jswizzle3737/ontario_laws_and_regs huggingface dataset:
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.17.8. Light Diffusers and Lenses (1) Light diffusers and lenses having flame-spread ratings that exceed those permitted for the ceiling finish, shall conform to the requirements of Sentence 3.1.13.4.(1).
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.17.9. Combustible Skylights (1) Individual combustible skylights in corridors required to be separated from the remainder of the building by fire separations shall not exceed 1 m² in area and shall be spaced not less than 1 200 mm apart.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.17.10. Protection of Foamed Plastics (1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), foamed plastics that form part of a wall or ceiling assembly in combustible construction shall be protected from adjacent space in the building other than adjacent concealed spaces within attic or roof spaces, crawl spaces, and wall assemblies, by, (a) one of the finishes described in Subsections 9.29.4. to 9.29.9., (b) sheet metal mechanically fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation and having a thickness of not less than 0.38 mm and a melting point not below 650°C provided the building does not contain a Group C major occupancy, or (c) any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Clause 3.1.5.12.(2)(e). (2) Foamed plastic insulation having a flame-spread rating of not more than 500 is permitted to be used in factory-assembled doors in storage garages serving buildings of residential occupancy provided that, (a) the insulation is covered on the interior with a metallic foil, (b) the assembly has a surface flame-spread rating of not more than 200, and (c) the assembly incorporates no air spaces.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.17.11. Walls and Ceilings in Bathrooms (1) The interior finish of walls and ceilings in bathrooms within suites of residential occupancy shall have a surface flame-spread rating of not more than 200.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.1. Access Provided through a Firewall (1) Where access is provided through a firewall, the requirements in this Subsection shall apply to the floor areas on both sides of the firewall as if they were in the same building.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.2. Fire Alarm System Required (1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), a fire alarm system shall be installed, (a) in every building that contains more than 3 storeys, including storeys below the first storey, (b) where the total occupant load exceeds 300, or (c) when the occupant load for any major occupancy in Table 9.10.18.2. is exceeded. (2) A fire alarm system is not required in a residential occupancy where an exit or public corridor serves not more than 4 suites or where each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level. Table 9.10.18.2.   Maximum Occupant Load for Buildings without Fire Alarm Systems Forming Part of Sentence 9.10.18.2.(1)  Column 1

Column 2


Major Occupancy Classification

Occupant Load Above which
Fire Alarm System is Required


Residential

10 (sleeping accommodation)


