitted to be
classified as residential occupancies.
2) A care facility accepted for residential use pursuant to provincial legislation is permitted to be classified as a
residential occupancy, provided
a) occupants live as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit with sleeping accommodation for not more than
10 persons,
b) smoke alarms are installed in conformance with Subsection
9.10.19.,
c) emergency lighting is provided in conformance with Article 9.9.12.3., and
d) the building is sprinklered throughout.
9.10.2.3. Group A, Division 2, Low Occupant Load
1) This Part may apply to a Group A, Division 2 assembly occupancy that is permitted by Article 3.1.2.6. to be
classified as a Group D, business and personal services occupancy, provided the building in which the assembly occupancy is
located complies with Sentence 1.3.3.3.(1) of Division A.
(See Note A-3.1.2.6.)
9.10.2.4. Major Occupancies above Other Major Occupancies
1) Except as permitted in Article9.10.2.4., in any building containing more than one major occupancy in which one
major occupancy is located entirely above another, the requirements of Article9.10.8.1. for each portion of the building
containing a major occupancy shall be applied to that portion as if the entire building was of that major occupancy.
9.10.2.5. Buildings Containing More Than One Major Occupancy
1) In a building containing more than one major occupancy, where the aggregate area of all major occupancies in a
particular group or division does not exceed 10% of the floor area on the storey on which they are located, they need
not be considered as major occupancies for the purposes of Articles9.10.8.1. and9.10.2.3. provided they are not
classified as GroupF, Division2 occupancies.
Table 9.10.2.1.
Occupancy Classifications
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.2.1.(1)
Group Division Description of Major Occupancies
(1)
C – Residential occupancies
D – Business and personal services occupancies
E–Mercantile occupancies
F 2 Medium-hazard industrial occupancies
F3
Low-hazard industrial occupancies (Does not include storage garages
serving individual dwelling units)
Notes to Table9.10.2.1.:
(1) See Note A-3.1.2.1.(1).
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.3. Ratings
9.10.3.1. Fire-Resistance and Fire-Protection Ratings
1) Except as permitted in Sentences (2) and (3), w
here a fire-resistance rating or a fire-protection rating is required in
this Section for an element of a building, such rating shall be determined in conformance with
a) the test methods described in Part3,
b) the calculation method presented in AppendixD, or
c) the construction specifications presented in Tables9.10.3.1.-A and9.10.3.1.-B.
2) In a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces, where a minimum fire-resistance rating of 15 min
is permitted, the construction described in Clause 9.11.1.1.(2)(a) is permitted to be used.
3) In a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces, where a minimum fire-resistance rating of 30 min
is permitted, it is permitted to use construction having
a) walls and floor/ceiling assemblies framed with wood studs,
b) joist spaces filled with
i) preformed insulation of rock or slag fibres conforming to CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal
Insulation for Buildings,” having a mass per unit area of not less than 1.22 kg/m² of floor surface, or
ii) wet-blown cellulose fibres conforming to CAN/ULC-S703, “Cellulose Fibre Insulation for Buildings,”
having a density of not less than 50 kg/m³ to a minimum depth of 90 mm on the underside of the
subfloor and the sides of the structural members,
c) stud spaces of
i) non-loadbearing assemblies filled with preformed insulation of glass fibres conforming to
CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” having a mass per unit area of not
less than 0.6 kg/m² of wall surface, and
ii) loadbearing assemblies filled with preformed insulation of rock or slag fibres conforming to
CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” having a mass per unit area of not
less than 1.22 kg/m² of wall surface, or filled with insulation of cellulose fibres conforming to
CAN/ULC-S703, “Cellulose Fibre Insulation for Buildings,” having a density of not less than 50 kg/m³,
d) resilient channel on one side of the fire separation spaced 400 or 600 mm o.c., and
e) not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum board on ceilings and on both sides of walls.
(See also Clause 9.11.1.1.(2)(a).)
9.10.3.2. Flame-Spread Ratings
1) Where a flame-spread rating is required in this Section for an element of a building, such rating shall be
determined in accordance with the test methods described in Part3, or in accordance with AppendixD.
2) Unless the flame-spread rating is referred to herein as a “surface flame-spread rating,” it shall apply to any surface
of the element being considered that would be exposed by cutting through it as well as to the exposed surface of the
element.
9.10.3.3. Fire Exposure
1) Floor, roof and ceiling assemblies shall be rated for exposure to fire on the underside.
2) Exterior walls shall be rated for exposure to fire from inside the building, except that such walls need not
comply with the temperature rise limitations required by the standard tests referred to in Article9.10.3.1. if such walls
have a limiting distance of not less than 1.2m, and due allowance is made for the effects of heat radiation in accordance
with the requirements in Part3.
3) Interior vertical fire separations required to have fire-resistance ratings shall be rated for exposure to fire on
each side.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.3.4. Suspended Membrane Ceilings
1) Where a ceiling construction has a suspended membrane ceiling with lay-in panels or tiles which contribute
to the required fire-resistance rating, hold down clips or other means shall be provided to prevent the lifting of such
panels or tiles in the event of a fire.
9.10.4. Building Size Determination
9.10.4.1. Mezzanines not Considered as Storeys
1) Except as required by Sentences(2) and9.10.4.2.(1), the space above a mezzanine is permitted to be excluded
from the calculation of building height, provided
a) the aggregate area of mezzanines that are not superimposed does not exceed 10% of the floor area of the building
in which they are located, and
b) the area of mezzanine in a suite does not exceed 10% of the area of that suite on the storey on which it is located.
2) Except as required by Sentence9.10.4.2.(1), the space above a mezzanine need not be considered as a storey in
calculating the building height, provided
a) not less than 60% of the horizontal plane separating the mezzanine from the room or floor space in which it is
located is open, and
b) except from within enclosed spaces described in Sentence(3), the space above the mezzanine is used as an
open area without partitions or subdividing walls higher than 1 070mm above the mezzanine floor.
(See also Note A-3.2.1.1.(3).)
3) The space above a mezzanine conforming to Sentence(2) is permitted to include an enclosed space whose area
does not exceed 10% of the open area of the room in which the mezzanine is located, provided the enclosed space
does not obstruct visual communication between the open space above the mezzanine and the room in which it is
located.
4) For the purpose of determining occupant load, the areas of mezzanines that are not considered as storeys shall be
added to the floor area of the storey on which they are located. (SeeNoteA-9.10.4.1.(4).)
5) Platforms and catwalks intended solely for periodic inspection and maintenance need not be considered as
floor assemblies or mezzanines for the purpose of calculating building height, provided
a) they are not used for storage, and
b) they are constructed with
noncombustible materials, unless the building is permitted to be of combustible
construction.
9.10.4.2. More Than One Level of Mezzanine
1) Each level of mezzanine that is partly or wholly superimposed above the first level of mezzanine shall be
considered as a storey in calculating the building height.
9.10.4.3. Basement Storage Garages
1) Where a basement is used primarily as a storage garage, the basement is permitted to be considered as a separate
building for the purposes of this Section provided the floor above the basement and the exterior walls of the basement
above the adjoining ground level are constructed as fire separations of masonry or concrete having a fire-resistance rating
of not less than 2h, except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.1.2.(2) and (3).
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.4.4. Roof-Top Enclosures
1) A roof-top enclosure shall not be considered as a storey in calculating the building height if the roof-top
enclosure is provided for
a) elevator machinery,
b) a service room,
c) a stairway used for no purpose other than for access or egress,
d) an elevator lobby used for no purpose other than for access or egress, or
e) a combination thereof.
9.10.5. Permitted Openings in Wall and Ceiling Membranes
9.10.5.1. Permitted Openings in Wall and Ceiling Membranes
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(2) and(4), a membrane forming part of an assembly required to have a
fire-resistance rating shall not be pierced by openings into the assembly unless the assembly has been tested and rated
for such openings.
2) A wall or ceiling membrane forming part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating is permitted to
be pierced by openings for electrical and similar service outlet boxes provided such outlet boxes are tightly fitted.
3) Where boxes referred to in Sentence(2) are located on both sides of walls required to provide a fire-resistance
rating, they shall be offset where necessary to maintain the integrity of the fire separation.
4) A membrane ceiling forming part of an assembly assigned a fire-resistance rating on the basis of
Table9.10.3.1.-B or AppendixD is permitted to be pierced by openings leading to ducts within the ceiling space
provided the ducts, the amount of openings and their protection conform to the requirements of AppendixD.
9.10.6. Construction Types
9.10.6.1. Combustible Elements in Noncombustible Construction
1) Where a building or part of a building is required to be of noncombustible construction, combustible elements shall be
limited in conformance with the requirements in Subsection3.1.5.
9.10.6.2. Heavy Timber Construction
1) Heavy timber construction shall be considered to have a 45min fire-resistance rating when it is constructed in
accordance with the requirements for heavy timber construction in Article3.1.4.7.
9.10.7. Steel Members
9.10.7.1. Protection of Steel Members
1) Except as permitted in Article3.2.2.3., structural steel members used in construction required to have a
fire-resistance rating shall be protected to provide the required fire-resistance rating.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.8. Fire Resistance and Combustibility in Relation to
Occupancy, Height and Supported Elements
9.10.8.1. Fire-Resistance Ratings for Floors and Roofs
1) Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, the fire-resistance ratings of floors and roofs shall conform to
Table9.10.8.1. (SeeSubsection9.10.2. for mixed occupancies and Subsection9.10.21. for construction camps.)
9.10.8.2. Fire-Resistance Ratings in Sprinklered Buildings
1) The requirements in Table9.10.8.1. for roof assemblies to have a fire-resistance rating are permitted to be
waived in sprinklered buildings where
a) the sprinkler system is electrically supervised in conformance with Sentence3.2.4.9.(3), and
b) the operation of the sprinkler system will cause a signal to be transmitted to the fire department in
conformance with Sentence3.2.4.7.(4).
9.10.8.3. Fire-Resistance Ratings for Walls, Columns and Arches
1) Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, all loadbearing walls, columns and arches in the storey
immediately below a floor or roof assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required for the
supported floor or roof assembly.
2) Reserved.
9.10.8.4. Support of Noncombustible Construction
1) Where an assembly is required to be of noncombustible construction and to have a fire-resistance rating, it shall be
supported by noncombustible construction.
9.10.8.5. Service Rooms
1) Construction supporting a service room need not conform to Article9.10.8.3.
9.10.8.6. Mezzanines
1) Mezzanines required to be counted as storeys in Articles9.10.4.1. and9.10.4.2. shall be constructed in
conformance with the requirements for “Floors Except Floors over Crawl Spaces” in Table9.10.8.1.
9.10.8.7. Roofs Supporting an Occupancy
1) Where a portion of a roof supports an occupancy, that portion shall be constructed as a fire separation having a
fire-resistance rating conforming to the rating for “Floors Except Floors over Crawl Spaces” in Table9.10.8.1.
9.10.8.8. Floors of Exterior Passageways
1) Except as provided in Sentences
(2) and(3), the floor assembly of every exterior passageway used as part of a
means of egress shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min or be of noncombustible construction.
Table 9.10.8.1.
Fire-Resistance Ratings for Structural Members and Assemblies
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.8.1.(1)
Major Occupancy
Maximum Building Height,
storeys
Minimum Fire-Resistance Rating by Building Element, min
Floors Except Floors over
Crawl Spaces
Mezzanine Floors Roofs
Residential (Group C) 3 45 45 –
All other occupancies
245– –
3454545
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
2) No fire-resistance rating is required for floors of exterior passageways serving buildings of GroupD, E or F major
occupancy that are not more than 2storeys in building height.
3) No fire-resistance rating is required for floors of exterior passageways serving
a) reserved
,
b) a single dwelling unit where no suite is located above or below the dwelling unit (seealso Sentence9.9.9.3.(2)).
9.10.8.9. Crawl Spaces
1) Where a crawl space exceeds 1.8m in height or is used for any occupancy or as a plenum in combustible construction
or for the passage of flue pipes, it shall be considered as a basement in applying the requirements in Article9.10.8.1.
9.10.8.10. Application to Houses
1) Table9.10.8.1. does not apply to
a) a dwelling unit that has no other dwelling unit above or below it,
b) houses with a
secondary suite including their common spaces or
c) a dwelling unit that is not above or below another major occupancy.
9.10.8.11. Part3 as an Alternative
1) The fire-resistance ratings of floors, roofs, loadbearing walls, columns and arches need not conform to this
Subsection if such assemblies conform in all respects to the appropriate requirements in Section3.2.
9.10.9. Fire Separations between Rooms and Spaces within Buildings
9.10.9.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to
a) fire separations required between rooms and spaces in buildings, except between rooms and spaces within a
dwelling unit, and
b) reserved.
9.10.9.2. Continuous Barrier
1) Except as permitted in Article9.10.9.3., a wall or floor assembly required to be a fire separation shall be
constructed as a continuous barrier against the spread of fire and retard the passage of smoke.
2) Reserved.
3) The continuity of a fire separation shall be maintained where it abuts another fire separation, a floor, a ceiling, a
roof, or an exterior wall assembly. (SeeNoteA-3.1.8.3.(4).)
4) All gypsum board joints in the assemblies described in Sentence
(1) shall conform to CSAA82.31-M,
“Gypsum Board Application,” and penetrations in these assemblies shall be sealed using flexible sealant or tape to
maintain the integrity over the entire surface.
9.10.9.3. Openings to be Protected with Closures
1) Except as permitted in Articles9.10.9.5.,9.10.9.6. and9.10.9.7., openings in required fire separations shall be
protected with closures conforming to Subsection9.10.13.
2) Doors in a
fire separation with a required fire-resistance rating of 15 min, but not greater than 45 min, need not
have a fire-protection rating provided they
a) are at least 45 mm thick solid core wood doors, and
b) have a self-closing device.
(SeeSubsection 9.10.13. and NoteA-9.10.9.3.(2).)
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.9.4. Floor Assemblies
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(2) to(4), all floor assemblies shall be constructed as fire separations.
2) Floor assemblies contained within dwelling units need not be constructed as fire separations.
3) Floor assemblies for which no fire-resistance rating is required by Subsection9.10.8. and floors of mezzanines not
required to be counted as storeys in Articles9.10.4.1. and9.10.4.2. need not be constructed as fire separations.
4) Where a crawl space is not required by Article9.10.8.9. to be constructed as a basement, the floor above it need
not be constructed as a fire separation.
9.10.9.5. Interconnected Floor Spaces
1) Interconnected floor spaces shall conform to Subsection3.2.8.
9.10.9.6. Penetration of Fire Separations
(SeeNoteA-3.1.9.)
1) Piping, tubing, ducts, chimneys, wiring, conduit, electrical outlet boxes and other similar service equipment that
penetrate a required fire separation shall be tightly fitted or fire stopped to maintain the integrity of the separation.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.9.6.(1).)
2) Penetrations of a firewall shall be sealed at the penetration by a fire stop that, when subjected to the fire test
method in CAN/ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems,” has an FT rating not less than the fire-resistance rating
for the fire separation.
3) Except as provided in Sentences(4) to(12) and Article9.10.9.7., pipes, ducts, electrical boxes, totally
enclosed raceways or other similar service equipment that partly or wholly penetrate an assembly required to have a
fire-resistance rating shall be noncombustible unless the assembly has been tested incorporating such equipment.
(See
NoteA-3.1.9.2.(1).)
4) Electrical wires or similar wiring enclosed in noncombustible totally enclosed raceways are permitted to partly or
wholly penetrate an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the
time of testing as required in Sentence(3).
5) Single conductor metal-sheathed cables with combustible jacketting that are more than 25mm in overall
diameter are permitted to penetrate a fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in
the assembly at the time of testing as required in Sentence(3), provided the cables are not grouped and are spaced a
minimum of 300mm apart.
6) Electrical wires or cables, single or grouped, with combustible insulation or jacketting that is not totally
enclosed in raceways of noncombustible material, are permitted to partly or wholly penetrate an assembly required to
have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in Sentence(3),
provided the overall diameter of the wiring is not more than 25mm.
7) Combustible totally enclosed raceways which are embedded in a concrete floor slab are permitted in an
assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as
required in Sentence(3), where the concrete provides not less than 50mm of cover between the raceway and the
bottom of the slab.
8) Combustible outlet boxes are permitted in an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being
incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in Sentence(3), provided the opening through the
membrane into the box does not exceed 160cm
2
.
9) Combustible water distribution piping is permitted to partly or wholly penetrate a fire separation that is required
to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required in
Sentence(3), provided the piping is protected with a fire stop in conformance with Sentence3.1.9.5.(4).
10) Combustible sprinkler piping is permitted to penetrate a fire separation provided the fire compartments on each side
of the fire separation are sprinklered.
11) Sprinklers are permitted to penetrate a fire separation or a membrane forming part of an assembly required to
have a fire-resistance rating without having to meet the fire stop requirements of Sentence(1), provided the annular space
created by the penetration of a fire sprinkler is covered by a metal escutcheon plate in accordance with NFPA13,
“Installation of Sprinkler Systems.”
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12) Combustible piping for central vacuum systems is permitted to penetrate a fire separation provided the
installation conforms to the requirements that apply to combustible drain, waste and vent piping specified in
Sentences9.10.9.7.(2) to(6).
13) Fire dampers are permitted to penetrate a fire separation or a membrane forming part of an assembly required to
have a fire-resistance rating without having to meet the fire stop requirements of Sentence(1), provided the fire damper is
a) installed in conformance with NFPA80, “Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives,” or
b) specifically designed with a fire stop.
14) In a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces, ducts penetrating fire separations need not be
equipped with fire dampers in conformance with Article 3.1.8.10. provided they are noncombustible with all openings in
the duct system serving only one fire compartment.
9.10.9.7. Combustible Drain, Waste and Vent Piping
(SeeNoteA-3.1.9.)
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(2) to(6), combustible piping shall not be used in any part of a drain, waste
and vent piping system where any part of that system partly or wholly penetrates a fire separation required to have a
fire-resistance rating or penetrates a membrane that contributes to the required fire-resistance rating of an assembly.
2) Combustible drain, waste and vent piping not located in a vertical shaft is permitted to penetrate a fire separation
required to have a fire-resistance rating or a membrane that forms part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance
rating provided the piping is sealed at the penetration by a fire stop that has an Frating not less than the fire-resistance
rating required for the fire separation.
3) The rating referred to in Sentence(2) shall be based on CAN/ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems,”
with a pressure differential of 50 Pa between the exposed and unexposed sides, with the higher pressure on the
exposed side.
4) Combustible drain piping is permitted to penetrate a horizontal fire separation or a membrane that contributes to
the required fire-resistance rating of a horizontal fire separation, provided it leads directly from a noncombustible watercloset
through a concrete floor slab.
5) Combustible drain, waste and vent piping is permitted on one side of a vertical fire separation provided it is not
located in a vertical shaft.
6) In buildings containing 2 dwelling units only, combustible drain, waste and vent piping is permitted on one side of
a horizontal fire separation.
9.10.9.8. Collapse of Combustible Construction
1) Combustible construction that abuts on or is supported by a noncombustible fire separation shall be constructed so
that its collapse under fire conditions will not cause collapse of the fire separation
.
9.10.9.9. Reduction in Thickness of Fire Separation by Beams and Joists
1) Where pockets for the support of beams or joists are formed in a masonry or concrete fire separation, the
remaining total thickness of masonry and/or grout and/or concrete shall be not less than the required equivalent
thickness shown for TypeS monolithic concrete in TableD-2.1.1. in AppendixD for the required fire-resistance rating.
9.10.9.10. Concealed Spaces above Fire Separations
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), a horizontal service space or other concealed space located above a required
vertical fire separation shall be divided at the fire separation by an equivalent fire separation within the space.
2) Where a horizontal service space or other concealed space is located above a required vertical fire separation other
than a vertical shaft, such space need not be divided as required in Sentence(1) provided the construction between
such space and the space below is constructed as a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required
for the vertical fire separation, except that where the vertical fire separation is not required to have a fire-resistance rating
greater than 45min, the fire-resistance rating of the ceiling may be reduced to 30min.
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.9.11. Separation of Residential Occupancies
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), residential occupancies shall be separated from all other major occupancies by a
fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), a major occupancy classified as a residential occupancy shall be separated from
other major occupancies classified as mercantile or medium-hazard industrial occupancies by a fire separation having a fire-resistance
rating of not less than 2h.
3) Where not more than 2 dwelling units are located in a building containing a mercantile occupancy, such mercantile
occupancy shall be separated from the dwelling units by a fire separation having not less than 1h fire-resistance rating.
9.10.9.12. Residential Suites in Industrial Buildings
1) Not more than one suite of residential occupancy shall be contained within a building classified as a GroupF,
Division2 major occupancy.
9.10.9.13. Separation of Suites
1) Except as required in Article9.10.9.14. and as permitted by Sentences(2) and (3), a suite shall be separated
from adjoining suites by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min.
2) In sprinklered buildings, suites of business and personal services occupancy and mercantile occupancy that are served by
public corridors conforming with Clause3.3.1.4.(4)(b) are not required to be separated from each other by fire separations.
