Part 9 services and special buildings: BCIN Small Buildings

Last updated October 22, 2026

Values this chapter turns on

of perimeter enclosed: carport is a garage: over 60%; of perimeter enclosed: carport is a garage
service hot water supply temperature: 45°C to 60°C; service hot water supply temperature
heating design temperature, living spaces: 22°C; heating design temperature, living spaces
log settling gap per 300 mm of opening height: 13 mm; log settling gap per 300 mm of opening height

Sections 9.31 to 9.41 close out Part 9. They cover plumbing facilities, ventilation, heating and cooling, electrical facilities, garages and carports, seasonal buildings, log walls, park model trailers, cold room slabs and change of use. For the Small Buildings exam the key skill is knowing when Part 9 hands a topic off. Many of these sections are written for dwelling units. When the building is an office, a store or a multi-unit residential building with shared systems, the answer often sits in Part 3, Part 6 or Part 7 instead.

Plumbing facilities

Section 9.31 applies to plumbing facilities and systems within dwelling units. In other occupancies, plumbing facilities, grab bars, floor drains and finishes around urinals follow Subsection 3.7.4, and medical gas piping follows 3.7.5 (OBC Div. B 9.31.1.1.). The plumbing system itself is always built to Part 7 (OBC Div. B 9.31.2.1.).

Where a water distribution system is available, each dwelling unit needs a kitchen sink, a lavatory, a bathtub or shower, and a water closet (OBC Div. B 9.31.4.1.), plus hot water (OBC Div. B 9.31.4.2.). Laundry facilities, or space for them, go in each unit or in a shared location that every unit can reach (OBC Div. B 9.31.4.1A.). Service hot water is supplied at 45°C to 60°C, and an electric storage-type heater is set to at least 60°C (OBC Div. B 9.31.6.1A.). Grab bars, where provided, resist 1.3 kN (OBC Div. B 9.31.2.3.).

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Ventilation, heating and air-conditioning

Section 9.32 applies only to residential occupancies. Ventilation of every other occupancy follows Part 6 (OBC Div. B 9.32.1.1.). A residential occupancy needs non-heating-season ventilation under Subsection 9.32.2. Where it has electrical power and a heating system, it also needs heating-season ventilation, designed to Part 6 or, for a self-contained system serving a single dwelling unit, to Subsection 9.32.3 (OBC Div. B 9.32.1.2.).

Natural ventilation areas come from Table 9.32.2.2., which has two halves: spaces inside a dwelling unit and spaces outside one. First find the right half, then the room type. Two values worth knowing:

Space	Minimum openable area
Finished room in a dwelling unit	0.28 m² per room or combination
Shared laundry room, kitchen or recreation room (outside a dwelling unit)	4% of floor area

For heating-season ventilation, a dwelling unit with 5 or fewer bedrooms can use the prescriptive path in Subsection 9.32.3 (OBC Div. B 9.32.3.1.). The principal ventilation fan is sized by bedrooms in Table 9.32.3.3.: for example a 3-bedroom unit needs at least 22 L/s and not more than 32 L/s. Kitchens need a 50 L/s supplemental fan and bathrooms without a principal intake need 25 L/s (OBC Div. B 9.32.3.7.).

Carbon monoxide alarms matter in multi-unit buildings. A service room that holds a fuel-burning appliance for building services, and is not inside a residential suite, needs its own CO alarm (OBC Div. B 9.32.3.9B.). Suites next to a fuel-burning appliance or a storage garage also need them (OBC Div. B 9.32.3.9A.).

Section 9.33 covers heating and air-conditioning systems that serve only one dwelling unit. Anything else, such as a central boiler serving a small apartment building or the rooftop unit on a store, goes to Part 6 (OBC Div. B 9.33.1.1.). Heating must hold 22°C in living spaces, 18°C in unfinished basements and 15°C in heated crawl spaces (OBC Div. B 9.33.3.1.). Asbestos is banned in air distribution systems (OBC Div. B 9.33.4.8.). Exhaust systems discharge directly outdoors, and dryer exhaust ducts stay separate from other exhaust ducts (OBC Div. B 9.33.6.14A.).

