Across North America, single stair reform or 'point access blocks' have the potential to be one of the most significant building code reforms to unlock more supply and a wider array of missing middle housing. This week, British Columbia updated the Province's building code to remove the requirement for a second means of egress in buildings up to 6-storys Province wide.
With people struggling to find housing that meets their needs, we have to find ways to innovate and build differently. By adjusting B.C.’s building code to allow single egress stair buildings, we can not only boost housing supply, but also create more options for people and families who need larger layouts and more bedrooms. This will allow people to live, grow and prosper in the communities they call home. - Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing
The change will make it possible to build housing on smaller lots while eliminating the requirement for a second means of egress will allow for more innovative unit layouts and more family friendly housing options in small multi-family buildings. Under the code updates, all single means of egress buildings will require full sprinkler systems, smoke management systems and wider staircases.
Change Coming To The Rest Of North America?
In addition to these changes in British Columbia, the Niskanen Center recently released a report looking at progress that 11 city and state governments are making across the United States including legislatures in Virginia, Oregon, California, Minnesota (signed & supported by Governor Tim Walz) and New York voting to approve studies into implementing the change in their jurisdictions.
What might single stair reform mean for our communities? Check out this great explainer video from "About Here" and The Urbanarium.
Jonathan Berk is an urbanist and advocate who’s focused his career on building and advocating for walkable communities with vibrant public spaces, abundant housing choices and robust local small business communities. As the Founder of Re:Main, he's working to accelerate the growth and expansion of walkable neighborhoods, with abundant housing options, through innovative, action-oriented programs.
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