Safety Codes Updates - Winter 2025

Arc-fault protection of branch circuits for dwelling units 

Each branch circuit supplying 125 V receptacles rated 20 A or less shall be provided with arc-fault protection by a combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupter as per CE Code 26-658.

There are some exceptions to this rule when CAFCI protection is not required. The receptacles listed in 26-720 (f) and 26-722 ((d) i,ii,iv,v)

• Dedicated refrigerator receptacles. (same can be applied to a freezer circuit)
• Kitchen counter receptacles.
• Fixed kitchen island receptacles.
• Peninsular counter receptacles.
• In areas where receptacles are closer than 1m to a wash basin (sink).
• Sump pump receptacle.

Winter wiring methods

Remember to keep temperature limitations in mind when handling and installing electrical cable during this time of year.  

CE Code 12-102 and appendix B:

1. Insulated conductors and cables shall not be handled or installed when the ambient temperature is
   sufficiently low as to be liable to cause damage to the insulation.
2. Such insulated conductors and cables shall not be installed so as to permit flexing or movement of
   the conductors or cables after installation if the ambient temperature is liable to become low
   enough to damage the insulation during flexing or movement.
3. For insulated conductors or cables without a low temperature marking, the minimum recommended handling and installation temperature is –10 °C. Where marked –25 °C or –40 °C, the minimum recommended handling and installation temperature is equivalent to that low temperature marking; however, appropriate precautions should be taken for all installations at temperatures below –10 °C.

2024 Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1, Rule 6-308 - Use of neutral conductors in consumer’s service. (Electrical Standata)

• This standata was issued in September 2025 to permit the use of underground service entrance cable (USEB) with a bare neutral conductor in underground installations at service entrance equipment.
• Review the standata to familiarize yourself with the requirements of the variance.

We get a lot of questions about building in winter conditions. The National Building Code Alberta Edition (NBC AE) has specific requirements for individuals constructing in winter conditions, which are in place to protect property owners and contractors from unnecessary short- and long-term costs associated with failed building materials and assemblies due to premature exposure to the cold. 

Find out what to know when constructing over winter months below:

Winter Concreting, Heating, and Hoarding 

Property owners are encouraged to always take care when pouring concrete, but it is especially important in cooler weather. Allowing concrete to cool below 10°C can affect its ability to reach ultimate strength, leaving the property owner with a substandard foundation.

If concrete must be poured in cold weather, provisions for keeping the temperatures above 10°C will be required to ensure the minimum curing temperature and ultimate concrete strength. It may also be necessary to leave form work – the mold for holding concrete while it cures – on for up to three days (72 hours) to achieve a ultimate strength.

Residents are encouraged to have a conversation with their contractor and/or concrete suppliers, as these individuals are responsible for ensuring all necessary equipment is in place on the site prior to pouring. 

Quick facts:

• Concrete must be kept at a temperature of not less than 10°C while being mixed and placed and maintained at a temperature of not less than 10°C for 72 hours after placing.
• Concrete shall not be placed in mud, standing water or snow, or on, against or above any frozen material.
• No frozen material or ice shall be used in concrete 

Concrete Testing

If a Safety Codes Officer believes the minimum required concrete strength has not been achieved, residents or their contractor may be required to provide proof of compliance through independent testing of the finished concrete.

The project(s) will be put on hold until testing has indicated that the minimum required concrete strength has been achieved. 

Foundations and Excavation

The soil under foundations are not permitted to freeze, as this will almost always result in frost heave that can damage foundations. For this reason, the Alberta Building Code requires that “the bottom of excavations shall be kept from freezing throughout the entire construction period.”

Contractors planning to build through the winter season will have to provide a continuous source of heat at the foundation to prevent damage to foundations. 

If construction is done in the winter, property owners and builders are advised to factor all the above in their construction plans. Safety Codes Officers will be monitoring for compliance for all the above and are available to anyone requiring more information. 

Have you ever wondered if permits are required? The permit regulation states:

3(1) Subject to subsection (2), a person shall not start any undertaking for which a permit is required under this Regulation unless a permit has been issued.

Permits are required to be applied for and issued prior to the start of any work. Page 2 of the issued permit contains a list of permit conditions. It is important to be familiar with the permit conditions.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to call for the required inspections for the Description of Work they are completing under the permit. Inspections must be requested prior to covering the work. This includes underground services identified in a Service Connection permit. 

The permit is only applicable to the Description of Work identified on the permit. This may include temporary heat for a project progressing over the colder months of the year.

Why does this matter?

Not applying for the required permits can result in fines, and even court action.  A permit ensures that the installation meets the acceptable solutions in the applicable Code and keeps owners safe through regulatory oversight. Permits help to maintain fairness and an equal playing field. 

When in doubt ask the question: Do I need a permit for what I am doing?