Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment
The Building and Construction Authority’s (BCA) Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment, provides baseline requirements to ensure accessible buildings for all, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and families with young children.
Last updated on 18 March 2026
The Code allows accessibility and usability considerations to be integrated into the overall design, minimising the cost of providing accessibility as an afterthought and resulting in a safer, more inclusive building for all users.
The Code is also periodically reviewed to ensure accessibility standards remain balanced and relevant, addressing current and future demographic trends and the evolving community needs.
Who needs to comply?
The Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment applies to:
New building works
Additions & Alterations (A&A) works to existing buildings
Available editions of the Code
BCA periodically updates the Code on Accessibility through a Code Review Committee with representatives from social service agencies, institutions, industry associations and public sector agencies.
Download the editions of the Code below from previous years:
Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment 2025
This sixth revision enhances the Code's clarity and streamlines design requirements whilst fostering a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and intent. The updates include enhanced provisions for persons with disabilities, the elderly and nursing mothers, alongside carefully considered relaxations that offer greater design flexibility without compromising essential accessibility standards.
Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment 2019
The fifth review of the Code continues the path Singapore had started towards the realisation of an inclusive built environment. The code introduced more accessibility and universal design features to improve the built environment for all.
Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment 2013
Singapore prepares for a fast-ageing population and to build an inclusive society. While the needs of persons with disabilities remain the primary focus in our Code reviews, this 2013 Code places greater emphasis on universal design concepts and provisions that will benefit a wider spectrum of people, including parents with infants, the young and older persons.
Related Information
Basic Accessibility Legislation
To improve accessibility for existing non barrier-free buildings, the Building Control Act was amended to require owners of existing buildings undergoing addition and alteration works to carry out works to put in place basic accessibility features.
Universal Design index (UDi)
The Universal Design Index (UDi) Self Assessment Framework serves as a tool for inclusive design. Developed by the BCA, it guides and evaluates the incorporation of universal design features in building projects.