WHAT IS A BCIN AND WHEN IS IT REQUIRED?

A BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) is issued to designers by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

In general, designers other than professional engineers and architects that engage in the following "design activities” are required to meet the qualification/registration requirements under the Building Code: 

Preparing a design as part of a building permit application;

Giving information or an opinion concerning whether a building or part of a building complies with the Building Code if the information or opinion is to be submitted to a Chief Building Official in connection with a building permit application; and

Preparing a written report for submission to the Chief Building Official based on a general review, where a general review is required by the Building Code.

Homeowner's who do their own design work are not required to obtain a BCIN.