3) No fire separation is required between suites of business and personal services occupancy.
9.10.9.14. Separation of Residential Suites
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to
(4) and Article9.10.21.2., suites in residential occupancies shall be
separated from adjacent rooms and suites by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45min.
2) Sleeping rooms in boarding and lodging houses where sleeping accommodation is provided for not more
than 8 boarders or lodgers need not be separated from the remainder of the floor area as required in Sentence(1)
where the sleeping rooms form part of the proprietor’s residence and do not contain cooking facilities.
3) Except as provided in
Sentence(4), dwelling units that contain 2or more storeys including basements as well as
houses with a secondary suite including their common spaces shall be separated from the remainder of the building by
a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h. (SeeNoteA-3.3.4.4.(1).)
4) In a house with a
secondary suite, dwelling units shall be separated from each other and from ancillary spaces and
common spaces with a fire separation
a) having a fire-resistance rating not less than 15 min when all smoke alarms within the house are of photo-electric
type and interconnected as described in Clause 9.10.19.5.(2)(a) (see also Sentence 9.10.3.1.(2)),
b) having a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min when additional smoke alarms of photo-electric type are
installed and interconnected as described in Clause 9.10.19.5.(2)(b) (see also Sentence 9.10.3.1.(3)),
c) having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min when smoke alarms are not installed and interconnected as
described in Clauses (a) or (b), or
d) that is not required to have a fire-resistance rating if the building is sprinklered.
9.10.9.15. Separation of Public Corridors
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2)
to(4), public corridors shall be separated from the remainder of the building
by a fire separation having not less than a 45min fire-resistance rating.
2) In other than residential occupancies, no fire-resistance rating is required for fire separations between a public corridor
and the remainder of the building if
a) the floor area is sprinklered,
b) the sprinkler system is electrically supervised in conformance with Sentence3.2.4.9.(3), and
c) the operation of the sprinkler system will cause a signal to be transmitted to the fire department in
conformance with Sentence3.2.4.7.(4).
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3) In other than residential occupancies, no fire separation is required between a public corridor and the remainder of the
building if
a) the floor area is sprinklered,
b) the sprinkler system is electrically supervised in conformance with Sentence3.2.4.9.(3),
c) the operation of the sprinkler system will cause a signal to be transmitted to the fire department in
conformance with Sentence3.2.4.7.(4), and
d) the corridor exceeds 5m in width.
4) A
public corridor located in a house with a secondary suite shall be separated from the remainder of the spaces in
the house with a fire separation
a) having a fire-resistance rating not less than 15 min when all smoke alarms within the house are of photo-electric
type and interconnected as described in Clause 9.10.19.5.(2)(a) (see also Sentence 9.10.3.1.(2)),
b) having a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min when additional smoke alarms of photo-electric type are
installed and interconnected as described in Clause 9.10.19.5.(2)(b) (see also Sentence 9.10.3.1.(3)),
c) having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min when smoke alarms are not installed and interconnected as
described in Clauses (a) or (b), or
d) that is not required to have a fire-resistance rating if the building is sprinklered.
9.10.9.16. Separation of Storage Garages
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), a storage garage shall be separated from other occupancies by a fire
separation having not less than a 1.5h fire-resistance rating.
2) Except as permitted in Sentence(3), storage garages containing 5motor vehicles or fewer shall be separated
from other occupancies by a fire separation of not less than 1h.
3) Where a storage garage serves only the dwelling unit to which it is attached or in which it is built, it shall be
considered as part of that dwelling unit and the fire separation required in Sentence(2) need not be provided between the
garage and the dwelling unit.
4) Except as provided in Sentence(5), where a storage garage is attached to or built into a building of
residential occupancy,
a) an air barrier system conforming to Subsection9.25.3. shall be installed between the garage and the remainder
of the building to provide an effective barrier to gas and exhaust fumes, and
b) every door between the garage and the remainder of the building shall conform to Article9.10.13.15.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.9.16.(4).)
5) Where membrane materials are used to provide the required airtightness in the air barrier system, all joints shall
be sealed and structurally supported.
9.10.9.17. Separation of Repair Garages
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), a repair garage shall be separated from other occupancies by a fire
separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2
h.
2) Ancillary spaces directly serving a repair garage, including waiting rooms, reception rooms, tool and parts
storage areas and supervisory office space, need not be separated from the repair garage but shall be separated from
other occupancies as required in Sentence(1).
3) The fire separation referred to in Sentence(1) shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h, where
a) the building is not more than one storey in building height,
b) the building is operated as a single suite, and
c) the only occupancy other than the repair garage is a mercantile occupancy.
4) Except as provided in Sentence(5), where a building containing a repair garage also contains a dwelling unit, an air
barrier system conforming to Subsection9.25.3. shall be installed between the dwelling unit and the suite containing the
garage to provide an effective barrier to gas and exhaust fumes. (SeeNoteA-9.10.9.16.(4).)
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
5) Where membrane materials are used to provide the required airtightness in the air barrier system, all joints shall
be sealed and structurally supported.
9.10.9.18. Exhaust Ducts Serving More Than One Fire Compartment
1) Where a vertical service space contains an exhaust duct that serves more than one fire compartment, the duct shall
have a fan located at or near the exhaust outlet to ensure that the duct is under negative pressure.
2) Individual fire compartments referred to in Sentence(1) shall not have fans that exhaust directly into the duct in
the vertical service space.
9.10.9.19. Central Vacuum Systems
1) A central vacuum system shall serve not more than one suite.
9.10.9.20. Multiple Tenant Self Storage Warehouses
1) Multiple tenant self storage warehouses shall comply with Article 3.3.5.9.
9.10.10. Service Rooms
9.10.10.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to service rooms in all buildings except rooms located within a dwelling unit.
9.10.10.2. Service Room Floors
1) The fire-resistance rating requirements in this Subsection do not apply to the floor assembly immediately below
a service room.
9.10.10.3. Separation of Service Rooms
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and Articles9.10.10.5. and9.10.10.6., service rooms shall be separated from
the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1h when the floor area
containing the service room is not sprinklered.
2) Where a room contains a limited quantity of service equipment and the service equipment does not
constitute a fire hazard, the requirements in Sentence(1) shall not apply.
9.10.10.4. Location of Fuel-Fired Appliances
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3) and Article9.10.10.5., fuel-fired appliances shall be located in a
service room separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having not less than a 1h fire-resistance rating.
2) Except as required in the appliance installation standards referenced in Sentences6.2.1.5.(1),9.33.5.2.(1)
and9.33.5.3.(1), fuel-fired space-heating appliances, space-cooling appliances, service water heaters and laundry appliances need
not be separated from the remainder of the building as required in Sentence(1),
a) where the
appliances serve
i) not more than one room or suite, or
ii) a building with a building area of not more than 400m
2
and a building height of not more than 2storeys,or
b) where the appliances
i) serve a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces, and
ii) are located in a service room separated from the dwelling units or their common spaces by a fire separation
having a fire-resistance rating not less than the fire-resistance rating required for the fire separation between the
dwelling units or common spaces.
3) Sentence(1) does not apply to fireplaces and cooking appliances.
9.10.10.5. Incinerators
1) Service rooms containing incinerators shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2h.
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
2) The design, construction, installation and alteration of each indoor incinerator shall conform to NFPA82,
“Incinerators and Waste and Linen Handling Systems and Equipment.”
3) Every incinerator shall be connected to a chimney flue conforming to the requirements in Section9.21. and
serving no other appliance.
4) An incinerator shall not be located in a room with other fuel-fired appliances.
9.10.10.6. Storage Rooms
1) Rooms for the temporary storage of combustible refuse in all occupancies or for public storage in residential
occupancies shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having not less than a 1 h fire-resistance
rating, except that a 45min fire separation is permitted where the fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly is not required
to exceed 45min, or where such rooms are sprinklered.
9.10.11. Firewalls
9.10.11.1. Required Firewalls
1) Except as provided in Article9.10.11.2., a party wall on a property line shall be constructed as a firewall.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.4.(1).)
9.10.11.2. Firewalls Not Required
1) A
party wall on a property line of a building of residential occupancy need not be constructed as a firewall, provided
it is constructed as a fire separation having not less than a 1h fire-resistance rating, where the party wall separates
a) two dwelling units where there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit,
b) a dwelling unit and a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces, or
c) two houses with a secondary suite including their common spaces.
2) Reserved.
3) The wall described in Sentence(1) shall provide continuous protection from the top of the footings to the
underside of the roof deck.
4) Any space between the top of the wall described in Sentence(1) and the roof deck shall be tightly filled with
mineral wool or noncombustible material.
9.10.11.3. Construction of Firewalls
1) Where firewalls are used, the requirements in Part3 shall apply.
9.10.12. Prevention of Fire Spread at Exterior Walls and between Storeys
9.10.12.1. Termination of Floors or Mezzanines
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and in Articles9.10.1.3. and9.10.9.5., the portions of a floor area or
mezzanine that do not terminate at an exterior wall, a firewall or a vertical shaft, shall terminate at a vertical fire separation
having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the floor assembly that terminates at the separation.
2) A mezzanine need not terminate at a vertical fire separation where the mezzanine is not required to be considered
as a storey in Articles9.10.4.1. and9.10.4.2.
9.10.12.2. Location of Skylights
1) Where a wall in a building is exposed to a fire hazard from an adjoining roof of a separate unsprinklered fire
compartment in the same building, the roof shall contain no skylights within a horizontal distance of 5m of the windows
in the exposed wall.
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.12.3. Exterior Walls Meeting at an Angle
1) Except as provided in Article9.9.4.5., where exterior walls of a building meet at an external angle of 135° or
less, the horizontal distance from an unprotected opening in one exterior wall to an unprotected opening in the other exterior
wall shall be not less than 1.2m, where these openings are
a) in different fire compartments, or
b) in different dwelling units, ancillary spaces or common spaces in a house with a
secondary suite.
2) The exterior wall of each fire compartment referred to in Sentence(1) within the 1.2m distance shall have a
fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the interior vertical fire separation between the compartment and the
remainder of the building.
9.10.12.4. Protection of Soffits
1) This Article applies to the portion of any soffit enclosing a projection that is
a) less than 2.5m vertically above a window or door, and
b) less than 1.2m from either side of the window or door.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.12.4.(1).)
2) Except as provided in Sentences(4) and(5), the construction described in Sentence(1) shall have no
unprotected openings and shall be protected in accordance with Sentence(3), where the soffit encloses
a) a common attic or roof space that spans more than 2suites of residential occupancy and projects beyond the exterior
wall of the building,
b) a floor space where an upper storey projects beyond the exterior wall of a lower storey and
i) a fire separation is required at the floor between the two,
ii) reserved, or
c) a floor space where an upper storey projects beyond the exterior wall of a lower storey, and the projection is
continuous across
i) a vertical fire separation separating two suites,
ii) reserved.
3) Protection required by Sentence(2) shall be provided by
a) noncombustible material having a minimum thickness of 0.38mm and a melting point not below 650°C,
b) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum board installed according to CSAA82.31-M,
“Gypsum Board Application,”
c) not less than 11
mm thick plywood,
d) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
e) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.12.4.(3).)
4) In the case of a soffit described in Sentence(1) that is at the edge of an attic or roof space and completely
separated from the remainder of that attic or roof space by fire blocks, the requirements in Sentence(2) do not apply.
5) Where all suites spanned by a common attic or roof space or situated above or below the projecting floor are
sprinklered, the requirements of Sentence(2) do not apply, provided that all rooms, including closets and bathrooms,
having openings in the wall beneath the soffit are sprinklered, notwithstanding any exceptions in the sprinkler
standards referenced in Article3.2.5.12.
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9.10.13. Doors, Dampers and Other Closures in Fire Separations
9.10.13.1. Closures
1) Except as provided in Article9.10.13.2., openings in required fire separations shall be protected with a closure
conforming to Table9.10.13.1. and shall be installed in conformance with Chapters2 to 14 of NFPA80, “Fire
Doors and Other Opening Protectives,” unless otherwise specified herein. (Seealso Article9.10.3.1.)
9.10.13.2. Solid Core Wood Door as a Closure
1) A 45mm thick solid core wood door is permitted to be used where a minimum fire-protection rating of 20min
is permitted or between a public corridor and a suite provided that the door conforms to CAN/ULC-S113, “Wood Core Doors
Meeting the Performance Required by CAN/ULC-S104 for Twenty Minute Fire Rated Closure Assemblies.”
(SeeNoteA-9.10.13.2.(1).)
2) Doors described in Sentence(1) shall have not more than a 6mm clearance beneath and not more than
3mm at the sides and top.
9.10.13.3. Unrated Wood Door Frames
1) Doors required to provide a 20min fire-protection rating or permitted to be 45mm solid core wood shall be
mounted in a wood frame of not less than 38mm thickness where the frame has not been tested and rated.
9.10.13.4. Doors as a Means of Egress
1) Doors forming part of an exit or a public means of egress shall conform to Subsection9.9.6. in addition to this
Subsection.
9.10.13.5. Wired Glass as a Closure
1) Wired glass conforming to Article9.6.1.2. which has not been tested in accordance with Article9.10.3.1. is
permitted as a closure in a vertical fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating of not more than 1h provided
such glass is not less than 6mm thick and is mounted in conformance with Sentence
(2).
2) Wired glass described in Sentence(1) shall be mounted in fixed steel frames having a metal thickness of not
less than 1.35mm and a glazing stop of not less than 20mm on each side of the glass.
3) Individual panes of glass described in Sentence(1) shall not exceed 0.8m
2
in area or 1.4m in height or width,
and the area of glass not structurally supported by mullions shall not exceed 7.5m
2
.
9.10.13.6. Steel Door Frames
1) Steel door frames forming part of a closure in a fire separation, including anchorage requirements, shall conform
to CAN/ULC-S105, “Fire Door Frames Meeting the Performance Required by CAN/ULC-S104.”
Table 9.10.13.1.
Fire-Protection Ratings for Closures
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.13.1.(1)
Required Fire-Resistance Rating of Fire Separation Minimum Fire-Protection Rating of Closure
30 or 45 min 20 min
(1)
1 h 45 min
(1)
1.5 h 1 h
2 h 1.5 h
3 h 2 h
4 h 3 h
Notes to Table9.10.13.1.:
(1) See Article 9.10.13.2.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.13.7. Glass Block as a Closure
1) Glass block that has not been tested in accordance with Article9.10.3.1. is permitted as a closure in a fire
separation required to have a fire-resistance rating of not more than 1h. (SeeArticle9.20.9.6.)
9.10.13.8. Maximum Size of Opening
1) The size of an opening in an interior fire separation, even where protected with a closure, shall not exceed
11m
2
, with no dimension greater than 3.7m, when the fire compartments on both sides of the fire separation are
not sprinklered.
2) The size of an opening in an interior fire separation, even where protected with a closure, shall not exceed 22m
2
,
with no dimension greater than 6m, when the fire compartments on both sides of the fire separation are sprinklered.
9.10.13.9. Door Latch
1) Every swing type door in a fire separation shall be equipped with a latch.
9.10.13.10. Self-closing Device
1) Except as described in Sentence(2), every door in a fire separation shall have a self-closing device.
2) Self-closing doors are not required between public corridors and suites in business and personal services occupancies,
except in dead-end corridors.
9.10.13.11. Hold-Open Devices
1) Where hold-open devices are used on doors in required fire separations, they shall be installed in accordance
with Article3.1.8.14.
9.10.13.12. Service Room Doors
1) Swing-type doors shall open into service rooms containing fuel-fired equipment where such doors lead to public
corridors or rooms used for assembly but shall swing outward from such rooms in all other cases.
9.10.13.13. Fire Dampers
1) Except as permitted by Sentences(2) to(5) and Sentence9.10.5.1.(4), a duct that penetrates an assembly
required to be a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating shall be equipped with a fire damper in conformance with
Articles3.1.8.4. and3.1.8.10.
2) A fire damper is not required where a noncombustible branch duct pierces a required fire separation provided
the duct
a) has a melting point not below 760°C,
b) has a cross-sectional area less than 130cm
2
, and
c) supplies only air-conditioning units or combined air-conditioning and heating units discharging air at not
more than 1.2m above the floor.
3) A fire damper is not required where a noncombustible branch duct pierces a required fire separation around an
exhaust duct riser in which the airflow is upward provided
a) the melting point of the branch duct is not below 760°C,
b) the branch duct is carried up inside the riser not less than 500mm, and
c) the exhaust duct is under negative pressure as described in Article9.10.9.18.
4) Noncombustible ducts that penetrate a fire separation separating a vertical service space from the remainder of the
building need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation provided
a) the ducts have a melting point above 760°C, and
b) each individual duct exhausts directly to the outside at the top of the vertical service space.
5) A duct serving commercial cooking equipment and piercing a required fire separation need not be equipped
with a fire damper at the fire separation. (Seealso Article6.3.1.7.)
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.13.14. Fire Stop Flaps
1) Fire stop flaps in ceiling membranes referred to in Sentence9.10.5.1.(4) shall
a) conform to CAN/ULC-S112.2, “Fire Test of Ceiling Firestop Flap Assemblies,” and
b) activate at a temperature approximately 30°C above the normal maximum temperature that occurs in the
ducts, whether the air duct system is operating or shut down.
9.10.13.15. Doors between Garages and Dwelling Units
1) A door between an attached or built-in garage and a dwelling unit shall be tight fitting and weather-stripped to
provide an effective barrier against the passage of gas and exhaust fumes and shall be fitted with a self-closing device.
2) A doorway between an attached or built-in garage and a dwelling unit shall not be located in a room intended
for sleeping.
9.10.13.16. Door Stops
1) Where a door is installed so that it may damage the integrity of a fire separation if its swing is unrestricted, door
stops shall be installed to prevent such damage.
9.10.14. Spatial Separation Between Buildings
9.10.14.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to buildings other than those to which Subsection9.10.15. applies.
9.10.14.2. Area and Location of Exposing Building Face
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2),
the area of an exposing building face shall be
a) taken as the exterior wall area facing in one direction on any side of a building, and
b) calculated as the total area measured from the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling.
2) If a
building is divided by fire separations into fire compartments, the area of exposing building face is permitted to be
calculated for each fire compartment, provided the
fire separations have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45min.
3) For the purpose of using Table9.10.14.4.-A to determine the maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings
in an irregularly shaped or skewed exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical
plane located so that there are no unprotected openings between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting
distance is measured. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
4) For the purpose of using Table9.10.14.5.-A to determine the required type of construction, cladding and
fire-resistance rating for an irregularly shaped or skewed exterior wall,
a) the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical plane located so that no portion of the actual
exposing building face is between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is measured, and
b) the value for the maximum area of unprotected openings (seesecond column of Table9.10.14.5.-A) shall be
determined using the limiting distance measured from the location described in Clause(a).
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
9.10.14.3. Limiting Distance and Fire Department Response
1) Except for the purpose of applying Sentences9.10.14.4.(2),(3),(8) and(9), and Sentences9.10.14.5.(3),(8)
and(13), a limiting distance equal to half the actual limiting distance shall be used as input to the requirements of this
Subsection, where
a) the time from receipt of notification of a fire by the fire department until the first fire department vehicle
arrives at the building exceeds 10min in 10% or more of all calls to the building, and
b) any storey in the building is not sprinklered.
(SeeNotesA-3.2.3. andA-3.2.3.1.(8).)
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.14.4. Openings in Exposing Building Face
1) Except as provided in Sentences(6) to(10), the maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings in an exposing
building face shall
a) conform to Table9.10.14.4.-A,
b) conform to Subsection3.2.3., or
c) where the limiting distance is not less than 1.2m, be equal to or less than
i) the limiting distance squared, for residential occupancies, business and personal services occupancies and low-hazard
industrial occupancies, and
ii) half the limiting distance squared, for mercantile occupancies and medium-hazard industrial occupancies.
2) Openings in a wall having a limiting distance of less than 1.2m shall be protected by closures, of other than wired
glass or glass block, whose fire-protection rating is in conformance with the fire-resistance rating required for the wall.
(SeeTable9.10.13.1.)
3) Except for buildings that are sprinklered and for openable windows having an unobstructed opening equal to
0.35m
2
installed in accordance with Sentences9.9.10.1.(1) and(2), where the limiting distance is 2m or less, individual
unprotected openings shall be no greater than
a) the area stated in Table9.10.14.4.-B, or
b) where the limiting distance is equal to or greater than 1.2m, the area calculated by
where
Area = area of the unprotected opening, and
LD = limiting distance.
