CodeNews Issue 353

April 2, 2024

Upcoming Launch of the Next Edition of the Building Code

Ontario is planning to release the 2024 edition of the Building Code next week to reduce regulatory burdens for the construction industry and make it easier to build housing.

The 2024 Building Code will come into effect on January 1, 2025. There will be an additional transition period allowing permit applicants to continue to use the 2012 Building Code for applications submitted before March 31, 2025, if applicants can demonstrate that their working plans were substantially completed under the 2012 Building Code prior to December 31, 2024. More details about the transition period and training opportunities will be shared in the coming weeks.

The new Building Code will be released in digital and hardcopy versions to support the industry's transition and ensure applicants have sufficient time to become familiar with the new edition of the Building Code before it comes into effect on January 1, 2025.

The province will continue working with partners to maintain high standards in Ontario's Building Code and make it easier for the sector to build new homes, while protecting public health and safety.

Changes to Provisions for Temporary Health or Residential Facilities Effective March 28, 2024

The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing amended the Building Code to extend the exemptions for existing temporary health or residential facilities until March 31, 2025 (Ontario Regulation 156/24). The extension is aligned with changes made to Ontario Regulation 144/20 under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997 by the Ministry of the Solicitor General (Ontario Regulation 127/24) that came into force on March 25, 2024.

Additionally, Ontario Regulation 155/24 changes the definition of temporary health or residential facility in Division C of the 2012 Building Code. No new temporary facilities can be created or occupied after March 31, 2024.

Together, these measures will facilitate continued flexibility in Ontario's health and shelter systems while helping to ensure that exempted facilities are safe.