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Electrical facilities and emergency lighting

Where electrical service is available, every building gets the facilities in Section 9.34 (OBC Div. B 9.34.1.2.). Meters, panels and similar equipment may not sit in a public area without protection against interference (OBC Div. B 9.34.1.3.). In buildings permitted to be of combustible construction, wires and cables outside dwelling units must pass the FT1 test or run in raceways, masonry or concrete (OBC Div. B 9.34.1.5.).

Lighting outlet rules to remember:

Every entrance to a residential building has an exterior light switched from inside (OBC Div. B 9.34.2.1.).
Stairs with 4 or more risers in dwelling units have 3-way switches at the top and bottom (OBC Div. B 9.34.2.3.).
Unfinished basements get one outlet per 30 m² or part of it (OBC Div. B 9.34.2.4.).
Public and service areas are lit to Table 9.34.2.7.: for example 50 lx in storage rooms and garages, 100 lx in public water closet rooms, and 200 lx in service rooms and laundry areas (OBC Div. B 9.34.2.7.).

Emergency lighting is not repeated here. Section 9.34 simply points to Subsection 9.9.12 (OBC Div. B 9.34.3.1.).

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Garages and carports

Section 9.35 applies to garages and carports serving not more than one dwelling unit (OBC Div. B 9.35.1.1.). A garage serving more than one dwelling unit falls outside Section 9.35. A roofed parking space with more than 60% of its perimeter enclosed is treated as a garage (OBC Div. B 9.35.2.1.). Attached garage floors slope to drain outdoors (OBC Div. B 9.35.2.2.).

A detached garage under 55 m², one storey, not masonry or masonry veneer, may sit on wood mud sills or a concrete slab at least 100 mm thick, and can skip foundation drainage when the ground slopes away (OBC Div. B 9.35.3.1., OBC Div. B 9.35.3.3.). Carport column piers project at least 150 mm above ground and are at least 190 mm by 190 mm (OBC Div. B 9.35.3.4.). Wood columns of 89 mm by 89 mm are allowed (OBC Div. B 9.35.4.2.).

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Cottages, log construction, park model trailers and slabs

Seasonal recreational buildings (Section 9.37) are residential buildings used seasonally. They must meet Part 9 except for listed exemptions (OBC Div. B 9.37.1.1.). They are exempt from Sections 9.5 to 9.7 and 9.9 to 9.11, but still need spatial separation under 9.10.15 and smoke alarms (OBC Div. B 9.37.2.1., OBC Div. B 9.37.2.4.). Insulation, plumbing, heating and electrical are optional, but anything installed must comply. If the cottage is used for seasonal tourist accommodation or rented, Sections 9.5 to 9.8 apply as well (OBC Div. B 9.37.3.1.).

Log construction (Section 9.38): horizontal logs are fastened to their bearer in at least three places, never more than 1,800 mm apart (OBC Div. B 9.38.2.3.). Over each opening in a horizontal log wall, leave a settling gap of at least 13 mm for every 300 mm of height (OBC Div. B 9.38.3.2.). Logs touching masonry or concrete at or below grade are treated with preservative (OBC Div. B 9.38.1.2.).

Park model trailers (Section 9.39) built to the CSA Z241 series are deemed to comply when used as seasonal residential buildings. Site-built parts still follow the Code, and rented or tourist units must meet Section 9.10 (OBC Div. B 9.39.2.1., OBC Div. B 9.39.3.2.).

Cold room slabs (Section 9.40) cover reinforced slabs over basement cold rooms with a clear span of not more than 2.5 m on the short side, and never slabs carrying vehicles (OBC Div. B 9.40.1.1.).

Cold room slab item	Requirement
Thickness	at least 125 mm
Reinforcing	10M bars, not more than 200 mm o.c. each way
Bearing on walls	at least 75 mm

Source: OBC Div. B 9.40.1.4..

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Additional requirements for change of use

Section 9.41 applies when work on an existing building causes certain changes of use. Examples are a major occupancy change marked "Y" in Division C Table 1.3.1.4, one Group C suite becoming several, a farm building changing use, or a building becoming a post-disaster building (OBC Div. B 9.41.1.1.). The changed part must then meet a list of Part 9 rules for the new occupancy, including room heights, glass, guards, bedroom egress windows, interior flame spread, and Sections 9.31, 9.32 and 9.34 (OBC Div. B 9.41.2.1.). The building's performance level after construction must not drop. If it would, compensating construction under Part 11 is required (OBC Div. B 9.41.2.2.).

