Code structure, objectives and functional statements (House)

Last updated October 22, 2026

Values this chapter turns on

max building height for Part 9: 3 storeys; max building height for Part 9
max building area for Part 9: 600 m²; max building area for Part 9
first storey ceiling exceeds this above grade: 1.8 m; first storey ceiling exceeds this above grade
value for outside winter design temperatures: January 2.5%; value for outside winter design temperatures

Every House exam starts with the frame of the code. Before you can answer a Part 9 question you need to know which Division you are in, whether Part 9 applies at all, and what a defined term means. These questions are usually quick marks if you know where to look, so do not skip this chapter.

Application of the Code and compliance

The 2024 Ontario Building Code (OBC) is split into three Divisions:

Division	What it holds	Where in the PDF
A	Compliance, application, definitions, objectives, functional statements	Parts 1 to 3 of Div. A
B	The acceptable solutions (the technical rules)	Parts 1 to 12 of Div. B
C	Administrative provisions (permits, inspections, qualifications)	Parts 1 to 3 of Div. C

Division A states that the code covers the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings, and that it applies to both site-built and factory-constructed buildings (OBC Div. A 1.1.1.1.). Division B is described as containing the acceptable solutions, and Division C the administrative provisions (OBC Div. A 1.3.1.2., 1.3.1.3.). When a provision refers to another one without naming a Division, the reference is to the same Division (OBC Div. A 1.3.1.4.).

Two ways to comply

Compliance is achieved in one of two ways (OBC Div. A 1.2.1.1.):

Follow the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B, or
Use an alternative solution that achieves at least the minimum level of performance of the acceptable solution it replaces, judged against the objectives and functional statements attributed to that acceptable solution in Supplementary Standard SA-1.

Materials and equipment installed to meet the code must have the characteristics needed to do their job (OBC Div. A 1.2.2.1.). Used materials and equipment may be reused if they meet the requirements for new materials and suit the intended use (OBC Div. A 1.2.2.3.).

When does Part 9 apply?

This is the single most tested application rule. Part 9 of Division B applies to buildings that are 3 storeys or less in building height, have a building area not exceeding 600 m², and are used for Group C (residential, but not retirement homes), Group D, Group E or Group F, Division 2 and 3 major occupancies (OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3.). Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6 apply instead to post-disaster buildings, Group A, B and F-1 buildings, and to C, D, E, F-2 and F-3 buildings that are larger than 600 m² or taller than 3 storeys (OBC Div. A 1.3.3.2.). Part 1, Part 7 and Part 12 of Division B apply to all buildings (OBC Div. A 1.3.3.1.).

Test	Part 9 limit
Building height	3 storeys or less
Building area	not more than 600 m²
Occupancies	C (not retirement homes), D, E, F-2, F-3

Part 11 (renovation) applies to buildings that have existed for at least five years (OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3B.). When an existing building is extended or materially altered, the code applies only to the extension and the altered parts, subject to the exceptions named in that article (OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3C.).

Firewalls and building size

Where a firewall divides a building, each portion is treated as a separate building, except for gross area under Division C, fire alarm and detection, and a plumbing system interconnected through the firewall (OBC Div. A 1.3.3.4.(1)). For row housing, Sentence (2) lets portions separated by a vertical fire separation of at least 1 h be treated as separate buildings for building height only, if each portion is residential, not more than 3 storeys, and a firefighter's path from the street to one entrance is not more than 45 m.

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Defined terms

Italicized words in the code are defined in Div. A 1.4.1.2. Words that are not defined take their ordinary meaning in the context of the trades and professions involved (OBC Div. A 1.4.1.1.). Terms that come up again and again on the House exam:

