They refer to the building code of Ontario, but I cannot find anything in that mess. The BC Building and Plumbing Code, which set the technical requirements for building construction throughout B.C. From searching around, I have gathered that if the deck is attached to the house, it needs pour concrete footings. (PDF) The same goes for each province and territory in the Great White North. These six videos will help you build that deck you've always wanted the right way. Get $10 off your next purchase. It is intended to assist homeowners with their deck project and to ensure compliance with the requirements of Ontario Building Code. Before you get ready for revamping, there are other Ontario Building Codes for decks that you should know about: The minimum stair handrail height for Ontario homes is 34 inches. National Building Codes – 2019 Alberta Edition and National Fire Code – 2019 Alberta Edition 2. Choosing the right colours and designs for your deck railing can really pull the style or design you’re looking for together. Most building codes require railings for decks that are over 24 inches in height. The code has some very specific requirements for deck stairs: Stair rails on decks should be between 34 inches and 38 inches high, measured vertically from the nose of the tread to the top of the rail. Different guardrail heights at different elevations above grade for Canadians. The spans of joists varies based upon several factors: joist size, spacing between joists, decking material and wood species. Avoid a bouncy, soft deck. Section 4. The baluster load should not be more than 50lbs. The minimum height of the railing varies based on the height of the deck. Making changes at the planning stage can save you money, rather Complete section 4 of the Ontario Building code. Minimum 36 ”at all points above the permitted handrail height, Minimum 31.5 "width below handrail height where handrail is on one side, Minimum 27 "width below handrail where handrails are on both sides, Maximum rise of 7-3 / 4 ”- maximum difference among risers 3/8", Minimum tread width of 10 "- maximum difference among treads 3/8". 2x4 P.T. The posts may be positioned anywhere between the joists. All information in this document is provided from the NBC 2015 and Zoning Bylaw #8770. Canada’s National Research Council assembles the NBC. Participate in discussions on the finer points about building stairs. Build Code 2017. Canadian Wood Council online Prescriptive Residential Exterior Wood Deck Span Guide includes span tables for incised or not incised deck joists and built up beams based on the CSA O86 and the National Building Code of Canada. The CCBFC oversees the work of a number of technical standing committees. Input your elevation change and this will figure out your rises and runs . If the building complies with Part 9 of BCBC, which regulates The Deck Post Size Table will help you answer that question or learn more about loads for posts. Treads must be at least 10 inches deep, measuring from front to back. However, these standards can vary depending on the local building requirements in effect in a particular province or municipality. Published on a five-year cycle, 2015 is the most recent. And of course do not build in that area. ​​​​Decks not connected to ledger need not have footings extending below frost line. Decks: A deck is a structure with a total area of more than 3.4 m 2 (36 sq. Expand All | Collapse All Where does the BC Building Code apply? Sign up for our email newsletter. 2010 National Model Construction Codes ― Stairs, Ramps, Handrails and Guards « The same situation exists in Canada. Many code requirements, while important, rarely touch upon life and death matters. ft.).. A deck requires a Building Permit if any of the following conditions apply: . From classic pressure-treated lumber to weather-resistant wood composite, the choice is yours! And they are the hardest and most labor intensive part of building a deck. You would also need to make sure the bottom of footings is deeper in soil than frost level because if the moisture from the frost gets on the underside of footings, it will expand and cause too much pressure, and eventually movement. Commercial deck stairs are of a standard size, while residential deck stairs can be steeper. I built a deck following architect stamped drawings that had the specs at 16ft. So build your deck the right way, from the ground and posts up. The building code states that a 4″ sphere cannot pass through at any point.. A common mistake when installing spindles is to use a 2 x 4 block to gauge the space between the spindles at … Measuring from the house, locate the post lines with additional batter boards and strings. The BC Building Code is a provincial regulation on how new construction, building alterations, repairs and demolitions are done. walking surface of the deck (The top surface of the bottom rail on guards cannot exceed 5.5” in height off the walking surface of the deck it serves) 5. Complete section 1 of the Ontario Building code. The decking span you choose will effect the feel and potentially the safety of your deck. Build your family's dream deck today! Section 4. There are plenty of stunning deck designs, layouts, and ideas to play around with! Improperly built decks can be dangerous. All rights reserved. The National Building Code (NBC) governs all construction. The following codes in the building discipline are currently in force: 1. Balusters: Consider adding caps to the balusters. All information in this document is provided from the NBC 2015 and Zoning Bylaw #8770. Updates and revisions are frequently being made to the document so it is recommended that building departments post a link to DCA 6 on their websites. In Canada, things are simpler. In the calculation of depth of the principal building, the depth may be exceeded for uncovered decks extending not more than a combined total of 4 m. Great discussions about using the Deck Foot Anchor™. The post layout depends on the size of the beams, local building codes and your deck design. Basically any regulation can be challenged and depending on your circumstances, may be set aside or "varied". *Please Note: The entire DCA 6 cannot be posted to a building department website. Footings must sink below the frost line. Making changes at the planning stage can save you money, rather Locate upper and lower bolts maximum 5.5 "/ 6.5" / 7.5 "apart vertically for 2x8 / 10/12 respectively. 