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

When does a building need to be barrier-free (accessible) in Ontario?

OBC Section 3.8 requires most buildings other than houses to provide a barrier-free path of travel from the entrance through the principal floor areas. Houses and some small or industrial buildings are exempt.

Code reference — verbatim
Except as permitted by Sentence (2), every building shall be designed in conformance with this Section. — Sentence 3.8.1.1.(1). The exemptions in Sentence (2) include houses, semi-detached houses, townhouses without a common corridor, and certain other buildings listed in the Sentence.
OBC Division B, Section 3.8 (Barrier-Free Design)
What this means in practice

Section 3.8 sets out where a barrier-free path of travel is required, the design of that path (widths, ramps, elevators), barrier-free entrances, washrooms, and signage. In general, commercial, institutional and larger residential buildings must provide barrier-free access to the entrance and throughout the entrance storey and normally occupied floor areas, with barrier-free washrooms where washrooms are provided. Detached houses, semis and row townhouses are the main exemption. Ontario's requirements were significantly enhanced by amendment (effective 2015) and go beyond the National Building Code in several areas, including requirements for renovations to existing buildings.

Plain language

Unless you are building a house, assume the building needs an accessible entrance, an accessible route through the main floors, and accessible washrooms. The code tells you exactly which buildings are exempt — and the list is short.

Related questions

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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.