Building Specifications in
Heavy Snow Zones

The roof and foundations of a building must be designed to support the greatest weight of snow that is likely to accumulate over a 50-year period.

Because of mountain wind patterns, localized precipitation patterns and observed deviations from ground snow loads, snow load wieghts for mountainous regions of British Columbia are different from rates in other parts of Canada.Environment Canada records over the years have produced accurate data to project the likely depths of snow that could accumulate on different roof designs and subsequent weight the structure must be designed to bear.

Please view the table below to determine structural requirements for roofs and footings. These reqirements form part of the Bylaw # 449 which grants the RDKB the responsiblity for all building and plumbing inspection in the Electoral Areas.

Please contact the Building Department to ensure that your structure design conforms to footing depth and roof strength bylaws.