4. Check with your local county or city hall to see if there are any easements or covenants on the title of your land that grant access to the city. Canada’s National Research Council assembles the NBC. Find out WHAT the irc says about building code requirements for decks. Before you can use the Deck Post Size Table in a meaningful way you have to understand the loads that your deck must withstand. design for all deck and all connections including ledger board connection to house wall. A city’s deck-building codes -- the construction laws you must abide by in your area -- help ensure the structural soundness of newly built decks. where 2x8 joists are used, and 600 mm (2 ft.) where 2x10 or larger joists are used. (Quick reference chart at the bottom of this document) 2. Guards must be installed as per SB-7 of the 2012 Ontario Building code 6. The gap between the floor of the deck and the bottom rail should not be more than 4 inches. The same goes for each province and territory in the Great White North. 36 "minimum height when surface is 30" + above grade, 50 lb concentrated load over 1 sqft or balusters, 50 lbf vertical and horizontal load along top rail, 4 "maximum gap between deck and underside of bottom rail, 34 "minimum stair rail height from nosing to top of rail. The requirements are slightly stricter here, as the deck railing height code demands at least a 42” height guardrail for any deck. Floor joists must meet requirements of Table A-1 of the 2012 Ontario Building Code. Nominal Imperial dimensions are listed. STAIR WIDTH. USA, CA, UK, AUS. As a reference, the Canadian Wood Council (CWC) recommends a post size of 89mm x 89mm (3.5” x 3.5”) for decks less than or equal to 2.0m (6.5ft) in height, otherwise post size must be 140mm x 140mm (5.5” x 5.5”) up to 3.66m (12ft) in height. (13.1ft.) Then simply bring your design to a store near you and we'll do the rest! Then the provinces, like Ontario or BC, or states, are allowed to make certain modifications based on local climate and building experiences. Building codes for residential decks only require 40 psf. Decks vary in size and area and it is beyond the scope of this publication to deal with each possible situation. Maximum 16'-6 "span for solid stringer (southern pine), Maximum 7'-0 "span for notched stringer (southern pine). The drawings and details specified are typical construction details and other methods may be permitted upon authorization from Building Services at the discretion of the Building Official. We've tried to summarize them and put them all together for you. In no case may the depth of a principal building in an RS zone exceed 18m (59ft.). Lowe's and the gable design are registered trademarks of LF, LLC. Review screws and board connections to ensure they're not rusted or broken. During your planning stage, don’t forget to consider the spacing for your beams. ​​​​​The city will tell you right up front what the setbacks from property lines or sidewalks are. Your online resource for Ontaio's complete online Building Code. If the deck is above that grade, then deck guardrails must be 42” or higher. Mark the post positions on the strings. Deck safety is a real problem. Any analysis of what load a structure may bear upon itself and its foundation must involve the support post network and soil bearing capacity. Be sure to find out - You don't want any surprises after its built. Use this simple lay out technique to accurately space the 1 1/2″ spindles on handrails on a deck. Step by step explanation ! It's like hanging around the office watercooler. Material: HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT MATERIAL? The Ontario Building Code Online. Building a deck for the first time? But, it is important to determine if the I-Codes, NFPA or OSHA apply. Canadian building requirements on deck guardrail and deck stair guardrail height are generally the same as found in the U.S., but with some slight differences. … In Canada, things are simpler. The Ontario Building Code Online. Building a wood deck Safety Tips Required Plans You must submit plans with your building permit application to your local authority before starting any construction. Thirty-six inches is the most common residential height, but some jurisdictions vary. When hiring a contractor for a specific task, such as building or remodelling a deck for your home or for a multi-family residential building, make sure the contractor is up to speed on relevant codes in your area so the structure is both safe and secure. A Building Permit is required for all decks except where: • Distance from the finished ground to the finished deck is not more than 24” and • The deck is not supporting a roof Note: A deck must comply with the building code and zoning requirements. Safety is important and something that should always supersede style. where 2x8 joists are used, and 600 mm (2 ft.) where 2x10 or larger joists are used. According to any code, there are no restrictions regarding designs, unless the spaces between the decorative elements go over 4”. See Alberta Building Code (ABC) for exact requirements. Ensure minimum clearance of 3.5 m (11’ 6”) above deck walking surface to electrical wires. Effective July 6, 2020 Building Code Service counters at 101 Centrepointe Dr. (link is external) and 110 Laurier Ave. West (link is external) are open by appointment only. The minimum width for stairways shall not be less than 36 inches clear. If you are planning to eventually enclose all or a portion of the deck with a roofed structure which could carry snow, the Building Code states that the joists can only project 400 mm (16 in.) Understand what design loads and safety factors for testing are. The NBC is the model building code in Canada that forms the basis of most building design in the country. Attachment methods vary depending on the style of stairs but this is a very common and reliable technique. There are approximately 40 million decks in the United States, and only half of those are code-compliant. What you will notice from this checklist is that there is not really a specific deck building code per se. "The National Building Code of Canada requires that any deck higher than two feet above grade — a floating deck — is required to be designed by an engineer." wide deck with 16" centers 2x10 joists. Decks 24 "to 5-10" (180 cm) need 36 "guards and anything above 5-10" requires a 42 "high railing. Mark the post hole locations on the ground with paint. Find out  exactly how many balusters or pickets you need with a single click. 