Code Library › Volume 1 › Section 9.9 — Means of Egress
PART 9 — HOUSING AND SMALL BUILDINGSUpdated for the 2024 Ontario Building Code

9.9.9.3.Shared Egress Facilities

(1) Except for dwelling units in a house with a secondary suite, a dwelling unit shall be provided with a second and separate means of egress where an egress door from the dwelling unit opens onto (a) an exit stairway serving more than one suite, (b) a public corridor (i) serving more than one suite, and (ii) served by a single exit, (c) an exterior passageway (i) serving more than one suite, (ii) served by a single exit stairway or ramp, and (iii) more than 1.5 m above adjacent ground level, or (d) a balcony (i) serving more than one suite, (ii) served by a single exit stairway or ramp, and (iii) more than 1.5 m above adjacent ground level. (2) Where a dwelling unit is located above another dwelling unit or common space in a house with a secondary suite, the upper dwelling unit shall be provided with as second and separate means of egress where an egress door from that dwelling unit opens onto an exterior passageway that (a) has a floor assembly with a fire-resistance rating less than 45 min, (b) is served by a single exit stairway or ramp, and (c) is located more than 1.5 m above adjacent ground level.
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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.