The Ontario Building Code | Platforms Subject to Snow and Occupancy Loads
9.4.2.3. Platforms Subject to Snow and Occupancy Loads
(1) Balconies, decks and other accessible exterior platforms intended for an occupancy and subject to snow loads shall be designed to carry the specified roof snow load or 1.9 kPa, whichever is greater, where the platform, or each segregated area of the platform, serves a single dwelling unit.
Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 9.4.2.3.(1) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "single dwelling unit" at the end and substituting "house or an individual dwelling unit". (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 70)
In Plain Language
Platforms subject to both snow and occupancy loads must be designed to account for both load types together, per the requirements set out in this article.
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.