Business and personal services, mercantile

150 above or below the first storey


Low- or medium-hazard industrial

75 above or below the first storey
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.3. Rooms and Spaces Requiring Heat Detectors or Smoke Detectors (1) Where a fire alarm system is required, every public corridor in buildings of residential occupancy and every exit stair shaft shall be provided with smoke detectors. (2) Except as provided in Sentence (3), buildings required to have a fire alarm system shall be equipped with heat detectors or smoke detectors in storage rooms, service rooms, elevator shafts, chutes, janitors closets and any other rooms where hazardous substances are intended to be used or stored. (3) Except as required in Sentence (4), heat detectors and smoke detectors described in Sentence (2), are not required in dwelling units or in sprinklered buildings in which the sprinkler system is electrically supervised and equipped with a water flow alarm. (4) Where a fire alarm system is required in a hotel, heat detectors shall be installed in every room in a suite and in every room not located in a suite in a floor area containing a hotel other than washrooms within a suite, saunas, refrigerated areas and swimming pools.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.4. Smoke Detectors in Recirculating Air Handling Systems (1) Except for a recirculating air system serving not more than 1 dwelling unit, where a fire alarm system is required to be installed, every recirculating air handling system shall be designed to prevent the circulation of smoke upon a signal from a duct-type smoke detector where such system supplies more than one suite on the same floor or serves more than 1 storey.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.5. Portions of Buildings Considered as Separate Buildings (1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), where a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of at least 1 h separates a portion of a building from the remainder of the building and there are no openings through the fire separation other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and conduit, the requirements for fire alarm and detection systems is permitted to be applied to each portion so separated as if it were a separate building. (2) The permission in Sentence (1) to consider separated portions of a building as separate buildings does not apply to service rooms and storage rooms.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.6. Design and Installation Requirements (1) Fire alarm, fire detection and smoke detection devices and systems, and their installation, shall conform to Subsection 3.2.4.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.7. Reserved
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.18.9. Fire Alarm System in a Hotel (1) If a fire alarm system is required in a building containing a hotel, a single stage fire alarm system shall be provided. 9.10.19. Smoke Alarms
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.19.1. Required Smoke Alarms (1) Smoke alarms conforming to CAN/ULC-S531, “Smoke Alarms”, shall be installed in each dwelling unit and in each sleeping room not within a dwelling unit.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.19.2. Location of Smoke Alarms (1) Within dwelling units, sufficient smoke alarms shall be installed so that, (a) there is at least one smoke alarm on each floor level, including basements, that is 900 mm or more above or below an adjacent floor level, (b) each bedroom is protected by a smoke alarm either inside the bedroom or, if outside, within 5 m, measured following corridors and doorways, of the bedroom door, and (c) the distance, measured following corridors and doorways, from any point on a floor level to a smoke alarm on the same level does not exceed 15 m. (2) Smoke alarms required in Article 9.10.19.1. and Sentence (1) shall be installed on or near the ceiling. (3) Smoke alarms required in Sentences (1) and (2) shall be audible within the bedrooms when the intervening doors are closed. (4) Smoke alarms required in Sentences (1) and (2) shall be installed in conformance with the manufacturers instructions.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.19.3. Power Supply (1) Except as permitted in Sentence (2), smoke alarms shall be installed by permanent connections to an electrical circuit and shall have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent circuit device and the smoke alarm. (2) Where the building is not supplied with electrical power, smoke alarms are permitted to be battery operated.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.19.4. Interconnection of Smoke Alarms (1) Where more than one smoke alarm is required in a dwelling unit, the smoke alarms shall be wired so that the activation of one alarm will cause all alarms within the dwelling unit to sound.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.19.5. Instructions for Maintenance and Care (1) Where instructions are necessary to describe the maintenance and care required for smoke alarms to ensure continuing satisfactory performance, they shall be posted in a location where they will be readily available to the occupants for reference.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.19.6. Silencing of Alarm Noise (1) A manually operated device is permitted to be incorporated within the circuitry of a smoke alarm installed in a dwelling unit so that it will silence the signal emitted by the smoke alarm for a period of not more than 10 min, after which the smoke alarm will reset and again sound the alarm if the level of smoke in the vicinity is sufficient to reactuate the smoke alarm. 9.10.20. Fire fighting
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.20.1. Windows or Access Panels Required (1) Except as provided in Sentence (3), a window or access panel providing an opening not less than 1 100 mm high and 550 mm wide and having a sill height of not more than 900 mm above the floor shall be provided on the second and third storeys of every building in at least one wall facing on a street if such storeys are not sprinklered. (2) Access panels required in Sentence (1) shall be readily openable from both inside and outside or be glazed with plain glass. (3) Access panels required in Sentence (1) need not be provided in buildings containing only dwelling units where there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.20.2. Access to Basements (1) Except in basements serving not more than one dwelling unit, each unsprinklered basement exceeding 25 m in length or width shall be provided with direct access to the outdoors to at least one street. (2) Access required in Sentence (1) is permitted to be provided by a door, window or other means that provides an opening not less than 1 100 mm high and 550 mm wide, the sill height of which shall not be more than 900 mm above the floor. (3) Access required in Sentence (1) is also permitted to be provided by an interior stair accessible from the outdoors.