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BC Energy Step Code

Mandatory Provincial Requirements as of May 1, 2023

The BC Energy Step Code sets performance requirements for energy efficiency in new buildings. This is equivalent to Step 3 for Part 9 buildings and Step 2 for Part 3 buildings. All new dwellings and substantially reconstructed dwellings will require energy modeling performed by a certified Energy Advisor to be submitted with their building permit application. As-Built BC Energy Step Code compliance reports from your Energy Advisor are required for Final inspection and Occupancy of dwelling units.

Pre-construction energy modeling is most efficient if performed during the design stage by way of a collaborative effort between the home designer and the energy advisor.

IMPORTANT: Building Permit Applications are required to be compliant with the minimum mandatory requirements (Step 3) and applications must include a Pre-Construction Report from an Energy Advisor. Heating Degree Days and Climate Zone for the project location must match the CVRD Climatic Data provided below.

CVRD Zero Carbon Requirements July 1, 2024

The CVRD requires compliance with the Zero Carbon Step Code at Emission Level 4 (EL-4) starting on July 1, 2024 (Part 9 Simple Buildings).

  • Permit applications received after July 1, 2024 are required to provide electrified space heating, water heating, and cooking facilities or otherwise demonstrate compliance by way of modelling and calculations.
  • See Table 9.37.1.3. “Greenhouse Gas Emissions” of the BC Building Code 2024 and talk to your Energy Advisor.
  • Certain back-up and redundant facilities are still permitted.
  • Part 3 Complex Buildings are not included in this requirement.

View the CVRD Climatic & Seismic Data Table (updated Mar 2025)

CVRD Electoral Areas Heating Degree Days and Climate Zones

More Information

Land Acknowledgement
The CVRD is in the ancestral and unceded territories of First Nations including (but not limited to) Quw'utsun (Cowichan Tribes), MÁLEXEŁ (Malahat), BOḰEĆEN (Pauquachin), c̓uubaʕsaʔtx̣ (Ts'uubaa-asatx), xeláltxw (Halalt), Spune’luxutth (Penelakut), Stz'uminus, Leey’qsun (Lyackson), Diitiidʔaaʔtx̣ (Ditidaht) and P’a:chi:da?aht (Pacheedaht) Peoples. Local First Nations Peoples have stewarded the lands of this region since time immemorial. The CVRD is committed to the ongoing journey of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the region by strengthening cooperation, collaboration, and relationship building.