Building height (in storeys): the count of storeys between the roof and the floor of the first storey (definition). Basements do not count.
First storey: the storey with its floor closest to grade and its ceiling more than 1.8 m above grade (definition).
Basement: a storey or storeys below the first storey (definition).
Grade: the average level of proposed or finished ground next to the building at all exterior walls (definition).
Building area: the greatest horizontal area above grade, measured to the outside surface of exterior walls (or to the centre line of firewalls) (definition).
Secondary suite: a self-contained dwelling unit in a building of only residential occupancy that has only one other dwelling unit plus common spaces, with both units forming a single real estate entity (definition).
Dwelling unit: a suite operated as a housekeeping unit, usually with cooking, eating, living, sleeping and sanitary facilities (definition).
Attic or roof space: the space between the roof and the ceiling of the top storey, or between a dwarf wall and a sloping roof (definition).
Limiting distance: measured at right angles from the exposing building face to the property line, the centre line of a street, lane or public thoroughfare, or an imaginary line between two buildings on the same property (definition).
Acceptable solution and alternative solution: a requirement in Parts 2 to 12 of Div. B, and a substitute for it (definition, definition).

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Objectives and functional statements (SA-1)

Division A Part 2 lists the objectives (OBC Div. A 2.2.1.1.) and Part 3 lists the functional statements (OBC Div. A 3.2.1.1.). Supplementary Standard SA-1 links each acceptable solution to its objectives and functions. You will mostly use them to evaluate alternative solutions.

Code	Objective
OS	Safety (OS1 fire, OS2 structural, OS3 safety in use, OS4 unwanted entry)
OH	Health (OH1 indoor conditions, OH2 sanitation, OH3 noise, OH4 vibration, OH5 hazardous substances, OH6 privacy, OH7 view to the outdoors)
OA	Accessibility
OP	Fire, structural, water and sewage protection of buildings
OR	Resource conservation (OR1 water and energy, OR2 infrastructure)
OE	Environmental integrity

Functional statements are numbered F01 upward. Useful anchors: F02 limits the severity and effects of fire, F03 retards fire spread beyond its point of origin, F20 supports and withstands loads, F30 covers tripping, slipping, falling, contact, drowning or collision, F34 resists unwanted entry, F56 limits airborne sound into a dwelling unit, F61 resists ingress of precipitation and ground moisture, F63 limits condensation.

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Division B Part 1: climatic data and referenced documents

Climatic and seismic values for design come from Supplementary Standard SB-1. Outside winter design temperatures are the January 2.5% values (OBC Div. B 1.1.3.1.). Depth of frost penetration is set on the basis of local experience (OBC Div. B 1.1.3.2.). Referenced documents include amendments effective to July 15, 2022, unless stated otherwise (OBC Div. B 1.3.1.1.), in the editions listed in Table 1.3.1.2. (OBC Div. B 1.3.1.2.).

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Common traps

Counting a basement as a storey for building height. Check the 1.8 m first storey test.
Forgetting that retirement homes are excluded from Part 9 even though they are Group C.
Thinking an alternative solution must be "equal to the best possible". It must meet at least the performance of the acceptable solution it replaces.
Using the January 1% temperature instead of the January 2.5% value.

Chapter review

Chapter at a glance

One line per section: the idea to carry into the exam. Then the answers that most often catch candidates out.

Chapter at a glance: the key idea in each section
Section	Key idea
Application of the Code and compliance	Division A states that the code covers the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings, and that it applies to both site-built and factory-constructed…
Defined terms	Italicized words in the code are defined in Div. A 1.4.1.2. Words that are not defined take their ordinary meaning in the context of the trades and professions involved.
Objectives and functional statements (SA-1)	Division A Part 2 lists the objectives and Part 3 lists the functional statements.
Division B Part 1: climatic data and referenced documents	Climatic and seismic values for design come from Supplementary Standard SB-1. Outside winter design temperatures are the January 2.5% values.

Application of the Code and compliance
Division A states that the code covers the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings, and that it applies to both site-built and factory-constructed…
Defined terms
Italicized words in the code are defined in Div. A 1.4.1.2. Words that are not defined take their ordinary meaning in the context of the trades and professions involved.
Objectives and functional statements (SA-1)
Division A Part 2 lists the objectives and Part 3 lists the functional statements.
Division B Part 1: climatic data and referenced documents
Climatic and seismic values for design come from Supplementary Standard SB-1. Outside winter design temperatures are the January 2.5% values.

