BC Energy Step Code

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The BC Energy Step Code is a provincial standard that aims to create healthier, more energy-efficient and comfortable new buildings. It does so by establishing measurable performance-based energy-efficiency requirements for new construction.

Effective July 1, 2018, building permit applications for new construction are required to show compliance with the BC Energy Step Code. Future requirements to higher Steps of the BC Energy Step Code will be effective February 28, 2021. The following table outlines the District of West Vancouver’s BC Energy Step Code requirements.

Building Type	Current Requirements	Effective February 28, 2021
Part 9 residential (single family, townhouse and other Part 9 residential buildings)*	Step 3 of 5	Step 5 or Step 3 with low carbon energy system
Part 9 detached secondary suite*	Step 1 of 5	Step 5 or Step 2 with low carbon energy system
Part 3 residential (multi-family and apartment buildings)	Step 2 of 4	Step 4 or Step 2 with low carbon energy system
Part 3 business and personal service or mercantile (commercial, office and retail buildings)	Step 1 of 4	Step 2

*Compliance with the Step Code will require the input of an Energy Advisor at various stages of the project, including design, construction and building completion. Building Permit applications must include a performance modelling report along with construction details that show how the proposed house will comply with the BC Energy Step Code and the low carbon energy system pathway, if applicable.