The Ontario Building Code | Proximity of Doors to Stairs
9.9.6.6. Proximity of doors to Stairs
(1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), the distance between a stair riser and the leading edge of a door in its swing, except for doors serving a single dwelling unit, shall be not less than 300 mm.
Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 9.9.6.6.(1) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "single dwelling unit" and substituting "houseor an individual dwelling unit". (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 94)
(2) Where there is a danger of blockage from ice or snow, an exit door, including a door serving a single dwelling unit, may open onto not more than one step provided the riser of such step does not exceed 150 mm.
Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 9.9.6.6.(2) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "single dwelling unit" and substituting "houseor an individual dwelling unit". (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 94)
In Plain Language
Doors located near the top of a stair have specific proximity requirements set out in this article, preventing a door from swinging directly over the stairs and creating a fall hazard.
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.