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.20.3. Fire Department Access to Buildings (1) Access for fire department equipment shall be provided to each building by means of a street, private roadway or yard (2) Where access to a building as required in Sentence (1) is provided by means of a roadway or yard, the design and location of such roadway or yard shall take into account connection with public thoroughfares, weight of fire fighting equipment, width of roadway, radius of curves, overhead clearance, location of fire hydrants, location of fire department connections and vehicular parking.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.20.4. Portable Extinguishers (1) Portable extinguishers shall be installed in all buildings, except within dwelling units, in conformance with the provisions of the Fire Code made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.21.4. Walkways Connecting Buildings (1) Walkways of combustible construction connecting buildings shall be separated from each connected building by a fire separation having not less than a 45 min fire-resistance rating.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.21.6. Flame Spread Ratings (1) Except in dwelling units and except as provided in Sentence (2), the surface flame-spread rating of wall and ceiling surfaces in corridors and walkways, exclusive of doors, shall not exceed 25 over not less than 90 per cent of the exposed surface area and not more than 150 over the remaining surface area. (2) Except within dwelling units, corridors that provide access to exit from sleeping rooms and having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min shall have a flame-spread rating conforming to the appropriate requirements in Subsection 9.10.16.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.21.8. Portable Fire Extinguishers (1) Each building in a camp for housing of workers shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers in conformance with the provisions of the Fire Code made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.21.9. Hose Stations (1) Every building in a camp for housing of workers providing sleeping accommodation for more than 30 persons shall be provided with a hose station that is protected from freezing and equipped with a hose of sufficient length so that every portion of the building is within the range of a hose stream. (2) Hose stations required in Sentence (1) shall be located near an exit. (3) Hoses referred to in Sentence (1) shall be not less than 19 mm inside diam and shall be connected to a central water supply or to a storage tank having a capacity of at least 4 500 L with a pumping system capable of supplying a flow of at least 5 L/s at a gauge pressure of 300 kPa. 9.10.22. Fire Protection for Gas, Propane and Electric Ranges
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.22.2. Vertical Clearances above Ranges  (1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), framing, finishes and cabinetry installed directly above the location of the range shall be not less than 750 mm above the level of range burners or elements. (2) The vertical clearance described in Sentence (1) for framing, finishes and cabinets located directly above the location of the range is permitted to be reduced to 600 mm above the level of the elements or burners provided the framing, finishes and cabinets, (a) are noncombustible, or (b) are protected by, (i) asbestos millboard not less than 6 mm thick, covered with sheet metal not less than 0.33 mm thick, or (ii) a metal hood with a 125 mm projection beyond the framing, finishes and cabinets.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.10.22.3. Protection Around Ranges (1) Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), combustible wall framing, finishes or cabinets within 450 mm of the area where the range is to be located shall be protected above the level of the heating elements or burners by material providing fire resistance not less than that of a 9.5 mm thickness of gypsum board. (2) Counter-top splash boards or back plates that extend above the level of the heating elements or burners need not be protected as described in Sentence (1). (3) Except for cabinetry described in Article 9.10.22.2., cabinetry located not less than 450 mm above the level of the heating elements or burners need not be protected as described in Sentence (1). Section 9.11. Sound Control 9.11.1. Sound Transmission Class Rating (Airborne Sound)
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.11.1.1. Determination of Sound Transmission Class Rating (1) Sound transmission class ratings shall be determined in accordance with ASTM E413, “Classification for Rating Sound Insulation”, using results from measurements in accordance with, (a) ASTM E90, “Laboratory Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements”, or (b) ASTM E336, “Measurement of Airborne Sound Attenuation Between Rooms in Buildings”. 9.11.2. Required Sound Control Locations (Airborne Sound)
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.11.2.1. Minimum Sound Transmission Class Rating (1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), every dwelling unit and every suite in hotels shall be separated from every other space in a building in which noise may be generated, by a construction providing a sound transmission class rating of at least 50, measured in accordance with Subsection 9.11.1. or as listed in Tables 1 and 2 of Supplementary Standard SB-3. (2) Where a dwelling unit or suite in a hotel is adjacent to an elevator shaft or a refuse chute, the separating construction shall have a sound transmission class rating of at least 55, measured in accordance with Subsection 9.11.1. or as listed in Tables 1 and 2 of Supplementary Standard SB-3.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.11.2.2. Building Services in an Assembly (1) Building services located in an assembly required to have a sound transmission class rating shall be installed in a manner that will not decrease the required rating of the assembly. Section 9.12. Excavation 9.12.1. General
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.12.1.1. Removal of Topsoil and Organic Matter (1) The topsoil and vegetable matter in all unexcavated areas under a building shall be removed. (2) In localities where termite infestation is known to be a problem, all stumps, roots and other wood debris shall be removed from the soil to a depth of not less than 300 mm in unexcavated areas under a building. (3) The bottom of every excavation shall be free of all organic material.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.12.1.4. Precautions During Excavation (1) Every excavation shall be undertaken in such a manner to prevent damage to adjacent property, existing structures, utilities, roads and sidewalks at all stages of construction. (2) Material shall not be placed nor shall equipment be operated or placed in or adjacent to an excavation in a manner that may endanger the integrity of the excavation or its supports. 9.12.2. Depth
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.12.2.1. Excavation to Undisturbed Soil (1) Excavations for foundations shall extend to undisturbed soil.
Notes to Table 9.10.13.1.:
9.12.2.2. Minimum Depth of Foundations (1) Except as provided in Sentences (4) and (5), the minimum depth of foundations below finished ground level shall conform to Table 9.12.2.2. Table 9.12.2.2.   Minimum Depths of Foundations Forming Part of Sentence 9.12.2.2.(1)  Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4

