British Columbia radon requirements for new construction
What your permit set must show
- Minimum 100mm diameter pipe installed as a rough-in stub for future sub-slab or sub-membrane depressurization.
- Pipe must be vented to the exterior of the building.
- Requirement applies province-wide to all new Part 9 (small residential) buildings with no geographic exemptions.
- Prior geographic restrictions (designated areas) were removed in the 2024 code.
- Active fan is not required at construction; it is triggered only if post-occupancy testing exceeds 200 Bq/m3.
Common questions
Does every new home in BC require a radon rough-in?
Yes. The 2024 BC Building Code applies province-wide to all new Part 9 residential buildings. Coastal BC is not exempt. The prior rules that applied only to designated high-radon areas were removed when the 2024 code came into force on March 8, 2024.
Is a powered fan required during construction?
No. The BC code requires a passive rough-in only: a 100mm pipe stubbed in and vented to the outside. A powered fan is installed after occupancy only if testing shows radon levels above 200 Bq/m3.
What does the plans examiner check for?
Plan reviewers look for a 100mm rough-in pipe shown on the foundation or floor plan, with a note confirming it terminates at the exterior. The pipe routing and termination point must be clear in the permit set.
When did this requirement take effect?
The 2024 BC Building Code came into force on March 8, 2024. Building permit applications submitted on or after that date must meet the new radon rough-in requirement.
Get this handled for your next permit
Upload your plans and get back permit-ready radon detail sheets, routing, and citations for British Columbia in 2 to 3 business days.
Or take the free British Columbia checklist
The same items plans examiners flag, in order. Free, no sign-up required.