Division B
Acceptable Solutions

Part 3 — Fire Protection, Occupant Safety and Accessibility

Section 3.2. Building Fire Safety

(See Appendix A.)

3.2.1. General

3.2.1.1. Exceptions in Determining Building Height
1) change beginA roof-top enclosure shall not be considered as a storey in calculating the building height if the roof-top enclosure is
a) provided for elevator machinery, a stairway or a service room, and
b) used for no purpose other than for service to the building.change end

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2) Intent StatementSpace under tiers of seats in a building of the arena type shall not be considered as adding to the building height provided the space is used only for dressing rooms, concession stands and similar purposes incidental to the major occupancy of the building.
3) Except as required by Sentence (5), a mezzanine need not be considered as a storey in calculating the building height, provided
a) not less than 60% of the horizontal plane separating the mezzanine from the room or floor space in which it is located is open, and
b) except as permitted in Sentences (7) and 3.3.2.12.(3), the space above the mezzanine is used as a visually open area without partitions or subdividing walls higher than 1 070 mm above the mezzanine floor. (See Appendix A)

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4) Except as required by Sentence (5), the space above a mezzanine need not be considered as a storey in calculating the building height, provided
a) the aggregate area of mezzanines that are not superimposed and do not meet the conditions of Sentence (3) does not exceed 10% of the floor area in which they are located, and
b) the area of a mezzanine in a suite does not exceed 10% of the area of that suite change begin(see Appendix A)change end.

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5) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (6), each level of mezzanine that is partly or wholly superimposed above the first level of mezzanine shall be considered as a storey in calculating the building height.
6) Intent StatementPlatforms intended solely for periodic inspection and elevated maintenance catwalks need not be considered as floor assemblies or mezzanines for the purpose of calculating building height, provided
a) they are not used for storage, and
b) they are constructed with noncombustible materials, unless the building is permitted to be of combustible construction.
7) The space above a mezzanine conforming to Sentence (3) is permitted to include an enclosed space whose area does not exceed 10% of the horizontal plane separating the mezzanine from the room or floor space in which the mezzanine is located provided the enclosed space does not obstruct visual communication between the open space above the mezzanine and the room in which it is located.(See A-3.2.1.1.(3) in Appendix A.)

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8) Intent StatementA service space in which facilities are included to permit a person to enter and to undertake maintenance and other operations pertaining to building services from within the service space need not be considered a storey if it conforms to Articles 3.2.5.14. and 3.3.1.24., and Sentences 3.2.4.19.(10), 3.2.7.3.(2), 3.3.1.3.(7), 3.4.2.4.(3) and 3.4.4.4.(9). (See Appendix A.)
3.2.1.2. Storage Garage Considered as a Separate Building
1) Intent StatementA basement used primarily as a storage garage is permitted to be considered as a separate building for the purposes of Subsection 3.2.2., provided the floor and roof assemblies above the basement and the exterior walls of the basement above the adjoining ground level are constructed as fire separations of change beginnoncombustible constructionchange end having a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h change beginand protected in conformance with Clause 3.1.10.2.(4)(a),change end except as permitted by Sentence (2). change begin(See A-3.1.10.2.(4) in Appendix A.)change end
2) Intent StatementThe exterior wall of a basement that is required to be a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating in accordance with Sentence (1) is permitted to be penetrated by openings that are not protected by closures provided
a) the storage garage is sprinklered throughout,
b) every opening in the exterior wall is separated from storeys above the opening by a projection of the floor or roof assembly above the basement, extending not less than
i) 1 m beyond the exterior face of the storage garage if the upper storeys are required to be of noncombustible construction, or
ii) 2 m beyond the exterior face of the storage garage if the upper storeys are permitted to be of combustible construction, or
c) the exterior walls of any storeys located above the floor or roof assembly referred to in Sentence (1) are recessed behind the outer edge of the assembly by not less than
i) 1 m if the upper storeys are required to be of noncombustible construction, or
ii) 2 m if the upper storeys are permitted to be of combustible construction.
3) Intent StatementThe floor or roof assembly projection referred to in Clause (2)(b) shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h and shall have no openings within the projection.
3.2.1.3. Roof Considered as a Wall
1) Intent StatementFor the purposes of this Section any part of a roof that is pitched at an angle of 60° or more to the horizontal and is adjacent to a space intended for occupancy within a building shall be considered as part of an exterior wall of the building.
3.2.1.4. Floor Assembly over Basement
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.47.(3), 3.2.2.48.(3), 3.2.2.49.(3), 3.2.2.50.(5), 3.2.2.51.(3), 3.2.2.52.(3) or 3.2.2.53.(3), a floor assembly immediately above a basement shall be constructed as a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating conforming to the requirements of Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. for a floor assembly, but not less than 45 min.
2) Intent StatementAll loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a floor assembly immediately above a basement shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required by Sentence (1) for the floor assembly.
3.2.1.5. Fire Containment in Basements
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and 3.2.2.15.(3), in a building in which an automatic sprinkler system is not required to be installed by Article 3.2.2.18., every basement shall
a) be sprinklered throughout, or
b) be subdivided into fire compartments not more than 600 m2 in area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the floor assembly immediately above the basement.
2) Intent StatementAn open-air storey need not conform to Sentence (1).
3.2.1.6. Mezzanines
1) Intent StatementThe floor assembly of a mezzanine that is required to be considered as a storey in calculating the building height shall be constructed in conformance with the fire separation requirements for floor assemblies stated in Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88.