Column 5


Type of Soil

Minimum Depth of Foundation Containing Heated Basement or Crawl Space(1)

Minimum Depth of Foundation Containing no Heated Space(2)


Good Soil Drainage

Poor Soil Drainage

Good Soil Drainage

Poor Soil Drainage


Rock

No limit

No limit

No limit

No limit


Coarse grained soils

No limit

No limit

No limit

Below the depth of frost penetration


Silt

No limit

No limit

Below the depth of frost penetration(3)

Below the depth of frost penetration


Clay or soils not clearly defined

1.2 m(3)

1.2 m

1.2 m but not less than the depth of frost penetration(3)

1.2 m but not less than the depth of frost penetration
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.12.3.1. Placement of Backfill (1) Backfill shall be placed to avoid damaging the foundation wall, the drainage tile, drainage layer, externally applied thermal insulation, waterproofing and dampproofing of the wall.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.12.3.2. Grading of Backfill (1) Backfill shall be graded to prevent drainage towards the foundation after settling.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.12.4.1. Compacting or Filling With Concrete (1) The soil in trenches beneath footings for sewers and watermains shall be compacted by tamping up to the level of the footing base, or shall be filled with concrete having a strength not less than 10 MPa to support the footing. Section 9.13. Dampproofing, Waterproofing and Soil Gas Control 9.13.1. General
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.1.1. Application  (1) This Section applies to the control of moisture and soil gas ingress through walls, floors, and roofs in contact with the ground. 9.13.2. Dampproofing
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.1. Dampproofing (1) Except as provided in Article 9.13.3.1., where the exterior finished ground level is at a higher elevation than the ground level inside the foundation walls, exterior surfaces of foundation walls below ground level shall be dampproofed. (2) Except as provided in Sentence (3) and Article 9.13.3.1., floors-on-ground shall be dampproofed. (3) Floors in garages, floors in unenclosed portions of buildings and floors installed over granular fill in conformance with Article 9.16.2.1. need not be dampproofed. (4) Dampproofing in Sentence (1) is not required where the exterior surfaces of foundation walls below ground level are waterproofed.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.2. Material Standards (1) Except as otherwise specified in this Section, materials used for exterior dampproofing shall conform to, (a) CAN/CGSB-37.1-M, “Chemical Emulsified Type, Emulsified Asphalt for Dampproofing”, (b) CAN/CGSB-37.2-M, “Emulsified Asphalt, Mineral Colloid Type, Unfilled, for Dampproofing and Waterproofing and for Roof Coatings”, (c) CGSB 37-GP-6Ma, “Asphalt, Cutback, Unfilled, for Dampproofing”, (d) CAN/CGSB-37.16-M, “Filled, Cutback Asphalt for Dampproofing and Waterproofing”, (e) CGSB 37-GP-18Ma, “Tar, Cutback, Unfilled, for Dampproofing”, (f) CAN/CGSB-51.34-M, “Vapour Barrier, Polyethylene Sheet, for Use in Building Construction”, or (g) CAN/CSA-A123.4, “Asphalt for Constructing Built-Up Roof Coverings and Waterproofing Systems.”
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.3. Standards for Application (1) The method of application of all bituminous dampproofing materials shall conform to, (a) CAN/CGSB 37.3-M, “Application of Emulsified Asphalts for Dampproofing or Waterproofing”, (b) CGSB 37-GP-12Ma, “Application of Unfilled Cutback Asphalt for Dampproofing”, or (c) CAN/CGSB-37.22-M, “Application of Unfilled, Cutback Tar Foundation Coating for Dampproofing”.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.4. Preparation of Surface (1) Unit masonry walls to be dampproofed shall be, (a) parged on the exterior face below ground level with not less than 6 mm of mortar conforming to Section 9.20., and (b) coved over the footing when the first course of block is laid. (2) Concrete walls to be dampproofed shall have holes and recesses resulting from the removal of form ties sealed with cement mortar or dampproofing material. (3) The surface of insulating concrete form walls to be dampproofed shall be repaired and free of projections and depressions that could be detrimental to the performance of the membrane to be applied.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.5. Application of Dampproofing Material (1) Dampproofing material shall be applied over the parging or concrete below ground level.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.6. Interior Dampproofing of Walls (1) Where a separate interior finish is applied to a concrete or unit masonry wall that is in contact with the soil, or where wood members are placed in contact with such walls for the installation of insulation or finish, the interior surface of the foundation wall below ground level shall be dampproofed. (2) The dampproofing required in Sentence (1) shall extend from the basement floor and terminate at ground level. (3) No membrane or coating with a permeance less than 170 ng/(Pa.s.m2) shall be applied to the interior surface of the foundation wall above ground level between the insulation and the foundation wall.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.7. Dampproofing of Floors-on-Ground  (1) Where floors are dampproofed, the dampproofing shall be installed below the floor, except that where a separate floor is provided over a slab, the dampproofing is permitted to be applied to the top of the slab. (2) Where installed below the floor, dampproofing membranes shall consist of polyethylene not less than 0.15 mm thick, or type S roll roofing. (3) Joints in dampproofing membranes described in Sentence (2) shall be lapped not less than 100 mm. (4) Where installed above the slab, dampproofing shall consist of, (a) no fewer than 2 mopped-on coats of bitumen, (b) not less than 0.05 mm polyethylene, or (c) other material providing equivalent performance.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.2.8. Dampproofing of Preserved Wood Foundation Walls (1) Preserved wood foundation walls shall be dampproofed as described in CAN/CSA-S406, “Construction of Preserved Wood Foundations”. 9.13.3. Waterproofing