Table 9.10.14.4.-A
Maximum Aggregate Area of Unprotected Openings in Exterior Walls
(1)
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.4.(1)
Occupancy
Classification of
Building
Maximum
Total Area
of
Exposing
Building
Face, m
2
Maximum Aggregate Area of Unprotected Openings,
% of Exposing Building Face Area
Limiting Distance, m
Less
than 1.2
1.2 1.5 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 12.0 16.0 20.0 25.0
Residential,
business and
personal
services, and
low-hazard
industrial
30 079123988100–––––
40 078113269100–––––
50 078102857100–––––
100078918345684100–––
Over 1000 7 7 8 121928405592100–
Mercantile and
medium-hazard
industrial
30 0446204480100––––
40 044616346197100–––
50 044514295079100–––
100 0 4 4 4 9 17 28 42 60 100 – –
Over 100 0 4 4 4 6 10 14 20 27 46 70 100
Notes to Table9.10.14.4.-A:
(1) See also Sentences (6) and (7) to calculate the maximum permitted area of unprotected openings in sprinklered buildings or where wired glass or glass blocks are used.
Area ⫽ 0.24 (2
⫻
LD – 1.2)²
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
4) The spacing between individual unprotected openings described in Sentence(3) that serve a single room or space
described in Sentence(5) shall be not less than
a) 2m horizontally of another unprotected opening that is on the same exposing building face and serves the single
room or space, or
b) 2m vertically of another unprotected opening that serves the single room or space, or another room or space on
the same storey.
5) For the purpose of Sentence(4), “single room or space” shall mean
a) two or more adjacent spaces having a full-height separating wall extending less than 1.5m from the interior
face of the exterior wall, or
b) two or more stacked spaces that are on the same storey.
6) The maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings shall be not more than twice the area determined
according to Sentence(1), where the unprotected openings are glazed with
a) wired glass in steel frames, as described in Article9.10.13.5., or
b) glass blocks, as described in Article9.10.13.7.
7) Where the building is sprinklered, the maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings shall be not more than
twice the area determined according to Sentence(1), provided all rooms, including closets and bathrooms, that are
adjacent to the exposing building face and that have unprotected openings are sprinklered, notwithstanding any exemptions in
the sprinkler standards referenced in Article3.2.5.12.
8) The maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings in an exposing building face of a storage garage need not comply
with Sentence(1), where
a) all storeys are constructed as open-air storeys, and
b) the storage garage has a limiting distance of not less than 3m.
9)
The maximum aggregate area of unprotected openings in an exposing building face of a storey that faces a street and is
at the same level as the street need not comply with Sentence(1), where the limiting distance is not less than 9m.
10) Except as provided in Sentence(11), for garages or accessory buildings that serve a single dwelling unit only and
are detached from any building, the maximum aggregate area of glazed openings shall comply with the requirements
for unprotected openings.
11) The limits on the area of glazed openings stated in Sentence(10) need not apply to the exposing building face of
a detached garage or accessory building facing a dwelling unit, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the property.
Table 9.10.14.4.-B
Maximum Concentrated Area of Unprotected Openings
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.4.(3)
Limiting Distance, m Maximum Area of Individual Unprotected Openings, m
2
1.2 0.35
1.5 0.78
2.0 1.88
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.14.5. Construction of Exposing Building Face and Walls above Exposing Building Face
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(3) to(14), each exposing building face and any exterior wall located above an
exposing building face that encloses an attic or roof space shall be constructed in conformance with Table9.10.14.5.-A.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(1).) (Seealso Subsection9.10.8.)
2) Except as provided in Sentences(3) to(8), cladding on exposing building faces and exterior walls located above
exposing building faces that enclose an attic or roof space, for buildings or fire compartments where the maximum permitted area
of unprotected openings is more than 10% of the exposing building face, need not be noncombustible where the wall assembly
complies with the requirements of Clause3.1.5.5.(1)(b) when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire
Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
3) Except as provided in Sentences(4) to(8) and permitted by Sentence(9), cladding on exposing building faces
and on exterior walls located above exposing building faces of buildings or fire compartments where the maximum permitted
area of unprotected openings is more than 25% but not more than 50% of the exposing building face need not be
noncombustible, where
a) the limiting distance is greater than 5.0m,
b) the limiting distance is greater than 2.5m where the area and width-to-height ratio of the exposing building face
conform to Table9.10.14.5.-B,
c) the building or fire compartment is sprinklered,
d) the cladding
i) conforms to Subsections9.27.6.,
9.27.7.,9.27.8. or9.27.9.,
ii) is installed without furring members, or on furring not more than 25mm thick, over gypsum sheathing
at least 12.7mm thick or over masonry, and
iii) after conditioning in conformance with ASTM D 2898, “Accelerated Weathering of
Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing,” has a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when tested
in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), or
Table 9.10.14.5.-A
Minimum Construction Requirements for Exposing Building Faces
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.5.(1)
Occupancy
Classification of Building or
Fire Compartment
Maximum Area of Unprotected
Openings Permitted, % of
Exposing Building Face Area
Minimum Required
Fire-Resistance Rating
Typeof Construction
Required
Typeof Cladding Required
Residential, business and
personal services, and
low-hazard industrial
0 to 10 1 h Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 10 to 25 1 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 25 to 50 45 min
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 50 to < 100 45 min
Combustible or
noncombustible
Combustible or
noncombustible
Mercantile and
medium-hazard industrial
0 to 10 2 h Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 10 to 25 2 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 25 to 50 1 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Noncombustible
> 50 to < 100 1 h
Combustible or
noncombustible
Combustible or
noncombustible
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
e) the cladding
i) conforms to Subsection9.27.12.,
ii) is installed with or without furring members over a gypsum sheathing at least 12.7mm thick or over
masonry,
iii) has a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) does not exceed 2mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements.
4) Except as provided in Sentence(5), where a garage or accessory building serves one dwelling unit only and is
detached from any building, the exposing building face
a) need not conform to the minimum required fire-resistance rating stated in Table9.10.14.5.-A, where the limiting
distance is 0.6m or more,
b) shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min, where the limiting distance is less than 0.6m, and
c) need not conform to the type of cladding required by Table9.10.14.5.-A, regardless of the limiting distance.
5) The requirements regarding fire-resistance rating, type of construction and type of cladding need not apply to
the exposing building face of a detached garage or accessory building facing a dwelling unit, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the property.
6) Except as provided in Sentence(7), combustible projections on the exterior of a wall that are more than 1m
above ground level and that could expose an adjacent building to fire spread shall not be permitted within
a) 1.2
m of a property line or the centre line of a public way, or
b) 2.4m of a combustible projection on another building on the same property.
7) Except as provided in Sentences(9) to(12), Sentence(6) shall not apply to
a) buildings containing 1 or 2 dwelling units only, and
b) detached garages or accessory buildings, where
i) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
ii) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
iii) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the
property.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(7).)
8) Where combustible projections on an exposing building face are permitted by Sentence(7), are totally enclosed and
constructed with solid faces, such as for fireplaces and chimneys, and extend within 1.2m of a property line,
a) the construction of the face and sides of the projection shall comply with the corresponding requirements for
exposing building faces for limiting distances less than 1.2m as stated in Sentence(2) or(3), and
Table 9.10.14.5.-B
Maximum Allowable Area and Ratio of Width to Height of Exposing Building Face
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.14.5.(3)
Maximum Ratio of Width to Height of Exposing Building Face Maximum Area of Exposing Building Face, m
2
1:1 88
2:1 102
3:1 129
4:1 161
5:1 195
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
b) where the underside of the projection is more than 0.6m above finished ground level, it shall be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick noncombustible material,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(8).)
9) Except as provided in Sentence(11), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of not more than
0.45m, projecting roof soffits shall not be constructed above the exposing building face. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
10) Except as provided in Sentence(11), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of more than 0.45m,
the face of roof soffits shall not project to less than 0.45m from the property line. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
11) The face of a roof soffit is permitted to project to the property line, where it faces a street, lane or public
thoroughfare. (SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(11) and 9.10.15.5.(10).)
12) Where roof soffits project to less than 1.2m from the property line, the centre line of a lane or public
thoroughfare, or an imaginary line between two buildings or fire compartments on the same property, they shall
a) have no openings, and
b) be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick sheet steel,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
13) Heavy timber and steel columns need not conform to the requirements of Sentence(1), provided the limiting
distance is not less than 3m.
14) Non-loadbearing wall components need not have a minimum fire-resistance rating, where the building
a) is 1 storey in building height,
b) is of noncombustible construction,
c) is classified as a low-hazard industrial occupancy and used only for low fire load occupancies, such as
power-generating plants or plants for the manufacture or storage of noncombustible materials, and
d) has a limiting distance of 3m or more.
9.10.15. Spatial Separation Between Houses
9.10.15.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to
a) buildings that contain only dwelling units and have no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit,
b) houses with a
secondary suite including their common spaces, and
c) accessory buildings that serve a building described in Clauses (a) or (b).
(See
NoteA-9.10.15.1.(1).)
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.15.2. Area and Location of Exposing Building Face
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3),
the area of an exposing building face shall be
a) taken as the exterior wall area facing in one direction on any side of a building, and
b) calculated as
i) the total area measured from the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling,
ii) reserved
, or
iii) except as provided in Sentence(3
), where Table9.10.15.4. is used to determine the maximum aggregate
area of glazed openings, the area of any number of individual vertical portions of the wall measured
from the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling. (SeeNoteA-9.10.15.4.(2).)
2) If a building is divided by fire separations into fire compartments, the area of exposing building face is permitted to be
calculated for each fire compartment provided the fire separations have a fire-resistance ratings not less than 45min.
3) Where the exposing building face of any section of an exterior wall enclosing a single room or space, or
combination room and space, has a limiting distance of 2m or less, that section of the exposing building face serving the
room or space shall not be divided into portions for the purpose of calculating area of exposing building face.
(SeeSentence9.10.15.4.(5) and NoteA-9.10.15.4.(2).)
4) For the purpose of using Table9.10.15.4. to determine the maximum permitted area of glazed openings in an
irregularly shaped or skewed exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical plane
located so that there are no glazed openings between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is
measured. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
5) In determining the required cladding-sheathing assembly and fire-resistance rating for an irregularly shaped or
skewed exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face shall be taken as a vertical plane located so that no
portion of the actual exposing building face is between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is
measured. (SeeArticle9.10.15.5. and NoteA-3.2.3.1.(4).)
9.10.15.3. Limiting Distance and Fire Department Response
1) Except for the purpose of applying Sentences9.10.15.2.(2),9.10.15.4.(3) and9.10.15.5.(13), a limiting distance
equal to half the actual limiting distance shall be used as input to the requirements of this Subsection, where
a) the time from receipt of notification of a fire by the fire department until the first fire department vehicle
arrives at the building exceeds 10min in 10% or more of all calls to the building, and
b) any storey in the building is not sprinklered.
(SeeNotes
A-3.2.3. andA-3.2.3.1.(8).)
9.10.15.4. Glazed Openings in Exposing Building Face
1) Except as provided in Sentence(6), the maximum aggregate area of glazed openings in an exposing building face
shall
a) conform to Table9.10.15.4.,
b) conform to Subsection3.2.3., or
c) where the limiting distance is not less than 1.2m, be equal to or less than the limiting distance squared.
2) Where the limits on the area of glazed openings are determined for individual portions of the exterior wall,
as described in Sentence 9.10.15.2.(3), the maximum aggregate area of glazed openings for any portion shall conform
to the values in the row of Table9.10.15.4. corresponding to the maximum total area of exposing building face
(seecolumn 1 of the Table) that is equal to the sum of all portions of the exposing building face.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.15.4.(2).)
3) Except for buildings that are sprinklered and for openable windows having an unobstructed opening equal to
0.35 m
2
installed in accordance with Sentences9.9.10.1.(1) and(2), where the limiting distance is 2m or less, individual
glazed openings or a group of glazed openings in an exposing building face shall not exceed 50% of the maximum
allowable aggregate area of glazed openings determined in Sentence(1).
4) The spacing between individual glazed openings or a group of glazed openings
described in Sentence(3)
serving a single room or space described in Sentence(5) shall be not less than
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
a) 2m horizontally of another glazed opening that is on the same exposing building face and serves the single room
or space, or
b) 2m vertically of another glazed opening that serves the single room or space, or another room or space on
the same storey.
5) For the purpose of Sentence(4), “single room or space” shall mean
a) two or more adjacent spaces having a full-height separating wall extending less than 1.5m from the interior
face of the exterior wall, or
b) two or more stacked spaces that are on the same storey.
6) The limits on the area of glazed openings shall not apply to the exposing building face of a dwelling unit facing a
detached garage or accessory building, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the property.
9.10.15.5. Construction of Exposing Building Face of Houses
1) Except as provided in Sentences(4) and(13), each exposing building face and any exterior wall located above an
exposing building face that encloses an attic or roof space shall be constructed in conformance with Sentences(2) and(3)
a) for the exposing building face as a whole, or
b) for any number of separate portions of the exposing building face (seeSubclause9.10.15.2.(1)(b)(iii),
Sentence9.10.15.4.(2), and NoteA-9.10.15.4.(2)).
(Seealso Subsection9.10.8.)
2) Except as provided in Sentences(4) and(5), where the limiting distance
is less than 0.6m, the exposing building
face and exterior walls located above the exposing building face that enclose an attic or roof space shall have a fire-resistance
rating of not less than 45min, and
a) the cladding shall be metal or noncombustible cladding installed in accordance with Section9.20.,9.27. or9.28.
(seeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(1)),
b) the cladding shall
i) conform to Subsection9.27.12.,
ii) be installed without furring members over gypsum sheathing at least 12.7mm thick or over masonry,
iii) have a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) not exceed 2mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements, or
c) the wall assembly shall comply with Clause3.1.5.5.(1)(b) when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S134,
“Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
Table 9.10.15.4.
Maximum Area of Glazed Openings in Exterior Walls of Houses
Forming Part of Sentences 9.10.15.4.(1) and (2)
Maximum Total
Area of
Exposing
Building Face,
m
2
Maximum Aggregate Area of Glazed Openings, % of Exposing Building Face Area
Limiting Distance, m
Less
than 1.2
1.2 1.5 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 12.0 16.0 20.0 25.0
30 079123988100–––––
40 078113269100–––––
50 078102857100–––––
100 078918345684100–––
Over 1000778121928405592100–
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
3) Except as provided in Sentence(4), where the limiting distance is equal to or greater than 0.6m and less than
1.2m, the exposing building face and any exterior wall located above the exposing building face that encloses an attic or roof
space shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min, and
a) the cladding shall be metal or noncombustible cladding installed in accordance with Section9.20., 9.27. or 9.28.
(seeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(1)),
b) the cladding shall
i) conform to Subsection9.27.6.,9.27.7.,9.27.8.,9.27.9., or9.27.10.,
ii) be installed without furring members, or on furring not more than 25mm thick, over gypsum sheathing
at least 12.7mm thick or over masonry, and
iii) after conditioning in conformance with ASTMD2898, “Accelerated Weathering of
Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing,” have a flame-spread rating not greater than25 when tested
in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2),
c) the cladding shall
i) conform to Subsection9.27.12.,
ii) be installed with or without furring members over gypsum sheathing at least12.7mm thick or over
masonry,
iii) have a flame-spread rating not greater than25 when tested in accordance with Sentence3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) not exceed 2mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements, or
d) the wall assembly shall comply with Clause3.1.5.5.(1)(b) when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S134,
“Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
4) The requirements regarding fire-resistance rating and type of cladding-sheathing assembly shall not apply to the
exposing building face or projections from an
exposing building face of a dwelling unit facing a detached garage or accessory
building, or a garage or accessory building facing a dwelling unit, where
a) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
b) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
c) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on the property.
5) Except as provided in Sentence(6), combustible projections on the exterior of a wall that are more than 1m
above ground level and that could expose an adjacent building to fire spread shall not be permitted within
a) 1.2m of a property line or the centre line of a public way, or
b) 2.4m of a combustible projection on another building on the same property.
6) Except as provided in Sentences(8) to(11), Sentence(5) shall not apply to
a) buildings containing 1or2 dwelling units only, and
b) detached garages or accessory buildings, where
i) the detached garage or accessory building serves only one dwelling unit,
ii) the detached garage or accessory building is located on the same property as that dwelling unit, and
iii) the dwelling unit served by the detached garage or accessory building is the only major occupancy on
the property.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(7).)
7)
Where combustible projections on an exposing building face are permitted by Sentence(6), are totally enclosed and
constructed with solid faces, such as for fireplaces and chimneys, and extend within 1.2m of a property line,
a) the construction of the face and sides of the projection shall comply with the corresponding requirements for
exposing building faces for limiting distances less than 1.2m as stated in Sentence(2) or(3), and
b) where the underside of the projection is more than 0.6m above finished ground level, it shall be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick noncombustible material,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(8).)
8) Except as provided in Sentence(10), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of not more than
0.45m, projecting roof soffits shall not be constructed above the exposing building face. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
9) Except as provided in Sentence(10), where the exposing building face has a limiting distance of more than 0.45m,
the face of roof soffits shall not project to less than 0.45m from the property line. (SeeNoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
10) The face of a roof soffit is permitted to project to the property line, where it faces a street, lane or public
thoroughfare. (SeeNoteA-9.10.14.5.(11) and 9.10.15.5.(10).)
11) Where roof soffits project to less than 1.2m from the property line, the centre line of a lane or public
thoroughfare, or an imaginary line between two buildings or fire compartments on the same property, they shall
a) have no openings, and
b) be protected by
i) not less than 0.38mm thick sheet steel,
ii) unvented aluminum conforming to CAN/CGSB-93.2-M, “Prefinished Aluminum Siding, Soffits, and
Fascia, for Residential Use,”
iii) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to
CSAA82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11mm thick lumber.
(See
NoteA-3.2.3.6.(2).)
12) For buildings of combustible construction, materials installed to provide the required protection for soffits may
be covered with a combustible or noncombustible finish material.
13) Heavy timber and steel columns need not conform to the requirements of Sentence(1), provided the limiting
distance is not less than 3m.
9.10.16. Fire Blocks
9.10.16.1. Required Fire Blocks in Concealed Spaces
1) Vertical concealed spaces in interior walls and exterior walls shall be separated by fire blocks
a) one from the other, and
b) from horizontal concealed spaces.
2) Horizontal concealed spaces in attics, roof spaces, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces shall be separated by
fire blocks
a) one from the other, and
b) from vertical concealed spaces.
3) Fire blocks shall be provided at all interconnections between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces in
interior coved ceilings, drop ceilings and soffits where the exposed construction materials within the concealed
spaces have a surface flame-spread rating greater than 25.
4) Fire blocks shall be provided at the top and bottom of each run of stairs where they pass through a floor
containing concealed space in which the exposed construction materials within the space have a surface flame-spread
rating greater than25.
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5) Unsprinklered concealed spaces of combustible construction created by a ceiling, roof space or unoccupied attic
space shall be separated by fire blocks into compartments
a) not more than 60m in greatest dimension, and
b) where such space contains exposed construction materials having a surface flame-spread rating greater than25,
not more than 300m
2
in area.
6) No dimension of the concealed space described in Clause(5)(b) shall exceed 20m.
7) Concealed spaces in mansard or gambrel style roofs, exterior cornices, balconies and canopies of combustible
construction in which the exposed construction materials within the space have a surface flame-spread rating exceeding 25
shall have vertical fire blocks at intervals of not more than 20m and at points where such concealed spaces extend
across the ends of required vertical fire separations.
9.10.16.2. Required Fire Blocks in Wall Assemblies
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), fire blocks shall be provided to block off concealed spaces within wall
assemblies, including spaces created by furring,
a) at each floor level,
b) at each ceiling level where the ceiling contributes to part of the required fire-resistance rating, and
c) at other locations within the wall, so that the distance between fire blocks does not exceed 20m horizontally
and 3m vertically.
2) Fire blocks described in Sentence(1) are not required, provided
a) the insulated wall assembly contains not more than one concealed air space whose horizontal thickness is not
more than 25mm,
b) the exposed construction materials within the space are noncombustible,
c) the exposed construction materials within the space, including insulation, but not including wiring, piping or
similar services, have a flame-spread rating of not more than 25, or
d) the concealed wall space is filled with insulation.
9.10.16.3. Fire Block Materials
1) Except as permitted by Sentences(2) and(3), fire blocks shall be constructed of materials that will remain in
place and prevent the passage of flames for not less than 15min when subjected to the standard fire exposure in
CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials.”
2) Fire blocks are deemed to comply with Sentence(1) if they are constructed of not less than
a) 0.38mm sheet steel,
b) 12.7mm gypsum board,
c) 12.5
mm plywood, OSB or waferboard, with joints having continuous supports,
d) 2 layers of 19mm lumber with joints staggered, or
e) 38mm lumber.
3) In a building permitted to be of combustible construction, semi-rigid fibre insulation board produced from glass,
rock or slag is permitted to be used to block the vertical space in a double-frame wall assembly formed at the
intersection of the floor assembly and the walls, provided the width of the vertical space does not exceed 25mm and
the insulation board
a) has a density not less than 45kg/m
3
,
b) is securely fastened to one set of studs,
c) extends from below the bottom of the top plates in the lower storey to above the top of the bottom plate in
the upper storey, and
d) completely fills the portion of the vertical space between the headers and between the wall plates.
