How much clearance does stucco need above the ground in Ontario?
Stucco must terminate at least 200 mm (8 in) above finished ground level. Keeping the cement finish clear of soil and splash zones prevents moisture wicking, freeze-thaw spalling and staining at the base of walls.
Paraphrased for clarity — open this provision in the BUILDAiD Library for the exact wording.
Stucco is porous, and when it runs to grade it wicks ground moisture like a sponge, then spalls when that moisture freezes. Hold the bottom edge 200 mm above finished grade with a proper drip or casing bead that lets the drainage plane weep. The same regading caution applies as with siding: gardens, interlock and mulch added over the years often bury the stucco termination. On stucco skirts over foundation walls, use a parged or masonry-compatible finish below the clearance line rather than carrying lath-and-stucco to the soil.
Stucco has to stop about 20 cm (8 inches) above the dirt. If it touches the ground it soaks up moisture, and Ontario freeze-thaw cycles will pop chunks off the bottom of the wall within a few winters.
Get answers like this for any code question
BUILDAiD Assist searches the building code and answers in plain English with exact citations — in seconds.
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.