3.2.2. Building Size and Construction Relative to Occupancy

3.2.2.1. Application
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.3., a building shall be constructed in conformance with this Subsection to prevent fire spread and collapse caused by the effects of fire. (See Subsection 3.1.3. for fire separations between major occupancies.)
3.2.2.2. Special and Unusual Structures
1) Intent StatementA structure that cannot be identified with the characteristics of a building in Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. shall be protected against fire spread and collapse in conformance with good fire protection engineering practice. (See Appendix A.) (See also A-3 and A-3.2.5.12.(1) in Appendix A.)
3.2.2.3. Exceptions to Structural Fire Protection
1) Intent StatementFire protection is not required for
a) steel lintels above openings not more than 2 m wide in loadbearing walls and not more than 3 m wide in non-loadbearing walls,
b) steel lintels above openings more than 2 m wide in loadbearing walls and more than 3 m wide in non-loadbearing walls provided the lintels are supported at intervals of not more than 2 m by structural members with the required fire-resistance rating,
c) the bottom flanges of shelf angles and plates that are not a part of the structural frame,
d) steel members for framework around elevator hoistway doorways, steel for the support of elevator and dumbwaiter guides, counterweights and other similar equipment, that are entirely enclosed in a hoistway and are not a part of the structural frame of the building,
e) steel members of stairways and escalators that are not a part of the structural frame of a building,
f) steel members of porches, exterior balconies, exterior stairways, fire escapes, cornices, marquees and other similar appurtenances, provided they are outside an exterior wall of a building, and
g) loadbearing steel or concrete members wholly or partly outside a building face in a building not more than 4 storeys in building height and classified as Group A, B, C, D or F, Division 3 major occupancy provided the members are
i) not less than 1 m away from any unprotected opening in an exterior wall, or
ii) shielded from heat radiation in the event of a fire within the building by construction that will provide the same degree of protection that would be necessary if the member was located inside the building, with the protection extending on either side of the member a distance equal to the projection of the member from the face of the wall.
(See also Article 3.2.3.9.)
3.2.2.4. Buildings with Multiple Major Occupancies
1) Intent StatementThe requirements restricting fire spread and collapse for a building of a single major occupancy classification are provided in this Subsection according to its building height and building area.
2) Intent StatementIf a building contains more than one major occupancy, classified in more than one Group or Division, the requirements of this Subsection concerning building size and construction relative to major occupancy shall apply according to Articles 3.2.2.5. to 3.2.2.8.
3.2.2.5. Applicable Building Height and Area
1) Intent StatementIn determining the fire safety requirements of a building in relation to each of the major occupancies contained therein, the building height and building area of the entire building shall be used.
3.2.2.6. Multiple Major Occupancies
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.7. and 3.2.2.8., in a building containing more than one major occupancy, the requirements of this Subsection for the most restricted major occupancy contained shall apply to the whole building.
3.2.2.7. Superimposed Major Occupancies
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.8. and as required by Sentence 3.2.2.18.(2), in a building in which one major occupancy is located entirely above another major occupancy, the requirements in this Subsection for each portion of the building containing a major occupancy shall apply to that portion as if the entire building was of that major occupancy.
2) Intent StatementIf one major occupancy is located above another major occupancy, the fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly between the major occupancies shall be determined on the basis of the requirements of this Subsection for the lower major occupancy. (See also Article 3.1.3.1.)
3.2.2.8. Exceptions for Major Occupancies
1) Intent StatementIn a building in which the aggregate area of all major occupancies in a particular Group or Division is not more than 10% of the floor area of the storey in which they are located, these major occupancies need not be considered as major occupancies for the purposes of this Subsection, provided they are not classified as Group F, Division 1 or 2 occupancies.
3.2.2.9. Crawl Spaces
1) Intent StatementFor the purposes of Articles 3.1.11.6., 3.2.1.4. and 3.2.1.5., a crawl space shall be considered as a basement if it is
a) more than 1.8 m high between the lowest part of the floor assembly and the ground or other surface below,
b) used for any occupancy,
c) used for the passage of flue pipes, or
2) Intent StatementA floor assembly immediately above a crawl space is not required to be constructed as a fire separation and is not required to have a fire-resistance rating provided the crawl space is not required to be considered as a basement by Sentence (1).
3.2.2.10. Streets
1) Intent StatementEvery building shall face a street located in conformance with the requirements of Articles 3.2.5.4. and 3.2.5.5. for access routes.
2) Intent StatementFor the purposes of Subsections 3.2.2. and 3.2.5. an access route conforming to Subsection 3.2.5. is permitted to be considered as a street.
3) Intent StatementA building is considered to face 2 streets provided not less than 50% of the building perimeter is located within 15 m of the street or streets.
4) Intent StatementA building is considered to face 3 streets provided not less than 75% of the building perimeter is located within 15 m of the street or streets.
5) Intent StatementEnclosed spaces, tunnels, bridges and similar structures, even though used for vehicular or pedestrian traffic, are not considered as streets for the purpose of this Part.
3.2.2.11. Exterior Balconies
1) Intent StatementAn exterior balcony shall be constructed in accordance with the type of construction required by Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88., as applicable to the occupancy classification of the building.
3.2.2.12. Exterior Passageways
1) Intent StatementAn elevated exterior passageway used as part of a means of egress shall conform to the requirements of Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. for mezzanines.
3.2.2.13. Occupancy on Roof
1) Intent Statement A portion of a roof that supports an occupancy shall be constructed in conformance with the fire separation requirements of Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. for floor assemblies, and not the fire-resistance rating for roof assemblies.
3.2.2.14. Roof-Top Enclosures
1) Intent StatementA roof-top enclosure for elevator machinery or for a service room shall be constructed in accordance with the type of construction required by Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88.
2) Intent StatementA roof-top enclosure for elevator machinery or for a service room, not more than one storey high, is not required to have a fire-resistance rating.
3) Intent StatementA roof-top enclosure for a stairway shall be constructed in accordance with the type of construction required by Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88.
4) Intent StatementA roof-top enclosure for a stairway need not have a fire-resistance rating nor be constructed as a fire separation.
3.2.2.15. Storeys below Ground
1) Intent StatementIf a building is erected entirely below the adjoining finished ground level and does not extend more than one storey below that ground level, the minimum precautions against fire spread and collapse shall be the same as are required for basements under a building of 1 storey in building height having the same occupancy and building area.
2) Intent StatementIf any portion of a building is erected entirely below the adjoining finished ground level and extends more than one storey below that ground level, the following minimum precautions against fire spread and collapse shall be taken:
a) except as permitted by Sentence (3), the basements shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) a floor assembly below the ground level shall be constructed as a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than
i) 3 h if the basements are used as Group E or Group F, Division 1 or 2 occupancies, or
ii) 2 h if the basements are not used as Group E or Group F, Division 1 or 2 occupancies, and
c) all loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the construction that they support.
3) Intent StatementIf the first storey of a building is not required to be sprinklered, sprinklers are not required in the storey immediately below the first storey provided the storey below
a) contains only residential occupancies, and
b) has at least one unobstructed access opening conforming to Sentence 3.2.5.1.(2) installed on that storey for each 15 m of wall length in at least one wall required by this Subsection to face a street.
3.2.2.16. Heavy Timber Roof Permitted
1) Intent StatementUnless otherwise permitted by Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88., a roof assembly in a building up to 2 storeys in building height is permitted to be of heavy timber construction regardless of building area or type of construction required, provided the building is sprinklered throughout.
2) Intent StatementIf Sentence (1) permits a roof assembly to be of heavy timber construction, structural members in the storey immediately below the roof assembly are permitted to be of heavy timber construction.
3.2.2.17. Arena-Type Building Roof Assembly
1) Intent StatementThe requirements for a roof assembly to have a fire-resistance rating are permitted to be waived for a gymnasium, a swimming pool, an arena, or a rink if no part of the roof assembly is less than 6 m above the main floor or balcony and the roof carries no loads other than normal roof loads, including permanent access walks, and ventilating, sound and lighting equipment, except that the restriction concerning minimum distance shall not apply to
a) an inclined and stepped floor ascending from the main floor which is used for seating purposes only, or
b) a balcony used for seating purposes only.
3.2.2.18. Automatic Sprinkler System Required
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (2), an automatic sprinkler system conforming to the requirements of Articles 3.2.4.8., 3.2.4.9., 3.2.4.10. and 3.2.5.12. shall be installed throughout a building regulated by one or more of Articles 3.2.2.20., 3.2.2.21., 3.2.2.22., 3.2.2.23., 3.2.2.24., 3.2.2.26., 3.2.2.27., 3.2.2.29., 3.2.2.31., 3.2.2.33., 3.2.2.36., 3.2.2.37., 3.2.2.38., 3.2.2.39., 3.2.2.40., 3.2.2.41., change begin3.2.2.42., 3.2.2.43., 3.2.2.44., 3.2.2.45., 3.2.2.46.,change end 3.2.2.47., 3.2.2.48., 3.2.2.50., 3.2.2.53., 3.2.2.54., 3.2.2.56., 3.2.2.57., 3.2.2.59., 3.2.2.61., 3.2.2.62., 3.2.2.63., 3.2.2.65., 3.2.2.67., 3.2.2.68., 3.2.2.69., 3.2.2.70., 3.2.2.72., 3.2.2.73., 3.2.2.75., 3.2.2.77., 3.2.2.78., 3.2.2.80., 3.2.2.82., 3.2.2.84. and 3.2.2.86.
2) Intent StatementIf a storey in a building or a floor area is required to have an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with one or more of Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. or Section 3.3., the automatic sprinkler system shall also be installed throughout all lower storeys in the building notwithstanding permission in Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. to construct one or more of those storeys without installing automatic sprinkler protection. (See Appendix A.)
3.2.2.19. Buildings Containing Impeded Egress Zones
1) Intent StatementA building containing an impeded egress zone and conforming to the appropriate requirements of Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. is not required to conform to the requirements of Articles 3.2.2.36. and 3.2.2.37. for a Group B, Division 1 major occupancy provided
a) the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height,
c) it does not include
ii) sleeping accommodation,
d) the building area is not more than 6 400 m2 if the building includes a medium-hazard industrial occupancy,
e) the impeded egress zone does not extend beyond the boundaries of the fire compartment in which it is located, and
f) the occupant load of the impeded egress zone is not more than 100.
3.2.2.20. Group A, Division 1, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.21. and 3.2.2.22., a building classified as Group A, Division 1 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.21. Group A, Division 1, One Storey, Limited Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 1 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height,
c) it has less than 40% of the area of the building as 2 storeys for the purpose of
i) development of productions, including preparation of scenery and costumes and rehearsal of performers,
ii) organization of performers, scenery and sound equipment,
iii) preparation by performers for a performance,
iv) managerial functions, or
v) toilets, rest rooms and similar public facilities,
d) it has no occupancy above or below the auditorium other than one which serves it or is dependent on it,
e) it is not more than 600 m2 in building area, and
f) the occupant load is not more than 600.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of heavy timber construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations
i) with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly, or
3.2.2.22. Group A, Division 1, One Storey, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 1 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height,
c) no part of an auditorium floor is more than 5 m above or below grade,
d) no occupancy is above or below the auditorium other than one which serves it or is dependent on it, and
e) the occupant load of the auditorium floor is not more than 300.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly, or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a fire separation shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the fire separation.
3.2.2.23. Group A, Division 2, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.24. to 3.2.2.28., a building classified as Group A,  Division 2 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.24. Group A, Division 2, up to 6 Storeys, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A,  Division 2, that is not limited by building area, is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout, and
b) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.25. Group A, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.25.
Table 3.2.2.25.
Maximum Building Area, Group A, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.25.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 600 2 000 2 400
2 800 1 000 1 200
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) roof assemblies shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, except that in a building not more than 1 storey in building height, the fire-resistance rating is permitted to be waived provided the roof assembly is constructed as a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system conforming to Article 3.1.14.1., and the building area is not more than
i) 800 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 1 000 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 1 200 m2 if facing 3 streets, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.26. Group A, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys, Increased Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A,  Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 4 800 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 2 400 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.27. Group A, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A,  Division 2 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction, used singly or in combination, provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height with no basement,
ii) 1 200 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
iii) 600 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
3.2.2.28. Group A, Division 2, One Storey
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 2 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction, used singly or in combination, provided
a) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
b) except as permitted by Sentence (2), it has a building area not more than
i) 400 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 500 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 600 m2 if facing 3 streets.
2) Intent StatementIn a building referred to in Sentence (1) without a basement, the building area limits of Sentence (1) are permitted to be doubled provided a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h is used to separate the building into fire compartments, each one of which does not exceed the limits of Clause (1)(b).
3.2.2.29. Group A, Division 3, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.30. to 3.2.2.34., a building classified as Group A, Division 3 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.30. Group A, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.30.
Table 3.2.2.30.
Maximum Building Area, Group A, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.30.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 4 000 5 000 6 000
2 2 000 2 500 3 000
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Clauses (c) and (d), the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
c) roof assemblies shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly, except that arches and structural members within the storey immediately below a roof assembly are permitted to be of heavy timber construction.
3) Intent StatementIf intended for occasional use for trade shows and similar exhibition purposes, a building referred to in Sentence (1) that is more than 1 500 m2 in building area shall be sprinklered throughout.
3.2.2.31. Group A, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 12 000 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 6 000 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Clause (c) and Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly, except that arches are permitted to be of heavy timber construction.
3.2.2.32. Group A, Division 3, One Storey, Increased Area
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A,  Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 3 000 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 3 600 m2 if facing 3 streets.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) roof assemblies shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, except that the fire-resistance rating is permitted to be waived provided the roof assembly is constructed as a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system conforming to Article 3.1.14.1., and the building area is not more than
i) 1 200 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 1 500 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 1 800 m2 if facing 3 streets, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3) Intent StatementIf intended for occasional use for trade shows and similar exhibition purposes, a building referred to in Sentence (1) that is more than 1 500 m2 in building area shall be sprinklered throughout.
3.2.2.33. Group A, Division 3, One Storey, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 3 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than 7 200 m2.
3.2.2.34. Group A, Division 3, One Storey
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A,  Division 3 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination provided
a) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than
i) 1 000 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 1 250 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 1 500 m2 if facing 3 streets.
3.2.2.35. Group A, Division 4
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), a building classified as Group A, Division 4 shall be of noncombustible construction.
2) Intent StatementRoof assemblies and supporting arches and columns are permitted to be of heavy timber construction.
3) Intent StatementA building classified as Group A, Division 4 is permitted to be of combustible construction provided
a) the occupant load is less than 1 500, and
b) the building has a limiting distance not less than 6 m.
4) Intent StatementSprinklers shall be installed in all spaces below tiers of seats in a building classified as Group A, Division 4 if those spaces are used for occupancy. (See Appendix A.)
3.2.2.36. Group B, Division 1, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.37., a building classified as Group B, Division 1 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.37. Group B, Division 1, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent Statement A building classified as Group B, Division 1 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area
i) that is not limited if the building is not more than 1 storey in building height,
ii) not more than 12 000 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) not more than 8 000 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.38. Group B, Division 2, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.39. to 3.2.2.41., a building classified as Group B,  Division 2 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.39. Group B, Division 2, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area
i) that is not limited if the building is not more than 1 storey in building height,
ii) not more than 12 000 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) not more than 8 000 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.40. Group B, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 1 600 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.41. Group B, Division 2, One Storey, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 2 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction, used singly or in combination, provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than 500 m2.
3.2.2.42. change beginGroup B, Division 3, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.43. to 3.2.2.46., a building classified as Group B, Division 3 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.43. Group B, Division 3, up to 3 Storeys (Noncombustible), Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area
i) that is not limited if the building is not more than 1 storey in building height,
ii) not more than 12 000 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) not more than 8 000 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.44. Group B, Division 3, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 5 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 2 700 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) 1 800 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction, used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.45. Group B, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 1 600 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction, used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.46. Group B, Division 3, One Storey, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group B, Division 3 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction, used singly or in combination, provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than 600 m2.change end
3.2.2.47. Group C, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.48. to 3.2.2.53., a building classified as Group C shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) except as permitted by Sentence (3), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h but need not be constructed as fire separations.
3.2.2.48. Group C, up to 6 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group C is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area
i) that is not limited if the building is not more than 2 storeys in building height,
ii) not more than 12 000 m2 if 3 storeys in building height,
iii) not more than 9 000 m2 if 4 storeys in building height,
iv) not more than 7 200 m2 if 5 storeys in building height, or
v) not more than 6 000 m2 if 6 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentence (3), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h but need not be constructed as fire separations.
3.2.2.49. Group C, up to 3 Storeys, Noncombustible Construction
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group C is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.49.
Table 3.2.2.49.
Maximum Building Area, Group C, up to 3 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.49.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 not limited not limited not limited
2 6 000 not limited not limited
3 4 000 5 000 6 000
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentence (3), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
c) roof assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h but need not be constructed as fire separations.
3.2.2.50. Group C, up to 6 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent Statementchange beginA building classified as Group C is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a maximum height of less than 18 m measured between grade and the uppermost floor level of the top storey, and
d) it has a building area not more than
i) 7 200 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 3 600 m2 if 2 storeys in building height,
iii) 2 400 m2 if 3 storeys in building height,
iv) 1 800 m2 if 4 storeys in building height,
v) 1 440 m2 if 5 storeys in building height, or
vi) 1 200 m2 if 6 storeys in building height.change end
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences (5) and (6), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as required in Sentence (4), a building referred to inchange end change beginSubclause (1) (d)(v) or (d)(vi)change end change beginshall have an exterior wall assembly
a) protected by noncombustible cladding
b) protected by cladding of fire-retardant-treated wood that has been conditioned in conformance with ASTM D 2898, “Accelerated Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing,” before being tested in accordance with change beginCAN/ULC-S102, “Standard Method of Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and Assemblies,”change end or
c) the interior surfaces of which are protected by a thermal barrier conforming to Sentence 3.1.5.12.(3) and that satisfies the criteria of Sentences 3.1.5.5.(3) and (4) when subjected to testing in conformance with CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
4) Intent StatementThe solutions described in Clauses (3)(b) and Clause (c) are not permitted where an exposing building face is required by Article 3.2.3.7. to have noncombustible cladding.change end
5) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h but need not be constructed as fire separations.
6) Intent StatementIn a building in which there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, the fire-resistance rating for floor assemblies entirely within the dwelling unit is waived.