(SeeNoteA-3.1.11.7.(8
).)
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.16.4. Penetration of Fire Blocks
1) Where fire blocks are pierced by pipes, ducts or other elements, the effectiveness of the fire blocks shall be
maintained around such elements.
9.10.17. Flame-Spread Limits
9.10.17.1. Flame-Spread Rating of Interior Surfaces
1) Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, the exposed surface of every interior wall and ceiling,
including skylights and glazing, shall have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than 150.
2) Except as permitted in Sentence(3), doors need not conform to Sentence(1) provided they have a surface
flame-spread rating of not more than 200.
3) Doors within dwelling units, other than garage doors, need not conform to Sentences(1) and(2).
9.10.17.2. Ceilings in Exits or Public Corridors
1) At least 90% of the exposed surface of every ceiling in an exit or unsprinklered ceiling in a public corridor shall
have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
9.10.17.3. Walls in Exits
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), at least 90% of the exposed surfaces of every wall in an exit shall have a
surface flame-spread rating of not more than25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
2) At least 75% of the wall surface of a lobby used as an exit in Article9.9.8.5. shall have a surface flame-spread
rating of not more than 25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
9.10.17.4. Exterior Exit Passageways
1) Where an exterior exit passageway provides the only means of egress from the rooms or suites it serves, the wall
and ceiling finishes of that passageway, including the soffit beneath and the guard on the passageway, shall have a
surface flame-spread rating of not more than 25, except that up to 10% of the total wall area and 10% of the total ceiling
area is permitted to have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than 150.
9.10.17.5. Walls in Public Corridors
1) At least 90% of the total wall surface in any unsprinklered public corridor shall have a surface flame-spread rating
of not more than 75, or at least 90% of the upper half of such walls shall have a surface flame-spread rating of not more
than
25. (SeeArticle9.10.17.6.)
9.10.17.6. Calculation of Wall and Ceiling Areas
1) Skylights, glazing, combustible doors, and combustible light diffusers and lenses shall not be considered in the
calculation of wall and ceiling areas in this Subsection.
9.10.17.7. Corridors Containing an Occupancy
1) Where a public corridor or a corridor used by the public contains an occupancy, the interior finish materials used
on the walls or ceiling of such occupancy, shall have a surface flame-spread rating in conformance with that required for
public corridors.
9.10.17.8. Light Diffusers and Lenses
1) Light diffusers and lenses having flame-spread ratings that exceed those permitted for the ceiling finish, shall
conform to the requirements of Sentence3.1.13.4.(1).
9.10.17.9. Combustible Skylights
1) Individual combustible skylights in corridors required to be separated from the remainder of the building by fire
separations shall not exceed 1 m
2
in area and shall be spaced not less than 1.2m apart.
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.17.10. Protection of Foamed Plastics
(SeeNoteA-3.1.4.2.)
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), foamed plastics that form part of a wall or ceiling assembly shall
be protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within attic or roof spaces, crawl
spaces, wall assemblies and ceiling assemblies
a) by one of the interior finishes described in Subsections9.29.4. to9.29.9.,
b) provided the building does not contain a GroupC major occupancy, by sheet metal that
i) is mechanically fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
ii) is not less than 0.38mm thick, and
iii) has a melting point not less than 650°C, or
c) by any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Sentence3.1.5.15.(2).
(SeeNoteA-3.1.4.2.(1)(c).)
2) A walk-in cooler or freezer consisting of factory-assembled wall, floor or ceiling panels containing foamed
plastics is permitted to be used, provided the panels
a) are protected on both sides by sheet metal not less than 0.38mm thick having a melting point not less
than 650°C,
b) do not contain an air space, and
c) have a flame-spread rating, determined by subjecting a sample panel with an assembled joint typical of field
installation to the applicable test described in Subsection3.1.12., that is not more than that permitted for the
room or space in which they are located or that they bound.
3) Thermosetting foamed plastic insulation having a flame-spread rating of not more than 200 is permitted to be
used in factory-assembled doors in storage garages serving single dwelling units provided that
a) the insulation is covered on the interior with a metallic foil,
b) the assembly has a flame-spread rating of not more than 200, and
c) the assembly incorporates no air spaces.
9.10.17.11. Walls and Ceilings in Bathrooms
1) The interior finish of walls and ceilings in bathrooms within suites of residential occupancy
shall have a surface
flame-spread rating of not more than 200.
9.10.17.12. Coverings or Linings of Ducts
1) Where a covering or a lining is used with a duct, such lining or covering shall have a flame-spread rating
conforming to Article3.6.5.4. or 9.33.6.4.
9.10.18. Alarm and Detection Systems
9.10.18.1. Access Provided through a Firewall
1) Where access is provided through a firewall, the requirements in this Subsection shall apply to the floor areas on
both sides of the firewall as if they were in the same building.
9.10.18.2. Fire Alarm System Required
1) Except as permitted in Sentences(3) and(4), a fire alarm system shall be installed in buildings in which a
sprinkler system is required by this Part.
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
2) Except as provided in Sentence(5), a fire alarm system shall be installed
a) in every building that contains more than 3 storeys, including storeys below the first storey,
b) where the total occupant load exceeds 300, or
c) when the occupant load for any major occupancy in Table9.10.18.2. is exceeded.
3) In buildings in which a sprinkler system has been installed in accordance with NFPA13D, “Installation of
Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes,” a fire alarm system need not be
installed.
4) In buildings that contain fewer than 9 sprinklers conforming to Sentence3.2.5.12.(4), a fire alarm system need
not be installed.
5) A fire alarm system is not required in a residential occupancy where an exit or public corridor serves not more than
4suites or where each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.
9.10.18.3. Design and Installation Requirements
1) Except as stated in Sentence(2) and as required by this Subsection, where fire alarm, fire detection and
smoke detection devices and systems are installed, these devices and systems and their installation shall conform to
Subsection3.2.4.
2) The following Articles in Subsection3.2.4. regarding fire alarm systems do not apply to Part9 buildings:
Articles3.2.4.1.,3.2.4.10.,3.2.4.11.,3.2.4.12.,3.2.4.13. and3.2.4.22.
9.10.18.4. Rooms and Spaces Requiring Heat Detectors or Smoke Detectors
1) Where a fire alarm system is required, every public corridor in buildings of residential occupancy and every
exit stair
shaft shall be provided with smoke detectors.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), if a fire alarm system is required in a building that is not sprinklered, fire
detectors shall be installed in the following spaces:
a) storage rooms not within dwelling units,
b) service rooms not within dwelling units,
c) janitors’ rooms
d) rooms in which hazardous substances are to be used or stored (seeNoteA-3.3.1.2.(1)),
e) elevator hoistways, chutes and dumbwaiter shafts, and
f) laundry rooms in buildings of residential occupancy, but not those within dwelling units.
3) Heat detectors and smoke detectors described in Sentence(2) are not required in dwelling units or in sprinklered
buildings in which the sprinkler system is electrically supervised and equipped with a water flow alarm.
9.10.18.5. Smoke Detectors in Recirculating Air-Handling Systems
1) Except for a recirculating air system serving not more than one dwelling unit, where a fire alarm system is
required to be installed, every recirculating air-handling system shall be designed to prevent the circulation of smoke
upon a signal from a duct-type smoke detector where such system supplies more than one suite on the same floor or
serves more than 1storey.
Table 9.10.18.2.
Maximum Occupant Load for Buildings without Fire Alarm Systems
Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.18.2.(2)
Major Occupancy Classification Occupant Load Above which a Fire Alarm System is Required
Residential 10 (sleeping accommodation)
Business and personal services, Mercantile 150 above or below the first storey
Low- or medium-hazard industrial 75 above or below the first storey
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.18.6. Portions of Buildings Considered as Separate Buildings
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), where a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than
1h separates a portion of a building from the remainder of the building and there are no openings through the fire
separation other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and conduit, the requirements for fire alarm and detection
systems may be applied to each portion so separated as if it were a separate building.
2) The permission in Sentence(1) to consider separated portions of a building as separate buildings does not apply
to service rooms and storage rooms.
9.10.18.7. Central Vacuum Systems
1) Central vacuum cleaning systems serving more than one suite or storey in buildings equipped with a fire alarm
system shall be designed to shut down upon activation of the fire alarm system.
9.10.18.8. Open-Air Storage Garages
1) A fire alarm system is not required in a storage garage conforming to Article3.2.2.90. provided there are no
other occupancies in the building.
9.10.19. Smoke Alarms
9.10.19.1. Required Smoke Alarms
1) Except as permitted by Article9.10.19.8., smoke alarms conforming to CAN/ULC-S531, “Standard for
Smoke
Alarms,” shall be installed in
a) each dwelling unit,
b) each sleeping room not within a dwelling unit, and
c) ancillary spaces and common spaces not in
dwelling units in a house with a secondary suite.
9.10.19.2. Sound Patterns of Smoke Alarms
1) The sound patterns of smoke alarms shall
a) meet the temporal patterns of alarm signals (seeNoteA-3.2.4.18.(2)), or
b) be a combination of temporal pattern and voice relay.
9.10.19.3. Location of Smoke Alarms
1) Within dwelling units, sufficient smoke alarms shall be installed so that
a) there is at least one smoke alarm installed on each storey, including basements, and
b) on any storey of a dwelling unit containing sleeping rooms, a smoke alarm is installed
i) in each sleeping room, and
ii) in a location between the sleeping rooms and the remainder of the storey, and if the sleeping rooms are
served by a hallway, the smoke alarm shall be located in the hallway.
(SeeNoteA-9.10.19.3.(1).)
2) A smoke alarm required by Sentence(1) shall be installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S553, “Installation
of Smoke Alarms.”
3) Smoke alarms required in Article9.10.19.1. and Sentence(1) shall be installed on or near the ceiling.
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Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.19.4. Power Supply
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), smoke alarms described in Sentence9.10.19.1.(1) shall
a) be installed with permanent connections to an electrical circuit (seeNoteA-3.2.4.20.(7)(a)),
b) have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm, and
c) in case the regular power supply to the smoke alarm is interrupted, be provided with a battery as an alternative
power source that can continue to provide power to the smoke alarm for a period of no less than 7days in the
normal condition, followed by 4minutes of alarm.
2) Where the building is not supplied with electrical power, smoke alarms are permitted to be battery-operated.
3) Suites of residential occupancy are permitted to be equipped with smoke detectors in lieu of smoke alarms, provided
the smoke detectors
a) are capable of independently sounding audible signals within the individual suites,
b) except as permitted in Sentence(4), are installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire
Alarm Systems,” and
c) form part of the fire alarm system.
(SeeNoteA-3.2.4.20.(8).)
4) Smoke detectors permitted to be installed in lieu of smoke alarms as stated in Sentence(3) are permitted to sound
localized alarms within individual suites, and need not sound an alarm throughout the rest of the building.
9.10.19.5. Interconnection of Smoke Alarms
1) Where more than one smoke alarm is required in a dwelling unit, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected
so that
the actuation
of one alarm will cause all alarms within the dwelling unit to sound.
2) Except as provided in Sentence (3),
in a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces
a) all smoke alarms shall be of photo-electric type and interconnected so that the actuation of any one smoke alarm
causes all smoke alarms within the house with a secondary suite including their common spaces to sound when
the fire separations described in Articles 9.9.4.2., 9.10.9.14. and 9.10.9.15. have a fire-resistance rating not less than
15 min (see also Sentence 9.10.3.1.(2)), or
b) an additional smoke alarm of photo-electric type shall be installed in each dwelling unit and common space and
be interconnected so that the actuation of one smoke alarm will cause the additional smoke alarms in the other
dwelling unit, dwelling units or common spaces to sound when the fire separations described in Articles 9.9.4.2.,
9.10.9.14. and 9.10.9.15. have a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min (see also Sentence 9.10.3.1.(3)).
3) Additional smoke alarms and interconnection of smoke alarms between dwelling units and common spaces in a
house with a secondary suite is not required if
a) the fire separations described in Articles 9.10.9.14. and 9.10.9.15. have a fire-resistance rating not less than
45 min, or
b) the building is sprinklered.
9.10.19.6. Silencing of Smoke Alarms
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), a manually operated device shall be incorporated within the circuitry of
a smoke alarm installed in a dwelling unit so that the signal emitted by the smoke alarm can be silenced for a period of not
more than 10 min, after which the smoke alarm will reset and sound again if the level of smoke in the vicinity is
sufficient to re-actuate it.
2) Suites of residential occupancy equipped with smoke detectors installed to CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire
Alarm Systems,” which are part of the fire alarm system in lieu of smoke alarms as permitted in Sentence9.10.19.4.(3),
need not incorporate the manually operated device required in Sentence(1).
9.10.19.7. Instructions for Maintenance and Care
1) Where instructions are necessary to describe the maintenance and care required for smoke alarms to ensure
continuing satisfactory performance, they shall be posted in a location where they will be readily available to the
occupants for reference.
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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.19.8. Residential Fire Warning Systems
1) Except where a fire alarm system is installed or required in a building, smoke detectors forming part of a
residential fire warning system installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S540, “Residential Fire and Life Safety
Warning Systems: Installation, Inspection, Testing and Maintenance,” are permitted to be installed in lieu of all smoke
alarms required by Articles9.10.19.1. and9.10.19.3., provided that the fire warning system
a) is capable of sounding audible signals as stated in Articles9.10.19.2. and9.10.19.5.,
b) is powered as stated in Article9.10.19.4., and
c) is equipped with a silencing device as stated in Article9.10.19.6.
9.10.20. Firefighting
9.10.20.1. Windows or Access Panels Required
1) Except as provided in Sentence(3), a window or access panel providing an opening not less than 1 100mm
high and 550mm wide and having a sill height of not more than 900mm above the floor shall be provided on the
second and third storeys of every building in at least one wall facing on a street if such storeys are not sprinklered.
2) Access panels required in Sentence(1) shall be readily openable from both inside and outside or be glazed
with plain glass.
3) Access panels required in Sentence(1) need not be provided in
a) buildings containing only dwelling units where there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, or
b) houses with a
secondary suite including their common spaces.
9.10.20.2. Access to Basements
1) Except for basements
in houses with a secondary suite or basements serving not more than one dwelling unit, each
unsprinklered basement exceeding 25m in length or width shall be provided with direct access to the outdoors to at
least one street.
2) Access required in Sentence(1) may be provided by a door, window or other means that provides an opening
not less than 1 100mm high and 550mm wide, the sill height of which shall not be more than 900mm above
the floor.
3) Access required in Sentence(1) may also be provided by an interior stair accessible from the outdoors.
9.10.20.3. Fire Department Access to Buildings
1) Access for fire department equipment shall be provided to each building by means of a street, private roadway
or yard. (SeeNotesA-9.10.20.3.(1) andA-3.2.5.6.(1).)
2) Where access to a building as required in Sentence(1) is provided by means of a roadway or yard, the design
and location of such roadway or yard shall take into account connection with public thoroughfares, weight of
firefighting equipment, width of roadway, radius of curves, overhead clearance, location of fire hydrants, location of
fire department connections and vehicular parking.
9.10.20.4. Portable Extinguishers
1) Portable extinguishers shall be installed in all buildings, except within dwelling units, in conformance with the
British Columbia Fire Code.
9.10.20.5. Freeze Protection of Fire Protection Systems
1) Equipment forming part of a fire protection system that may be adversely affected by freezing temperatures
and that is located in an unheated area shall be protected from freezing.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.10.21. Fire Protection for Construction Camps
9.10.21.1. Requirements for Construction Camps
1) Except as provided in Articles9.10.21.2. to9.10.21.9., construction camps shall conform to
Subsections9.10.1. to9.10.20.
9.10.21.2. Separation of Sleeping Rooms
1) Except for sleeping rooms within dwelling units, sleeping rooms in construction camps shall be separated from
each other and from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having not less than a 30min fire-resistance rating.
9.10.21.3. Floor Assemblies between the First and Second Storey
1) Except in a dwelling unit, a floor assembly in a construction camp building separating the first storey and the
second storey shall be constructed as a fire separation having not less than a 30min fire-resistance rating.
9.10.21.4. Walkways Connecting Buildings
1) Walkways of combustible construction connecting buildings shall be separated from each connected building by a fire
separation having not less than a 45min fire-resistance rating.
9.10.21.5. Spatial Separations
1) Construction camp buildings shall be separated from each other by a distance of not less than 10m except as
otherwise permitted in Subsections9.10.14. and9.10.15.
9.10.21.6. Flame-Spread Ratings
1) Except in dwelling units and except as provided in Sentence(2), the surface flame-spread rating of wall and ceiling
surfaces in corridors and walkways, exclusive of doors, shall not exceed25 over not less than 90% of the exposed
surface area and not more than 150 over the remaining surface area.
2) Except within dwelling units, corridors that provide access to exit from sleeping rooms and that have a
fire-resistance rating
of not less than 45min shall have a flame-spread rating conforming to the appropriate requirements in
Subsection9.10.17.
9.10.21.7. Smoke Detectors
1) Except in dwelling units, corridors providing access to exit from sleeping rooms in construction camp buildings
with sleeping accommodation for more than 10persons shall be provided with a smoke detector connected to the
building alarm system.
9.10.21.8. Portable Fire Extinguishers
1) Each construction camp building shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers in conformance with the
British Columbia Fire Code.
9.10.21.9. Hose Stations
1) Every construction camp building providing sleeping accommodation for more than 30persons shall be
provided with a hose station that is protected from freezing and is equipped with a hose of sufficient length so that
every portion of the building is within reach of a hose stream.
2) Hose stations required in Sentence(1) shall be located near an exit.
3) Hoses referred to in Sentence(1) shall be not less than 19mm inside diam and shall be connected to a central
water supply or to a storage tank having a capacity of not less than 4 500 L with a pumping system capable of
supplying a flow of not less than 5L/s at a gauge pressure of 300kPa.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
9.10.22. Fire Protection for Gas, Propane and Electric Cooktops and Ovens
(SeeNoteA-9.10.22.)
9.10.22.1. Installation of Cooktops and Ovens
1) Except as required in Sentence(2), natural gas and propane cooktops and ovens shall be installed in accordance
with the Gas Safety Regulation. (Seealso Article9.34.1.1.)
2) Clearances for and protection around gas, propane and electric ranges shall be not less than those provided in
Articles9.10.22.2. and9.10.22.3.
9.10.22.2. Vertical Clearances above Cooktops
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), framing, finishes and cabinetry installed directly above the location of the
cooktop shall be not less than 750mm above the level of cooktop burners or elements.
2) The vertical clearance described in Sentence(1) for framing, finishes and cabinets located directly above the
location of the cooktop may be reduced to 600mm above the level of the elements or burners, provided the framing,
finishes and cabinets
a) are noncombustible, or
b) are protected by a metal hood that projects 125mm beyond the framing, finishes and cabinets.
9.10.22.3. Protection around Cooktops
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), combustible wall framing, finishes or cabinets within 450mm of
the area where the cooktop is to be located shall be protected above the level of the heating elements or burners by
material providing fire resistance at least equivalent to that provided by a 9.5mm thickness of gypsum board.
2) Counter-top splash boards or back plates that extend above the level of heating elements or burners need not
be protected as described in Sentence(1).
3) Except for cabinetry described in Article9.10.22.2., cabinetry located not less than 450mm above the level
of the heating elements or burners need not be protected as described in Sentence(1).
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.11. Sound Transmission
(SeeNoteA-9.11.)
9.11.1. Protection from Airborne Noise
9.11.1.1. Required Protection
1) Except as provided in Sentence(3), a dwelling unit shall be separated from every other space in a building in
which noise may be generated by
a) a separating assembly and adjoining constructions, which together provide an apparent sound transmission
class (ASTC) rating of not less than 47, or
b) a separating assembly providing a sound transmission class (STC) rating of not less than 50 and adjoining
constructions that conform to Article9.11.1.4.
(SeeNoteA-9.11.1.4.)
2) Reserved.
3) Construction separating a dwelling unit from an elevator shaft or refuse chute shall have an STC rating of not
less than55.
9.11.1.2. Determination of Sound Transmission Ratings
1) The STC ratings shall be determined in accordance with ASTME413, “Classification for Rating Sound
Insulation,” using the results from measurements carried out in accordance with ASTME90, “Laboratory
Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements.”
2) The ASTC ratings shall be
a) determined in accordance with ASTME413, “Classification for Rating Sound Insulation,” using the results
from measurements carried out in accordance with ASTME336, “Measurement of Airborne Sound
Attenuation between Rooms in Buildings,” or
b) calculated in accordance with Article5.8.1.4. or5.8.1.5.
9.11.1.3. Compliance with Required Ratings
1) Compliance with the required STC ratings shall be demonstrated through
a) measurements carried out in accordance with Sentence9.11.1.2.(1), or
b) the construction of separating assemblies conforming to Table9.10.3.1.-A or9.10.3.1.-B, as applicable.