Usual exam traps

Counting a basement as a storey for building height. Check the 1.8 m first storey test.
Forgetting that retirement homes are excluded from Part 9 even though they are Group C.
Thinking an alternative solution must be "equal to the best possible". It must meet at least the performance of the acceptable solution it replaces.
Using the January 1% temperature instead of the January 2.5% value.

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Questions on Code structure, objectives and functional statements, in the exam format, every answer explained and cited to its article. Sign in to start; a free account gets the free questions.

Practice this chapter House calculations

Code cited in this chapter

Based on the official 2024 Building Code Compendium on ontario.ca.

OBC Div. A 1.1.1.1. Application of this Code
(1)This Code applies to the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings.
(2)This Code applies to both site-built and factory-constructed buildings. (See Note A-1.1.1.1.(2))
Open OBC Div. A 1.1.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.1.2. Scope of Division B
(1)Division B contains the acceptable solutions of this Code.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.1.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.1.3. Scope of Division C
(1)Division C contains the administrative provisions of this Code.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.1.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.1.4. Internal Cross-References
(1)Where the Division of a referenced provision is not specified in this Code, it shall mean that the referenced provision is in the same Division as the referencing provision.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.1.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.2.1.1. Compliance with this Code
(1)Compliance with this Code shall be achieved by
(a)complying with the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B (See Note A-1.2.1.1.(1)(a)), or
(b)using alternative solutions that will achieve at least the minimum level of performance required by the applicable acceptable solutions in respect of the objectives and functional statements attributed to the applicable acceptable solutions in Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) Supplementary Standard SA-1, "Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions." (See Note A-1.2.1.1.(1)(b))
(2)For the purposes of Clause (1)(b), the level of performance in respect of a functional statement refers to the performance of the functional statement as it relates to the objective with which it is associated in MMAH Supplementary Standard SA-1, "Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions."
Open OBC Div. A 1.2.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.2.2.1. Characteristics of Materials, Appliances, Systems and Equipment
(1)All materials, appliances, systems and equipment installed to meet the requirements of this Code shall possess the necessary characteristics to perform their intended functions when installed in a building.
Open OBC Div. A 1.2.2.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.2.2.3. Used Materials, Appliances and Equipment
(1)Unless otherwise specified, recycled materials in building products may be used, and used materials, appliances and equipment are permitted to be reused when they meet the requirements of this Code for new materials and are satisfactory for the intended use.
Open OBC Div. A 1.2.2.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3. Application of Part 9
(1)Subject to Article 1.3.3.3B., Part 9 of Division B applies to all buildings described in Article 1.1.1.1. of 3 storeys or less in building height, having a building area not exceeding 600 m², and used for major occupancies classified as
(a)reserved
(b)Group C, residential occupancies other than buildings used for retirement homes, (See Note A-9.1.1.1.(1) of Division B)
(c)Group D, business and personal services occupancies,
(d)Group E, mercantile occupancies, or
(e)Group F, Divisions 2 and 3, medium- and low-hazard industrial occupancies.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3. in the code viewer