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.3.1. Required Waterproofing (1) Where hydrostatic pressure occurs, waterproofing is required for exterior surfaces of, (a) floors-on-ground, and (b) below ground walls, where the exterior finished ground level is at a higher elevation than the ground level inside the foundation walls. (2) Roofs of underground structures shall be waterproofed to prevent the entry of water into the structure.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.3.2. Material Standards  (1) Except as otherwise specified in this Section, materials used for exterior waterproofing shall conform to, (a) CAN/CGSB-37.2-M, “Emulsified Asphalt, Mineral-Colloid Type, Unfilled, for Dampproofing and Waterproofing and for Roof Coatings”, (b) CAN/CGSB-37.16-M, “Filled, Cutback Asphalt for Dampproofing and Waterproofing”, or (c) CAN/CSA-A123.4, “Asphalt for Constructing Built-Up Roof Coverings and Waterproofing Systems”.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.3.3. Standards for Application  (1) The method of application of all bituminous waterproofing materials shall conform to CAN/CGSB-37.3-M, “Application of Emulsified Asphalts for Dampproofing or Waterproofing”.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.3.4. Preparation of Surface  (1) Unit masonry walls that are to be waterproofed shall be parged on exterior surfaces below ground level with not less than 6 mm of mortar conforming to Section 9.20. (2) Concrete walls that are to be waterproofed shall have all holes and recesses resulting from removal of form ties sealed with mortar or waterproofing material. (3) The surface of insulating concrete form walls that are to be waterproofed shall be repaired and free of projections and depressions that could be detrimental to the performance of the membrane to be applied.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.3.5. Application of Waterproofing Membranes  (1) Concrete or unit masonry walls to be waterproofed shall be covered with no fewer than 2 layers of bitumen-saturated membrane, with each layer cemented in place with bitumen and coated overall with a heavy coating of bitumen.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.3.6. Floor Waterproofing System  (1) Basement floors-on-ground to be waterproofed shall have a system of membrane waterproofing provided between 2 layers of concrete, each of which shall be not less than 75 mm thick, with the floor membrane mopped to the wall membrane to form a complete seal. 9.13.4. Soil Gas Control
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.4.1. Soil Gas Control (1) Where methane or radon gases are known to be a problem, construction shall comply with the requirements for soil gas control in Supplementary Standard SB-9.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.13.4.2. Required Soil Gas Control (1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), all wall, roof and floor assemblies in contact with the ground shall be constructed to resist the leakage of soil gas from the ground into the building. (2) Construction to resist leakage of soil gas into the building is not required for, (a) garages and unenclosed portions of buildings, (b) buildings constructed in areas where it can be demonstrated that soil gas does not constitute a hazard, or (c) buildings that contain a single dwelling unit and are constructed to provide for subfloor depressurization in accordance with Supplementary Standard SB-9. (3) Where soil gas control is required, a soil gas barrier shall be installed at walls and roofs in contact with the ground according to Supplementary Standard SB-9. (4) Where soil gas control is required, it shall consist of one of the following at floors in contact with the ground: (a) a soil gas barrier installed according to Supplementary Standard SB-9 , or (b) where the building contains a single dwelling unit only, a subfloor depressurization system installed according to Supplementary Standard SB-9.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.2.1. Foundation Wall Drainage (1) Unless it can be shown to be unnecessary, drainage shall be provided at the bottom of every foundation wall that contains the building interior. (2) Except as permitted in Sentences (4) to (6), where the insulation on a foundation wall extends to more than 900 mm below the adjacent exterior ground level, (a) a drainage layer shall be installed adjacent to the exterior surface of a foundation wall consisting of, (i) not less than 19 mm mineral fibre insulation with a density of not less than 57 kg/m3, or (ii) not less than 100 mm of free draining granular material, or (b) a system shall be installed that can be shown to provide equivalent performance to that provided by the materials described in Clause (a). (3) Where mineral fibre insulation, crushed rock backfill or other drainage layer medium is provided adjacent to the exterior surface of a foundation wall, (a) the insulation, backfill or other drainage layer medium shall extend to the footing level to facilitate drainage of ground water to the foundation drainage system, and (b) any pyritic material in the crushed rock shall be limited to a concentration that will not damage the building to a degree that would adversely affect its stability or the performance of assemblies separating dissimilar environments. (4) Except when the insulation provides the drainage layer required in Clause (2)(a), when exterior insulation is provided, the drainage layer shall be installed on the exterior face of the insulation. (5) The drainage layer required in Sentence (2) is not required, (a) when the foundation wall is not required to be dampproofed, or (b) when the foundation wall is waterproofed. (6) Reserved (7) Where drainage is required in Sentence (1), the drainage shall conform to Subsection 9.14.3. or 9.14.4. 9.14.3. Drainage Tile and Pipe
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.3.1. Material Standards (1) Drain tile and drain pipe for foundation drainage shall conform to, (a) ASTM C4, “Clay Drain Tile and Perforated Clay Drain Tile”, (b) ASTM C412M, “Concrete Drain Tile (Metric)”, (c) ASTM C444M, “Perforated Concrete Pipe (Metric)”, (d) ASTM C700, “Vitrified Clay Pipe, Extra Strength, Standard Strength and Perforated”, (e) CAN/CGSB-34.22, “Asbestos-Cement Drain Pipe”, (f) CAN/CSA-B182.1, “Plastic Drain and Sewer Pipe and Pipe Fittings”, (g) CSA G401, “Corrugated Steel Pipe Products”, or (h) BNQ 3624-115, “Polyethylene (PE) Pipe Fittings – Flexible Pipes for Drainage – Characteristics and Test Methods”.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.3.3. Installation (1) Drain tile or pipe shall be laid on undisturbed or well-compacted soil so that the top of the tile or pipe is below the bottom of the floor slab or crawl space. (2) Drain tile or pipe with butt joints shall be laid with 6 mm to 10 mm open joints. (3) The top half of joints referred to in Sentence (2) shall be covered with sheathing paper, 0.10 mm polyethylene or No.15 asphalt or tar-saturated felt. (4) The top and sides of drain pipe or tile shall be covered with not less than 150 mm of crushed stone or other coarse clean granular material containing not more than 10% of material that will pass a 4 mm sieve. 9.14.4. Granular Drainage Layer