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Common traps

Using Section 9.32 or 9.33 for an office, store or shared central system. Those go to Part 6.
Using Section 9.31 fixture rules for non-residential washrooms. Those go to Subsection 3.7.4.
Assuming a rented cottage keeps all the seasonal exemptions. Sections 9.5 to 9.8 come back.
Thinking a house-to-triplex conversion is not a change of use because the group stays C.

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
Plumbing facilities	Section 9.31 applies to plumbing facilities and systems within dwelling units.
Ventilation, heating and air-conditioning	Section 9.32 applies only to residential occupancies.
Electrical facilities and emergency lighting	Where electrical service is available, every building gets the facilities in Section 9.34. Meters, panels and similar equipment may not sit in a public area without protection…
Garages and carports	Section 9.35 applies to garages and carports serving not more than one dwelling unit.
Cottages, log construction, park model trailers and slabs	Seasonal recreational buildings (Section 9.37) are residential buildings used seasonally.
Additional requirements for change of use	Section 9.41 applies when work on an existing building causes certain changes of use.

Plumbing facilities
Section 9.31 applies to plumbing facilities and systems within dwelling units.
Ventilation, heating and air-conditioning
Section 9.32 applies only to residential occupancies.
Electrical facilities and emergency lighting
Where electrical service is available, every building gets the facilities in Section 9.34. Meters, panels and similar equipment may not sit in a public area without protection…
Garages and carports
Section 9.35 applies to garages and carports serving not more than one dwelling unit.
Cottages, log construction, park model trailers and slabs
Seasonal recreational buildings (Section 9.37) are residential buildings used seasonally.
Additional requirements for change of use
Section 9.41 applies when work on an existing building causes certain changes of use.

Usual exam traps

Using Section 9.32 or 9.33 for an office, store or shared central system. Those go to Part 6.
Using Section 9.31 fixture rules for non-residential washrooms. Those go to Subsection 3.7.4.
Assuming a rented cottage keeps all the seasonal exemptions. Sections 9.5 to 9.8 come back.
Thinking a house-to-triplex conversion is not a change of use because the group stays C.

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Questions on Part 9 services and special buildings, in the exam format, every answer explained and cited to its article. Sign in to start; a free account gets the free questions.

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Code cited in this chapter

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

OBC Div. B 9.31.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies to the plumbing facilities and plumbing systems within dwelling units.
(2)In occupancies other than dwelling units, plumbing facilities, grab bars, floor drains, and floor and wall finishes around urinals shall conform to Subsection 3.7.4. (See also Section 3.8. regarding barrier-free plumbing facilities.)
(3)Medical gas piping systems shall conform to Subsection 3.7.5.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.31.2.1. General
(1)The construction, extension, alteration, renewal or repair of plumbing systems and sewage disposal systems shall conform to Part 7.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.2.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.31.4.1. Required Fixtures
(1)A kitchen sink, lavatory, bathtub or shower, and water closet shall be provided for every dwelling unit where a water distribution system is available.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.4.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.31.4.2. Hot Water Supply
(1)Where a water distribution system is available a hot water supply shall be provided in every dwelling unit.
(2)A water distribution system supplying hot water to plumbing fixtures shall conform to the requirements in Subsection 7.2.10.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.4.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.31.4.1A. Laundry Fixtures
(1)Laundry facilities or a space for laundry facilities shall be provided in every dwelling unit or grouped elsewhere in the building in a location conveniently accessible to occupants of every dwelling unit.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.4.1A. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.31.6.1A. Hot Water Temperature
(1)Where a hot water supply is required by Article 9.31.4.3., equipment shall be installed to provide to every dwelling unit an adequate supply of service hot water with a temperature range from 45°C to 60°C.
(2)An electric storage-type service water heater shall have a minimum set storage temperature of 60°C.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.6.1A. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.31.2.3. Grab Bars
(1)When provided, grab bars shall be capable of resisting a load of not less than 1.3 kN applied vertically or horizontally.
Open OBC Div. B 9.31.2.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.32.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies to the ventilation of rooms and spaces in residential occupancies.
(2)Ventilation of all other occupancies shall comply with Part 6.
(3)A storage garage for up to 4 motor vehicles that serves a residential occupancy may be considered to be part of that occupancy.
Open OBC Div. B 9.32.1.1. in the code viewer