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3.2.2.51. Group C, up to 3 Storeys, Increased Area
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group C is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.51.
Table 3.2.2.51.
Maximum Building Area, Group C, up to 3 Storeys, Increased Area
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.51.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 2 400 3 000 3 600
2 1 200 1 500 1 800
3 800 1 000 1 200
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences (3) and (4), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
c) roof assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns, and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h but need not be constructed as fire separations.
4) Intent StatementIn a building in which there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, the fire-resistance rating for floor assemblies entirely within the dwelling unit is waived.
3.2.2.52. Group C, up to 3 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group C is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.52.
Table 3.2.2.52.
Maximum Building Area, Group C, up to 3 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.52.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 800 2 250 2 700
2 900 1 125 1 350
3 600 750 900
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences (3) and (4), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min but need not be constructed as fire separations.
4) Intent StatementIn a building in which there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, the fire-resistance rating for floor assemblies entirely within the dwelling unit is waived.
3.2.2.53. Group C, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group C is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 5 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 2 700 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) 1 800 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences (3) and (4), floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that contains dwelling units that have more than one storey, subject to the requirements of Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the floor assemblies, including floors over basements, which are entirely contained within these dwelling units, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min but need not be constructed as fire separations.
4) Intent StatementIn a building in which there is no dwelling unit above another dwelling unit, the fire-resistance rating for floor assemblies entirely within the dwelling unit is waived.
3.2.2.54. Group D, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.55. to 3.2.2.61., a building classified as Group D shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2  h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.55. Group D, up to 6 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.55.
Table 3.2.2.55.
Maximum Building Area, Group D, up to 6 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.55.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 not limited not limited not limited
2 7 200 not limited not limited
3 4 800 6 000 7 200
4 3 600 4 500 5 400
5 2 880 3 600 4 320
6 2 400 3 000 3 600
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
c) roof assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, except that in a building not more than 1 storey in building height this requirement is waived, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.56. Group D, up to 6 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area
i) that is not limited if the building is not more than 2 storeys in building height,
ii) not more than 14 400 m2 if 3 storeys in building height,
iii) not more than 10 800 m2 if 4 storeys in building height,
iv) not more than 8 640 m2 if 5 storeys in building height, or
v) not more than 7 200 m2 if 6 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.57. Group D, up to 4 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than 3 600 m2.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.58. Group D, up to 3 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.58.
Table 3.2.2.58.
Maximum Building Area, Group D, up to 3 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.58.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 4 800 6 000 7 200
2 2 400 3 000 3 600
3 1 600 2 000 2 400
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) roof assemblies shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, except that in a building not more than 1 storey in building height, the fire-resistance rating is permitted to be waived provided the roof assembly is constructed as a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system conforming to Article 3.1.14.1. and the building area is not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 3 000 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 3 600 m2 if facing 3 streets, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.59. Group D, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 14 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 7 200 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) 4 800 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.60. Group D, up to 2 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.60.
Table 3.2.2.60.
Maximum Building Area, Group D, up to 2 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.60.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 000 1 250 1 500
2 800 1 000 1 200
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.61. Group D, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group D is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 3 000 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 2 400 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.62. Group E, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.63. to 3.2.2.67., a building classified as Group E shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.63. Group E, up to 4 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group E is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than 1 800 m2.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.64. Group E, up to 3 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group E is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.64.
Table 3.2.2.64.
Maximum Building Area, Group E, up to 3 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.64.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 500 1 500 1 500
2 1 200 1 500 1 500
3 800 1 000 1 500
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) roof assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, except that in a building not more than 1 storey in building height, the fire-resistance rating is permitted to be waived provided the roof assembly is of noncombustible construction or is constructed as a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system conforming to Article 3.1.14.1.,
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
e) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a fire separation shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the fire separation.
3.2.2.65. Group E, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group E is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 7 200 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 3 600 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) 2 400 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a fire separation shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the fire separation.
3.2.2.66. Group E, up to 2 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group E is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.66.
Table 3.2.2.66.
Maximum Building Area, Group E, up to 2 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.66.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 000 1 250 1 500
2 600 750 900
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.67. Group E, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group E is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 3 000 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 1 800 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.68. Group F, Division 1, up to 4 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.69. to 3.2.2.71., a building classified as Group F, Division 1 shall conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than
i) 9 000 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 4 500 m2 if 2 storeys in building height,
iii) 3 000 m2 if 3 storeys in building height, or
iv) 2 250 m2 if 4 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.69. Group F, Division 1, up to 3 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 1 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 3 600 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 1 800 m2 if 2 storeys in building height, or
iii) 1 200 m2 if 3 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of heavy timber construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.70. Group F, Division 1, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 1 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 1 200 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.71. Group F, Division 1, One Storey
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F,  Division 1 is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination provided
a) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than 800 m2.
3.2.2.72. Group F, Division 2, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.73. to 3.2.2.77., a building classified as Group F, Division 2 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.73. Group F, Division 2, up to 4 Storeys, Increased Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 18 000 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 9 000 m2 if 2 storeys in building height,
iii) 6 000 m2 if 3 storeys in building height, or
iv) 4 500 m2 if 4 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.74. Group F, Division 2, up to 3 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.74.
Table 3.2.2.74.
Maximum Building Area, Group F, Division 2, up to 3 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.74.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 500 1 500 1 500
2 1 500 1 500 1 500
3 1 070 1 340 1 500
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) roof assemblies shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, except that in a building not more than 1 storey in building height, the fire-resistance rating is permitted to be waived provided that the roof assembly is constructed as a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system conforming to Article 3.1.14.1.,
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
e) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a fire separation shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the fire separation.
3.2.2.75. Group F, Division 2, up to 4 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 9 600 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 4 800 m2 if 2 storeys in building height,
iii) 3 200 m2 if 3 storeys in building height, or
iv) 2 400 m2 if 4 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a fire separation shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the fire separation.
3.2.2.76. Group F, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.76.
Table 3.2.2.76.
Maximum Building Area, Group F, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.76.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 000 1 250 1 500
2 600 750 900
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.77. Group F, Division 2, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 2 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 4 500 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 1 800 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.78. Group F, Division 3, Any Height, Any Area, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.2.79. to 3.2.2.88., a building classified as Group F, Division 3 shall conform to Sentence (2).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building shall be sprinklered throughout,
b) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h, except that floor assemblies are permitted to be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h in a storage garage with all storeys constructed as open-air storeys,
c) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.79. Group F, Division 3, up to 6 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.79.
Table 3.2.2.79.
Maximum Building Area, Group F, Division 3, up to 6 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.79.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 not limited not limited not limited
2 7 200 9 000 10 800
3 4 800 6 000 7 200
4 3 600 4 500 5 400
5 2 880 3 600 4 320
6 2 400 3 000 3 600
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
c) roof assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.80. Group F, Division 3, up to 6 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area
i) that is not limited if the building is not more than 1 storey in building height,
ii) not more than 21 600 m2 if 2 storeys in building height,
iii) not more than 14 400 m2 if 3 storeys in building height,
iv) not more than 10 800 m2 if 4 storeys in building height,
v) not more than 8 640 m2 if 5 storeys in building height, or
vi) not more than 7 200 m2 if 6 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.2.2.16., the building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) mezzanines shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported assembly.
3.2.2.81. Group F, Division 3, up to 4 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.81.
Table 3.2.2.81.
Maximum Building Area, Group F, Division 3, up to 4 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.81.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 4 800 6 000 7 200
2 2 400 3 000 3 600
3 1 600 2 000 2 400
4 1 200 1 500 1 800
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
c) roof assemblies shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, except that in a building not more than 1 storey in building height, the fire-resistance rating is permitted to be waived provided the roof assembly is constructed as a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system conforming to Article 3.1.14.1., and the building area is not more than
i) 2 400 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 3 000 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 3 600 m2 if facing 3 streets, and
d) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.82. Group F, Division 3, up to 4 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 4 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 14 400 m2 if 1 storey in building height,
ii) 7 200 m2 if 2 storeys in building height,
iii) 4 800 m2 if 3 storeys in building height, or
iv) 3 600 m2 if 4 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b) mezzanines shall have, if of combustible construction, a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
c) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.83. Group F, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than the value in Table 3.2.2.83.
Table 3.2.2.83.
Maximum Building Area, Group F, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.2.83.(1)

