OBC Code Navigator
Get Ontario Building Code answers in seconds.
Ask technical questions in plain English and get a structured answer with exact Part / Section / Article references shown every time.
Informational tool only — always confirm requirements with your municipality / AHJ / inspector.
📋 OBC Code Navigator
Type your question like you’d ask on the jobsite.
How it works
Get the code reference you need in three simple steps.
Ask a question
Type your question in plain English — just like you’d ask on the jobsite.
Get a structured answer
Receive a practical answer with the key requirements and conditions.
See the references
Every answer includes Part / Section / Article citations you can verify.
What an answer looks like
Structured, practical, with references you can verify.
Direct Answer
Guards are required when the walking surface is more than 600mm above the adjacent surface. The minimum guard height is 900mm for residential decks, increasing to 1070mm when the deck is more than 1800mm above grade. Openings in guards must not permit passage of a sphere with diameter greater than 100mm.
Key Conditions
- Guards required when height exceeds 600mm (about 24″)
- Standard height: 900mm for most residential decks
- Higher guard (1070mm) required when more than 1800mm above grade
- Maximum 100mm opening between balusters (4″ sphere rule)
References shown in the app:
Coverage & confidence
Know what to expect from the OBC Code Navigator.
📚 What it covers
- 2024 Harmonized Ontario Building Code
- Part 9 — Housing and Small Buildings
- Part 7 — Plumbing
- Part 3 — Fire Protection
- General OBC questions
✅ Best for
- Quick confirmations on code requirements
- Permit planning and preparation
- On-site decisions and questions
- Reducing inspection surprises
- Finding the right code reference fast
⚠️ Reality check
- Interpretation can vary by inspector
- Local bylaws may add requirements
- Always confirm with your AHJ
- Use references to document decisions
- Not a substitute for professional advice
Frequently asked questions
Is this based on the 2024 Harmonized Ontario Building Code?
Yes. The OBC Code Navigator is built on the 2024 Harmonized Ontario Building Code, including Ontario-specific amendments and SB-12 energy requirements. We update the database when significant code changes are published.
Do answers show Part / Section / Article references every time?
Yes. Every answer includes specific OBC references (Part, Section, Article numbers) so you can verify the information and have documentation for permit applications or inspector discussions.
Can I ask Part 9 residential questions?
Absolutely. Part 9 (Housing and Small Buildings) is a primary focus. This covers most residential construction including single-family homes, townhouses, small multi-unit buildings, and accessory structures under 600m².
Can I ask Part 7 plumbing questions?
Yes. The database includes Part 7 plumbing requirements including drainage, venting, fixture requirements, and water supply. For complex plumbing scenarios, always confirm with a licensed plumber or your local authority.
What if my inspector interprets it differently?
Code interpretation can vary between inspectors and municipalities. The OBC Code Navigator gives you the code reference so you can have an informed conversation. If there’s a disagreement, the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) has the final say.
What’s the best way to ask questions to get a clean answer?
Be specific. Include one key detail: “basement bedroom egress,” “attached garage separation,” “deck over 6 feet high.” The more context you provide, the more targeted the answer will be.
Is this legal advice or an “official” interpretation?
No. This is an informational tool to help you find relevant code requirements quickly. It is not legal advice and not an official interpretation. Always confirm requirements with your municipality, building department, or a qualified professional.
Can I install this as an app on my phone?
Yes — with an unlimited access subscription, you can add OBC Code Navigator to your iPhone or Android home screen. It works like a native app with instant access, no App Store download needed. After you pay, we’ll show you exactly how to set it up (takes about 10 seconds).
Disclaimer
The OBC Code Navigator is an informational tool only. It does not provide legal advice or official code interpretations. Building code requirements can vary by location and may be subject to local amendments. Always confirm requirements with your local building department, Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), or a qualified professional before making construction decisions.