Show all 49 articles

OBC Div. B 9.32.1.2. Required Ventilation
(1)Every residential occupancy shall incorporate
(a)provisions for non-heating-season ventilation in accordance with Subsection 9.32.2., and
(b)except as required by Sentences (2) and (3), if supplied with electrical power and a heating system, provisions for heating-season ventilation in accordance with Part 6.
(2)A self-contained heating-season ventilation system serving a single dwelling unit shall comply with Subsection 9.32.3. (See Note A-9.32.1.2.(2))
(3)In houses that contain a secondary suite, heating-season ventilation need not be provided for
(a)exits,
(b)public corridors, and
(c)ancillary spaces that are not within a dwelling unit, except as provided in Sentence (4).
(See Note A-9.32.1.2.(2))
(4)Where ancillary spaces described in Clause (3)(c) contain exhaust devices, these spaces shall be provided with make-up air in accordance with Article 9.32.3.8.
Open OBC Div. B 9.32.1.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B Table 9.32.2.2. Natural Ventilation - Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.2.2.(1)
Table 9.32.2.2. Natural Ventilation - Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.2.2.(1) Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.2.2.(1) Application | Location | Minimum Unobstructed Area Within a dwelling unit | Bathrooms or water-closet rooms | 0.09 m² Within a dwelling unit | Unfinished basement space | 0.2% of the floor area Within a dwelling unit | Dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, combined rooms, dens, recreation rooms and all other finished rooms | 0.28 m² per room or combination of rooms Other than within a dwelling unit | Bathrooms or water-closet rooms | 0.09 m² per water closet Other than within a dwelling unit | Sleeping areas | 0.14 m² per occupant Other than within a dwelling unit | Laundry rooms, kitchens, recreation rooms | 4% of the floor area Other than within a dwelling unit | Corridors, storage rooms and other similar public rooms or spaces | 2% of the floor area Other than within a dwelling unit | Unfinished basement space not used on a shared basis | 0.2% of the floor area
Open OBC Div. B Table 9.32.2.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.32.3.1. Required Ventilation
(1)The heating-season ventilation required by Clause 9.32.1.2.(1)(b) shall be provided by a mechanical ventilation system complying with
(a)good practice such as that described in CAN/CSA-F326-M, "Residential Mechanical Ventilation Systems,"
(b)for dwelling units with 5 or fewer bedrooms, the balance of this Subsection, or
(c)Part 6.
(2)Mechanical ventilation systems complying with the balance of this Subsection shall incorporate at least the following components:
(a)a principal ventilation system complying with Article 9.32.3.3.,
(b)supplemental exhaust fans complying with Article 9.32.3.7., and
(c)protection against depressurization in accordance with Article 9.32.3.8.
Open OBC Div. B 9.32.3.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B Table 9.32.3.3. Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of Principal Ventilation Fan - Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.3.(2)
Table 9.32.3.3. Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of Principal Ventilation Fan - Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.3.(2) Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.3.(2) Number of Bedrooms in Dwelling Unit | Minimum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of Principal Ventilation Fan, L/s | Maximum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of Principal Ventilation Fan, L/s 1 | 16 | 24 2 | 18 | 28 3 | 22 | 32 4 | 26 | 38 5 | 30 | 45 More than 5 | System must comply with Clause 9.32.3.1.(1)(a) | System must comply with Clause 9.32.3.1.(1)(a)
Open OBC Div. B Table 9.32.3.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.32.3.7. Supplemental Exhaust
(1)Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), a supplemental exhaust fan with a rated capacity not less than 50 L/s shall be installed in each kitchen.
(2)A supplemental exhaust fan is not required in a kitchen where the only exhaust air intake for the principal ventilation fan is located in that kitchen.
(3)A supplemental exhaust fan is not required in a kitchen where the principal ventilation fan draws from that kitchen and other rooms, provided
(a)the principal ventilation fan can be switched to a high exhaust rate equal to not less than 2.5 times the minimum normal operating exhaust capacity specified in Table 9.32.3.3., and
(b)the high exhaust rate of the principal ventilation fan, as described in Clause (a), is activated by a manual switch in the kitchen labeled "kitchen exhaust."
(4)Where an exhaust air intake for the principal ventilation fan is not located in a bathroom or water-closet room, a supplemental exhaust fan with a rated capacity not less than 25 L/s shall be installed in that bathroom or water-closet room.
(5)Where the intake for a supplemental exhaust fan other than a cooking appliance exhaust fan serving a cooktop is installed in a kitchen, it shall be installed in the ceiling or on the wall at not less than 2 m above the floor.