No. of Storeys

Maximum Area, m2

Facing 1 Street

Facing 2 Streets

Facing 3 Streets

1 1 600 2 000 2 400
2 800 1 000 1 200
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.84. Group F, Division 3, up to 2 Storeys, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 2 storeys in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than
i) 7 200 m2 if 1 storey in building height, or
ii) 2 400 m2 if 2 storeys in building height.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) is permitted to be of combustible construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination, and
a) floor assemblies shall be fire separations and, if of combustible construction, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
b) loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall
i) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
3.2.2.85. Group F, Division 3, One Storey
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F,  Division 3 is permitted to be of heavy timber construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination provided
a) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
b) it has a building area not more than
i) 5 600 m2 if facing one street,
ii) 7 000 m2 if facing 2 streets, or
iii) 8 400 m2 if facing 3 streets.
3.2.2.86. Group F, Division 3, One Storey, Sprinklered
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to be of heavy timber construction or noncombustible construction used singly or in combination provided
a) except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.2.7.(1) and 3.2.2.18.(2), the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) it is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
c) it has a building area not more than 16 800 m2.
3.2.2.87. Group F, Division 3, One Storey, Any Area, Low Fire Load Occupancy
1) Intent StatementA building classified as Group F, Division 3 is permitted to conform to Sentence (2) provided it is
a) not more than 1 storey in building height,
b) used solely for low fire load occupancies such as
i) power generating plants, or
ii) plants for the manufacture or storage of noncombustible materials, and
c) not limited in building area.
2) Intent StatementThe building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be of noncombustible construction.
3.2.2.88. Group F, Division 3, Storage Garages up to 22 m High
1) Intent StatementA building used as a storage garage with all storeys constructed as open-air storeys and having no other occupancy above it is permitted to have its floor, wall, ceiling and roof assemblies constructed without a fire-resistance rating provided it is
b) not more than 22 m high, measured between grade and the ceiling level of the top storey,
c) not more than 10 000 m2 in building area, and
d) designed so that every portion of each floor area is within 60 m of an exterior wall opening.

