The Ontario Building Code | Clearances for Water Closets

3.7.4.15. Clearances for water Closets

(1) Except in a dwelling unitand except as required by Section 3.8., a minimum clearance of 380 mm shall be provided in front of a water closet.

In Plain Language

Except in dwelling units and barrier-free installations governed by Section 3.8, a water closet needs at least 380 mm of clear space in front of it, giving users enough room to stand, sit, and manoeuvre comfortably.

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.