(6)A supplemental exhaust fan required by this Article shall be controlled by a manual switch located in the room served by the fan.
(7)Where a kitchen or bathroom is exempted from the requirement to install a supplemental exhaust fan by virtue of Sentence (2) or (3), the principal ventilation fan shall be controlled by a manual switch located in the kitchen or bathroom and wired in parallel with the manual switch required by Sentence 9.32.3.3.(5).
(8)Where a supplemental exhaust fan required by this Article is controlled by a dehumidistat or other automatic control in addition to the manual switch required by Sentence (6), the manual switch shall be capable of activating the fan regardless of the setting of the automatic control.
Open OBC Div. B 9.32.3.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.32.3.9B. Location of Carbon Monoxide Alarms in All Buildings
(1)A carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in service rooms or other areas of a building where the service room or other area
(a)contains a fuel-burning appliance used for building services or laundry drying equipment, and
(b)is not located within a suite of residential occupancy.
Open OBC Div. B 9.32.3.9B. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.32.3.9A. Location of Carbon Monoxide Alarms
(1)A carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in a suite of supply duct where
(a)a fuel-burning appliance or a flue is installed in the suite,
(b)a forced-air fuel-burning appliance provides heated air directly to the suite,
(c)a fuel-burning appliance or a flue is located in a room, suite or area that shares a common wall or floor or ceiling assembly with the suite, or
(d)a storage garage shares a common wall or floor or ceiling assembly with the suite.
(2)Where a carbon monoxide alarm is required by Sentence (1) to be installed in a suite of residential occupancy, other than a suite that consists of a combined living and sleeping area, a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed
(a)adjacent to each sleeping room in the suite, and
(b)on each storey without a sleeping room in the suite.
(3)Where a carbon monoxide alarm is required by Sentence (1) to be installed in a suite of residential occupancy that consists of a combined living and sleeping area, a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in the combined living and sleeping area.
(4)In addition to the carbon monoxide alarms required to be installed in a suite of residential occupancy in accordance with Sentence (2), a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in each sleeping room within the suite where the sleeping room
(a)contains a fuel-burning appliance or a flue, or
(b)shares a common wall or floor or ceiling assembly
(i)with a room, suite or area that is located outside the suite and contains a fuel-burning appliance or a flue,
(ii)with a storage garage, or
(iii)that is adjacent to an attic or crawl space to which the storage garage is also adjacent.
(5)Carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in public corridors serving suites of residential occupancy where the corridor is directly heated by a forced-air fuel-burning appliance.
(6)Where carbon monoxide alarms are required by Sentence (5) to be installed in a public corridor, the carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed such that
(a)there is at least one carbon monoxide alarm in each portion of a divided corridor, and
(b)each carbon monoxide alarm in an undivided portion of a corridor is spaced not more than 25 m apart.
Open OBC Div. B 9.32.3.9A. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.33.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies to the design and installation of
(a)heating systems, including requirements for combustion air, and air-conditioning systems serving only one dwelling unit, and
(b)radiant heating systems in houses with a secondary suite including their common spaces.
(2)The design and installation of heating systems, including requirements for combustion air, and air-conditioning systems other than those described in Sentence (1) shall conform to Part 6. (See Note A-9.33.1.1.(2) and Subsection 9.10.10.)
(2.1)Repairs or component replacements that change the capacity or extent of safety of an existing heating, ventilating or air-conditioning system and that alter the method of operation shall conform to this Code.
(3)Air duct distribution systems serving one of the dwelling units in a house with a secondary suite shall not be directly interconnected with other parts of the house.
Open OBC Div. B 9.33.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.33.3.1. Indoor Design Temperatures
(1)At the outside design temperature, required heating facilities shall be capable of maintaining an indoor air temperature of not less than
(a)22°C in all living spaces,
(b)18°C in unfinished basements,
(c)18°C in common service rooms, ancillary spaces and exits in houses with a secondary suite, and
(d)15°C in heated crawl spaces.
Open OBC Div. B 9.33.3.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.33.4.8. Asbestos
(1)Asbestos shall not be used in air distribution systems or equipment.
