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 | Application

9.17.1.1. application

(1) This Section applies to columns used to support,

(a) beams carrying loads from not more than 2 wood frame floors where,

(i) the supported length of joists bearing on such beams does not exceed 5 m, and

(ii) the live load on any floor does not exceed 2.4 kPa,

(b) beams or header joists carrying loads from not more than 2 levels of wood frame balconies, decks or other accessible exterior platforms, or 1 level and the roof, where,

(i) the supported length of joists bearing on such beams or joists does not exceed 5 m,

(ii) the sum of the specified snow load and the load due to use and occupancydoes not exceed 4.8 kPa, and

(iii) the platform serves only a single suite of residential occupancy, or

(c) carport roofs.

(2) columns for applications other than as described in Sentence (1) shall be designed in accordance with Part 4.

9.17.2. General

In Plain Language

This article sets out when the requirements for columns and posts in this Section apply, covering the vertical structural members addressed here.

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.