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.4.2. Installation (1) Granular material described in Article 9.14.4.1. shall be laid on undisturbed or compacted soil to a minimum depth of not less than 125 mm beneath the building and extend not less than 300 mm beyond the outside edge of the footings.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.5.2. Sump Pits (1) Where gravity drainage is not practical, a covered sump with an automatic pump shall be installed to discharge the water into a sewer, drainage ditch or dry well. (2) Covers for sump pits shall be designed to resist removal by children.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.6.1. Surface Drainage (1) The building shall be located or the building site graded so that water will not accumulate at or near the building and will not adversely affect adjacent properties.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.14.6.2. Drainage away from Wells or Septic Disposal Beds  (1) Surface drainage shall be directed away from the location of a water supply well or septic tank disposal bed.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.1.1. General (1) Except as provided in Articles 9.15.1.2. and 9.15.1.3., this Section applies to, (a) concrete or unit masonry foundation walls and concrete footings not subject to surcharge, (i) on stable soils with an allowable bearing pressure of 75 kPa or greater, and (ii) for buildings of wood frame or masonry construction, (b) wood frame foundation walls and wood or concrete footings not subject to surcharge, (i) on stable soils with an allowable bearing pressure of 75 kPa or greater, and (ii) for buildings of wood frame construction, and (c) flat insulating concrete form foundation walls and concrete footings not subject to surcharge, (i) on stable soils with an allowable bearing pressure of 75 kPa or greater, and (ii) for buildings of light frame or flat insulating concrete form construction that are not more than 2 storeys in building height, with a maximum floor to floor height of 3 m, and containing only a single dwelling unit. (2) Foundations for applications other than as described in Sentence (1) shall be designed in accordance with Section 9.4. (3) Where a foundation is erected on filled ground, peat or sensitive clay, the footing sizes shall be designed in conformance with Section 4.2. (4) For the purpose of Sentence (3), sensitive clay means the grain size of the majority of the particles is smaller than 0.002 mm, including leda clay.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.1.2. Permafrost (1) Buildings erected on permafrost shall have foundations designed by a designer competent in this field in accordance with the appropriate requirements of Part 4.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.1.3. Foundations for Deformation Resistant Buildings (1) Where the superstructure of a detached building conforms to the requirements of the deformation resistance test in CAN/CSA-Z240.2.1, “Structural Requirements for Mobile Homes”, the foundation shall be constructed in conformance with, (a) the remainder of this Section, or (b) CSA Z240.10.1, “Site Preparation, Foundation, and Anchorage of Mobile Homes”. 9.15.2. General
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.2.2. Unit Masonry Construction  (1) Concrete block shall conform to CSA A165.1, “Concrete Block Masonry Units”, and shall have a compressive strength over the average net cross-sectional area of the block of not less than 15 MPa. (2) Mortar, grout, mortar joints, corbelling and protection for unit masonry shall conform to Section 9.20. (3) For concrete block foundation walls required to be reinforced, (a) mortar shall be Type S, conforming to CSA A179, “Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry”, (b) grout shall be coarse, conforming to CSA A179, “Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry”, and (c) placement of grout shall conform to CSA A371, “Masonry Construction for Buildings”.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.2.3. Pier Type Foundations (1) Where pier type foundations are used, the piers shall be designed to support the applied loads from the superstructure. (2) Where piers are used as a foundation system in a building of 1 storey in building height, the piers shall be installed to support the principal framing members and shall be spaced not more than 3.5 m apart along the framing, unless the piers and their footings are designed for larger spacings. (3) The height of piers described in Sentence (2) shall not exceed 3 times their least dimension at the base of the pier. (4) Where concrete block is used for piers described in Sentence (2), they shall be laid with cores placed vertically, and where the width of the building is 4.3 m or less, placed with their longest dimension at right angles to the longest dimension of the building.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.2.4. Wood Frame Foundations  (1) Foundations of wood frame construction shall conform to, (a) CAN/CSA-S406, “Construction of Preserved Wood Foundations”, or (b) Part 4. 9.15.3. Footings
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.3.1. Footings Required (1) Footings shall be provided under walls, pilasters, columns, piers, fireplaces and chimneys that bear on soil or rock, except that footings are permitted to be omitted under piers or monolithic concrete walls if the safe loadbearing capacity of the soil or rock is not exceeded.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.3.2. Support of Footings (1) Footings shall rest on undisturbed soil, rock or compacted granular fill. (2) Granular fill shall not contain pyritic material in a concentration that would adversely affect its stability or the performance of assemblies separating dissimilar environments.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.3.3. Application of Footing Width and Area Requirements (1) Except as provided in Sentence 9.15.3.4.(2), the minimum footing width or area requirements provided in Articles 9.15.3.4. to 9.15.3.7. shall apply to footings where, (a) the footings support, (i) foundation walls of masonry, concrete, or flat insulating concrete form walls, (ii) above ground walls of masonry, flat insulating concrete form walls or light wood frame construction, and (iii) floors and roofs of light wood frame construction, (b) the span of supported joists does not exceed 4.9 m, and (c) the specified live load on any floor supported by the footing does not exceed 2.4 kPa. (2) Except as provided in Sentence 9.15.3.4.(2), where the span of the supported joists exceeds 4.9 m, footings shall be designed in accordance with Section 4.2. (3) Where the specified live load exceeds 2.4 kPa footings shall be designed in accordance with Section 4.2.
Notes to Table 9.12.2.2.:
9.15.3.4. Basic Footing Widths and Areas  (1) Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3) and in Articles 9.15.3.5. to 9.15.3.7., the minimum footing width or area shall comply with Table 9.15.3.4. (2) Where the supported joist span exceeds 4.9 m in buildings with light wood-framed walls, floors and roofs, footing widths shall be determined according to, (a) Section 4.2., or (b) the following formula: W = w • [∑ sjs / (storeys • 4.9)] where, W = minimum footing width, w = minimum width of footings supporting joists not exceeding 4.9 m, as defined by Table 9.15.3.4., ∑ sjs = the sum of the supported joist spans on each storey whose load is transferred to the footing, and storeys = number of storeys supported by the footing (3) Where a foundation rests on gravel, sand or silt in which the water table level is less than the width of the footings below the bearing surface, (a) the footing width for walls shall be not less than twice the width required by Sentences (1) and (2), and Articles 9.15.3.5. and 9.15.3.6., and (b) the footing area for columns shall be not less than twice the area required by Sentences (1) and (2), and Article 9.15.3.7. Table 9.15.3.4.   Minimum Footing Sizes Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.3.4.(1)  Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4