Show all 31 articles

OBC Div. A 1.3.3.2. Application of Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6
(1)Subject to Articles 1.3.3.1A., 1.3.3.3B., Parts 3, 4, 5, and 6 of Division B apply to all buildings described in Article 1.1.1.1. and
(a)classified as post-disaster buildings,
(b)used for major occupancies classified as
(i)Group A, assembly occupancies,
(ii)Group B, care, care and treatment or detention occupancies, or
(iii)Group F, Division 1, high-hazard industrial occupancies, or
(c)exceeding 600 m² in building area or exceeding 3 storeys in building height used for major occupancies classified as
(i)Group C, residential occupancies,
(ii)Group D, business and personal services occupancies,
(iii)Group E, mercantile occupancies, or
(iv)Group F, Divisions 2 and 3, medium- and low-hazard industrial occupancies.
(2)Subject to Articles 1.3.3.1A. and 1.3.3.3B., Part 4 of Division B applies to
(a)a retaining wall exceeding 1,000 mm in exposed height adjacent to
(i)public property,
(ii)access to a building, or
(iii)private property to which the public is admitted,
(b)a pedestrian bridge appurtenant to a building,
(c)a crane runway,
(d)an exterior storage tank and its supporting structure that is not regulated by the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000,
(e)signs regulated by Section 3.15. of Division B that are not structurally supported by a building,
(f)a structure that supports a wind turbine generator having a rated output of more than 3 kW,
(g)an outdoor pool that has a water depth greater than 3.5 m at any point, and
(h)a permanent solid nutrient storage facility with supporting walls exceeding 1,000 mm in exposed height.
(3)Section 3.11. of Division B applies to public pools.
(4)Section 3.12. of Division B applies to public spas.
(5)Section 3.15. of Division B applies to signs.
(6)Section 3.17. of Division B applies to demountable stages and demountable support structures.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.1. Application of Parts 1, 7 and 12
(1)Part 1 of Division B applies to all buildings covered in this Code. (See Article 1.1.1.1.)
(2)Subject to Article 1.3.3.3B., Parts 7 and 12 of Division B apply to all buildings covered in this Code.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3B. Application of Part 11
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), Part 11 of Division B applies to the design and construction of existing buildings, or parts of existing buildings, that have been in existence for at least five years.
(2)If a building has been in existence for at least five years but includes an addition that has been in existence for less than five years, Part 11 of Division B applies to the entire building.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3B. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3C. Existing Buildings
(1)Except as provided in Section 3.18. of Division B, Section 9.41. of Division B and Part 11 of Division B, if an existing building is extended or is subject to material alteration or repair, this Code applies only to the design and construction of the extensions and those parts of the building that are subject to the material alteration or repair.
(2)If an existing previously occupied building is moved from its original location to be installed elsewhere, or is dismantled at its original location and moved to be reconstituted elsewhere, this Code applies only to changes to the design and construction of the building required as a result of moving the building.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3C. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.4. Building Size Determination
(1)Where a firewall divides a building, each portion of the building that is divided shall be considered as a separate building, except for the purposes of
(a)a determination of gross area in Section 1.2. of Division C,
(b)a fire alarm and detection system in Sentence 3.2.4.2.(1) of Division B or Article 9.10.18.1. of Division B, and
(c)a plumbing system interconnected through a firewall.
(2)Except as permitted in Sentence (3), where portions of a building are completely separated by a vertical fire separation that has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 h and extends through all storeys and service spaces of the separated portions, each separated portion is permitted to be considered as a separate building for the purpose of determining building height, provided
(a)each separated portion is not more than 3 storeys in building height and is used only for residential occupancies other than a retirement home, and
(b)the unobstructed path of travel for a firefighter from the nearest street to one entrance of each separated portion is not more than 45 m.
(See Note A-1.3.3.4.(2))
(3)The vertical fire separation referred to in Sentence (2) may terminate at the floor assembly immediately above a basement provided the basement conforms to Article 3.2.1.2. of Division B.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.1. Non-defined Terms
(1)Words and phrases used in this Code that are not included in the list of definitions in Articles 1.4.1.2., 1.4.1.3. and 1.4.1.4. and are not defined in another provision of this Code shall have the meanings that are commonly assigned to them in the context in which they are used, taking into account the specialized use of terms by the various trades and professions to which the terminology applies.
(2)Where objectives and functional statements are referred to in this Code, they shall be the objectives and functional statements described in Parts 2 and 3.
(3)Where acceptable solutions are referred to in this Code, they shall be the provisions stated in Parts 2 to 12 of Division B.
(4)Where alternative solutions are referred to in this Code, they shall be the alternative solutions mentioned in Clause 1.2.1.1.(1)(b).
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Building height (in storeys)
Building height (in storeys) means the number of storeys contained between the roof and the floor of the first storey.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) First storey