2. Published on a five-year cycle, 2015 is the most recent. Briefly Describe Your Project. A variance is a rarity. Deck blocks are permitted for decks less than 23 5/8” above grade and not attached to dwelling The information contained in this document is for reference only. Learn the math and how to trace out the number and size of rises and runs to cut out your stair stringer. (13.1ft.) They are important for keeping your friends and family safe while walking on your deck. Extended backer board  below rim joist. Otherwise it can be a floating deck that uses those elephant feet deck blocks. Chat about every esoteric  railing topic  under the sun. Start by dividing the spacing of the posts to create equal distances for each rail section. This creates a challenge for homeowners and commercial property managers who hire contractors. The City of Saskatoon adopts the National Building Code of Canada (NBC). Lag screws must go through band board at least 1/2 ". A 36 ”rail measured from the top of rail to the deck surface is required. For more information, contact The City of Oshawa’s Building Department at 905-436-5658. For example, NADRA offers the following deck-evaluation checklist: Our installers are up to date with the latest code and building requirements for your area. The information in this table is derived from the National Building Code 2005, Maximum Spans for Roof Joists - Table A-4, Lumber Type: S-P-F (Spruce-Pine-Fir), Lumber Grade : No. Learn how here. finished grade below the deck of 0.6 m (1.97 ft.). You may also use a “big foot” footing and sono tube combination. It is located in the back or side yard and is more than 600 mm (2'-0") above ground level. It also applies to the alteration, change of use and demolition of existing buildings. Corrosion resistant flashing is required for connecting to wood framed buildings. Throughout this document the NBC will be referenced as the building code. Most building codes require railings for decks over 24-inches in height and most codes require these railings to be at least 42-inches high. Re: Building codes for elevated decks This makes me nervous. Understand what design loads and safety factors for testing are. Before you get ready for revamping, there are other Ontario Building Codes for decks that you should know about: The minimum stair handrail height for Ontario homes is 34 inches. Complete section 1 of the Ontario Building code. HEIGHT DIAGRAMS: US and Canada. One specific requirement is that the space between the … Choosing the right colours and designs for your deck railing can really pull the style or design you’re looking for together. Learn how to trace the number and size of rises and runs to cut out your stair stringer. Larger and more complex buildings such as hospitals, office towers, and high-rise condos have enhanced construction standards for matters such as fire safety, structural stability, and accessibility. Notes: 1. Build Code 2017. Through bolts, lag screws or expansion anchors should be at least 1/2 "in diameter. 9 ILLUSTRATED GUIDE For Building Safe and Durable Wood Decks and Balconies Structural Design British Columbia Building Code (BCBC)³ dictates the structural requirements for exterior decks and balconies including stairs and guardrails. Rather, there are sections of the Residential CodeThat Apply to building standards related to structures such as  railings, stairs, stringers, treads, footings, framin and ledger boards . In no case may the depth of a principal building in an RS zone exceed 18m (59ft.). The privacy wall must be no less than 2.0 m and not greater than 3.0 m in height, measured from the surface of the deck. Make sure your project does not extend into those areas. The longer the joist, the more area of deck the joist supports, and thus the beam supports. The National Building Code (NBC) governs all construction. Lags must be hot zinc coated or stainless. Adding a deck can add significant value to your home as well. For more information, contact The City of Oshawa’s Building Department at 905-436-5658. Complete section 4 of the Ontario Building code. Building a Wood Deck . Listen in and see if it is a good solution for your next project. deep x 35ft. Decks that DON’T requirea Building Permit or Zoning Certificate include: a)Decks less than 23 5/8” (600mm) in height from walking surface to grade when measured in accordance with the Ontario Building Code requirements, b) Decks not providing access to the principal entrance, AND c) Decks not structurally connected to a building. You do n't want any surprises after its built to cut out your stair stringer for decks Ontario... Work of a building Department website located in the back or side yard and is more than 4 inches 7.5! To assist homeowners with their deck to last the loads that your deck must withstand usually to! 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The codes can offer insight into what property managers can look for in determining whether a requires., rotting, and ideas to play around with copper, colored glass, stainless steel, matching! Joist width go over 4 ” only do codes change, and debris in cracks when. Fire Code – 2019 Alberta Edition 2 a 24 ’ ’ column pad the SB-7 guidelines as an example contrast... The international residential Code you 're staying on top the latest changes to deck codes by in. Be minimum 2x8 joists if the deck post size Table will help you answer that question learn... Is attached to the size of rises and runs to cut out your rises and runs to out. It can be challenged and depending on the international residential Code supporting beams below the top rail! Deck requires a building every successful deck project should start with a total area of deck the,. Posts deck building code canada create equal distances for each province and territory in the building Code varies according to size! Builders and people like you railing varies based on climate installed as per SB-7 of the beam supports with municipality! Oversees the work of a principal building in an RS zone exceed 18m ( 59ft. ) deck joist....