Accessibility in Ontario's Building Code

Within a building, the accessibility of most elements is regulated by the Ontario Building Code (OBC). The OBC defines the minimum accessibility requirements for most new construction and extensive renovations of buildings and work together with the design of public spaces standard.

These include requirements for:

• Access to pools and saunas
• Barrier-free access paths of travel
• Fire safety devices
• Public washrooms
• Seating in public spaces

Existing buildings are not affected unless an extensive renovation is planned.

Houses, including semi-detached houses, townhouses and duplexes must comply with smoke alarm requirements, but are not affected by most other accessibility requirements.

It is important to note that even if the OBC and the AODA are complied with, all landlords, employers and service providers should be aware of potential human rights complaints under Ontario's Human Rights Code as they relate to accessibility to their buildings.