Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli proposes amendment to Ontario Building Code extending use of wood-frame construction in buildings to six stories from four

Wendy Lisney

QUEENS PARK, Ontario , March 20, 2012 (press release) – Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli announced plans today to introduce his first Private Members’ Bill entitled the Ontario Forestry Industry Revitalization Act.

The Act would amend the Ontario Building Code to allow for wood frame construction to be used in mid-rise buildings up to six stories, instead of the current four stories.

“This change would increase use of wood harvested in Northern Ontario for residential construction and provide a significant boost to an industry left staggered,” said Fedeli.

Fedeli pointed out that in recent years, more than 60 lumber mills and some 45,000 forestry jobs have disappeared.

The Ontario forest industry supports some 200,000 jobs and more than 100 forest-dependent communities.

“This bill will create jobs and growth in Northern Ontario communities while reducing construction costs and help southern Ontario meet targets to reduce urban sprawl,” Fedeli said.

“Wood-frame construction will also reduce the carbon footprint and increase the energy efficiency of mid-rise buildings while meeting or surpassing other buildings in terms of meeting fire safety standards.”

The bill is scheduled to be tabled in the Legislature in September.

“It is my sincere hope that my fellow MPPs of all political stripes, especially my colleagues in Northern Ontario, will stand up to support the forestry industry by backing this legislation,” concluded Fedeli.

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