3.2.3. Spatial Separation and Exposure Protection

change begin(See Appendix A.)change end
3.2.3.1. Limiting Distance and Area of Unprotected Openings
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Articles 3.2.3.10. to 3.2.3.12., the area of unprotected openings in an exposing building face for the applicable limiting distance shall be not more than the value determined in accordance with
b) Table 3.2.3.1.D or Table 3.2.3.1.E for an exposing building face conforming to Article 3.2.3.2. of a sprinklered fire compartment that is part of a building which is sprinklered in conformance with Section 3.2.
(See A-3 in Appendix A.)
(See also Article 3.1.6.3.)
2) Intent StatementThe area of the unprotected openings in an exposing building face shall be the aggregate area of unprotected openings expressed as a percentage of the area of the exposing building face in Table 3.2.3.1.B, Table 3.2.3.1.C, Table 3.2.3.1.D or Table 3.2.3.1.E. (See Sentence 3.2.3.2.(1).)
3) Intent StatementFor the purpose of determining the type of construction and cladding and the fire-resistance rating of an exterior wall,
a) the exposing building face shall be taken as the projection of the exterior wall onto a vertical plane located so that no portion of the exterior wall of the building or of a fire compartment, if the fire compartment complies with the requirements of Article 3.2.3.2., is between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is measured, and
4) Intent StatementFor the purpose of determining the actual percentage of unprotected openings permitted in an exterior wall, the location of the exposing building face is permitted to be taken at a vertical plane located so that there are no unprotected openings between the vertical plane and the line to which the limiting distance is measured. (See Appendix A.)
5) Intent Statementchange beginExcept for buildings that are sprinklered, where the limiting distance is 2 m or less, individual unprotected openings in an exposing building face shall be no greater than
a) the area stated in Table 3.2.3.1.A, or
b) where the limiting distance is equal to or greater than 1.2 m, the area calculated by
where
Area= area of the unprotected opening, and
Table 3.2.3.1.A
Maximum Concentrated Area of Unprotected Openings
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.3.1.(5)
Limiting Distance, m Maximum Area of Individual Unprotected Openings, m2
1.2 0.35
1.5 0.78
2.0 1.88
6) Intent StatementThe spacing between individual unprotected openings described in Sentence (5) that serve a single room or space described in Sentence (7) shall not be less than
a) 2 m horizontally of another unprotected opening that is on the same exposing building face and serves the single room or space, or
b) 2 m vertically of another unprotected opening that serves the single room or space, or another room or space on the same storey.
7) Intent StatementFor the purpose of Sentence (6), “single room or space” shall mean
a) two or more adjacent spaces having a full-height separating wall extending less than 1.5 m from the interior face of the exterior wall, or
b) two or more stacked spaces that are on the same storey.
8) Intent StatementA limiting distance equal to half the actual limiting distance shall be used as input to Tables 3.2.3.1.B and 3.2.3.1.C, where
a) the time from receipt of notification of a fire by the fire department until the arrival of the first fire department vehicle at the building exceeds 10 min in 10% or more of all fire department calls to the building, and
b) any storey in the building is not sprinklered.
(See Appendix A and A-3.2.3. in Appendix A.)change end
9) Intent StatementIf the surface temperature on the unexposed surface of a wall assembly exceeds the temperature limit of a standard fire test as permitted by Article 3.1.7.2., an allowance shall be made for the radiation from the hot unexposed wall surface by adding an equivalent area of unprotected opening to the area of actual openings as follows:
where
AC= corrected area of unprotected openings including actual and equivalent openings,
A= actual area of unprotected openings,
AF= area of exterior surface of the exposing building face, exclusive of openings, on which the temperature limit of the standard test is exceeded, and
FEO= an equivalent opening factor derived from the following expression:
Tu= average temperature in degrees Celsius of the unexposed wall surface at the time the required fire-resistance rating is reached under test conditions,
Te= 892°C for a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, 927°C for a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and 1 010°C for a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h.
10) Intent StatementUnless a closure used to protect an opening in an exposing building face has a protective performance equivalent to that required for the wall assembly in which it is located, an equivalent area of unprotected opening, determined in accordance with the procedures of Sentence (9) shall be added to the greater of
a) the actual area of unprotected openings, or
b) the corrected area of unprotected openings.
Table 3.2.3.1.B
Unprotected Opening Limits for a Building or Fire Compartment that is not Sprinklered Throughout
Forming part of Article 3.2.3.1.

Exposing Building Face

Area of Unprotected Opening for Groups A, C, D, and F, Division 3 Occupancies, %

Max. Area, m2

Ratio
(L/H or H/L)(1)

Limiting Distance, m

0 1.2 1.5 2.0 2.5 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
10 Less than 3 : 1 0 8 10 18 29 46 91 100                                    
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 8 12 21 33 50 96 100                                    
over 10 : 1 0 11 18 32 48 68 100                                      
15 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 9 14 22 33 63 100                                    
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 8 10 17 25 37 67 100                                    
over 10 : 1 0 10 15 26 39 53 87 100                                    
20 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 9 12 18 26 49 81 100                                  
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 8 10 15 21 30 53 85 100                                  
over 10 : 1 0 9 14 23 33 45 72 100                                    
25 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 8 11 16 23 41 66 98 100                                
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 8 9 13 19 26 45 70 100                                  
over 10 : 1 0 9 13 21 30 39 62 90 100                                  
30 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 8 11 15 20 35 56 83 100                                
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 9 12 17 23 39 61 88 100                                
over 10 : 1 0 8 12 19 27 36 56 79 100                                  
40 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 8 10 13 17 28 44 64 89 100                              
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 8 11 15 20 32 48 69 93 100                              
over 10 : 1 0 8 11 17 24 31 47 66 88 100                                
50 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 8 9 12 15 24 37 53 72 96 100                            
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 8 10 14 18 28 41 57 77 100                              
over 10 : 1 0 8 10 15 21 28 41 57 76 97 100                              
60 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 8 9 11 14 21 32 45 62 81 100                            
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 8 10 13 16 25 36 49 66 85 100                            
over 10 : 1 0 8 10 14 20 25 38 51 67 85 100                              
80 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 8 10 12 18 26 36 48 62 79 98 100                        
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 8 9 11 14 21 29 40 52 67 84 100                          
over 10 : 1 0 8 9 13 17 22 32 44 56 70 86 100                            
100 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 8 9 11 16 22 30 40 51 65 80 97 100                      
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 8 9 11 13 18 25 34 44 56 69 84 100                        
over 10 : 1 0 7 9 12 16 20 29 39 49 61 74 89 100                          
150 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 8 9 10 13 17 22 29 37 46 56 67 79 93 100                  
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 7 8 10 11 15 20 26 33 41 50 60 71 84 97 100                  
over 10 : 1 0 7 8 11 13 17 24 31 39 48 57 68 79 91 100                      
250 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 7 8 9 10 13 16 20 25 30 36 43 51 59 68 87 100              
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 7 8 9 10 12 15 19 24 28 34 40 47 55 63 72 92 100              
over 10 : 1 0 7 8 9 11 14 19 24 30 36 43 50 57 65 73 82 92 100                
350 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 7 8 8 9 11 14 16 20 24 28 33 38 44 50 64 81 99 100          
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 7 8 8 9 11 13 16 19 23 27 32 37 42 48 55 69 85 100            
over 10 : 1 0 7 8 9 10 12 16 21 25 30 36 41 47 53 59 66 73 88 100              
500 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 7 7 8 9 10 12 14 16 19 22 25 29 33 37 47 59 71 100          
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 7 7 8 8 10 12 14 16 19 22 25 29 33 37 41 52 63 76 100          
over 10 : 1 0 7 7 8 9 11 14 18 22 25 30 34 38 43 48 53 58 70 82 96 100          
1 000 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 7 7 7 8 9 9 10 12 13 14 16 18 20 22 27 33 39 58 82 100      
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 7 7 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 21 23 26 31 37 43 63 86 100      
over 10 : 1 0 7 7 8 8 9 11 13 16 19 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 46 53 60 82 100        
2 000 Less than 3 : 1 0 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 20 23 33 44 58 74 93 100
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 20 23 27 37 49 63 79 97 100
over 10 : 1 0 7 7 7 8 8 9 11 12 14 16 18 19 21 23 25 27 32 36 40 53 66 82 99 100  
Notes to Table 3.2.3.1.B:

(1) Apply whichever ratio is greater.
Table 3.2.3.1.C
Unprotected Opening Limits for a Building or Fire Compartment that is not Sprinklered Throughout
Forming part of Article 3.2.3.1.

