Equivalent code to BCBC2006 or NBCC2005

[vato]

Hello all,
I am doing some preliminary design for a structure in Whistler, British Columbia and I need to get going before I actually obtain a Canadian Code book. What should I or may I use as an equivalent? Is ASCE7 a reasonable place to begin (98, 02 or 05?)
thanks

 

[youngstructural]

US codes are actually quite different from Canadian codes. Our fire egress & snow provisions are much more stringent / higher loads.

The NBCC requires you to consider drifting snow and has very strict provisions for higher altitudes with long term snow effects. I would think you'd best work from the BCBC right away.

Please note that I have not worked with the BCBC, but have heard it is even more strict than OBC with which I am familiar.

As a potentially useful aside, have you looked into the licensing requirements for BC? In many provinces it is not just the engineer who must be licensed, but also the company. In Ontario this is called a "Certificate of Authorization" (for the company) and is a requirement to offer professional engineering services. If you don't have one your plans will simply be rejected by the building official, and you can face disciplinary action from the professional engineering association.

Post if you have any specific questions, however I think you need to do some more footwork before you get going. A $300 set of code books is not your biggest concern here.

Cheers,

YS

B.Eng (Carleton)
Working in New Zealand, thinking of my snow covered home...