Alberta Building Code - 2023 PDF

Please note: By order of the publisher, this electronic file is not printable. 

The National Building Code: 2023 Alberta Edition (NBC(AE)) is based on the National Building Code of Canada 2020. It establishes requirements for design and construction, including accessibility requirements for new buildings and energy efficiency requirements for housing and small buildings. It also applies to the alteration, change of use, and demolition of existing buildings. The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) 2020 is also adopted in Alberta and applies to new building construction other than housing and small buildings regulated under NBC(AE) Part 9. The 2023 edition of the NBC(AE) is more harmonized with the national code provisions than the previous edition to support a reduction of barriers to trade, investment and labour. Highlights of updates to this edition Encapsulated mass timber construction is introduced into the Code, enabling the construction of wood buildings up to 12 storeys. Accessibility requirements are updated to reduce barriers related to anthropometrics, plumbing facilities, signage, entrances and elevators. Design requirements for evaporative equipment are revised to minimize the growth and transmission of Legionella and other bacteria. A home-type care occupancy is introduced to allow safe and affordable care in a home-type setting. Energy performance tiers are established to provide a framework for achieving higher levels of energy efficiency in housing and small buildings. The building regulation that adopts the NBC(AE) 2023 and the NECB 2020 establishes Tier 1 as the minimum level of energy efficiency for houses and buildings in Alberta. Requirements for the protection of openable windows in residential occupancies are strengthened. To reduce the hazard posed by wired glass, safety glazing is required in windows and doors where human impact is possible in assembly occupancies. Roof access for HVAC equipment is aligned with CSA B149.1, "Natural gas and propane installation code." Professional schedules are revised.