Open OBC Div. B 9.33.4.8. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.33.6.14A. Exhaust Ducts and Outlets
(1)Where an exhaust duct passes through or is adjacent to unheated space, the duct shall be insulated to prevent moisture or condensation in the duct.
(2)Exhaust outlets shall be designed to prevent back draft under wind conditions.
(3)Exhaust ducts directly connected to laundry drying equipment shall be independent of other exhaust ducts.
(4)Exhaust systems shall discharge directly to the outdoors.
Open OBC Div. B 9.33.6.14A. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.1.2. Required Facilities
(1)Where electrical services are available, electrical facilities shall be provided for every building in conformance with this Section.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.1.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.1.3. Location of Equipment in Public Areas
(1)Entrance switches, meters, panel boxes, splitter boxes, time clocks and other similar equipment shall not be located in any public area unless adequate precautions are taken to prevent interference with the equipment.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.1.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.1.5. Wiring and Cables
(1)Except for dwelling units and except as required in Sentence (2), optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables installed in buildings permitted to be of combustible construction shall
(a)not convey flame or continue to burn for more than 1 min when tested in conformance with the Vertical Flame Test in Clause 4.11.1. of CSA C22.2 No. 0.3, "Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables," (FT1 Rating), or
(b)be located in
(i)totally enclosed noncombustible raceways, (See Note A-3.1.4.3.(1) (b)(i))
(ii)masonry walls,
(iii)concrete slabs, or
(iv)totally enclosed non metallic raceways conforming to Clause 3.1.5.23.(1)(b).
(2)Where a concealed space in a floor or ceiling assembly is used as a plenum, electrical wires and cables within the plenum shall conform to Clause 3.6.4.3.(1)(a).
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.1.5. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.2.1. Lighting of Entrances
(1)An exterior lighting outlet with fixture controlled by a wall switch located within the building shall be provided at every entrance to buildings of residential occupancy.
(2)The exterior lighting outlet with fixture required by Sentence (1) may be controlled by a wall switch or panel accessible to authorized personnel only, where it serves,
(a)a building entrance serving multiple suites of residential occupancy,
(b)multiple dwelling unit entrances,
(c)hotels, or
(d)motels.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.2.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.2.3. Stairways
(1)Every stairway shall be lighted.
(2)Except as provided in Sentence (3), 3-way wall switches located at the head and foot of every stairway shall be provided to control at least one lighting outlet with fixture for stairways with 4 or more risers in dwelling units and houses with a secondary suite including their common spaces.
(3)The stairway lighting for basements that do not contain finished space or lead to an outside entrance or built-in garage and which serve not more than one dwelling unit is permitted to be controlled by a single switch located at the head of the stairs.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.2.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.2.4. Basements
(1)A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided for each 30 m² or fraction thereof of floor area in unfinished basements.
(2)The outlet required in Sentence (1) nearest the stairs shall be controlled by a wall switch located at the head of the stairs.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.2.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B Table 9.34.2.7. Lighting for Public Areas - Forming Part of Sentences 9.34.2.7.(2) and (3)
Table 9.34.2.7. Lighting for Public Areas - Forming Part of Sentences 9.34.2.7.(2) and (3) Forming Part of Sentences 9.34.2.7.(2) and (3) Room or Space | Minimum Illumination, lx | Minimum Lighting Power Density, W/m² of floor area Storage rooms | 50 | 5 Service rooms and laundry areas | 200 | 20 Garages | 50 | 5 Public water closet rooms | 100 | 10 Service hallways and stairways | 50 | 5 Recreation rooms | 100 | 10 Hallways, corridors, stairways and sleeping areas in recreational camps and camps for housing of workers | 100 | 10 Kitchen in recreational camps and camps for housing of workers | 500 | 50 All other rooms in recreational camps and camps for housing of workers | 250 | 25
Open OBC Div. B Table 9.34.2.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.2.7. Public and Service Areas
(1)Every public or service area in buildings, including a recreational camp and a camp for housing of workers, shall have lighting outlets with fixtures controlled by a wall switch or panel to illuminate such areas.
(2)When provided by incandescent lighting, illumination required in Sentence (1) shall conform to Table 9.34.2.7. (See Article 9.9.12.2. for lighting in means of egress.)
