The Ontario Building Code | Application
9.4.2.1. application
(1) This Subsection applies to light-frame construction whose wall, floor and roof planes are generally comprised of frames of small repetitive structural members, and where,
(a) the roof and wall planes are clad, sheathed or braced on at least one side,
(b) the small repetitive structural members are spaced not more than 610 mm o.c.,
(c) the clear span of any structural member does not exceed 12.20 m,
(d) the maximum deflection of the structural roof members conforms to Article 9.4.3.1.,
(e) the maximum total roof area, notwithstanding any separation of adjoining buildings byfirewalls, is 4 550 m2, and
(f) for flat roofs, there are no significant obstructions on the roof, such as parapet walls, spaced closer than the distance calculated by,
where,
Do = minimum distance between obstructions, m,
Ho = height of the obstruction above the roof, m,
Ss = ground snow load, kPa, and
= unit weight of snow, kN/m3.
In Plain Language
This article defines when and where the snow load provisions in this Section apply, setting the scope for the snow load calculations that follow.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.