Number of Floors Supported

Minimum Width of Strip Footings, mm

Minimum Footing Area for Columns Spaced 3 m o.c.(1), m2


Supporting Exterior Walls(2)

Supporting Interior Walls(3)


1

250

200

0.40


2

350

350

0.75


3

450

500

1.0
Notes to Table 9.15.3.4.:
9.15.3.6. Adjustments to Footing Widths for Interior Walls (1) The minimum strip footing widths for interior loadbearing masonry walls shown in Table 9.15.3.4. shall be increased by 100 mm for each storey of masonry construction supported by the footing. (2) Footings for interior non-loadbearing masonry walls shall be not less than 200 mm wide for walls up to 5.5 m high and the width shall be increased by 100 mm for each additional 2.7 m of height.
Notes to Table 9.15.3.4.:
9.15.3.7. Adjustments to Footing Area for Columns  (1) The footing area for column spacings other than shown in Table 9.15.3.4. shall be adjusted in proportion to the distance between columns.
Notes to Table 9.15.3.4.:
9.15.3.8. Footing Thickness  (1) Footing thickness shall be not less than the greater of, (a) 100 mm, or (b) the width of the projection of the footing beyond the supported element.
Notes to Table 9.15.3.4.:
9.15.4.1. Permanent Form Material  (1) Insulating concrete form units shall be manufactured of polystyrene conforming to the performance requirements of CAN/ULC-S701, “Thermal Insulation, Polystyrene, Boards and Pipe Covering”, for Type 2, 3 or 4 polystyrene.
Notes to Table 9.15.3.4.:
9.15.4.2. Foundation Wall Thickness and Required Lateral Support (1) Except as required in Sentence (2), the thickness of foundation walls made of unreinforced concrete block or solid concrete and subject to lateral earth pressure shall conform to Table 9.15.4.2.A. for walls not exceeding 2.5 m in unsupported height. Table 9.15.4.2.A.   Thickness of Solid Concrete and Unreinforced Concrete Block Foundation Walls Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.2.(1)  Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4


Type of Foundation Wall

Minimum Wall Thickness, mm

Maximum Height of Finish Ground Above Basement Floor or Crawl Space Ground Cover, m


Foundation Wall Laterally Unsupported at the Top(1)

Foundation Wall Laterally Supported at the Top(1)


Solid concrete, 15 MPa min. strength

150

0.8

1.5


200

1.2

2.15


250

1.4

2.3


300

1.5

2.3


Solid concrete, 20 MPa min. strength

150

0.8

1.8


200

1.2

2.3


250

1.4

2.3


300

1.5

2.3


Unreinforced Concrete Block 

140

0.6

0.8


190

0.9

1.2


240

1.2

1.8


290

1.4

2.2
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.3. Foundation Walls Considered to be Laterally Supported at the Top  (1) Sentences (2) to (4) apply to lateral support for walls described in Sentence 9.15.4.2.(1). (2) Foundation walls shall be considered to be laterally supported at the top if, (a) such walls support solid masonry superstructure, (b) the floor joists are embedded in the top of the foundation walls, or (c) the floor system is anchored to the top of the foundation walls with anchor bolts, in which case the joists may run either parallel or perpendicular to the foundation walls. (3) Unless the wall around an opening is reinforced to withstand earth pressure, the portion of the foundation wall beneath an opening shall be considered laterally unsupported, if, (a) the opening is more than 1.2 m wide, or (b) the total width of the openings in the foundation wall constitutes more than 25% of the length of the wall. (4) For the purposes of Sentence (3), the combined width of the openings shall be considered as a single opening if the average width is greater than the width of solid wall between them. (5) Flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be considered to be laterally supported at the top if the floor joists are installed according to Article 9.20.17.5.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.4. Foundation Walls Considered to be Laterally Supported at the Bottom  (1) Flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be considered to be laterally supported at the bottom where the foundation wall, (a) supports backfill not more than 1.2 m in height, (b) is supported at the footing by a shear key and is supported at the top by the ground floor framing, or (c) is dowelled to the footing with not less than 15M bars spaced not more than 1.2 m o.c.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.5. Reinforcement for Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls  (1) Horizontal reinforcement in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall, (a) consist of, (i) one 10M bar placed not more than 300 mm from the top of the wall, and (ii) 10M bars spaced not more than 600 mm o.c., and (b) be located, (i) in the inside half of the wall section, and (ii) with a minimum cover of 30 mm from the inside face of the concrete. (2) Vertical wall reinforcement in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall, (a) conform to, (i) Table 9.15.4.5.A. for 140 mm walls, (ii) Table 9.15.4.5.B. for 190 mm walls, and (iii) Table 9.15.4.5.C. for 240 mm walls, (b) be located in the inside half of the wall section with a minimum cover of 30 mm from the inside face of the concrete wall, and (c) where interrupted by wall openings, be placed not more than 600 mm from each side of the openings. (3) Cold joints in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall be reinforced with at least one 15M bar spaced not more than 600 mm o.c. and embedded not less than 300 mm on both sides of the joint. (4) Reinforcing around openings in flat insulating concrete form foundation walls shall comply with Articles 9.20.17.3. or 9.20.17.4. Table 9.15.4.5.A.   Vertical Reinforcement for 140 mm Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.5.(2)  Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4


Maximum Height of Finished Ground Above Finished Basement Floor, m

Minimum Vertical Reinforcement


Maximum Unsupported Basement Wall Height


2.44 m

2.75 m

3.00 m


1.35

10M at 400 mm o.c.

