Permit Mass Timber Up To 25 Storeys

Summary#

This bill changes Nova Scotia’s Building Code Act to allow “mass timber” for tall buildings. Mass timber means large, engineered wood panels and beams made by gluing or pressing layers of wood together. The bill says the Building Code must treat mass timber as an approved material for buildings up to 25 storeys.

• Allows mass timber construction up to 25 storeys anywhere in Nova Scotia.
• Overrides any current code limits that block mass timber at those heights.
• Does not add new safety rules; other code requirements (like fire protection, structure, and permits) still apply.
• Aims to open the door for taller wood buildings using modern wood products.

What it means for you#

• Builders and developers

  • More choice of materials for mid- and high-rise projects, including apartments and offices.
  • May use factory-made wood parts that can speed up building on site.
  • Still must show compliance with all safety and design rules to get permits.

• Renters and homebuyers

  • Could see more apartment buildings built with wood, which may add supply over time.
  • No change to tenant rights or building safety standards.

• Forestry and wood-product workers

  • Potential new demand for locally made mass timber products and related jobs.

• Local governments and building officials

  • Will review permit applications for tall mass timber projects.
  • May need updated training and guidance on inspecting these buildings.

• Fire services

  • May need updated training for construction-phase fire risks and tall wood buildings.

• Insurers and lenders

  • Could review policies and pricing for tall mass timber projects, which may affect project financing.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Expands housing options by letting builders put up taller wood buildings faster using factory-made parts.
• Supports the forestry sector and local manufacturing jobs by creating demand for mass timber.
• Can lower construction-related carbon emissions, since wood stores carbon and often has a smaller footprint than concrete or steel.
• Keeps existing safety checks in place through the Building Code and permit process.
• Helps Nova Scotia compete with places that already allow taller mass timber buildings.

Opponents' View#

• Safety worries at 25 storeys, including fire performance, smoke spread, and structural durability, especially during construction.
• Goes beyond current national code limits, which could create confusion or uneven enforcement.
• Insurance and financing for tall mass timber buildings may be harder to get or more expensive.
• Local building officials and fire services may lack training and resources, risking inconsistent approvals or delays.
• Singles out one material for special approval, rather than using neutral performance standards for all materials.