Proposed updates to Canada’s national construction codes are now open for industry and public feedback, giving builders, engineers, designers and other code users an opportunity to influence future technical requirements. The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) has launched its fall 2026 public review of proposed changes to the 2025 editions of the National Model Codes, with submissions closing Dec. 21, 2026.
The consultation includes proposed changes to four publications:
The proposed changes address technical requirements across building design, construction, fire protection, energy performance and plumbing systems.
The public review allows code users, industry participants and members of the public to comment on individual proposals. Respondents can indicate whether a proposed change should be approved, revised or withdrawn.
After the review closes, Codes Canada staff will organise and analyse the submissions and prepare draft responses. The relevant code development committees will validate those responses and develop recommendations for the CBHCC.
Possible recommendations include approving a change for publication, revising it, deferring publication for further development or additional review, or withdrawing it.
Changes to the National Model Codes can affect design decisions, construction methods, building systems and compliance requirements across the country. The public review gives contractors, developers, engineers, architects and building owners an opportunity to identify practical concerns and provide technical input before the next code editions are finalised.
The review closes at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Dec. 21, 2026. Comments will not be accepted after the deadline.
Source: Building.