10M at 400 mm o.c.

10M at 400 mm o.c.


1.60

10M at 400 mm o.c.

10M at 380 mm o.c.

10M at 380 mm o.c.


2.00

10M at 380 mm o.c.

10M at 380 mm o.c.

10M at 380 mm o.c.


2.20

10M at 250 mm o.c.

10M at 250 mm o.c.

10M at 250 mm o.c.


2.35

n/a

10M at 250 mm o.c.

10M at 250 mm o.c.


2.60

n/a

10M at 250 mm o.c.

10M at 250 mm o.c.


3.00

n/a

n/a

10M at 250 mm o.c. Table 9.15.4.5.B.   Vertical Reinforcement for 190 mm Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.5.(2)  Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4


Maximum Height of Finished Ground Above Finished Basement Floor, m

Minimum Vertical Reinforcement


Maximum Unsupported Basement Wall Height


2.44 m

2.75 m

3.00 m


2.20

none required

10M at 400 mm o.c.

10M at 400 mm o.c.


2.35

n/a

10M at 300 mm o.c.

10M at 300 mm o.c.


2.60

n/a

10M at 300 mm o.c.

15M at 400 mm o.c.


3.00

n/a

n/a

15M at 400 mm o.c. Table 9.15.4.5.C.   Vertical Reinforcement for 240 mm Flat Insulating Concrete Form Foundation Walls Forming Part of Sentence 9.15.4.5.(2)  Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4


Maximum Height of Finished Ground Above Finished Basement Floor, m

Minimum Vertical Reinforcement


Maximum Unsupported Basement Wall Height


2.44 m

2.75 m

3.00 m


2.20

none required

none required

none required


2.60

n/a

15M at 400 mm o.c.

15M at 400 mm o.c.


3.00

n/a

n/a

15M at 400 mm o.c.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.6. Extension above Ground Level (1) Exterior foundation walls shall extend not less than 150 mm above finished ground level.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.7. Reduction in Thickness (1) Where the top of a foundation wall is reduced in thickness to permit the installation of floor joists, the reduced section shall be not more than 350 mm high and not less than 90 mm thick. (2) Where the top of a foundation wall is reduced in thickness to permit the installation of a masonry exterior facing, the reduced section shall be, (a) not less than 90 mm thick, and (b) tied to the facing material with metal ties conforming to Sentence 9.20.9.4.(3) spaced not more than, (i) 200 mm o.c. vertically, and (ii) 900 mm o.c. horizontally. (3) The space between wall and facing described in Sentence (2) shall be filled with mortar.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.8. Corbelling (1) Corbelling of masonry foundation walls supporting cavity walls shall conform to Article 9.20.12.2.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.9. Crack Control Joints (1) Crack control joints shall be provided in foundation walls more than 25 m long at intervals of not more than 15 m. (2) Joints required in Sentence (1) shall be designed to resist moisture penetration and shall be keyed to prevent relative displacement of the wall portions adjacent to the joint.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.4.10. Interior Masonry Walls (1) Interior masonry foundation walls not subject to lateral earth pressure shall conform to Section 9.20. 9.15.5. Support of Joists and Beams on Masonry Foundation Walls
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.5.1. Support of Floor Joists (1) Except as permitted in Sentence (2), foundation walls of hollow unit masonry supporting floor joists shall be, (a) capped with not less than 50 mm of solid masonry or concrete, or (b) have the top course filled with mortar or concrete. (2) Capping required in Sentence (1) is permitted to be omitted, (a) in localities where termites are not known to occur, (b) when the joists are supported on a wood plate not less than 38 mm by 89 mm, and (c) when the siding overlaps the foundation wall not less than 12 mm.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.5.2. Support of Beams (1) Not less than a 190 mm depth of solid masonry shall be provided beneath beams supported on masonry. (2) Where the beam referred to in Sentence (1) is supported below the top of the foundation walls, the ends of such beams shall be protected from the weather.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.5.3. Pilasters (1) Pilasters shall be provided under beams that frame into unit masonry foundation walls 140 mm or less in thickness. (2) Pilasters required in Sentence (1) shall be not less than 90 mm by 290 mm and shall be bonded or tied into the wall. (3) The top 200 mm of pilasters required in Sentence (1) shall be solid. 9.15.6. Parging and Finishing of Foundation Walls
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.6.1. Foundation Walls Below Ground (1) Concrete block foundation walls shall be parged on the exterior face below ground level as required in Section 9.13.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.6.2. Foundation Walls Above Ground (1) Exterior surfaces of concrete block foundation walls above ground level shall have tooled joints, or shall be rendered, parged or otherwise suitably finished.
Notes to Table 9.15.4.2.B.: 
9.15.6.3. Form Ties (1) All form ties shall be removed at least flush with the concrete surface. Section 9.16. Floors-on-Ground 9.16.1. Scope