2) Compliance with the required ASTC ratings shall be demonstrated through
a) measurements or calculations carried out in accordance with Sentence9.11.1.2.(2), or
b) the construction of separating assemblies conforming to Table9.10.3.1.-A or9.10.3.1.-B, as applicable, that
have an STC rating of not less than 50 in conjunction with flanking assemblies constructed in accordance
with Article9.11.1.4. (seeNoteA-9.11.1.3.(2)(b)).
9.11.1.4. Adjoining Constructions
(SeeNoteA-9.11.1.4.)
1) This Article applies where the required protection is provided in accordance with Clause9.11.1.1.(1)(b) and
compliance is demonstrated in accordance with Clause9.11.1.3.(2)(b).
2) Flanking wall assemblies connected to a separating floor or ceiling assembly shall be constructed with
a) concrete or concrete block having a mass per area greater than 200kg/m
2
, or
b) gypsum board finish that
i) is supported on wood or steel framing, and
ii) ends or is interrupted where it meets the structure of the separating floor or ceiling assembly.
3) Flanking wall and ceiling assemblies connected to a separating wall assembly shall be constructed with
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
a) concrete or concrete block having a mass per area greater than 300kg/m
2
, or
b) gypsum board finish that
i) is supported on wood or steel framing, and
ii) ends or is interrupted where it meets the structure of the separating wall assembly or, for double-stud
walls, where it meets the space between the two lines of studs.
4) Flanking floor assemblies connected to a separating wall assembly shall be
a) constructed
i) with concrete having a mass per area greater than 300kg/m
2
, or
ii) in accordance with Section9.16., or
b) supported on joists or trusses that are not continuous across the junction and are covered with floor
treatments in accordance with Table9.11.1.4. for the applicable wall construction.
Table 9.11.1.4.
Floor Treatments for Flanking Wood-Framed Floor Assemblies in Horizontally Adjoining Spaces
Forming Part of Sentence 9.11.1.4.(4)
Typeof Separating Wall
Assembly with STC ≥ 50 from
Table9.10.3.1.-A
Minimum Requirements for Floor Treatments Applied Over Subfloor of Wood-Framed
Flanking Floor Assemblies on Both Sides of Floor/Wall Junction
W5, W6, W10, W12
(staggered studs)
• wood strip flooring not less than 16 mm thick aligned parallel to separating wall, or
• one layer of OSB or plywood not less than 15.5 mm thick plus finished flooring, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 8 kg/m
2(1)
W4, W11 (staggered studs)
• one layer of OSB or plywood not less than 12.5 mm thick plus hardwood strip flooring not less than 19 mm thick aligned
parallel to separating wall, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 16 kg/m
2(1)
W8, W9 (staggered studs)
• concrete or gypsum concrete topping not less than 19 mm thick bonded to the subfloor plus finished flooring, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 32 kg/m
2(1)
W13, W14, W15 (double stud
walls)
• where a continuous subfloor or other rigid materials at the floor/wall junction provide structural connection between the
two rows of studs in the separating wall:
• hardwood strip flooring not less than 16 mm thick aligned parallel to separating wall, or
• one layer OSB or plywood not less than 15.5. mm thick plus finished flooring, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 8 kg/m
2(1)
• any finished flooring where the subfloor and other rigid materials are not connected at the floor/wall junction and where
there are no structural connections between the two rows of studs in the separating wall
B1 to B10 • any finished flooring
Notes to Table9.11.1.4.:
(1) See Note A-Table 9.11.1.4.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
Section 9.11. Sound Transmission
(SeeNoteA-9.11.)
9.11.1. Protection from Airborne Noise
9.11.1.1. Required Protection
1) Except as provided in Sentences
(2) and(3), a dwelling unit shall be separated from every other space in a
building in which noise may be generated by
a) a separating assembly and adjoining constructions, which together provide an apparent sound transmission
class (ASTC) rating of not less than 47, or
b) a separating assembly providing a sound transmission class (STC) rating of not less than 50 and adjoining
constructions that conform to Article9.11.1.4.
(SeeNoteA-9.11.1.4.)
2) Where a house contains a
secondary suite, each dwelling unit shall be separated from every other space in the
house in which noise may be transmitted by
a) construction having
i) joist spaces filled with sound-absorbing material of not less than 150mm nominal thickness,
ii) stud spaces filled with sound-absorbing material,
iii) resilient channel on one side of the separation spaced 400 or 600mm o.c., and
iv) not less than 12.7mm thick gypsum board on ceilings and on both sides of walls, or
b) construction providing an STC rating of not less than43, or
c) a separating assembly and adjoining constructions, which together provide an ASTC rating of not less
than40.
(Seealso Sentence 9.10.3.1.(2) and NoteA-9.11.1.1.(2).)
3) Construction separating a dwelling unit from an elevator shaft or refuse chute shall have an STC rating of not
less than55.
9.11.1.2. Determination of Sound Transmission Ratings
1) The STC ratings shall be determined in accordance with ASTME413, “Classification for Rating Sound
Insulation,” using the results from measurements carried out in accordance with ASTME90, “Laboratory
Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements.”
2) The ASTC ratings shall be
a) determined in accordance with ASTME413, “Classification for Rating Sound Insulation,” using the results
from measurements carried out in accordance with ASTME336, “Measurement of Airborne Sound
Attenuation between Rooms in Buildings,” or
b) calculated in accordance with Article5.8.1.4. or5.8.1.5.
9.11.1.3. Compliance with Required Ratings
1) Compliance with the required STC ratings shall be demonstrated through
a) measurements carried out in accordance with Sentence9.11.1.2.(1), or
b) the construction of separating assemblies conforming to Table9.10.3.1.-A or9.10.3.1.-B, as applicable.
2) Compliance with the required ASTC ratings shall be demonstrated through
a) measurements or calculations carried out in accordance with Sentence9.11.1.2.(2), or
b) the construction of separating assemblies conforming to Table9.10.3.1.-A or9.10.3.1.-B, as applicable, that
have an STC rating of not less than 50 in conjunction with flanking assemblies constructed in accordance
with Article9.11.1.4. (seeNoteA-9.11.1.3.(2)(b)).
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.11.1.4. Adjoining Constructions
(SeeNoteA-9.11.1.4.)
1) This Article applies where the required protection is provided in accordance with Clause9.11.1.1.(1)(b) and
compliance is demonstrated in accordance with Clause9.11.1.3.(2)(b).
2) Flanking wall assemblies connected to a separating floor or ceiling assembly shall be constructed with
a) concrete or concrete block having a mass per area greater than 200kg/m
2
, or
b) gypsum board finish that
i) is supported on wood or steel framing, and
ii) ends or is interrupted where it meets the structure of the separating floor or ceiling assembly.
3) Flanking wall and ceiling assemblies connected to a separating wall assembly shall be constructed with
a) concrete or concrete block having a mass per area greater than 300kg/m
2
, or
b) gypsum board finish that
i) is supported on wood or steel framing, and
ii) ends or is interrupted where it meets the structure of the separating wall assembly or, for double-stud
walls, where it meets the space between the two lines of studs.
4) Flanking floor assemblies connected to a separating wall assembly shall be
a) constructed
i) with concrete having a mass per area greater than 300kg/m
2
, or
ii) in accordance with Section9.16., or
b) supported on joists or trusses that are not continuous across the junction and are covered with floor
treatments in accordance with Table9.11.1.4. for the applicable wall construction.
Table 9.11.1.4.
Floor Treatments for Flanking Wood-Framed Floor Assemblies in Horizontally Adjoining Spaces
Forming Part of Sentence 9.11.1.4.(4)
Typeof Separating Wall
Assembly with STC ≥ 50 from
Table9.10.3.1.-A
Minimum Requirements for Floor Treatments Applied Over Subfloor of Wood-Framed
Flanking Floor Assemblies on Both Sides of Floor/Wall Junction
W5, W6, W10, W12
(staggered studs)
• wood strip flooring not less than 16 mm thick aligned parallel to separating wall, or
• one layer of OSB or plywood not less than 15.5 mm thick plus finished flooring, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 8 kg/m
2(1)
W4, W11 (staggered studs)
• one layer of OSB or plywood not less than 12.5 mm thick plus hardwood strip flooring not less than 19 mm thick aligned
parallel to separating wall, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 16 kg/m
2(1)
W8, W9 (staggered studs)
• concrete or gypsum concrete topping not less than 19 mm thick bonded to the subfloor plus finished flooring, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 32 kg/m
2(1)
W13, W14, W15 (double stud
walls)
• where a continuous subfloor or other rigid materials at the floor/wall junction provide structural connection between the
two rows of studs in the separating wall:
• hardwood strip flooring not less than 16 mm thick aligned parallel to separating wall, or
• one layer OSB or plywood not less than 15.5. mm thick plus finished flooring, or
• one additional material layer plus finished flooring having a combined mass per area not less than 8 kg/m
2(1)
• any finished flooring where the subfloor and other rigid materials are not connected at the floor/wall junction and where
there are no structural connections between the two rows of studs in the separating wall
B1 to B10 • any finished flooring
Notes to Table9.11.1.4.:
(1) See Note A-Table 9.11.1.4.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.12. Excavation
9.12.1. General
9.12.1.1. Removal of Topsoil and Organic Matter
1) The topsoil and vegetable matter in all unexcavated areas under a building shall be removed.
2) In localities where termite infestation is known to be a problem, all stumps, roots and other wood debris shall
be removed from the soil to a depth of not less than 300mm in unexcavated areas under a building.
3) The bottom of every excavation shall be free of all organic material.
9.12.1.2. Standing Water
1) Excavations shall be kept free of standing water.
9.12.1.3. Protection from Freezing
1) The bottom of excavations shall be kept from freezing throughout the entire construction period.
9.12.2. Depth
9.12.2.1. Excavation to Undisturbed Soil
1) Excavations for foundations shall extend to undisturbed soil.
9.12.2.2. Minimum Depth of Foundations
1) Except as provided in Sentences(4) to(7), the minimum depth of foundations below finished ground level
shall conform to Table9.12.2.2.
2) Where a foundation is insulated in a manner that will reduce heat flow to the soil beneath the footings, the
foundation depth shall conform to that required for foundations containing no heated space.
(SeeNoteA-9.12.2.2.(2).)
3) The minimum depth of foundations for exterior concrete steps with more than 2risers shall conform to
Sentences(1),(2) and(5).
4) Concrete steps with 1 and 2 risers are permitted to be laid on ground level.
Table 9.12.2.2.
Minimum Depths of Foundations
Forming Part of Sentence 9.12.2.2.(1)
Typeof Soil
Minimum Depth of Foundation Containing
Heated Basement or Crawl Space
(1)
Minimum Depth of Foundation Containing No Heated Space
(2)
Good Soil Drainage Poor Soil Drainage Good Soil Drainage Poor Soil Drainage
Rock No limit No limit No limit No limit
Coarse grained soils No limit No limit No limit Below the depth of frost penetration
Silt No limit No limit
Below the depth of
frost penetration
(3)
Below the depth of frost penetration
Clay or soils not
clearly defined
(4)
1.2 m
(3)
1.2 m
1.2 m but not less
than the depth of
frost penetration
(3)
1.2 m but not less than the depth of frost penetration
Notes to Table9.12.2.2.:
(1) Foundation not insulated to reduce heat loss through the footings.
(2) Including foundations insulated to reduce heat loss through the footings.
(3) Good soil drainage to not less than the depth of frost penetration.
(4) See Note A-Table 9.12.2.2.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
5) The foundation depths required in Sentence(1) are permitted to be decreased where experience with local soil
conditions shows that lesser depths are satisfactory, or where the foundation is designed for lesser depths.
6) The foundation depths required by Sentence(1) do not apply to foundations for
a) buildings
i) that are not of masonry or masonry veneer construction, and
ii) whose superstructure conforms to the requirements of the deformation resistance test in CSAZ240.2.1,
“Structural Requirements for Manufactured Homes,” or
b) accessory buildings
i) that are not of masonry or masonry veneer construction,
ii) not more than 1storey in height,
iii) not more than 55m
2
in building area, and
iv) where the distance from finished ground to the underside of the floor joists is not more than 600mm.
7) The foundation depths required by Sentence(1) do not apply to foundations for decks and other accessible
exterior platforms
a) of not more than 1storey,
b) not more than 55m
2
in area,
c) where the distance from finished ground to the underside of the joists is not more than 600mm,
d) not supporting a roof, and
e) not attached to another structure, unless it can be demonstrated that differential movement will not adversely
affect the performance of that structure.
8) Where decks or other accessible exterior platforms are supported on surface foundations supported on other
than coarse-grained soil with good drainage or rock, access to the foundation positions to permit re-levelling of the
platform shall be provided
a) by passageways with a clear height under the platform of not less than 600mm and a width of not less than
600mm, or
b) by installing the decking in a manner that allows easy removal.
9.12.3. Backfill
9.12.3.1. Placement of Backfill
1) Backfill shall be placed to avoid damaging the foundation wall, the drainage tile, externally applied thermal
insulation and waterproofing or dampproofing of the wall.
9.12.3.2. Grading of Backfill
1) Backfill shall be graded to prevent drainage towards the foundation after settling.
9.12.3.3. Deleterious Debris and Boulders
1) Backfill that is within 600mm of the foundation shall be free of deleterious debris and boulders larger than
250mm diam. (SeeNoteA-9.12.3.3.(1).)
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), backfill shall not contain pyritic material or material that is susceptible to
ice lensing in concentrations that will damage the building to a degree that would adversely affect its stability or the
performance of assemblies. (SeeNoteA-9.4.4.4.(1).)
3) Backfill with material of any concentration that is susceptible to ice lensing is permitted where foundation
walls are
a) cast-in-place concrete,
b) concrete block insulated on the exterior, or
c) concrete block protected from the backfill by a material that serves as a slip plane.
(SeeNoteA-9.4.4.4.(1).)
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.12.4. Trenches beneath Footings
9.12.4.1. Support of Footings
1) The soil in trenches beneath footings for sewers and watermains shall be compacted by tamping up to the
level of the footing base, or shall be filled with concrete having a strength not less than 10MPa to support
the footing.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.13. Dampproofing, Waterproofing and
Soil Gas Control
9.13.1. General
9.13.1.1. Scope and Application
1) This Section presents measures to control the ingress of water, moisture and soil gas.
2) Subsection9.13.2. applies to below-ground walls and floors-on-ground where drainage is provided in
accordance with Section9.14. over and along the entire below-ground portion of the foundation wall.
3) Subsection9.13.3. applies to below-ground walls, floors-on-ground and roofs of underground structures that
are subject to hydrostatic pressure.
4) Subsection9.13.4. applies to walls, roofs and floors that are in contact with the ground.
9.13.2. Dampproofing
9.13.2.1. Required Dampproofing
1) Except as provided in Article9.13.3.1., where the exterior finished ground level is at a higher elevation than
the ground level inside the foundation walls, exterior surfaces of foundation walls below ground level shall be
dampproofed.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3) and Article9.13.3.1., floors-on-ground shall be dampproofed.
3) Dampproofing required in Sentence(2) need not be provided for
a) floors in garages,
b) floors in unenclosed portions of buildings, or
c) floors installed over not less than 100mm of coarse clean granular material containing not more than 10% of
material that will pass a 4mm sieve.
9.13.2.2. Dampproofing Materials
1) Materials installed to provide required dampproofing shall be
a) capable of protecting assemblies against moisture transfer from the ground,
b) compatible with adjoining materials, and
c) resistant to mechanisms of deterioration that may reasonably be expected, given the nature, function and
exposure of the materials.
2) Except as otherwise specified in this Section, materials used for exterior dampproofing shall
a) conform to one of the following standards:
i) ASTMD1227, “Emulsified Asphalt Used as a Protective Coating for Roofing,” TypeIII, ClassI,
ii) ASTMD4479/D 4479M, “Asphalt Roof Coatings – Asbestos-Free,” TypeIII,
iii) CAN/CGSB-51.34-M, “Vapour Barrier, Polyethylene Sheet for Use in Building Construction,” or
iv) CAN/CSA-A123.4, “Asphalt for Constructing Built-Up Roof Coverings and Waterproofing
Systems,”or
b) have a water vapour permeance of not more than 43ng/Pa·s·m
2
when tested in accordance with ProcedureA
(wet cup) of ASTME96/E96M, “Water Vapor Transmission of Materials,” and consist of one of the
following material types:
i) a vapour-resistant coating,
ii) a cold-fluid-applied or hot-rubberized bituminous dampproofing membrane,
iii) a liquid-applied or spray-applied asphalt-based emulsion dampproofing, or
iv) a type III hot-applied asphalt.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.13.2.3. Preparation of Surface
1) The area in which dampproofing is to be carried out shall be kept free of water during the application and
curing of the dampproofing system.
2) The surface to be dampproofed shall be prepared in accordance with the instructions of the dampproofing
material manufacturer.
3) Where the dampproofing material is to be applied on insulating concrete form (ICF) walls, the instructions
of the ICF wall manufacturer shall be followed.
4) Unit masonry walls to be dampproofed shall be parged on the exterior face below ground level with not less
than 6mm of mortar conforming to Section9.20. coved over the footing.
5) Concrete walls to be dampproofed shall have holes and recesses sealed with cement mortar or a mastic or
sealant that is suitable for vertical applications and compatible with the dampproofing material.
6) The surface required to be dampproofed shall be clean and dry and free of ice, snow, frost, dust, dirt, oil,
grease, cracks, projections and depressions, loose particles and debris that could be detrimental to the performance of
the material to be applied.
9.13.2.4. Application of Dampproofing Material
1) Exterior dampproofing shall be applied from finished ground level to the top of the exterior of the footing.
2) Unless otherwise stated in this Subsection, dampproofing shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions with regard to
a) surface priming,
b) conditions during application,
c) application quantity and rate, and
d) curing times.
3) Joints, cracks and penetrations shall be sealed to maintain the continuity of the dampproofing, where the
dampproofing material is not capable of bridging such discontinuities.
9.13.2.5. Moisture Protection for Interior Finishes
(SeeNoteA-9.13.2.5.)
1) The interior surface of foundation walls below ground level shall be protected by means that minimize the
ingress of moisture from the foundation wall into interior spaces, where
a) a separate interior finish is applied to a concrete or unit masonry wall that is in contact with the soil, or
b) wood members are placed in contact with such walls for the installation of insulation or finish.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), where the protection of interior finishes required in Sentence(1) consists
of membranes or coatings,
a) the membrane or coating shall extend from the basement floor surface up to the highest extent of the interior
insulation or finish, but not higher than the exterior finished ground level, and
b) no membrane or coating with a permeance less than 170ng/(Pa·s·m
2
) shall be applied to the interior surface
of the foundation wall above ground level between the insulation and the foundation wall.
3) Where insulation functions as both moisture protection for interior finishes and as a vapour barrier in
accordance with Subsection9.25.4., it shall be applied over the entire interior surface of the foundation wall.
9.13.2.6. Dampproofing of Floors-on-Ground
1) Where dampproofing is installed below the floor, it shall consist of
a) polyethylene not less than 0.15mm thick with joints lapped not less than 100 mm,
b) type S roll roofing with joints lapped not less than 100mm, or
c) rigid extruded/expanded polystyrene with sealed or ship-lapped joints that has
i) sufficient compressive strength to support the floor assembly, and
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
ii) a water vapour permeance complying with Clause 9.13.2.2.(2)(a).
2) Where dampproofing is installed between a floor-on-ground and a finished floor, it shall consist of
a) rigid extruded/expanded polystyrene with sealed or ship-lapped joints that has
i) sufficient compressive strength to support the floor assembly, and
ii) a water vapour permeance complying with Clause9.13.2.2.(2)(b), or
b) polyethylene not less than 0.05mm thick with joints lapped not less than 100mm.
9.13.3. Waterproofing
9.13.3.1. Required Waterproofing
1) Where hydrostatic pressure occurs, waterproofing is required for assemblies separating interior space from the
ground to prevent the ingress of water into building assemblies and interior spaces.
2) Waterproofing is required for roofs of underground structures to prevent the ingress of water into building
assemblies and interior spaces.
9.13.3.2. Waterproofing Materials
1) Materials installed to provide required waterproofing shall be
a) compatible with adjoining materials, and
b) resistant to mechanisms of deterioration that may reasonably be expected, given the nature, function and
exposure of the materials.
