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OBC DIVISION B · PART 3 · SECTION 3.8 — BARRIER-FREE DESIGN

How wide must a barrier-free path of travel be in Ontario?

Since Ontario's 2015 amendments, a barrier-free path of travel generally requires a clear width of at least 1 100 mm (about 43 in.), up from the former 920 mm, along with compliant surfaces, slopes, headroom and turning spaces along the route.

Code reference
A barrier-free path of travel must provide an unobstructed clear width of not less than 1 100 mm, be stable, firm and slip-resistant, avoid abrupt level changes beyond small permitted thresholds, and maintain headroom free of protruding hazards. Where the path narrows or doors occur along it, additional clearances and manoeuvring spaces apply.
OBC Division B, Article 3.8.1.3.

Paraphrased for clarity — open this provision in the BUILDAiD Library for the exact wording.

What this means in practice

The 1 100 mm figure is an Ontario-specific upgrade, so details borrowed from national code projects or older Ontario drawings may be undersized: check corridor pinch points at columns, fire extinguisher cabinets, millwork and queuing rails. Clear width is measured between the actual obstructions, including handrails and wall protection, not between gridlines. Also verify door manoeuvring clearances, passing and turning spaces on long routes, and continuity of the path from the site entrance right through to barrier-free destinations.

Plain language

The main accessible route through an Ontario building has to stay at least about 1.1 metres wide, roughly the width a wheelchair user needs to move comfortably. Nothing, not radiators, cabinets or displays, is allowed to squeeze that route down.

Related questions

When does a building need to be barrier-free (accessible) in Ontario?Which buildings are exempt from barrier-free design requirements in Ontario?How many barrier-free entrances does a building need in Ontario?

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This page is provided for general information. Building code requirements depend on your specific project, occupancy and municipality, and code editions change. Always verify requirements against the current Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.