Exposing Building Face

Area of Unprotected Openings for Groups E and F, Division 1 and 2 Occupancies, %

Max. Area, m2

Ratio
(L/H or H/L)(1)

Limiting Distance, m

0 1.2 1.5 2.0 2.5 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
10 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 5 9 15 23 46 77 100                                          
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 6 10 17 25 48 79 100                                          
over 10 : 1 0 5 9 16 24 34 58 91 100                                          
15 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 5 7 11 16 32 53 79 100                                        
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 5 8 13 18 34 55 82 100                                        
over 10 : 1 0 5 8 13 19 26 43 66 93 100                                        
20 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 6 9 13 25 40 61 85 100                                      
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 5 7 11 15 27 43 63 87 100                                      
over 10 : 1 0 5 7 11 17 22 36 53 74 99 100                                      
25 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 6 8 11 20 33 49 69 92 100                                    
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 5 7 9 13 22 35 51 71 94 100                                    
over 10 : 1 0 4 6 10 15 20 31 45 62 82 100                                      
30 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 5 7 10 18 28 42 58 77 100                                    
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 6 9 12 20 30 44 60 80 100                                    
over 10 : 1 0 4 6 10 14 18 28 40 54 71 91 100                                    
40 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 5 6 8 14 22 32 44 59 76 94 100                                
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 6 8 10 16 24 34 47 61 78 97 100                                
over 10 : 1 0 4 5 8 12 15 23 33 44 57 72 89 100                                  
50 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 5 6 7 12 18 26 36 48 61 76 93 100                              
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 5 7 9 14 20 29 38 50 63 79 95 100                              
over 10 : 1 0 4 5 8 11 14 21 29 38 48 61 74 90 100                                
60 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 7 11 16 23 31 40 52 64 78 94 100                            
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 5 6 8 12 18 25 33 43 54 66 81 96 100                            
over 10 : 1 0 4 5 7 10 13 19 26 34 43 53 64 77 92 100                              
80 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 6 9 13 18 24 31 40 49 60 71 84 98 100                        
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 5 6 7 10 15 20 26 33 42 51 62 74 86 100                          
over 10 : 1 0 4 5 6 9 11 16 22 28 35 43 52 62 73 85 98 100                          
100 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 5 8 11 15 20 26 32 40 48 58 68 79 100                        
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 6 9 13 17 22 28 35 42 51 60 70 81 100                        
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 6 8 10 14 19 25 31 37 44 52 61 71 81 92 100                        
150 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 5 6 8 11 14 18 23 28 33 40 46 54 70 89 100                    
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 6 8 10 13 16 20 25 30 36 42 49 56 73 92 100                    
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 5 7 8 12 16 20 24 29 34 39 46 52 59 67 84 100                      
250 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 5 7 8 10 12 15 18 22 25 29 34 44 55 68 100                  
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 5 6 8 10 12 14 17 20 24 27 32 36 46 57 70 100                  
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 5 6 7 9 12 15 18 21 25 28 32 37 41 46 56 68 81 100                  
350 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 14 16 19 22 25 32 40 49 77 100                
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 5 7 8 10 12 14 16 18 21 24 27 34 43 52 79 100                
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 6 8 10 13 15 18 21 23 26 30 33 36 44 53 62 90 100                
500 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 13 14 16 19 24 29 36 55 78 100              
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 13 14 16 18 21 26 31 38 57 80 100              
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 5 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 24 26 29 35 41 48 68 92 100              
1 000 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 16 20 29 41 55 71 89 100        
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 18 22 31 43 57 73 91 100        
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 15 16 18 20 23 26 30 41 53 68 84 100          
2 000 Less than 3 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 6 6 7 7 9 10 12 16 22 29 37 46 56 68 80 94 100
3 : 1 to 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 9 10 12 13 18 24 31 39 49 59 70 83 96 100
over 10 : 1 0 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20 26 33 41 50 59 70 81 94 100  
Notes to Table 3.2.3.1.C:

(1) Apply whichever ratio is greater.
Table 3.2.3.1.D
Unprotected Opening Limits for a Building or Fire Compartment that is Sprinklered Throughout
Forming part of Article 3.2.3.1.

Exposing Building Face

Area of Unprotected Opening for Groups A, B, C, D and F, Division 3 Occupancies, %

Max. Area, m2

Limiting Distance, m

0 1.2 1.5 2.0 2.5 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 0 16 24 42 66 100            
15 0 16 20 34 50 74 100          
20 0 16 20 30 42 60 100          
25 0 16 18 26 38 52 90 100        
30 0 14 18 24 34 46 78 100        
40 0 14 16 22 30 40 64 96 100      
50 0 14 16 20 28 36 56 82 100      
60 0 14 16 20 26 32 50 72 98 100    
80 0 14 16 18 22 28 42 58 80 100    
100 0 14 16 18 22 26 36 50 68 88 100  
150 or more 0 14 14 16 20 22 30 40 52 66 82 100
Table 3.2.3.1.E
Unprotected Opening Limits for a Building or Fire Compartment that is Sprinklered Throughout
Forming part of Article 3.2.3.1.

Exposing Building Face

Area of Unprotected Opening for Groups E and F, Division 1 and 2 Occupancies, %

Max. Area, m2

Limiting Distance, m

0 1.2 1.5 2.0 2.5 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
10 0 8 12 20 34 50 96 100                    
15 0 8 10 16 26 36 68 100                    
20 0 8 10 14 22 30 54 86 100                  
25 0 8 10 14 18 26 44 70 100                  
30 0 8 8 12 18 24 40 60 88 100                
40 0 8 8 12 16 20 32 48 68 94 100              
50 0 8 8 10 14 18 28 40 58 76 100              
60 0 8 8 10 12 16 24 36 50 66 86 100            
80 0 8 8 10 12 14 20 30 40 52 66 84 100          
100 0 8 8 8 10 12 18 26 34 44 56 70 84 100        
150 0 8 8 8 10 12 16 20 26 32 40 50 60 72 84 98 100  
200 or more 0 8 8 8 8 10 14 18 22 28 34 42 50 60 68 80 92 100
3.2.3.2. Area of Exposing Building Face
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), the area of an exposing building face shall be calculated as the total area of an exterior wall facing in one direction on any side of a building measured from the finished ground level to the uppermost ceiling.
2) Intent StatementIf a building is divided by fire separations into fire compartments, the area of exposing building face is permitted to be calculated for each fire compartment provided the fire separations have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that is sprinklered throughout and contains an interconnected floor space, the area of the exposing building face for the interconnected floor space is permitted to be determined by considering each storey as a separate fire compartment notwithstanding openings through the floor assemblies.
3.2.3.3. Wall Enclosing Attic or Roof Space
1) Intent StatementAn exterior wall enclosing an attic or roof space and located above an exposing building face, shall be constructed in conformance with the requirements for the exposing building face.
3.2.3.4. Party Wall
1) A party wall shall be constructed as a firewall. change begin(See Appendix A.)change end