2) Materials used for exterior waterproofing shall conform to
a) ASTM D 1227, “Emulsified Asphalt Used as a Protective Coating for Roofing,” in which case, they shall be
installed in accordance with Sentence9.13.3.3.(3),
b) ASTM D 3019, “Lap Cement Used with Asphalt Roll Roofing, Non-Fibered, Asbestos-Fibered, and
Non-Asbestos-Fibered,” where non-fibered and non-asbestos-fibered types (I and III) asphalt roll roofing is
permitted,
c) ASTM D 4479/D 4479M, “Asphalt Roof Coatings – Asbestos-Free,” in which case, they shall be installed in
accordance with Sentence9.13.3.3.(3) and with reinforcing material,
d) ASTM D 4637/D 4637M, “EPDM Sheet Used In Single-Ply Roof Membrane,”
e) ASTM D 4811/D 4811M, “Nonvulcanized (Uncured) Rubber Sheet Used as Roof Flashing,”
f) ASTM D 6878/D 6878M, “Thermoplastic Polyolefin Based Sheet Roofing,”
g) CGSB 37-GP-9Ma, “Primer, Asphalt, Unfilled, for Asphalt Roofing, Dampproofing and Waterproofing,”
where a primer is required,
h) CAN/CGSB-37.50-M, “Hot-Applied, Rubberized Asphalt for Roofing and Waterproofing,”
i) CAN/CGSB-37.54, “Polyvinyl Chloride Roofing and Waterproofing Membrane,”
j) CGSB 37-GP-56M, “Membrane, Modified, Bituminous, Prefabricated, and Reinforced for Roofing,”
k) CAN/CGSB-37.58-M, “Membrane, Elastomeric, Cold-Applied Liquid, for Non-Exposed Use in Roofing
and Waterproofing,”
l) CAN/CSA-A123.2, “Asphalt-Coated Roofing Sheets,”
m) CAN/CSA-A123.4, “Asphalt for Constructing Built-Up Roof Coverings and Waterproofing Systems,” in
which case, they shall be installed with reinforcing material, or
n) CSAA123.17, “Asphalt Glass Felt Used in Roofing and Waterproofing.”
9.13.3.3. Preparation of Surface
1) Surfaces to be waterproofed shall be prepared in accordance with the instructions of the waterproofing
material manufacturer.
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
2) Where the waterproofing material is to be applied on ICF walls, the instructions of the ICF wall
manufacturer shall be followed.
3) Unit masonry walls that are to be waterproofed shall be parged on exterior surfaces below ground level with
not less than 6mm of mortar conforming to Section9.20. coved over the footing.
4) Concrete walls that are to be waterproofed shall have all holes and recesses sealed with mortar or
waterproofing material.
5) Surfaces required to be waterproofed shall be clean and dry and free of ice, snow, frost, dust, dirt, oil, grease,
cracks, projections and depressions, loose particles and debris that could be detrimental to the performance of the
waterproofing material.
9.13.3.4. Application of Waterproofing Membranes
1) Unless otherwise stated in this Subsection, waterproofing shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions with regard to
a) surface priming,
b) conditions during application,
c) the required number of layers of reinforcing fabric on foundation, footings, floors, walls and structural slabs,
d) application quantity and rate, and
e) curing times.
2) Waterproofing shall be continuous across joints and at junctions between different building elements.
3) The waterproofed surface shall be protected with a suitable material to minimize mechanical damage
during backfilling.
4) The area in which the waterproofing is to be carried out shall be kept free of water during the application and
curing of the waterproofing system.
9.13.3.5. Floor Waterproofing System
1) Basement floors-on-ground to be waterproofed shall have a system of membrane waterproofing provided
between 2layers of concrete, each of which shall be not less than 75mm thick, with the floor membrane made
continuous with the wall membrane to form a complete seal.
9.13.4. Soil Gas Control
(SeeNoteA-9.13.4.)
9.13.4.1. Application and Scope
1) This Subsection applies to
a) wall, roof and floor assemblies separating conditioned space from the ground, and
b) the rough-in of a radon vent pipe to allow the future protection of conditioned space that is separated from the
ground by a wall, roof or floor assembly.
2) This Subsection addresses the leakage of soil gas from the ground into the building.
9.13.4.2. Protection from Soil Gas Ingress
1) All wall, roof and floor assemblies separating conditioned space from the ground shall be protected by an air
barrier system conforming to Subsection9.25.3.
2) Except as permitted by Sentence (4), unless the space between the air barrier system and the ground is
designed to be accessible for the future installation of a subfloor depressurization system, dwelling units and buildings
containing residential occupancies shall be provided with the rough-in for a radon extraction system conforming to
Article9.13.4.3.
3) Except as permitted by Sentence (4) or (5), where buildings are used for occupancies other than those described
in Sentence(2) and are intended to be occupied on average for greater than 4 hours within a 24 hour period,
protection from radon ingress and the means to address high radon concentrations in the future shall conform to
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
a) Article9.13.4.3., or
b) Parts 5 and 6 (seeArticle5.4.1.1. and6.2.1.1.).
(SeeNoteA-9.13.4.2.(3).)
4) Locations requiring radon rough-ins shall be determined in accordance with Article 1.1.3.3. of Division A.
5) Buildings described in Clause 9.16.2.1.(2)(b) need not conform to Sentence (3).
9.13.4.3. Rough-in for a Subfloor Depressurization System
(SeeNoteA-9.13.4.3.)
1) Floors-on-ground shall be provided with a rough-in for subfloor depressurization consisting of
a) a gas-permeable layer and a radon vent pipe as described in Sentence(2), or
b) a gas-permeable layer consisting of coarse clean granular material and a radon vent pipe as described in
Sentence(3).
2) Where a rough-in referred to in Clause(1)(a) is provided, the rough-in shall include
a) a gas-permeable layer installed in the space between the air barrier system and the ground to allow the
depressurization of that space,
b) reserved, and
c) a radon vent pipe that
i) has one or more inlets that allow for the effective depressurization of the gas-permeable layer
(see Notes A-9.13.4.3.(2)(c
)(i) and (3)(b)(i)),
ii) terminates outside the building in a manner that does not constitute a hazard, and
iii) is clearly labeled ”RADON VENT PIPE”.
3) Where a rough-in referred to in Clause(1)(b) is provided, the rough-in shall include
a) a gas-permeable layer, consisting of not less than 100 mm of clean granular material containing not more
than 10% of material that will pass a 4 mm sieve, installed below the floor-on-ground, and
b) a radon vent pipe not less than 100mm in diameter that is constructed so as to be airtight and installed
through the floor-on-ground, such that
i) it opens into each contiguous area of the granular layer required by Clause(a) and not less than 100mm
of granular material projects beyond the terminus of the pipe measured along its axis
(seeNoteA-9.13.4.3.(2)(c
)(i) and (3)(b)(i)),
ii) it terminates not less than 1 m above and not less than 3.5 m in any other direction from any air inlet,
door or openable window,
iii) it terminates not less than 2 m above and not less than 3.5 m in any other direction from a roof that
supports an occupancy,
iv) it terminates not less than 1.8 m from a property line,
v) it is shielded from the weather in accordance with Sentence 6.3.2.9.(4)
,
vi) it is protected from frost closure by insulating the pipe or by some other manner, if subject to frost
closure,
vii) the accumulation of moisture in the pipe is prevented, and
viii) it is clearly labelled “RADON VENT PIPE” every 1.2 m and at every change in direction.
(See Note A-9.13.4.3.(3))
Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
Section 9.13. Dampproofing, Waterproofing and
Soil Gas Control
9.13.1. General
9.13.1.1. Scope and Application
1) This Section presents measures to control the ingress of water, moisture and soil gas.
2) Subsection9.13.2. applies to below-ground walls and floors-on-ground where drainage is provided in
accordance with Section9.14. over and along the entire below-ground portion of the foundation wall.
3) Subsection9.13.3. applies to below-ground walls, floors-on-ground and roofs of underground structures that
are subject to hydrostatic pressure.
4) Subsection9.13.4. applies to walls, roofs and floors that are in contact with the ground.
9.13.2. Dampproofing
9.13.2.1. Required Dampproofing
1) Except as provided in Article9.13.3.1., where the exterior finished ground level is at a higher elevation than
the ground level inside the foundation walls, exterior surfaces of foundation walls below ground level shall be
dampproofed.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3) and Article9.13.3.1., floors-on-ground shall be dampproofed.
3) Dampproofing required in Sentence(2) need not be provided for
a) floors in garages,
b) floors in unenclosed portions of buildings, or
c) floors installed over not less than 100mm of coarse clean granular material containing not more than 10% of
material that will pass a 4mm sieve.
9.13.2.2. Dampproofing Materials
1) Materials installed to provide required dampproofing shall be
a) capable of protecting assemblies against moisture transfer from the ground,
b) compatible with adjoining materials, and
c) resistant to mechanisms of deterioration that may reasonably be expected, given the nature, function and
exposure of the materials.
2) Except as otherwise specified in this Section, materials used for exterior dampproofing shall
a) conform to one of the following standards:
i) ASTMD1227, “Emulsified Asphalt Used as a Protective Coating for Roofing,” TypeIII, ClassI,
ii) ASTMD4479/D 4479M, “Asphalt Roof Coatings – Asbestos-Free,” TypeIII,
iii) CAN/CGSB-51.34-M, “Vapour Barrier, Polyethylene Sheet for Use in Building Construction,” or
iv) CAN/CSA-A123.4, “Asphalt for Constructing Built-Up Roof Coverings and Waterproofing
Systems,”or
b) have a water vapour permeance of not more than 43ng/Pa·s·m
2
when tested in accordance with ProcedureA
(wet cup) of ASTME96/E96M, “Water Vapor Transmission of Materials,” and consist of one of the
following material types:
i) a vapour-resistant coating,
ii) a cold-fluid-applied or hot-rubberized bituminous dampproofing membrane,
iii) a liquid-applied or spray-applied asphalt-based emulsion dampproofing, or
iv) a type III hot-applied asphalt.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.13.2.3. Preparation of Surface
1) The area in which dampproofing is to be carried out shall be kept free of water during the application and
curing of the dampproofing system.
2) The surface to be dampproofed shall be prepared in accordance with the instructions of the dampproofing
material manufacturer.
3) Where the dampproofing material is to be applied on insulating concrete form (ICF) walls, the instructions
of the ICF wall manufacturer shall be followed.
4) Unit masonry walls to be dampproofed shall be parged on the exterior face below ground level with not less
than 6mm of mortar conforming to Section9.20. coved over the footing.
5) Concrete walls to be dampproofed shall have holes and recesses sealed with cement mortar or a mastic or
sealant that is suitable for vertical applications and compatible with the dampproofing material.
6) The surface required to be dampproofed shall be clean and dry and free of ice, snow, frost, dust, dirt, oil,
grease, cracks, projections and depressions, loose particles and debris that could be detrimental to the performance of
the material to be applied.
9.13.2.4. Application of Dampproofing Material
1) Exterior dampproofing shall be applied from finished ground level to the top of the exterior of the footing.
2) Unless otherwise stated in this Subsection, dampproofing shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions with regard to
a) surface priming,
b) conditions during application,
c) application quantity and rate, and
d) curing times.
3) Joints, cracks and penetrations shall be sealed to maintain the continuity of the dampproofing, where the
dampproofing material is not capable of bridging such discontinuities.
9.13.2.5. Moisture Protection for Interior Finishes
(SeeNoteA-9.13.2.5.)
1) The interior surface of foundation walls below ground level shall be protected by means that minimize the
ingress of moisture from the foundation wall into interior spaces, where
a) a separate interior finish is applied to a concrete or unit masonry wall that is in contact with the soil, or
b) wood members are placed in contact with such walls for the installation of insulation or finish.
2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), where the protection of interior finishes required in Sentence(1) consists
of membranes or coatings,
a) the membrane or coating shall extend from the basement floor surface up to the highest extent of the interior
insulation or finish, but not higher than the exterior finished ground level, and
b) no membrane or coating with a permeance less than 170ng/(Pa·s·m
2
) shall be applied to the interior surface
of the foundation wall above ground level between the insulation and the foundation wall.
3) Where insulation functions as both moisture protection for interior finishes and as a vapour barrier in
accordance with Subsection9.25.4., it shall be applied over the entire interior surface of the foundation wall.
9.13.2.6. Dampproofing of Floors-on-Ground
1) Where dampproofing is installed below the floor, it shall consist of
a) polyethylene not less than 0.15mm thick with joints lapped not less than 100 mm,
b) type S roll roofing with joints lapped not less than 100mm, or
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
c) rigid extruded/expanded polystyrene with sealed or ship-lapped joints that has
i) sufficient compressive strength to support the floor assembly, and
ii) a water vapour permeance complying with Clause 9.13.2.2.(2)(a).
2) Where dampproofing is installed between a floor-on-ground and a finished floor, it shall consist of
a) rigid extruded/expanded polystyrene with sealed or ship-lapped joints that has
i) sufficient compressive strength to support the floor assembly, and
ii) a water vapour permeance complying with Clause9.13.2.2.(2)(b), or
b) polyethylene not less than 0.05mm thick with joints lapped not less than 100mm.
9.13.3. Waterproofing
9.13.3.1. Required Waterproofing
1) Where hydrostatic pressure occurs, waterproofing is required for assemblies separating interior space from the
ground to prevent the ingress of water into building assemblies and interior spaces.
2) Waterproofing is required for roofs of underground structures to prevent the ingress of water into building
assemblies and interior spaces.
9.13.3.2. Waterproofing Materials
1) Materials installed to provide required waterproofing shall be
a) compatible with adjoining materials, and
b) resistant to mechanisms of deterioration that may reasonably be expected, given the nature, function and
exposure of the materials.
2) Materials used for exterior waterproofing shall conform to
a) ASTM D 1227, “Emulsified Asphalt Used as a Protective Coating for Roofing,” in which case, they shall be
installed in accordance with Sentence9.13.3.3.(3),
b) ASTM D 3019, “Lap Cement Used with Asphalt Roll Roofing, Non-Fibered, Asbestos-Fibered, and
Non-Asbestos-Fibered,” where non-fibered and non-asbestos-fibered types (I and III) asphalt roll roofing
is permitted,
c) ASTM D 4479/D 4479M, “Asphalt Roof Coatings – Asbestos-Free,” in which case, they shall be installed in
accordance with Sentence9.13.3.3.(3) and with reinforcing material,
d) ASTM D 4637/D 4637M, “EPDM Sheet Used In Single-Ply Roof Membrane,”
e) ASTM D 4811/D 4811M, “Nonvulcanized (Uncured) Rubber Sheet Used as Roof Flashing,”
f) ASTM D 6878/D 6878M, “Thermoplastic Polyolefin Based Sheet Roofing,”
g) CGSB 37-GP-9Ma, “Primer, Asphalt, Unfilled, for Asphalt Roofing, Dampproofing and Waterproofing,”
where a primer is required,
h) CAN/CGSB-37.50-M, “Hot-Applied, Rubberized Asphalt for Roofing and Waterproofing,”
i) CAN/CGSB-37.54, “Polyvinyl Chloride Roofing and Waterproofing Membrane,”
j) CGSB 37-GP-56M, “Membrane, Modified, Bituminous, Prefabricated, and Reinforced for Roofing,”
k) CAN/CGSB-37.58-M, “Membrane, Elastomeric, Cold-Applied Liquid, for Non-Exposed Use in Roofing
and Waterproofing,”
l) CAN/CSA-A123.2, “Asphalt-Coated Roofing Sheets,”
m) CAN/CSA-A123.4, “Asphalt for Constructing Built-Up Roof Coverings and Waterproofing Systems,” in
which case, they shall be installed with reinforcing material, or
n) CSAA123.17, “Asphalt Glass Felt Used in Roofing and Waterproofing.”
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018
9.13.3.3. Preparation of Surface
1) Surfaces to be waterproofed shall be prepared in accordance with the instructions of the waterproofing
material manufacturer.
2) Where the waterproofing material is to be applied on ICF walls, the instructions of the ICF wall
manufacturer shall be followed.
3) Unit masonry walls that are to be waterproofed shall be parged on exterior surfaces below ground level with
not less than 6mm of mortar conforming to Section9.20. coved over the footing.
4) Concrete walls that are to be waterproofed shall have all holes and recesses sealed with mortar or
waterproofing material.
5) Surfaces required to be waterproofed shall be clean and dry and free of ice, snow, frost, dust, dirt, oil, grease,
cracks, projections and depressions, loose particles and debris that could be detrimental to the performance of the
waterproofing material.
9.13.3.4. Application of Waterproofing Membranes
1) Unless otherwise stated in this Subsection, waterproofing shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions with regard to
a) surface priming,
b) conditions during application,
c) the required number of layers of reinforcing fabric on foundation, footings, floors, walls and structural slabs,
d) application quantity and rate, and
e) curing times.
2) Waterproofing shall be continuous across joints and at junctions between different building elements.
3) The waterproofed surface shall be protected with a suitable material to minimize mechanical damage
during backfilling.
4) The area in which the waterproofing is to be carried out shall be kept free of water during the application and
curing of the waterproofing system.
9.13.3.5. Floor Waterproofing System
1) Basement floors-on-ground to be waterproofed shall have a system of membrane waterproofing provided
between 2layers of concrete, each of which shall be not less than 75mm thick, with the floor membrane made
continuous with the wall membrane to form a complete seal.
9.13.4. Soil Gas Control
(SeeNoteA-9.13.4.)
9.13.4.1. Application and Scope
1) This Subsection applies to
a) wall, roof and floor assemblies separating conditioned space from the ground, and
b) the rough-in of a radon vent pipe to allow the future protection of conditioned space that is separated from the
ground by a wall, roof or floor assembly.
2) This Subsection addresses the leakage of soil gas from the ground into the building.
9.13.4.2. Protection from Soil Gas Ingress
1) All wall, roof and floor assemblies separating conditioned space from the ground shall be protected by an air
barrier system conforming to Subsection9.25.3.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B
2) Except as permitted by Sentence (4), unless the space between the air barrier system and the ground is
designed to be accessible for the future installation of a subfloor depressurization system, dwelling units and buildings
containing residential occupancies shall be provided with the rough-in for a radon extraction system conforming to
Article9.13.4.3.
3) Except as permitted by Sentence (4) or (5), where buildings are used for occupancies other than those described
in Sentence(2) and are intended to be occupied on average for greater than 4 hours within a 24 hour period,
protection from radon ingress and the means to address high radon concentrations in the future shall conform to
a) Article9.13.4.3., or
b) Parts 5 and 6 (seeArticle5.4.1.1. and6.2.1.1.).
(SeeNoteA-9.13.4.2.(3).)
4) Locations requiring radon rough-ins shall be determined in accordance with Article 1.1.3.3. of Division
B.
5) Buildings described in Clause 9.16.2.1.(2)(b) need not conform to Sentence (3).
9.13.4.3. Rough-in for a Subfloor Depressurization System
(SeeNoteA-9.13.4.3.)
1) Floors-on-ground shall be provided with a rough-in for subfloor depressurization consisting of
a) a gas-permeable layer and a radon vent pipe as described in Sentence(2), or
b) a gas-permeable layer consisting of coarse clean granular material and a radon vent pipe as described in
Sentence(3).
2) Where a rough-in referred to in Clause(1)(a) is provided, the rough-in shall include
a) a gas-permeable layer installed in the space between the air barrier system and the ground to allow the
depressurization of that space,
b) reserved, and
c) a radon vent pipe that
i) has one or more inlets that allow for the effective depressurization of the gas-permeable layer
(see Notes A-9.13.4.3.(2)(c
)(i) and (3)(b)(i)),
ii) terminates outside the building in a manner that does not constitute a hazard, and
iii) is clearly labeled ”RADON VENT PIPE”.
3) Where a rough-in referred to in Clause(1)(b) is provided, the rough-in shall include
a) a gas-permeable layer, consisting of not less than 100 mm of clean granular material containing not more
than 10% of material that will pass a 4 mm sieve, installed below the floor-on-ground, and
b) a radon vent pipe not less than 100mm in diameter that is constructed so as to be airtight and installed
through the floor-on-ground, such that
i) it opens into each contiguous area of the granular layer required by Clause(a) and not less than 100mm
of granular material projects beyond the terminus of the pipe measured along its axis
(seeNoteA-9.13.4.3.(2)(c
)(i) and (3)(b)(i)),
ii) it terminates not less than 1 m above and not less than 3.5 m in any other direction from any air inlet,
door or openable window,
iii) it terminates not less than 2 m above and not less than 3.5 m in any other direction from a roof that
supports an occupancy,
iv) it terminates not less than 1.8 m from a property line,
v) it is shielded from the weather in accordance with Sentence 6.3.2.9.(4)
,
vi) it is protected from frost closure by insulating the pipe or by some other manner, if subject to frost
closure,
vii) the accumulation of moisture in the pipe is prevented, and
viii) it is clearly labelled “RADON VENT PIPE” every 1.2 m and at every change in direction.
(See Note A-9.13.4.3.(3))
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.14. Drainage
9.14.1. Scope
9.14.1.1. Application
1) This Section applies to subsurface drainage and to surface drainage.
9.14.1.2. Crawl Spaces
1) Drainage for crawl spaces shall conform to Section9.18.
9.14.1.3. Floors-on-Ground
1) Drainage requirements beneath floors-on-ground shall conform to Section9.16.
9.14.2. Foundation Drainage
9.14.2.1. Foundation Wall Drainage
1) Unless it can be shown to be unnecessary, the bottom of every exterior foundation wall shall be drained by
drainage tile or pipe laid around the exterior of the foundation in conformance with Subsection9.14.3. or by a layer
of gravel or crushed rock in conformance with Subsection9.14.4.