First storey means the storey that has its floor closest to grade and its ceiling more than 1.8 m above grade.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Basement
Basement means a storey or storeys of a building located below the first storey.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Grade
Grade means the average level of proposed or finished ground adjoining a building at all exterior walls.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Building area
Building area means the greatest horizontal area of a building above grade within the outside surface of exterior walls or within the outside surface of exterior walls and the centre line of firewalls.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Secondary suite
Secondary suite means a self-contained dwelling units located in a building or portion of a building of only residential occupancy that contains only one other dwelling units and common spaces, and where both dwelling units constitute a single real estate entity. (See Note A-1.4.1.2.(1))
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Dwelling unit
Dwelling unit means a suite operated as a housekeeping unit, used or intended to be used by one or more persons and usually containing cooking, eating, living, sleeping and sanitary facilities.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Attic or roof space
Attic or roof space means the space between the roof and the ceiling of the top storey or between a dwarf wall and a sloping roof.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Limiting distance
Limiting distance means the distance from an exposing building face to a property line, the centre line of a street, lane or public thoroughfare, or to an imaginary line between 2 buildings or fire compartments on the same property, measured at right angles to the exposing building face.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Acceptable solution
Acceptable solution means a requirement stated in Parts 2 to 12 of Division B.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Alternative solution
Alternative solution means a substitute for an acceptable solution.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 2.2.1.1. Objectives
(1)The objectives of this Code are as follows: (See Note A-2.2.1.1.(1))
OS Safety
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury.
OS1 Fire Safety
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to fire. The risks of injury due to fire addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS1.1 – fire or explosion occurring
OS1.2 – fire or explosion impacting areas beyond its point of origin
OS1.3 – collapse of physical elements due to a fire or explosion
OS1.4 – fire safety systems failing to function as expected
OS1.5 – persons being delayed in or impeded from moving to a safe place during a fire emergency
OS2 Structural Safety
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to structural failure. The risks of injury due to structural failure addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS2.1 – loads bearing on the building elements that exceed their loadbearing capacity
OS2.2 – loads bearing on the building that exceed the loadbearing properties of the supporting medium
OS2.3 – damage to or deterioration of building elements
OS2.4 – vibration or deflection of building elements
OS2.5 – instability of the building or part thereof
OS2.6 – collapse of the excavation
OS3 Safety in Use
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to hazards. The risks of injury due to hazards addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS3.1 – tripping, slipping, falling, contact, drowning or collision
OS3.2 – contact with hot surfaces or substances
OS3.3 – contact with energized equipment
OS3.4 – exposure to hazardous substances
OS3.5 – exposure to high levels of sound from fire alarm systems
OS3.6 – persons becoming trapped in confined spaces
OS3.7 – persons being delayed in or impeded from moving to a safe place during an emergency (See Note A-2.2.1.1.(1))
OS4 Resistance to Unwanted Entry
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to the building's low level of resistance to unwanted entry. The risks of injury due to unwanted entry addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS4.1 – intruders being able to force their way through locked doors or windows
OS4.2 – occupants being unable to identify potential intruders as such
OH Health
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness.
OH1 Indoor Conditions
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to indoor conditions. The risks of illness due to indoor conditions addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OH1.1 – inadequate indoor air quality
OH1.2 – inadequate thermal comfort
OH1.3 – contact with moisture
OH2 Sanitation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to unsanitary conditions. The risks of illness due to unsanitary conditions addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OH2.1 – exposure to human or domestic waste
OH2.2 – consumption of contaminated water
OH2.3 – inadequate facilities for personal hygiene
OH2.4 – contact with contaminated surfaces
OH2.5 – contact with vermin and insects
OH2.6 – unsanitary conditions caused by exposure to human or domestic waste
OH3 Noise Protection
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to high levels of sound originating in adjacent spaces in the building. The risks of illness due to high levels of sound addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OH3.1 – exposure to airborne sound transmitted through assemblies separating dwelling units from adjacent spaces in the building.
OH4 Vibration and Deflection Limitation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to high levels of vibration or deflection of building elements.
OH5 Hazardous Substances Containment
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, the public will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to the release of hazardous substances from the building.
