Notice: This site currently shows the 2012/2017 edition of the Ontario Building Code. The current legally effective code is the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24), in effect since January 1, 2025. Confirm current requirements at ontario.ca.

The Ontario Building Code | Wooden Stair Stringers

9.8.9.4. wooden Stair Stringers

(1) wooden stair stringers shall,

(a) have a minimum effective depth of 90 mm, measured perpendicularly to the bottom of the stringer at the point of minimum cross-section, and an overall depth of not less than 235 mm,

(b) be supported and secured top and bottom,

(c) be not less than 25 mm actual thickness if supported along their length and 38 mm actual thickness if unsupported along their length, and

(d) except as permitted in Sentence (2), be spaced not more than 900 mm o.c. for stairs serving not more than one dwelling unit, and 600 mm o.c. in other stairs.

Note: On July 1, 2017, Clause 9.8.9.4.(1)(d) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "not more than one dwelling unit" and substituting "a houseor an individual dwelling unit". (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 86)

(2) For stairs serving not more than one dwelling unit, where risers support the front portion of the tread, the space between stringers shall be not more than 1 200 mm.

Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 9.8.9.4.(2) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "not more than one dwelling unit" and substituting "a houseor an individual dwelling unit". (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 86)

In Plain Language

Wooden stair stringers, the angled structural members that support the treads, must meet the sizing and construction 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.