(3)When other types of lighting are used, illumination equivalent to that shown in Table 9.34.2.7. shall be provided.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.2.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.34.3.1. Criteria for Emergency Lighting
(1)Emergency lighting shall conform to Subsection 9.9.12.
Open OBC Div. B 9.34.3.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.35.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies to garages and carports serving not more than one dwelling unit.
Open OBC Div. B 9.35.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.35.2.1. Carport Considered to be Garage
(1)Where a roofed enclosure used for the storage or parking of motor vehicles has more than 60 percent of the total perimeter enclosed by walls, doors or windows, the enclosure shall be considered a garage.
Open OBC Div. B 9.35.2.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.35.2.2. Garage Floor
(1)Where an attached or built-in garage is provided, the garage floor shall be sloped to drain liquids to the outdoors.
Open OBC Div. B 9.35.2.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 9.35.3.1. Foundation Required
(1)Except as permitted in this Subsection, foundations conforming to Sections 9.12. and 9.15. shall be provided for the support of carport and garage super-structures, including that portion beneath garage doors.
(2)Detached garages of less than 55 m² floor area and not more than 1 storey in height that are not of masonry or masonry veneer construction are permitted to be supported on
(a)wood mud sills, or
(b)a concrete floor slab having a minimum thickness of not less than 100 mm.
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OBC Div. B 9.35.3.3. Drainage
(1)Detached garages of less than 55 m² floor area and not more than 1 storey in height that are not of masonry or masonry veneer construction need not conform with the foundation drainage requirements stated in Section 9.14. where the finished ground level is at or near the elevation of the garage's floor and where the ground slopes away from the building.
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OBC Div. B 9.35.3.4. Column Piers
(1)Piers for the support of carport columns shall extend not less than 150 mm above ground level.
(2)Piers referred to in Sentence (1) shall project not less than 25 mm beyond the base of the column but in no case be less than 190 mm by 190 mm in size.
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OBC Div. B 9.35.4.2. Columns
(1)Columns for garages and carports shall conform to Section 9.17., except that 89 mm by 89 mm wood columns may be used.
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OBC Div. B 9.37.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies to buildings of residential occupancy used or intended to be used as seasonal recreational buildings.
(2)The buildings described in Sentence (1) shall comply with all the requirements of this Part, except where they are specifically exempted in this Section.
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OBC Div. B 9.37.2.1. Exclusions
(1)Except as provided in Subsection 9.10.15. and Articles 9.37.2.4. and 9.37.3.1., buildings used or intended to be used as seasonal recreational buildings need not comply with Sections 9.5. to 9.7. and 9.9. to 9.11.
(2)Flooring need not comply with Section 9.30., but tight-fitting floors shall be provided to support the live and dead loads.
(3)Except as provided in Sentence (4), thermal insulation, vapour barrier, air barrier construction, interior finishes, plumbing, heating, mechanical ventilation, air-conditioning and electrical facilities, need not be provided, but where any of these are provided, they shall comply with the requirements of this Part.
(4)Where heating and air-conditioning are provided, Article 9.33.3.1. need not be complied with.
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OBC Div. B 9.37.2.4. Smoke Alarms
(1)Every dwelling unit within the scope of this Section shall be provided with a smoke alarm in accordance with Subsection 9.10.19.
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OBC Div. B 9.37.3.1. Buildings for Seasonal Tourist Accommodation or for Rent
(1)Where buildings are used or intended to be used for seasonal tourist accommodation or for rent, they shall comply with Sections 9.5. to 9.8. in addition to the requirements of this Section.
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OBC Div. B 9.38.2.3. Joining Logs
(1)Each log in a horizontal position shall be scribed as close as possible to its bearer and fastened to the bearer in at least three places throughout its length, by dowels, continuous machined joints, vertical framing members or interlocking intersections or any combination of these, but in no case shall the distance between fastenings exceed 1,800 mm.
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OBC Div. B 9.38.3.2. Clearance
(1)At every opening in a wall made of logs in a horizontal position where shrinkage can occur there shall be a clearance between the rough buck header and the lintel log of not less than 13 mm in width for each 300 mm of height to allow for settlement.
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OBC Div. B 9.38.1.2. Requirement for Wood Preservative