OH6 Privacy
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a person in the building will be provided with an unacceptable level of privacy.
OH7 View to the Outdoors
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be unable to experience a view to the outdoors.
OA Accessibility
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person with a physical or sensory limitation will be unacceptably impeded from accessing or using the building or its facilities.
OA1 Barrier-Free Path of Travel
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person with a physical or sensory limitation will be unacceptably impeded from accessing the building or circulating within it.
OA2 Barrier-Free Facilities
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person with a physical or sensory limitation will be unacceptably impeded from using the building's facilities.
OP Fire, Structural, Water and Sewage Protection of Buildings
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, the building or adjacent buildings will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage due to fire or structural insufficiency, or the building or part thereof will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of loss of use also due to structural insufficiency.
OP1 Fire Protection of the Building
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of its design or construction, the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage due to fire. The risks of damage due to fire addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP1.1 – fire or explosion occurring
OP1.2 – fire or explosion impacting areas beyond its point of origin
OP1.3 – collapse of physical elements due to a fire or explosion
OP1.4 – fire safety systems failing to function as expected
OP2 Structural Sufficiency of the Building
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of its design or construction, the building or part thereof will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage or loss of use due to structural failure or lack of structural serviceability. The risks of damage and of loss of use due to structural failure or lack of structural serviceability addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP2.1 – loads bearing on the building elements that exceed their loadbearing capacity
OP2.2 – loads bearing on the building that exceed the loadbearing properties of the supporting medium
OP2.3 – damage to or deterioration of building elements
OP2.4 – vibration or deflection of building elements
OP2.5 – instability of the building or part thereof
OP2.6 – instability or movement of the supporting medium
OP3 Protection of Adjacent Buildings from Fire
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, adjacent buildings will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage due to fire. The risks of damage to adjacent buildings due to fire addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP3.1 – fire or explosion impacting areas beyond the building of origin
OP4 Protection of Adjacent Buildings from Structural Damage
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, adjacent buildings will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of structural damage. The risks of structural damage to adjacent buildings addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP4.1 – settlement of the medium supporting adjacent buildings
OP4.2 – collapse of the building or portion thereof onto adjacent buildings
OP4.3 – impact of the building on adjacent buildings
OP4.4 – collapse of the excavation
OP5 Water and Sewage Protection of Buildings and Facilities
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a building will be exposed to unacceptable risk of damage due to leakage of service water or sewage.
OR Resource Conservation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of depletion or the capacity of the infrastructure supporting the use, treatment or disposal of the resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of being exceeded.
OR1 Water and Energy Conservation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of depletion. The risks of resource depletion addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OR1.1 – the consumption of water
OR1.2 – the consumption of energy
OR2 Infrastructure Capacity
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, the capacity of the infrastructure supporting the use, treatment or disposal of a resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of being exceeded. The risks of exceeding capacity addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OR2.1 – excessive demand on the infrastructure
OE Environmental Integrity
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction or operation of the building, the natural environment will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of degradation.
OE1 Air Quality
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, the natural environment will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of degradation due to emissions of greenhouse gases into the air. The risks of degradation addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OE1.1 – emissions of greenhouse gases into the air
OE1.2 – the release of contaminants, other than greenhouse gases, into the air
OE2 Water and Soil Quality
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, the natural environment will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of degradation due to excessive release of contaminants into water or soil.
OC Conservation of Buildings
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the extension, material alteration or repair of an existing building or a change in use of an existing building, the existing building cannot be acceptably conserved.
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OBC Div. A 3.2.1.1. Functional Statements
(1)The objectives of this Code are achieved by measures, such as those described in the acceptable solutions in Division B, that are intended to allow the building or its elements to perform the following functions: (See Note A-3.2.1.1.(1))
