News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Legislation introduced today would lead to modern building code standards being put in place across New Brunswick.

The Building Code Administration Act would ensure that safe building standards are met.

“We have heard from stakeholders who have been waiting years for the government to ensure consistency across our province, and we are taking action to make it happen,” said Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Carl Urquhart. “This legislation will give cabinet the authority to adopt the latest version of the National Building Code, which would allow for the construction of wood-framed buildings of up to six stories.”

The act would also allow cabinet to adopt the National Energy Code for Buildings. Having the same standards across the province would also lead to benefits and help ensure efficiency for builders.

“That is good news for people who want to see us using New Brunswick resources and good news for those who want to see us lowering everyone’s carbon footprint,” said Urquhart. “The government’s goal is to have the new building code in place across New Brunswick in time for the start of the 2021 construction season.”

The act would see the Department of Public Safety take over administration of building codes in the province from the Department of Environment and Local Government within one year. This change would also ensure that building-related matters will be separated from the development, land-use and community planning matters which will continue to be the responsibility of the Department of Environment and Local Government.

The day-to-day operations of administering building permits and performing inspections will continue to be the responsibility of local governments and Regional Service Commissions.