(1)The portion of any log coming in contact with masonry or concrete at or below grade shall be treated with a wood preservative to prevent decay.
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OBC Div. B 9.39.2.1. General
(1)Except as provided in Subsection 9.39.3., a manufactured building used or intended to be used as a seasonal recreational building of residential occupancy is deemed to comply with this Code if it is designed and constructed in conformance with CAN/CSA-Z241 Series, "Park model trailers."
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OBC Div. B 9.39.3.2. Spatial Separation
(1)Buildings described in Article 9.39.1.1. shall comply with Section 9.10. where the building is,
(a)used or intended to be used for seasonal tourist accommodation, or
(b)leased or intended to be leased.
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OBC Div. B 9.40.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies to
(a)reinforced concrete slabs that are suspended over cold rooms in basements, and are supported by foundation walls along the perimeter of the slab with no additional interior supports, and
(b)slabs in which the clear span between supporting walls is not more than 2.5 m along the shortest dimension of the slab.
(2)Slabs for conditions other than described in Sentence (1) shall be designed in accordance with Part 4.
(3)This Section does not apply to reinforced concrete slabs intended to support motor vehicles.
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OBC Div. B 9.40.1.4. Slab Construction
(1)Concrete shall be cast against formwork in accordance with CSA A23.1, "Concrete materials and methods of concrete construction."
(2)The slab shall be not less than 125 mm thick.
(3)The slab shall be reinforced with 10 M bars spaced not more than 200 mm o.c. in each direction, with 30 mm clear cover from the bottom of the slab to the first layer of bars, and the second layer of bars laid directly on top of the lower layer in the opposite direction.
(4)The slab shall bear not less than 75 mm on the supporting foundation walls and be anchored to the walls with 600mm × 600mm 10 M bent dowels spaced at not more than 600 mm o.c.
(5)Exposed slabs shall be sloped to effectively shed water away from the exterior wall.
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OBC Div. B 9.41.1.1. Application
(1)This Section applies where proposed construction in respect of an existing building will result in any of the following changes of use of all or part of the building:
(a)a change of the major occupancy of all or part of a building that is designated with a "Y" in Table 1.3.1.4. of Division C,
(b)a suite of a Group C major occupancy is converted into more than one suite of a Group C major occupancy,
(c)a farm building or part of a farm building is changed to another major occupancy other than a Group G major occupancy,
(d)a building or part of a building is changed to a post-disaster building,
(e)the use of a building or part of a building is changed and the previous major occupancy of the building or part of the building cannot be determined, or
(f)a farm building or part of a farm building is changed to a Group G, Division 1 major occupancy.
(2)For the purposes of this Section and Sentences 11.4.2.1.(1) and 11.4.2.5.(4), the changes of use set out in Clauses (1)(b) to (f) are also deemed to constitute a change in major occupancy.
(3)The requirements of this Section are in addition to the requirements of other Parts of the Code as they apply to the proposed construction.
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OBC Div. B 9.41.2.1. Change of Use and Compensating Construction
(1)Where proposed construction will result in a change of use described in Clauses 9.40.1.1.(1)(a) to (f), additional construction shall be required in order that the building or part of a building subject to the change of use conforms to the requirements of Subsections 9.5.1. and 9.5.3. to 9.5.10., Section 9.6., Article 9.7.2.3. Sentences 9.7.5.1.(2) and 9.7.6.2.(1) and (3), Articles 9.8.8.1. and 9.9.10.1., Subsection 9.10.17. and Sections 9.31., 9.32. and 9.34. as they apply to the new major occupancy that the building or part of a building is to support.
(2)For the purposes of this Article, existing buildings shall be classified as to their construction and occupancy as provided for in Sentence 11.2.1.1.(1).
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OBC Div. B 9.41.2.2. Performance Level Evaluation and Compensating Construction
(1)The performance level of a building after construction shall not be less than the performance level of the building prior to construction.
(2)For the purposes of Sentence (1), reduction of performance level shall be determined in accordance with Articles 11.4.2.1., 11.4.2.3. and 11.4.2.5.
(3)Where the proposed construction would reduce the performance level of an existing building, compensating construction shall be required in conformance with Articles 11.4.3.1., 11.4.3.2., 11.4.3.4. and 11.4.3.6.
(4)Section 11.5. applies in respect of the requirements of Sentences 11.4.3.4.(1), (3) and (4).
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