BC invites local governments to become early adopters of mass-timber technology

Eligible local governments throughout BC are invited to become early adopters of mass-timber technology for construction of buildings up to 12 storeys, up from the current allowance of six storeys. Forest communities will continue to see more jobs and opportunity from BC’s proactive adoption of building code changes that allow the safe construction of taller wood buildings.

“Companies like Structurlam are leading the way with innovative engineered wood products that create jobs in the forest sector and opportunity for people in communities throughout BC Changes to the national building code that allow for taller wood buildings take effect next year, but we’re not waiting to get started. Our government is ready to work with communities to build safe, secure and green tall wood buildings that will create jobs, grow BC’s value-added sector and realize our low-carbon future.”

– Premier John Horgan, Province of BC

Building taller with wood remains achievable with advanced construction technologies and modern mass timber products such as glue-laminated timber, cross-laminated timber and structural composite lumber. Around the world, over 30 tall wood buildings (seven storeys or taller) have been built or are currently underway over the past five years.

“WoodWorks BC is proud to support the Government of BC as it moves forward and provides early opportunities for municipalities to build taller and faster, using wood. We look forward to assisting those municipalities and project teams requiring information and support to move ahead with this exciting opportunity.”

– Lynn Embury-Williams, executive director, Canadian Wood Council/WoodWorks BC

With construction professionals and designers seeking lower carbon building alternatives and renewable materials, there is a growing opportunity to use tall wood buildings as a solution for the built environment, especially communities committed to sustainable development and climate change mitigation.

Available resources

A performance overview case study of Brock Commons was recently conducted to assess a wide range of factors, including structural elements, building systems, building envelope, durability, moisture protection and fire. By also including a cost analysis, an environmental impact analysis and an assessment of inhabitant comfort, the case study demonstrates that taller wood buildings like Brock Commons can be built economically while also delivering community and environmental benefits.

View Brock Commons performance overview case study.