BC is exploring changes to its building code to permit a single staircase in small apartment buildings. Since 1941, Canada’s building code has required two staircases per apartment building, but BC’s Ministry of Housing is now looking into optimal conditions for single-stair designs.

The proposal restricts single-stair buildings to six storeys with a maximum of four apartments per floor and includes additional fire-safety measures like wider staircases. Housing advocates believe this change will make small apartment buildings more financially viable and improve unit layouts by enhancing light and air circulation. The current two-staircase requirement often results in long, enclosed hallways with limited window placement, whereas single-stair designs could allow for windows on two sides of each unit.

In the BC Housing Single Stair Report, which was published in February, research by Conrad Speckert from LGA Architectural Partners highlights that Canada is among the strictest countries regarding staircase requirements, with only Uganda having stricter regulations. However, firefighter associations and disability groups have identified safety concerns if the single stairwell becomes compromised during emergencies.

Despite concerns, Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon aims to introduce this change in the fall, limited to areas with professional fire services and reliable water supplies.