News Release Archive
HOUSING/MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS--CHANGES TO BUILDING CODE REGULATIONS ----------------------------------------------------------------- The construction industry will soon operate under new rules. Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Jim Smith today released proposed changes to the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations for public comment. The major proposal contained in the regulations is to adopt the 1995 National Building Code. There are several minor amendments proposed to clarify the intent of some aspects of the regulations and others to remain consistent with the 1995 National Building Code. Nova Scotia has adopted the National Building Code as the basis for building code regulation in the province since 1987. "We are in line with most other provinces and territories who are adopting the 1995 national code this spring," said Dr. Smith. "Nova Scotia is committed to adopting, national standards for the design and construction of all buildings in the province with as few changes as possible." The first proposed amendment will require sprinklering, interconnected smoke detectors, and emergency lighting in care facilities, which are registered under provincial legislation for the those requiring special care or treatment. This would apply to a residential unit that houses up to 10 persons with disabilities. Other types of small group homes will continue to meet requirements as in the past. The second proposed amendment, retains the 1990 National Building Code requirements for horizontal and vertical clearances from electric and gas ranges to combustible materials. The 1995 National Building Code adopted more restrictive regulations, which are now under review in Ottawa for possible amendment. "We did not want to introduce a change that may create unnecessary difficulties in the home building industry until the review has been completed nationally, said Dr. Smith. The regulations are scheduled to become law April 15, 1997. The public has until March 10 to make comments. The proposed changes to the regulations have been reviewed by the Nova Scotia Building Advisory Committee. Membership includes representatives of the Nova Scotia Association of Architects, the Association of Professional Engineers of Nova Scotia, the Construction Association of Nova Scotia, the Office of the Fire Marshal, the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities, the Disabled Persons Commission, the National Association for Women in Construction, the Building Inspectors Association of Nova Scotia, the Cape Breton Island Building and Trades Council, the Carpenters' Union, and the Nova Scotia Home Builders. Copies of the proposed regulations are available for review at the offices of municipal clerks in each municipality in Nova Scotia and from local libraries. Copies may be obtained from the Nova Scotia Government Bookstore, One Government Place, 1700 Granville Street, Halifax. Further information can be obtained from the building code coordinator, Department of Housing and Municipal Affairs, at 902-424-8046. -30- Contact: Ted Ross 902-424-8046 trp Jan. 24, 1997 - 10:25 a.m.