2024 Ontario Building Code Guide for Garages and Carports | empcontracting.ca Inc.
Sarah's Expert Insight
OBC Compliance Specialist
"In the London and Oakville regions, we often deal with heavy clay soils that are highly susceptible to movement. Following Section 9.35.3.2 is critical to prevent your garage from pulling away from your home; at empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we ensure every foundation and drainage slope is engineered to withstand local soil conditions and Ontario's harsh freeze-thaw cycles."
Understanding OBC Section 9.35: Garages and Carports
Navigating the complexities of the 2024 Ontario Building Code (OBC) is essential for safe and legal residential construction. As empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we specialize in ensuring that every garage and carport project complies with the latest provincial standards, specifically Section 9.35.
Emergency Lighting Requirements
Per Section 9.34.3.1, emergency lighting must conform to Subsection 9.9.12. This ensures safety during power outages in specific residential configurations.
Defining Garages vs. Carports
The OBC provides a clear distinction based on enclosure. Under Section 9.35.2.1, if a roofed enclosure used for vehicle storage has more than 60% of its total perimeter enclosed by walls, doors, or windows, it is legally classified as a garage rather than a carport. This distinction triggers different fire separation and ventilation requirements.
Essential Design: Drainage and Foundations
For attached or built-in garages, the code mandates that the floor must be sloped to drain liquids to the outdoors (9.35.2.2). Regarding foundations, Section 9.35.3.1 requires standard foundations unless the structure is a detached garage under 55 square meters, not exceeding one storey, and not made of masonry. In these cases, wood mud sills or a 100mm concrete slab may be permitted.
Soil Stability and Foundation Depth
In regions with clay-type soils, Section 9.35.3.2 requires that foundations for garages connected to a dwelling be at the same depth as the main building foundation. This prevents differential movement and structural damage caused by soil moisture changes.
Disclaimer: This content is generated from the Ontario Building Code for educational purposes. Always consult with a licensed professional engineer or your local building department before starting any construction project in London, Ontario.