CBHCC – Accessibility ArticleAccessibility continues to be a priority for the 2030 code cycle.

For decades, the National Model Codes system has been working to create more accessible buildings through updates to the National Building Code. Each new edition contains provisions that aim to create barrier-free access to buildings across Canada.

For instance, in the 2015 and 2020 editions of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC), several accessibility-related changes were introduced. These included updates to washroom fixtures and spaces, doorway dimensions, and other building elements to accommodate modern mobility aids and to improve accessibility and safety.

This article summarizes provisions introduced in the 2025 edition of the National Building Code and looks ahead to accessibility-related work underway in the current code cycle.

2025 Code changes build on accessibility progress

The code development cycle engaged participants from across Canada, including people with lived experience, industry experts, regulators, interested organizations, and the general public, leading to the publication of the 2025 editions of the National Model Codes in December 2025.

During the 2025 code development cycle, the Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) advanced several priority tasks that addressed and expanded application of the accessibility objective of the Codes. An important area of focus was making homes and buildings more accessible for people of all abilities, targeting harmonized minimum performance levels that are constructable across the country.

Changes in the NBC 2025 related to enhancing accessibility included:

  • Expanding the accessibility objective to apply to all types of dwelling units (spaces where one or more people may live). In practice, this means that requirements aimed at improving the accessibility of all types of dwelling units can now be introduced in the Code.
  • Adding new Subsection 3.8.4. for adaptable dwelling units, which applies to all types of dwelling units.
  • Introducing requirements in Subsection 3.8.4. for low-cost adaptability features to accommodate occupants’ changing needs, including a wider entrance, reachable light switches and electrical outlets, and reinforcement of stud walls around water closets, showers and bathtubs to facilitate the future installation of grab bars.
  • Introducing prescriptive guidance in Article 9.31.2.3. on how to select and install reinforcement into wood framing that is strong enough to support grab bars when they are used.
  • Adding new Subsection 3.8.5. for visitable dwelling units, which applies to designated units in multi-unit residential buildings.
  • Requiring visitable dwelling units to have both the new adaptability features in Subsection 3.8.4. and additional visitability features introduced in Subsection 3.8.5., including wider paths of travel and an entrance-level washroom with sufficient space to maneuver a mobility aid.

The work focused on changes that will reduce the need for expensive home renovations when accessibility features are necessary. The changes are also expected to make it easier for people to remain in their homes and communities longer, as their accessibility needs evolve.

Accessibility work for the 2030 Codes

The 2030 code development cycle is currently underway, and the CBHCC is building on the work undertaken in the previous code cycle related to accessibility, including:

  • Advancing the development of provisions to increase the accessibility of buildings and dwellings for people with disabilities.
  • Considering egress/evacuation from buildings.
  • Considering expanded grab bar requirements in hotels and motels.

Get involved in the 2030 Codes

The CBHCC welcomes participation in the code development process. At any time, you can request a code change that you think will make a building more accessible through the CBHCC’s website. You can also comment on proposed code changes during regular public review periods, the first of which began on April 27, 2026.