contentHistory

3.2.3.5. Wall with Limiting Distance Less Than 1.2 m
1) Intent StatementOpenings in a wall that has a limiting distance less than 1.2 m shall be protected by closures whose fire-protection rating is in conformance with the fire-resistance rating required for the wall.
2) Intent StatementWired glass or glass block shall not be used for a closure referred to in Sentence (1).
3.2.3.6. Combustible Projections
1) Intent StatementExcept for a building containing one or 2 dwelling units only, combustible projections on the exterior of a wall that could expose an adjacent building to fire spread and are more than 1 m above ground level, including balconies, platforms, canopies and stairs, shall not be permitted within
a) 1.2 m of a property line or the centreline of a public way, or
b) 2.4 m of a combustible projection on another building on the same property.
2) Intent Statementchange beginWhere the exposing building face has a limiting distance of not more than 0.45 m, projecting roof soffits shall not be constructed above the exposing building face. (See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementWhere the exposing building face has a limiting distance of more than 0.45 m, the face of roof soffits above the exposing building face shall not project to less than 0.45 m from the property line. (See A-3.2.3.6.(2) in Appendix A.)
4) Intent StatementWhere roof soffits project to less than 1.2 m from the centre line of a lane or public thoroughfare, or from an imaginary line between two buildings or fire compartments on the same property, they shall
a) have no openings, and
b) be protected by
i) not less than 0.38 mm thick sheet steel,
iii) not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum soffit board or gypsum ceiling board installed according to CSA A82.31-M, “Gypsum Board Application,”
iv) not less than 11 mm thick plywood,
v) not less than 12.5 mm thick OSB or waferboard, or
vi) not less than 11 mm thick lumber.
5) Intent StatementFor buildings of combustible construction, materials installed to provide the required protection of soffits may be covered with a combustible or noncombustible finish material.change end
3.2.3.7. Construction of Exposing Building Face
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as provided in Sentences (3) and (4), and Articles 3.2.3.10. and 3.2.3.11., the fire-resistance rating, construction and cladding for exposing building faces of buildings or fire compartments of Group A, B, C, D or Group F, Division 3 occupancy classification shall comply with Table 3.2.3.7.
2) Intent StatementExcept as provided in Sentences (3) and (4) and Article 3.2.3.10., the fire-resistance rating, construction and cladding for exposing building faces of buildings or fire compartments of Group E or Group F, Division 1 or 2 occupancy classification shall comply with Table 3.2.3.7.
Table 3.2.3.7.
Minimum Construction Requirements for Exposing Building Faces
Forming part of Sentences 3.2.3.7.(1) and (2)
Occupancy Classification of Building or Fire Compartment Maximum Area of Unprotected Openings Permitted, % of Exposing Building Face Area Minimum Required Fire-Resistance Rating Type of Construction Required Type of Cladding Required
Group A, B, C, D, or Group F, Division 3 0 to 10 1 h Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 10 to 25 1 h Combustible or Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 25 to 50 45 min Combustible or Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 50 to < 100 45 min Combustible or Noncombustible Combustible or Noncombustible
Group E, or Group F, Division 1 or 2 0 to 10 2 h Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 10 to 25 2 h Combustible or Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 25 to 50 1 h Combustible or Noncombustible Noncombustible
> 50 to < 100 1 h Combustible or Noncombustible Combustible or Noncombustible
3) Intent StatementExcept as provided in Sentence (4), cladding for buildings or fire compartments where the maximum permitted area of unprotected openings is more than 10% of the exposing building face need not be noncombustible where the wall assembly complies with the requirements of Sentences 3.1.5.5.(1), (3) and (4) when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
4) Intent StatementCladding for buildings or fire compartments where the maximum permitted area of unprotected openings is more than 25% but not more than 50% of the exposing building face need not be noncombustible where
a) the limiting distance is greater than 5 m,
b) the building or fire compartment and all combustible attic and roof spaces are sprinklered throughout,
c) the cladding
ii) is installed without furring members, or on furring not more than 25 mm thick, over gypsum sheathing at least 12.7 mm thick or over masonry, and
iii) after conditioning in conformance with ASTM D 2898, “Accelerated Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing,” has a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 on the exterior face when tested in accordance with Sentence 3.1.12.1.(1), or
d) the cladding
i) conforms to Subsection 9.27.12.,
ii) is installed with or without furring members over gypsum sheathing at least 12.7 mm thick or over masonry,
iii) has a flame-spread rating not greater than 25 when tested in accordance with Sentence 3.1.12.1.(2), and
iv) does not exceed 2 mm in thickness exclusive of fasteners, joints and local reinforcements.change end
5) Intent Statementchange beginWhere Table 3.2.3.7. permits an area of unprotected openings of more than 10% but not more than 25% of the exposing building face,change end the requirements for noncombustible cladding shall be waived for wall assemblies that comply with Article 3.1.5.5. (See Appendix A.)
6) Intent StatementThe construction requirements for the exposing building face stated in Sentences (1) and (2) shall be satisfied before increasing the unprotected opening area as permitted by Sentence 3.2.3.12.(1).
3.2.3.8. Protection of Exterior Building Face
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3) and in addition to the requirements of Sentences 3.2.3.7.(1) and (2) change beginand where the maximum permitted area of unprotected openings is greater than 10% of the exposing building facechange end, foamed plastic insulation used in an exterior wall of a building more than 3 storeys in building height shall be protected on its exterior surface by
a) concrete or masonry not less than 25 mm thick, or
b) noncombustible material that complies with the criteria for testing and the conditions of acceptance stated in Sentence (2) when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials.”
2) Intent StatementThe criteria for testing and the conditions of acceptance for a wall assembly to satisfy the requirements of Clause (1)(b) are that
a) the fire exposed area of the wall assembly shall be not less than 9.3 m2 and have no dimension less than 2.75 m,
b) the exposed surface shall include typical vertical and horizontal joints,
c) the test shall be continued for not less than 15 min and the standard time/temperature curve of the referenced standard shall be followed,
d) the noncombustible protective material must remain in place and no through openings should develop that are visible when viewed normal to the face of the material, and
e) the noncombustible protective material should not disintegrate in a manner that would permit fire to propagate along the surface of the test assembly.
3) Intent StatementThe requirements of Sentence (1) are waived for wall assemblies that comply with the requirements of Article 3.1.5.5. (See A-3.2.3.7.(5) in Appendix A.)
3.2.3.9. Protection of Structural Members
1) Intent StatementStructural members, including beams, columns and arches, that are placed wholly or partly outside the exterior face of a building and are less than 3 m from the property line or the centre line of a public thoroughfare shall be protected from exterior fire exposure by fire protection having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for their protection from interior fire exposure, as stated in Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88., but not less than 1 h.
2) Intent StatementStructural members of heavy timber construction, including beams, columns and arches, that are placed wholly or partly outside the exterior face of a building and are 3 m or more from the property line or the centre line of a public thoroughfare need not be covered with noncombustible cladding.
3.2.3.10. Unlimited Unprotected Openings
1) Intent StatementAn exposing building face in a storage garage with all storeys constructed as open-air storeys is permitted to have unlimited unprotected openings provided it has a limiting distance not less than 3 m.
2) Intent StatementThe exposing building face of a storey that faces a street and is at the same level as the street is permitted to have unlimited unprotected openings if the limiting distance is not less than 9 m.
3.2.3.11. Low Fire Load, One Storey Building
1) Intent StatementAn exposing building face of a building of low-hazard industrial occupancy conforming to Article 3.2.2.87. is permitted to be of noncombustible construction without a fire-resistance rating provided
a) it is not a loadbearing wall, and
b) the limiting distance is not less than 3 m.
3.2.3.12. Area Increase for Unprotected Openings
1) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentence 3.2.3.7.(6), the maximum area of unprotected openings in any exposing building face of an unsprinklered building is permitted to be doubled if the openings are glazed with
a) glass block conforming to the requirements of Article 3.1.8.14., or
b) wired glass assemblies conforming to D-2.3.14. in Appendix D.
3.2.3.13. Protection of Exit Facilities
1) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentence (3) and as permitted by Sentence 3.4.4.3.(1), if the plane of an exterior wall of an exit enclosure forms an angle less than 135° with the plane of an exterior wall of the building it serves, and an opening in the exterior wall of the exit enclosure could be exposed to fire from an opening in the exterior wall of the building, the opening in either the exterior wall of the exit or the exterior wall of the building shall be protected in conformance with the requirements of Sentence (4) where the opening in the exterior wall of the building is within 3 m horizontally and
a) less than 10 m below an opening in the exterior wall of the exit, or
b) less than 2 m above an opening in the exterior wall of the exit.
(See A-3.2.3.14.(1) in Appendix A.)
2) Intent StatementIf an unenclosed exterior exit stair or ramp could be exposed to fire from an opening in the exterior wall of the building it serves, the opening in the exterior wall of the building shall be protected in conformance with the requirements of Sentence (4) where the opening in the exterior wall of the building is within 3 m horizontally and
a) less than 10 m below the exit stair or ramp, or
b) less than 5 m above the exit stair or ramp.
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence 3.4.4.3.(1), if an exterior exit door in one fire compartment is within 3 m horizontally of an opening in another fire compartment and the exterior walls of these fire compartments intersect at an exterior angle of less than 135°, the opening shall be protected in conformance with the requirements of Sentence (4).
4) Intent StatementThe opening protection referred to in Sentences (1), (2) and (3) shall consist of
a) glass block conforming to the requirements of Article 3.1.8.14.,
b) a wired glass assembly conforming to D-2.3.14. in Appendix D, or
c) a closure conforming to the requirements of Subsection 3.1.8. and Articles 3.2.3.1. and 3.2.3.14.
3.2.3.14. Wall Exposed to Another Wall
1) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentences (3) and 3.2.3.13.(1) or as permitted by Sentence 3.2.3.19.(4), if an unprotected opening in an exterior wall of a fire compartment is exposed to an unprotected opening in the exterior wall of another fire compartment, and the planes of the 2 walls are parallel or at an angle less than 135°, measured from the exterior of the building, the unprotected openings in the  2 fire compartments shall be separated by a distance not less than Do where Do = 2D − ((θ /90) x D) but in no case less than 1 m, and
D= the greater required limiting distance for the exposing building faces of the 2 fire compartments, and
θ= the angle made by the intersecting planes of the exposing building faces of the 2 fire compartments (in the case where the exterior walls are parallel and face each other, θ = 0°).
(See Appendix A.)
2) Intent StatementThe exterior wall of each fire compartment referred to in Sentence (1) within the distance, Do, shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the interior vertical fire separation between the fire compartment and the remainder of the building.
3) Intent StatementSentence (1) does not apply to unprotected openings of fire compartments within a building that is sprinklered throughout, but shall apply to
a) unprotected openings of fire compartments on opposite sides of a firewall, and
b) exposure from unprotected openings of a fire compartment that is not protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
3.2.3.15. Wall Exposed to Adjoining Roof
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence 3.2.3.19.(4), if a wall in a building is exposed to a fire hazard from an adjoining roof of a separate fire compartment that is not sprinklered in the same building, and the exposed wall contains windows within 3 storeys vertically and 5 m horizontally of the roof, the roof shall contain no skylights within 5 m of the exposed wall.
3.2.3.16. Protection of Soffits
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (3) and (4), where there is a common attic or roof space above more than 2 suites of residential occupancy or above more than 2 patients’ sleeping rooms, and the common attic or roof space projects beyond the exterior wall of the building, the soffit, and any opening in the soffit or other surface of the projection located within 2 500 mm of a window or door opening, shall be protected by
a) noncombustible material
i) not less than 0.38 mm thick, and
ii) having a melting point not below 650°C,
b) plywood not less than 11 mm thick,
c) strandboard or waferboard not less than 12.5 mm thick, or
d) lumber not less than 11 mm thick.
2) Intent StatementThe soffit protection required by Sentence (1) shall extend the full width of the opening and to not less than 1 200 mm on either side of it, and shall apply to all openings through the soffit within this limit.
3) Intent StatementIf an eave overhang is completely separated from the remainder of the attic or roof space by the use of change beginfire blockschange end, the requirements of Sentence (1) do not apply.
4) Intent Statement The protection required by Sentence (1) for projections is permitted to be omitted if
a) the fire compartments behind the window and door openings are sprinklered in accordance with Article 3.2.5.12., and
b) all rooms, including closets and bathrooms, having openings in the wall beneath the soffit are sprinklered, notwithstanding exceptions permitted in the standards referenced in Article 3.2.5.12. for the installation of automatic sprinkler systems.
3.2.3.17. Canopy Protection for Vertically Separated Openings
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), if a storey classified as a Group E or  Group F, Division 1 or 2 major occupancy is required to be separated from the storey above by a fire separation,
a) every opening in the exterior wall of the lower storey that is located vertically below an opening in the storey above shall be separated from the storey above by a canopy projecting not less than 1 m from the face of the building at the intervening floor level, and
b) the canopy required by Clause (a) shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the floor assembly but need not be more than 1 h, except as required elsewhere in this Subsection.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3), the canopy required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be omitted if the exterior wall of the upper storey is recessed not less than 1 m behind the exterior wall containing the opening in the lower storey.
3) Intent Statement The requirements of Sentences (1) and (2) are permitted to be waived if the building is sprinklered throughout.
3.2.3.18. Covered Vehicular Passageway
1) Intent StatementA covered vehicular passageway designed as a receiving or shipping area shall be separated from every building or part of a building adjoining it by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1.5 h.
2) Intent StatementA covered vehicular passageway constructed below grade shall be of noncombustible construction.
3.2.3.19. Walkway between Buildings
1) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentence 3.2.3.20.(2), if buildings are connected by a walkway, each building shall be separated from the walkway by a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3), a walkway connected to a building required to be of noncombustible construction shall also be of noncombustible construction.
3) Intent StatementA walkway connected to a building required to be of noncombustible construction is permitted to be of heavy timber construction provided
a) not less than 50% of the area of any enclosing perimeter walls is open to the outdoors, and
b) the walkway is at ground level.
4) Intent StatementA walkway of noncombustible construction used only as a pedestrian thoroughfare need not conform to the requirements of Articles 3.2.3.14. and 3.2.3.15.
5) Intent StatementA walkway between buildings shall be not more than 9 m wide.
3.2.3.20. Underground Walkway
1) Intent StatementAn underground walkway shall not be designed or used for any purpose other than pedestrian travel unless
a) the purpose is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction, and
b) sprinklers are installed in any space in the walkway containing an occupancy.
2) Intent StatementBuildings connected by an underground walkway shall be separated from the walkway by a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
3) Intent StatementAn underground walkway shall be of noncombustible construction suitable for an underground location.
4) Intent StatementIn an underground walkway
a) smoke barrier doors shall be installed at intervals of not more than 100 m, or
b) the travel distance from the door of an adjacent room or space to the nearest exit shall be not more than one and a half times the least allowable travel distance to an exit for any of the adjacent occupancies as permitted by Sentence 3.4.2.5.(1).
5) Intent StatementAn underground walkway between buildings shall be not more than 9 m wide.
3.2.3.21. Storage and Process Equipment Located Outdoors
1) Location of outdoor storage and outdoor process equipment in relation to buildings shall conform to Parts 3 and 4 of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code.

