Code Library › Volume 1 › Section 3.2 — Building Fire Safety
PART 3 — FIRE PROTECTION, OCCUPANT SAFETY AND ACCESSIBILITYUpdated for the 2024 Ontario Building Code

3.2.2.31.Group A, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered

(1) A building classified as Group A, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided (a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout, (b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and (c) it has a building area not more than (i) 12 000 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or (ii) 6 000 m2 if 2 storeys in building height. (2) Except as permitted by Clause (c) and Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and (a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, (b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and (c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly, except that arches are permitted to be of heavy timber construction.
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Common questions about this part of the code

When is noncombustible construction required under the Ontario Building Code?When are automatic sprinklers required in a building in Ontario?What are the fire department access route requirements under the Ontario Building Code?When is a fire alarm system required in a building in Ontario?

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Code text is reproduced for reference from the Ontario Building Code (O. Reg. 163/24, 2024 Building Code Compendium). This page is provided for general information and is not an official copy. Always verify requirements against the official Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.