F01 To minimize the risk of accidental ignition.
F02 To limit the severity and effects of fire or explosions.
F03 To retard the effects of fire on areas beyond its point of origin.
F04 To retard failure or collapse due to the effects of fire.
F05 To retard the effects of fire on emergency egress facilities.
F06 To retard the effects of fire on facilities for notification, suppression and emergency response.
F10 To facilitate the timely movement of persons to a safe place in an emergency.
F11 To notify persons, in a timely manner, of the need to take action in an emergency.
F12 To facilitate emergency response.
F13 To notify emergency responders, in a timely manner, of the need to take action in an emergency.
F20 To support and withstand expected loads and forces.
F21 To limit or accommodate dimensional change.
F22 To limit movement under expected loads and forces.
F23 To maintain equipment in place during structural movement.
F30 To minimize the risk of injury to persons as a result of tripping, slipping, falling, contact, drowning or collision.
F31 To minimize the risk of injury to persons as a result of contact with hot surfaces or substances.
F32 To minimize the risk of injury to persons as a result of contact with energized equipment.
F33 To limit the level of sound of a fire alarm system.
F34 To resist or discourage unwanted access or entry.
F35 To facilitate the identification of potential intruders.
F36 To minimize the risk that persons will be trapped in confined spaces.
F40 To limit the level of contaminants.
F41 To minimize the risk of generation of contaminants.
F42 To resist the entry of vermin and insects.
F43 To minimize the risk of release of hazardous substances.
F44 To limit the spread of hazardous substances beyond their point of release.
F45 To minimize the risk of the spread of diseases through communal shower facilities.
F46 To minimize the risk of contamination of potable water.
F50 To provide air suitable for breathing.
F51 To maintain appropriate air and surface temperatures.
F52 To maintain appropriate relative humidity.
F53 To maintain appropriate indoor/outdoor air pressure differences.
F54 To limit drafts.
F55 To resist the transfer of air through environmental separators.
F56 To limit the transmission of airborne sound into a dwelling unit from spaces elsewhere in the building.
F60 To control the accumulation and pressure of water on and in the ground.
F61 To resist the ingress of precipitation, water or moisture from the exterior or from the ground.
F62 To facilitate the dissipation of water and moisture from the building.
F63 To limit moisture condensation.
F70 To provide potable water.
F71 To provide facilities for personal hygiene.
F72 To provide facilities for the sanitary disposal of human and domestic wastes.
F73 To facilitate access to and circulation in the building and its facilities by persons with physical or sensory limitations.
F74 To facilitate the use of the building's facilities by persons with physical or sensory limitations.
F80 To resist deterioration resulting from expected service conditions.
F81 To minimize the risk of malfunction, interference, damage, tampering, lack of use or misuse.
F82 To minimize the risk of inadequate performance due to improper maintenance or lack of maintenance.
F101 To limit unwanted visual exposure.
F102 To provide a view to the outdoors in buildings.
F110 To control the release of contaminants into soil, groundwater, surface water, and air.
F111 To minimize the risk of malfunction, damage or failure of a sewage system.
F112 To provide adequate treatment of sanitary sewage and effluent.
F113 To minimize the risk of injury as a result of contact with sanitary sewage or partially treated effluent.
F120 To minimize the risk of injury to persons entering or exiting the pool, as a result of unfamiliarity with the pool.
F121 To minimize the risk of injury to persons using the pool, as a result of unfamiliarity with the pool.
F122 To minimize the risk of contamination of pool water.
F123 To facilitate timely response to incapacitated pool users.
F124 To minimize the risk of entrapment or injury to a person within the pool, as a result of water, air or vacuum action.
F130 To limit excessive water consumption.
F131 To limit excessive energy consumption.
F132 To limit excessive demand on the infrastructure.
F133 To limit excessive peak demand on the infrastructure.
F140 To facilitate the reuse and material alteration and repair of existing buildings.
F150 To limit excessive emissions of greenhouse gases into the air.
F151 To limit the excessive release of contaminants, other than greenhouse gases, into the air.
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OBC Div. B 1.1.3.1. Climatic and Seismic Values
(1)The climatic and seismic values required for the design of buildings under this Code shall be in conformance with the climatic and seismic values provided in MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-1, "Climatic and Seismic Data".
(2)The outside winter design temperatures determined from MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-1, "Climatic and Seismic Data", shall be those listed for the January 2.5% values. (See Note A-1.1.3.1.(2))
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OBC Div. B 1.1.3.2. Depth of Frost Penetration
(1)Depth of frost penetration shall be established on the basis of local experience.
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OBC Div. B 1.3.1.1. Effective Date
(1)Unless otherwise specified in this Code, the documents referenced in this Code shall include all amendments, revisions, reaffirmations, reapprovals, addenda and supplements effective to July 15, 2022.
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OBC Div. B 1.3.1.2. Applicable Editions
(1)Where documents are referenced in this Code, they shall be in the editions designated in Table 1.3.1.2.
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