2) Where mineral fibre insulation or crushed rock backfill is provided adjacent to the exterior surface of a
foundation wall,
a) the insulation or backfill shall extend to the footing level to facilitate the drainage of ground water to the
foundation’s drainage system (seeNoteA-9.14.2.1.(2)(a)), and
b) any pyritic material in the crushed rock shall be limited to a concentration that will not damage the building
to a degree that would adversely affect its stability or the performance of assemblies (seeSentence9.12.3.3.(2)
and NoteA-9.4.4.4.(1)).
9.14.3. Drainage Tile and Pipe
9.14.3.1. Material Standards
1) Drain tile and drain pipe for foundation drainage shall conform to
a) ASTMC4, “Clay Drain Tile and Perforated Clay Drain Tile,”
b) ASTMC412M, “Concrete Drain Tile (Metric),”
c) ASTMC444M, “Perforated Concrete Pipe (Metric),”
d) ASTMC700, “Standard Specification for Vitrified Clay Pipe, Extra Strength, Standard Strength, and
Perforated,”
e) BNQ3624-115, “Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings – Flexible Pipes for Drainage – Characteristics and
Test Methods,”
f) CAN/CSA-B182.1, “Plastic Drain and Sewer Pipe and Pipe Fittings,” or
g) CSAG401, “Corrugated Steel Pipe Products.”
9.14.3.2. Minimum Size
1) Drain tile or pipe used for foundation drainage shall be not less than 100mm in diam.
9.14.3.3. Installation
1) Drain tile or pipe shall be laid on undisturbed or well-compacted soil so that the top of the tile or pipe is
below the bottom of the floor slab or the ground cover of the crawl space.
2) Drain tile or pipe with butt joints shall be laid with 6mm to 10mm open joints.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
3) The top half of joints referred to in Sentence(2) shall be covered with sheathing paper, 0.10mm
polyethylene or No.15 asphalt or tar-saturated felt.
4) The top and sides of drain pipe or tile shall be covered with not less than 150mm of crushed stone or other
coarse clean granular material containing not more than 10% of material that will pass a 4mm sieve.
9.14.4. Granular Drainage Layer
9.14.4.1. Typeof Granular Material
1) Granular material used to drain the bottom of a foundation shall consist of a continuous layer of crushed
stone or other coarse clean granular material containing
a) not more than 10% of material that will pass a 4mm sieve, and
b) no pyritic material in a concentration that will damage the building to a degree that would adversely affect its
stability or the performance of assemblies (seeNoteA-9.4.4.4.(1)).
9.14.4.2. Installation
1) Granular material described in Article9.14.4.1. shall be laid on undisturbed or compacted soil to a minimum
depth of not less than 125mm beneath the footing of the building and extend not less than 300mm beyond the
outside edge of the footings.
9.14.4.3. Grading
1) The bottom of an excavation drained by a granular layer shall be graded so that the entire area described in
Article9.14.4.2. is drained to a sump conforming to Article9.14.5.2.
9.14.4.4. Wet Site Conditions
1) Where because of wet site conditions soil becomes mixed with the granular drainage material, sufficient
additional granular material shall be provided so that the top 125mm are kept free of soil.
9.14.5. Drainage Disposal
9.14.5.1. Drainage Disposal
1) Foundation drains shall drain to a sewer, drainage ditch or dry well.
9.14.5.2. Sump Pits
1) Where a sump pit is provided it shall be
a) not less than 750mm deep,
b) not less than 0.25m
2
in area, and
c) provided with a cover.
2) Covers for sump pits shall be designed
a) to resist removal by children, and
b) to be airtight in accordance with Sentence9.25.3.3.(7).
3) Where gravity drainage is not practical, an automatic sump pump shall be provided to discharge the water
from the sump pit described in Sentence(1) into a sewer, drainage ditch or dry well.
9.14.5.3. Dry Wells
1) Dry wells may be used only when located in areas where the natural groundwater level is below the bottom of
the dry well.
2) Dry wells shall be not less than 5m from the building foundation and located so that drainage is away from
the building.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.14.6. Surface Drainage
9.14.6.1. Surface Drainage
1) The building shall be located or the building site graded so that water will not accumulate at or near
the building.
9.14.6.2. Drainage away from Wells or Septic Disposal Beds
1) Surface drainage shall be directed away from the location of a water supply well or septic tank disposal bed.
9.14.6.3. Window Wells
1) Every window well shall be drained to the footing level or other suitable location.
9.14.6.4. Catch Basin
1) Where runoff water from a driveway is likely to accumulate or enter a garage, a catch basin shall be installed
to provide adequate drainage.
9.14.6.5. Downspouts
1) Downspouts shall conform to Article9.26.18.2.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.15. Footings and Foundations
9.15.1. Application
9.15.1.1. General
(SeeNotesA-9.15.1.1. andA-9.4.4.6. and 9.15.1.1.)
1) Except as provided in Articles9.15.1.2. and9.15.1.3., this Section applies to
a) concrete or unit masonry foundation walls and concrete footings not subject to surcharge
i) on stable soils with an allowable bearing pressure of 75kPa or greater, and
ii) for buildings of wood-frame or masonry construction,
b) wood-frame foundation walls and wood or concrete footings not subject to surcharge
i) on stable soils with an allowable bearing pressure of 75kPa or greater, and
ii) for buildings of wood-frame construction, and
c) flat insulating concrete form foundation walls and concrete footings not subject to surcharge
(seeNoteA-9.15.1.1.(1)(c) and 9.20.1.1.(1)(b))
i) on stable soils with an allowable bearing pressure of 75kPa or greater, and
ii) for buildings of light-frame or flat insulating concrete form construction that are not more than 2storeys
in building height, with a maximum floor to floor height of 3m, and containing only a single
dwelling unit.
2) Foundations for applications other than as described in Sentence(1) shall be designed in accordance with
Section9.4.
9.15.1.2. Permafrost
1) Buildings erected on permafrost shall have foundations designed by a designer competent in this field in
accordance with the appropriate requirements of Part4.
9.15.1.3. Foundations for Deformation-Resistant Buildings
1) Where the superstructure of a detached building conforms to the requirements of the deformation resistance
test in CSAZ240.2.1, “Structural Requirements for Manufactured Homes,” the foundation shall be constructed in
conformance with
a) the remainder of this Section, or
b) CSAZ240.10.1, “Site Preparation, Foundation, and Anchorage of Manufactured Homes.”
9.15.2. General
9.15.2.1. Concrete
1) Concrete shall conform to Section9.3.
9.15.2.2. Unit Masonry Construction
1) Concrete block shall conform to CSAA165.1, “Concrete Block Masonry Units,” and shall have a
compressive strength over the average net cross-sectional area of the block of not less than 15MPa.
2) Mortar, grout, mortar joints, corbelling and protection for unit masonry shall conform to Section9.20.
3) For concrete block foundation walls required to be reinforced,
a) mortar shall be TypeS, conforming to CSAA179, “Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry,”
b) grout shall be coarse, conforming to CSAA179, “Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry,” and
c) placement of grout shall conform to CSAA371, “Masonry Construction for Buildings.”
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.15.2.3. Pier-TypeFoundations
1) Where pier-type foundations are used, the piers shall be designed to support the applied loads from the
superstructure.
2) Where piers are used as a foundation system in a building of 1storey in building height, the piers shall be
installed to support the principal framing members and shall be spaced not more than 3.5m apart along the framing,
unless the piers and their footings are designed for larger spacings.
3) The height of piers described in Sentence(2) shall not exceed 3times their least dimension at the base of
thepier.
4) Where concrete block is used for piers described in Sentence(2), they shall be laid with cores placed
vertically, and where the width of the building is 4.3m or less, placed with their longest dimension at right angles to
the longest dimension of the building.
9.15.2.4. Wood-Frame Foundations
1) Foundations of wood-frame construction shall conform to
a) CSAS406, “Permanent Wood Foundations for Housing and Small Buildings,” or
b) Part4.
(SeeNoteA-9.15.2.4.(1).)
9.15.3. Footings
9.15.3.1. Footings Required
1) Footings shall be provided under walls, pilasters, columns, piers, fireplaces and chimneys that bear on soil or
rock, except that footings may be omitted under piers or monolithic concrete walls if the safe loadbearing capacity of
the soil or rock is not exceeded.
9.15.3.2. Support of Footings
1) Footings shall rest on undisturbed soil, rock or compacted granular fill.
2) Granular fill shall not contain pyritic material in a concentration that will damage the building to a degree
that would adversely affect its stability or the performance of assemblies. (Seealso Article9.4.4.4. and
NoteA-9.4.4.4.(1).)
9.15.3.3. Application of Footing Width and Area Requirements
1) Except as provided in Sentence9.15.3.4.(2), the minimum footing width or area requirements provided in
Articles9.15.3.4. to9.15.3.7. shall apply to footings, where
a) the footings support
i) foundation walls of masonry, concrete, or flat insulating concrete form walls,
ii) above-ground walls of masonry, flat insulating concrete form walls or light wood-frame construction,
and
iii) floors and roofs of light wood-frame construction,
b) the span of supported joists does not exceed 4.9m, and
c) the specified live load on any floor supported by the footing does not exceed 2.4kPa (seeTable4.1.5.3.).
2) Except as provided in Sentence9.15.3.4.(2), where the span of the supported joists exceeds 4.9m, footings
shall be designed in accordance with Section4.2.
3) Where the specified live load exceeds 2.4kPa, footings shall be designed in accordance with Section4.2.
9.15.3.4. Basic Footing Widths and Areas
1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3) and in Articles9.15.3.5. to9.15.3.7., the minimum footing
width or area shall comply with Table9.15.3.4.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
2) Where the supported joist span exceeds 4.9m in buildings with light wood-frame walls, floors and roofs,
footing widths shall be determined according to
a) Section4.2., or
b) the following formula
where
W = minimum footing width,
w = minimum width of footings supporting joists not exceeding 4.9m, as defined by Table9.15.3.4.,
sjs = sum of the supported joist spans on each storey whose load is transferred to the footing, and
storeys = number of storeys supported by the footing.
(SeeNoteA-9.15.3.4.(2).)
3) Where a foundation rests on gravel, sand or silt in which the water table level is less than the width of the
footings below the bearing surface,
a) the footing width for walls shall be not less than twice the width required by Sentences(1) and(2), and
Articles9.15.3.5. and9.15.3.6., and
b) the footing area for columns shall be not less than twice the area required by Sentences(1) and(2) and
Article9.15.3.7.
9.15.3.5. Adjustments to Footing Widths for Exterior Walls
1) The strip footing widths for exterior walls shown in Table9.15.3.4. shall be increased by
a) 65mm for each storey of masonry veneer over wood-frame construction supported by the foundation wall,
b) 130mm for each storey of masonry construction supported by the foundation wall, and
c) 150mm for each storey of flat insulating concrete form wall construction supported by the foundation wall.
9.15.3.6. Adjustments to Footing Widths for Interior Walls
1) The minimum strip footing widths for interior loadbearing masonry walls shown in Table9.15.3.4. shall be
increased by 100mm for each storey of masonry construction supported by the footing.
2) Footings for interior non-loadbearing masonry walls shall be not less than 200mm wide for walls up to 5.5m
high and the width shall be increased by 100mm for each additional 2.7m of height.
9.15.3.7. Adjustments to Footing Area for Columns
1) The footing area for column spacings other than shown in Table9.15.3.4. shall be adjusted in proportion to
the distance between columns.
Table 9.15.3.4.
Minimum Footing Sizes
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.3.4.(1)
No.of Floors
Supported
Minimum Width of Strip Footings,mm
Minimum Footing Area for Columns Spaced 3m o.c.,
(1)
m
2
Supporting Exterior Walls
(2)
Supporting Interior Walls
(3)
1250 200 0.4
2350 350 0.75
3450 500 1.0
Notes to Table9.15.3.4.:
(1) See Sentence 9.15.3.7.(1).
(2) See Sentence 9.15.3.5.(1).
(3) See Sentence 9.15.3.6.(1).
W w•冤冱sjs / (storeys•4.9)冥
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.15.3.8. Footing Thickness
1) Footing thickness shall be not less than the greater of
a) 100mm, or
b) the width of the projection of the footing beyond the supported element.
9.15.3.9. Step Footings
1) Where step footings are used,
a) the vertical rise between horizontal portions shall not exceed 600mm, and
b) the horizontal distance between risers shall not be less than 600mm.
9.15.4. Foundation Walls
9.15.4.1. Permanent Form Material
1) Insulating concrete form units shall be manufactured of polystyrene conforming to the performance
requirements of CAN/ULC-S701, “Thermal Insulation, Polystyrene, Boards and Pipe Covering,” for Type2, 3 or 4
polystyrene.
9.15.4.2. Foundation Wall Thickness and Required Lateral Support
1) Except as required in Sentence(2), the thickness of foundation walls made of unreinforced concrete block or
solid concrete and subject to lateral earth pressure shall conform to Table9.15.4.2.-A for walls not exceeding 3.0m
in unsupported height.
2) The thickness of concrete in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be not less than the greater of
a) 140mm, or
b) the thickness of the concrete in the wall above.
3) Foundation walls made of flat insulating concrete form units shall be laterally supported at the top and at
the bottom.
Table 9.15.4.2.-A
Thickness of Solid Concrete and Unreinforced Concrete Block Foundation Walls
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.2.(1)
Type of Foundation Wall
Minimum Wall
Thickness, mm
Maximum Height of Finished Ground Above Basement Floor or Crawl Space Ground Cover, m
Height of Foundation Wall
Laterally Unsupported at
the Top
(1)(2)
Height of Foundation Wall Laterally Supported at the Top
(1)(2)
≤ 3.0 m ≤ 2.5 m > 2.5m and ≤ 2.75 m > 2.75m and ≤ 3.0 m
Solid concrete,
15 MPa min. strength
150 0.8 1.5 1.5 1.4
200 1.2 2.15 2.15 2.1
250 1.4 2.3 2.6 2.5
300 1.5 2.3 2.6 2.85
Solid concrete,
20 MPa min. strength
150 0.8 1.8 1.6 1.6
200 1.2 2.3 2.3 2.2
250 1.4 2.3 2.6 2.85
300 1.5 2.3 2.6 2.85
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
4) The thickness and reinforcing of foundation walls made of reinforced concrete block and subject to lateral
earth pressure shall conform to Table9.15.4.2.-B and Sentences(5) to(8), where
a) the walls are laterally supported at the top,
b) average stable soils are encountered, and
c) wind loads on the exposed portion of the foundation are no greater than 0.70kPa.
5) For concrete block walls required to be reinforced, continuous vertical reinforcement shall
a) be provided at wall corners, wall ends, wall intersections, at changes in wall height, at the jambs of all
openings and at movement joints,
b) extend from the top of the footing to the top of the foundation wall, and
c) where foundation walls are laterally supported at the top, have not less than 50mm embedment into the
footing, if the floor slab does not provide lateral support at the wall base.
6) For concrete block walls required to be reinforced, a continuous horizontal bond beam containing not less
than one 15M bar shall be installed
a) along the top of the wall,
b) at the sill and head of all openings greater than 1.20m in width, and
c) at structurally connected floors.
Unreinforced concrete
block
140 0.6 0.8 – –
190 0.9 1.2
(3) (3)
240 1.2 1.8
(3) (3)
290 1.4 2.2 – –
Notes to Table9.15.4.2.-A:
(1) See Article 9.15.4.3.
(2) See Article 9.15.4.6.
(3) See Table 9.15.4.2.-B.
Table 9.15.4.2.-B
Reinforced Concrete Block Foundation Walls Laterally Supported at the Top
(1)
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.2.(4)
Maximum Height of
Finished Ground
Above Basement
Floor or Crawl Space
Ground Cover, m
(2)
Size and Spacing of Continuous Vertical Reinforcement, M at mm o.c.
190mm Minimum Wall Thickness 240mm Minimum Wall Thickness
Foundation Wall Height Foundation Wall Height
≤ 2.5 m ≤ 2.75 m ≤ 3.0 m ≤ 2.5 m ≤ 2.75 m ≤ 3.0 m
0.8
(3) (3) (3) (3) (3) (3)
1
(3)
1-15M at 1 800 1-15M at 1 800
(3) (3) (3)
1.2
(3)
1-15M at 1 600 1-15M at 1 600
(3)
1-20M at 2 000 1-20M at 2 000
1.4 1-15M at 1 600 1-15M at 1 600 1-15M at 1 600
(3)
1-20M at 1 800 1-20M at 1 800
1.6 1-15M at 1 400 1-15M at 1 400 1-15M at 1 400
(3)
1-20M at 1 600 1-20M at 1 600
1.8 1-15M at 1 400 1-15M at 1 400 1-15M at 1 200
(3)
1-20M at 1 600 1-20M at 1 600
Table 9.15.4.2.-A (continued)
Thickness of Solid Concrete and Unreinforced Concrete Block Foundation Walls
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.2.(1)
Type of Foundation Wall
Minimum Wall
Thickness, mm
Maximum Height of Finished Ground Above Basement Floor or Crawl Space Ground Cover, m
Height of Foundation Wall
Laterally Unsupported at
the Top
(1)(2)
Height of Foundation Wall Laterally Supported at the Top
(1)(2)
≤ 3.0 m ≤ 2.5 m > 2.5m and ≤ 2.75 m > 2.75m and ≤ 3.0 m
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
7) In concrete block walls required to be reinforced, all vertical bar reinforcement shall be installed along the
centre line of the wall.
8) In concrete block walls required to be reinforced, ladder- or truss-type lateral reinforcement not less than
3.8mm in diameter (no.9 ASWG) shall be installed in the bed joint of every second masonry course.
9.15.4.3. Foundation Walls Considered to be Laterally Supported at the Top
1) Sentences(2) to(4) pertain to lateral support for walls described in Sentence9.15.4.2.(1).
2) Foundation walls shall be considered to be laterally supported at the top if
a) such walls support a solid masonry superstructure,
b) the floor joists are embedded in the top of the foundation walls, or
c) the floor system is anchored to the top of the foundation walls with anchor bolts, in which case the joists may
run either parallel or perpendicular to the foundation walls.
3) Unless the wall around an opening is reinforced to withstand earth pressure, the portion of the foundation
wall beneath an opening shall be considered laterally unsupported if
a) the opening is more than 1.2m wide, or
b) the total width of the openings in the foundation wall constitutes more than 25% of the length of the wall.
4) For the purposes of Sentence(3), the combined width of the openings shall be considered as a single opening
if the average width is greater than the width of solid wall between them.
5) Flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be considered to be laterally supported at the top if the
floor joists are installed according to Article9.20.17.5.
2 1-15M at 1 200
1-15M at 1 000
or
1-20M at 1 200
2-15M at 1 200 1-20M at 1 600 1-20M at 1 600 1-20M at 1 600
2.2 2-15M at 1 200 2-15M at 1 000 2-15M at 1 000 1-20M at 1 400 1-20M at 1 400 1-20M at 1 400
2.4 2-15M at 1 000 2-15M at 1 000 2-15M at 800 1-20M at 1 400 1-20M at 1 400 1-20M at 1 200
2.6 n/a
2-15M at 800
or
1-25M at 1 000
2-15M at 800
or
1-25M at 1 000
n/a 1-20M at 1 000 1-20M at 1 000
2.8 n/a n/a 1-20M at 600 n/a n/a
1-20M at 800
or
2-15M at 1 000
3n/an/a
1-20M at 400
or
1-25M at 600
n/a n/a 2-15M at 800
Notes to Table9.15.4.2.-B:
(1) See Article 9.15.4.3.
(2) See Article 9.15.4.6.
(3) No reinforcement required.
Table 9.15.4.2.-B (continued)
Reinforced Concrete Block Foundation Walls Laterally Supported at the Top
(1)
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.2.(4)
Maximum Height of
Finished Ground
Above Basement
Floor or Crawl Space
Ground Cover, m
(2)
Size and Spacing of Continuous Vertical Reinforcement, M at mm o.c.
190mm Minimum Wall Thickness 240mm Minimum Wall Thickness
Foundation Wall Height Foundation Wall Height
≤ 2.5 m ≤ 2.75 m ≤ 3.0 m ≤ 2.5 m ≤ 2.75 m ≤ 3.0 m
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.15.4.4. Foundation Walls Considered to be Laterally Supported at the Bottom
1) Flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be considered to be laterally supported at the bottom
where the foundation wall
a) supports backfill not more than 1.2m in height,
b) is supported at the footing by a shear key and at the top by the ground floor framing, or
c) is doweled to the footing with not less than 15M bars spaced not more than 1.2m o.c.
9.15.4.5. Reinforcement for Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls
1) Horizontal reinforcement in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall
a) consist of
i) one 10M bar placed not more than 300mm from the top of the wall, and
ii) 10M bars at 600mm o.c., and
b) be located
i) in the inside half of the wall section, and
ii) with a minimum cover of 30mm from the inside face of the concrete.
