2024 Ontario Building Code: Key Changes for Housing and Renovation Projects

2024 Ontario Building Code

Effective January 1, 2025, the Ontario government introduced a new Ontario Building Code aimed at reducing regulatory burdens, improving building safety and quality, and facilitating housing construction. The 2024 Code streamlines sector processes and enhances alignment with the National Construction Codes by removing many variations between provincial and national requirements.

Key Changes

This update introduces several important changes, including:

  • Enhanced requirements for fire protection
  • Improved means of egress
  • Updated regulations for mezzanines
  • Guidelines for roof-mounted solar panels
  • Barrier-free provisions
  • Protection against radon and carbon monoxide
  • Coordination of plumbing, heating, and ventilation standards with the National Code

Good to Know for Housing and Renovation Projects
Effective April 1, 2025

Here are are some key updates on housing and renovation projects. Note that this is not a complete and final list of changes.

  1. New regulation for openings in guards 
  2. Pipe rough-in for radon control
  3. Application of Carbon Monoxide alarms 
  4. Outdoor intake and exhaust opening requirements 

See key highlights of changes below.


Government of Ontario – 2024 Ontario Building Code

Government of Ontario – 2024 Building Code Compendium Request (Non-commercial Use)

Municipality of West Nipissing – Building and Renovating

Municipality of West Nipissing – Permit Application Guide