Code Library › Volume 1 › Section 9.34 — Electrical Facilities
PART 9 — HOUSING AND SMALL BUILDINGSUpdated for the 2024 Ontario Building Code

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.
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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.