2) Vertical reinforcement in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be
a) provided in accordance with
i) Table9.15.4.5.-A for 140mm walls,
ii) Table9.15.4.5.-B for 190mm walls, and
iii) Table9.15.4.5.-C for 240mm walls,
b) located in the inside half of the wall section with a minimum cover of 30mm from the inside face of the
concrete wall, and
c) where interrupted by wall openings, placed not more than 600mm from each side of the openings.
3) Cold joints in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be reinforced with no less than one 15M bar
spaced at not more than 600mm o.c. and embedded 300mm on both sides of the joint.
4) Reinforcing around openings in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall comply with
Article9.20.17.3. or9.20.17.4.
Table 9.15.4.5.-A
Vertical Reinforcement for 140 mm Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.5.(2)
Max. Height of Finished Ground Above
Finished Basement Floor, m
Minimum Vertical Reinforcement
Maximum Unsupported Basement Wall Height
2.44 m 2.75 m 3.0 m
1.35 10M at 400 mm o.c. 10M at 400 mm o.c. 10M at 400 mm o.c.
1.6 10M at 400 mm o.c. 10M at 380 mm o.c. 10M at 380 mm o.c.
2 10M at 380 mm o.c. 10M at 380 mm o.c. 10M at 380 mm o.c.
2.2 10M at 250 mm o.c. 10M at 250 mm o.c. 10M at 250 mm o.c.
2.35 n/a 10M at 250 mm o.c. 10M at 250 mm o.c.
2.6 n/a 10M at 250 mm o.c. 10M at 250 mm o.c.
3 n/a n/a 15M at 250 mm o.c.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.15.4.6. Extension above Ground Level
1) Exterior foundation walls shall extend not less than 150mm above finished ground level.
9.15.4.7. Reduction in Thickness
1) Where the top of a foundation wall is reduced in thickness to permit the installation of floor joists, the
reduced section shall be not more than 350mm high and not less than 90mm thick.
2) Where the top of a foundation wall is reduced in thickness to permit the installation of a masonry exterior
facing, the reduced section shall be
a) not less than 90mm thick, and
b) tied to the facing material with metal ties conforming to Sentence9.20.9.4.(3) spaced not more than
i) 200mm o.c. vertically, and
ii) 900mm o.c. horizontally.
3) The space between wall and facing described in Sentence(2) shall be filled with mortar.
9.15.4.8. Corbelling
1) Corbelling of masonry foundation walls supporting cavity walls shall conform to Article9.20.12.2.
9.15.4.9. Crack Control Joints
1) Crack control joints shall be provided in foundation walls more than 25m long at intervals of not more
than 15m.
2) Joints required in Sentence(1) shall be designed to resist moisture penetration and shall be keyed to prevent
relative displacement of the wall portions adjacent to the joint.
9.15.4.10. Interior Masonry Walls
1) Interior masonry foundation walls not subject to lateral earth pressure shall conform to Section9.20.
Table 9.15.4.5.-B
Vertical Reinforcement for 190 mm Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.5.(2)
Max. Height of Finished
Ground Above Finished
Basement Floor, m
Minimum Vertical Reinforcement
Maximum Unsupported Basement Wall Height
2.44 m 2.75 m 3.0 m
2.2 None required 10M at 400 mm o.c. 10M at 400 mm o.c.
2.35 n/a 10M at 300 mm o.c. 10M at 300 mm o.c.
2.6 n/a 10M at 300 mm o.c. 15M at 400 mm o.c.
3.0 n/a n/a 15M at 400 mm o.c.
Table 9.15.4.5.-C
Vertical Reinforcement for 240 mm Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls
Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.5.(2)
Max. Height of Finished Ground Above
Finished Basement Floor, m
Minimum Vertical Reinforcement
Maximum Unsupported Basement Wall Height
2.44 m 2.75 m 3.0 m
2.2 None required None required None required
2.6 n/a 15M at 400 mm o.c. 15M at 400 mm o.c.
3.0 n/a n/a 15M at 400 mm o.c.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
9.15.5. Support of Joists and Beams on Masonry Foundation Walls
9.15.5.1. Support of Floor Joists
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), foundation walls of hollow masonry units supporting floor joists shall be
capped with
a) not less than 50mm of concrete,
b) solid masonry units that are 100% solid and not less than 50mm high, or
c) semi-solid or hollow solid masonry units that have the top course completely filled with mortar, grout
or concrete.
2) Capping required in Sentence(1) need not be provided
a) in localities where termites are not known to occur,
b) when the joists are supported on a wood plate not less than 38mm by 89 mm, and
c) when the siding overlaps the foundation wall not less than 12mm.
9.15.5.2. Support of Beams
1) Not less than 190mm depth of solid masonry shall be provided beneath beams supported on masonry.
2) Where the beam referred to in Sentence(1) is supported below the top of the foundation walls, the ends of
such beams shall be protected from the weather.
9.15.5.3. Pilasters
1) Pilasters shall be provided under beams that frame into unit masonry foundation walls 140mm or less
in thickness.
2) Pilasters required in Sentence(1) shall be not less than 90mm by 290mm and shall be bonded or tied into
the wall.
3) The top 200mm of pilasters required in Sentence(1) shall be solid masonry with the cells of hollow or
semi-solid units filled with mortar, grout or concrete.
9.15.6. Parging and Finishing of Masonry Foundation Walls
9.15.6.1. Foundation Walls below Ground
1) Concrete block foundation walls shall be parged on the exterior face below ground level as required in
Section9.13.
9.15.6.2. Foundation Walls above Ground
1) Exterior surfaces of concrete block foundation walls above ground level shall have tooled joints, or shall be
parged or otherwise suitably finished.
9.15.6.3. Form Ties
1) All form ties shall be removed at least flush with the concrete surface.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.16. Floors-on-Ground
9.16.1. Scope
9.16.1.1. Application
1) This Section applies to floors supported on ground or on granular fill that do not provide structural support
for the superstructure.
9.16.1.2. Structural Floors
1) Floors-on-ground that support loads from the superstructure shall be designed in conformance with Part4.
9.16.1.3. Required Floors-on-Ground
1) All spaces within dwelling units, except crawl spaces, shall be provided with a floor-on-ground, where
a) access is provided to the space, and
b) a floor supported by the structure is not provided.
9.16.1.4. Dampproofing and Waterproofing
1) Dampproofing and waterproofing shall conform to Section9.13.
9.16.2. Material beneath Floors
9.16.2.1. Required Installation of Granular Material
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), a drainage layer shall be installed beneath floors-on-ground.
(SeeNote A-9.16.2.1.(1) and see also Subsection9.13.4. and NoteA-9.13.4.)
2) The drainage layer required in Sentence (1) need not be installed beneath
a) slabs in garages, carports or accessory buildings,
b) buildings of industrial occupancy where the nature of the process contained therein permits or requires the use
of large openings in the building envelope even during the winter.
9.16.2.2. Support of Floors
1) Material that is susceptible to changes in volume due to variations in moisture content or
chemical-microbiological oxidation shall not be used as fill beneath floors-on-ground in a concentration that will
damage the building to a degree that would adversely affect its stability or the performance of assemblies.
(Seealso Article9.4.4.4. and NoteA-9.4.4.4.(1).)
2) Material that is susceptible to changes in volume due to freezing shall not be used as fill beneath
floors-on-ground that will be subjected to freezing temperatures. (Seealso Article9.4.4.4. and NoteA-9.4.4.4.(1).)
3) Except as provided in Sentence(4), fill beneath floors-on-ground shall be compacted.
4) Fill beneath floors-on-ground need not be compacted where the material is coarse clean granular material
containing not more than 10% of material that will pass a 4mm sieve.
9.16.3. Drainage
9.16.3.1. Control of Water Ingress
1) Except as provided in Article9.16.3.2. or where it can be shown to be unnecessary, ingress of water
underneath a floor-on-ground shall be prevented by grading or drainage.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.16.3.2. Hydrostatic Pressure
1) Where groundwater levels may cause hydrostatic pressure beneath a floor-on-ground, the floor-on-ground
shallbe
a) a poured concrete slab, and
b) designed to resist such pressures.
9.16.3.3. Floor Drains
1) When floor drains are required (seeSection9.31.), the floor surface shall be sloped so that no water can
accumulate.
9.16.4. Concrete
9.16.4.1. Surface Finish
1) The finished surface of concrete floor slabs shall be trowelled smooth and even.
2) Dry cement shall not be added to the floor surfaces to absorb surplus water.
9.16.4.2. Topping Course
1) When a topping course is provided for a concrete floor slab, it shall consist of 1part cement to 2.5parts
clean, well graded sand by volume, with a water/cement ratio approximately equal to that of the base slab.
2) When concrete topping is provided, it shall not be less than 20mm thick.
9.16.4.3. Thickness
1) Concrete slabs shall not be less than 75mm thick exclusive of concrete topping.
9.16.4.4. Bond Break
1) A bond-breaking material shall be placed between the slab and footings or rock.
9.16.5. Wood
9.16.5.1. Wood-Frame Floors
1) Floors-on-ground constructed of wood shall conform to CSAS406, “Permanent Wood Foundations for
Housing and Small Buildings.”
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.17. Columns
9.17.1. Scope
9.17.1.1. Application
1) This Section applies to columns used to support
a) beams carrying loads from not more than 2 wood-frame floors where
i) the supported length of joists bearing on such beams does not exceed 5m, and
ii) the live load on any floor does not exceed 2.4kPa (seeTable4.1.5.3.),
b) beams or header joists carrying loads from not more than 2 levels of wood-frame balconies, decks or other
accessible exterior platforms, or 1level plus the roof, where
i) the supported length of joists bearing on such beams or joists does not exceed 5m,
ii) the sum of the specified snow and occupancy loads does not exceed 4.8kPa (seeSentence9.4.2.3.(1) for
the determination of load on platform-type constructions), and
iii) the platform serves only a single suite of residential occupancy, or
c) carport roofs (seeSection9.35.).
2) Columns for applications other than as described in Sentence(1) shall be designed in accordance with Part4.
9.17.2. General
9.17.2.1. Location
1) Columns shall be centrally located on a footing conforming to Section9.15.
9.17.2.2. Lateral Support
1) Columns shall be securely fastened to the supported member to reduce the likelihood of lateral differential
movement between the column and the supported member. (SeealsoArticle9.23.6.2.)
2) Except as permitted by Sentence(3), columns shall be laterally supported to resist racking
a) directly, or
b) by connection to the supported members.
(SeeNoteA-9.17.2.2.(2).)
3) Columns need not be provided with lateral support as described in Sentence(2), where
a) the distance from finished ground to the underside of the joists is not more than 600mm, and
b) the columns support a deck with no superstructure.
9.17.3. Steel Columns
9.17.3.1. Size and Thickness
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), steel pipe columns shall have an outside diameter of not less than 73mm
and a wall thickness of not less than 4.76mm.
2) Columns of sizes other than as specified in Sentence(1) are permitted to be used where the loadbearing
capacities are shown to be adequate.
9.17.3.2. End Bearing Plates
1) Except as permitted in Sentence(2), steel columns shall be fitted with not less than 100mm by 100mm by
6.35mm thick steel plates at each end, and where the column supports a wooden beam, the top plate shall extend
across the full width of the beam.
2) The top plate required in Sentence(1) need not be provided where a column supports a steel beam and
provision is made for the attachment of the column to the beam.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.17.3.3. Paint
1) Exterior steel columns shall be treated on the outside surface with at least one coat of rust-inhibitive paint.
9.17.3.4. Design of Steel Columns
(SeeNoteA-9.17.3.4.)
1) Where the imposed load does not exceed 36kN, adjustable steel columns shall conform to CAN/CGSB-7.2,
“Adjustable Steel Columns.”
2) Steel columns other than those described in Sentence(1) shall be designed in accordance with Part4.
9.17.4. Wood Columns
9.17.4.1. Column Sizes
1) The width or diameter of a wood column shall be not less than the width of the supported member.
2) Except as provided in Article9.35.4.2., columns shall be not less than 184mm for round columns and
140mm by 140mm for rectangular columns, unless calculations are provided to show that lesser sizes are adequate.
9.17.4.2. Materials
1) Wood columns shall be either solid, glued-laminated or built-up.
2) Built-up columns shall consist of not less than 38mm thick full-length members
a) bolted together with not less than 9.52mm diam bolts spaced not more than 450mm o.c., or
b) nailed together with not less than 76mm nails spaced not more than 300mm o.c.
3) Glued-laminated columns shall conform to Section4.3.
9.17.4.3. Columns in Contact with Concrete
1) Wood columns shall be separated from concrete in contact with the ground by 0.05mm polyethylene film or
Type S roll roofing.
9.17.5. Unit Masonry Columns
9.17.5.1. Materials
1) Unit masonry columns shall be built of masonry units
a) conforming to CSAA165.1, “Concrete Block Masonry Units,” and
b) having a compressive strength over the net area of the block of not less than 15 MPa.
9.17.5.2. Sizes
1) Unit masonry columns shall be not less than 290mm by 290mm or 240mm by 380mm in size.
9.17.6. Solid Concrete Columns
9.17.6.1. Materials
1) Concrete shall conform to Section9.3.
9.17.6.2. Sizes
1) Concrete columns shall be not less than 200mm by 200mm for rectangular columns and 230mm diam for
circular columns.
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.18. Crawl Spaces
9.18.1. General
9.18.1.1. Application
1) This Section applies to crawl spaces whose exterior walls have less than 25% of their total area above exterior
ground level open to the outdoors.
9.18.1.2. Foundations
1) Foundations enclosing crawl spaces shall conform to Section9.15.
9.18.1.3. Heated and Unheated Crawl Spaces
1) Crawl spaces shall be considered to be heated where the space
a) is used as a hot air plenum,
b) contains heating ducts that are not sealed and insulated to minimize heat loss to the space, or
c) is not separated from heated space in accordance with Section9.25.
2) Heating of heated crawl spaces shall conform to Section9.33.
3) Insulation, an air barrier system and a vapour barrier shall be installed in the walls of heated crawl spaces in
accordance with Section9.25.
9.18.2. Access
9.18.2.1. Access Openings
1) An access opening of not less than 500mm by 700mm shall be provided to each crawl space where the crawl
space serves a single dwelling unit, and not less than 550mm by 900mm for other crawl spaces.
2) Access openings shall be fitted with a door or hatch, except when the crawl space is heated and the access
opening into the crawl space is from an adjacent heated space.
9.18.3. Ventilation
9.18.3.1. Ventilation of Unheated Crawl Spaces
1) Unheated crawl spaces shall be ventilated by natural or mechanical means.
2) Where an unheated crawl space is ventilated by natural means, ventilation shall be provided to the outside air
by not less than 0.1m
2
of unobstructed vent area for every 50m
2
of floor area.
3) Vents shall be
a) uniformly distributed on opposite sides of the building, and
b) designed to prevent the entry of snow, rain and insects.
9.18.3.2. Ventilation of Heated Crawl Spaces
1) Heated crawl spaces shall be ventilated in accordance with Section9.32.
9.18.4. Clearance
(Seealso Article9.3.2.9.)
9.18.4.1. Access Way to Services
1) Where equipment requiring service such as plumbing cleanouts, traps and burners is located in crawl spaces,
an access way with a height and width of not less than 600mm shall be provided from the access door to the
equipment and for a distance of 900mm on the side or sides of the equipment to be serviced.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
9.18.5. Drainage
9.18.5.1. Drainage
1) Except where it can be shown to be unnecessary, the ingress of water into a crawl space shall be controlled by
grading or drainage.
2) Drainage of foundation walls shall conform to Article9.14.2.1.
3) Drainage of the ground cover or floor-on-ground in the crawl space shall conform to Subsection9.16.3.
4) Drains shall conform to Section9.14.
9.18.6. Ground Cover
9.18.6.1. Ground Cover in Unheated Crawl Spaces
1) Where a crawl space is unheated, a ground cover shall be provided consisting of not less than
a) 50mm of asphalt,
b) 100mm of 15MPa Portland cement concrete,
c) TypeS roll roofing, or
d) 0.10mm polyethylene.
2) Joints in sheet-type ground cover required in Sentence(1) shall be lapped not less than 100mm and
weighted down.
9.18.6.2. Ground Cover in Heated Crawl Spaces
1) Where a crawl space is heated, a ground cover consisting of not less than 0.15mm polyethylene sheet
conforming to CAN/CGSB-51.34-M, “Vapour Barrier, Polyethylene Sheet for Use in Building Construction,” shall
be installed as part of an air barrier system in accordance with Subsection9.25.3.
2) The ground cover required in Sentence(1) shall have its joints lapped not less than 300mm, and
a) be sealed and evenly weighted down, or
b) be covered with concrete not less than 50mm thick.
3) The perimeter of the ground cover required in Sentence(1) shall be sealed to the foundation wall.
(SeeNotesA-9.13.4.,A-9.25.3.4. and 9.25.3.6., andA-9.25.3.6.(2) and (3).)
4) All penetrations of the ground cover required in Sentence(1) shall be sealed against air leakage.
(SeeSubsection9.25.3.)
9.18.7. Fire Protection
9.18.7.1. Crawl Spaces as Warm Air Plenums
1) Only crawl spaces under 1-storey portions of dwelling units shall be used as warm-air plenums.
2) Enclosing material in crawl spaces described in Sentence(1), including insulation, shall have a surface
flame-spread rating not greater than 150.
3) Combustible ground cover in crawl spaces described in Sentence(1) shall be protected beneath each register
opening with noncombustible material.
4) The noncombustible register protection described in Sentence(3) shall
a) extend not less than 300mm beyond the projection of the register opening, and
b) have up-turned edges.
(SeeNoteA-9.18.7.1.(4).)
Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings
British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B
Section 9.19. Roof Spaces
9.19.1. Venting
9.19.1.1. Required Venting
1) Except where it can be shown to be unnecessary, where insulation is installed between a ceiling and the
underside of the roof sheathing, a space shall be provided between the insulation and the sheathing, and vents shall be
installed to permit the transfer of moisture from the space to the exterior. (SeeNoteA-9.19.1.1.(1).)
9.19.1.2. Vent Requirements
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), the unobstructed vent area shall be not less than 1/300 of the insulated
ceiling area.
2) Where the roof slope is less than 1 in 6 or in roofs that are constructed with roof joists, the unobstructed vent
area shall be not less than 1/150 of the insulated ceiling area.
3) Required vents may be roof type, eave type, gable-end type or any combination thereof, and shall be
distributed
a) uniformly on opposite sides of the building,
b) with not less than 25% of the required openings located at the top of the space, and
c) with not less than 25% of the required openings located at the bottom of the space.
4) Except where each joist space is separately vented, roof joist spaces shall be interconnected by installing
purlins not less than 38mm by 38mm on the top of the roof joists.
5) Vents shall comply with CAN3-A93-M, “Natural Airflow Ventilators for Buildings.”
9.19.1.3. Clearances
1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), not less than 63mm of space shall be provided between the top of the
insulation and the underside of the roof sheathing.
2) At the junction of sloped roofs and exterior walls, where preformed baffles are used to contain the insulation,
the baffles shall
a) provide an unobstructed air space, between the insulation and the underside of the roof sheathing, that is
i) not less than 25mm in dimension, and
ii) of sufficient cross area to meet the attic or roof space venting requirements of Article9.19.1.2., and
b) extend vertically not less than 50mm above the top of the insulation.
3) Ceiling insulation shall be installed in a manner that will not restrict the free flow of air through roof vents or
through any portion of the attic or roof space.
9.19.1.4. Mansard or Gambrel Roof
1) The lower portion of a mansard or gambrel style roof need not be ventilated.
2) The upper portion of roofs described in Sentence(1) shall be ventilated in conformance with
Articles9.19.1.1. to9.19.1.3.
9.19.2. Access
9.19.2.1. Access
1) Every attic or roof space shall be provided with an access hatch where the open space in the attic or roof
space measures
a) 3m
2
or more in area,
b) 1m or more in length or width, and
c) 600mm or more in height over at least the area described in Clauses(a) and(b).
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
(SeeNoteA-9.19.2.1.(1).)
2) The hatch required in Sentence(1) shall be not less than 550mm by 900mm except that, where the hatch
serves not more than one dwelling unit, the hatch may be reduced to 0.32m
2
in area with no dimension less than
500mm.
3) Hatchways to attic or roof spaces shall be fitted with doors or covers.
Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions
Division B
(SeeNoteA-9.19.2.1.(1).)
2) The hatch required in Sentence(1) shall be not less than 550mm by 900mm except that, where the hatch
serves not more than one dwelling unit, the hatch may be reduced to 0.32m
2
in area with no dimension less than
500mm.
3) Hatchways to attic or roof spaces shall be fitted with doors or covers.
In Plain Language
Section 9.1 is the general/scope section for Part 9 (Housing and Small Buildings): it sets out which buildings this simplified, prescriptive part of the Code applies to, generally smaller residential and low-complexity buildings, and how Part 9 relates to the more general structural and life-safety requirements in the earlier Parts of the Code.
This is a plain-language overview of the British Columbia Building Code 2018 text on this page, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the official BC Codes text or a qualified professional before construction.