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3.2.3.22. change beginInstallation of Service Lines Under Buildings
1) Intent StatementWhen a building is erected over existing buried flammable gas mains, such service lines shall be encased in gas-tight conduits in conformance with CSA Z662, “Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems.”change end

3.2.4. Fire Alarm and Detection Systems

(See Appendix A.)
3.2.4.1. Determination of Requirement for a Fire Alarm System
1) change beginExcept as permitted in Sentences (2) and (3), a fire alarm system shall be installed in buildings in which an automatic sprinkler system is required by this Part.change end
2) Intent Statementchange beginBuildings in which a sprinkler system is installed in accordance with NFPA 13D, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes,” need not comply with Sentence (1).
3) Intent StatementBuildings that contain fewer than 9 sprinklers conforming to Sentence 3.2.5.12.(4) need not comply with Sentence (1).change end
4) Except as permitted by Sentences (5) to (7) and Sentence 3.2.4.2.(4), a fire alarm system shall be installed in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and that contains
c) more than 3 storeys, including the storeys below the first storey,
d) a total occupant load more than 300, other than in open air seating areas,
e) an occupant load more than 150 above or below the first storey, other than in open air seating areas,
f) a school, college, or child care facility, including a change begindaycare facility for children,change end with an occupant load more than 40,
g) a licensed beverage establishment or a licensed restaurant, with an occupant load more than 150,
i) a residential occupancy with sleeping accommodation for more than 10 persons,
j) a high-hazard industrial occupancy with an occupant load more than 25, or
k) an occupant load more than 300 below an open air seating area.

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5) Intent StatementWhere each dwelling unit in an apartment building that is not sprinklered has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level, a fire alarm system is not required if
a) not more than 4 dwelling units share a common means of egress, or
b) the building is not more than 3 storeys in building height.
6) Intent StatementA fire alarm system is not required in a hotel or motel 3 storeys or less in building height that is contained in a building that is not sprinklered provided each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.
7) Intent StatementA fire alarm system is not required in a storage garage conforming to Article 3.2.2.88. that is contained in a building that is not sprinklered provided there are no other occupancies in the building.
3.2.4.2. Continuity of Fire Alarm System
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as permitted by Sentence (6),change end if there are openings through a firewall, other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and totally enclosed noncombustible raceways, the requirements in this Subsection shall apply to the floor areas on both sides of the firewall as if they were in the same building.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), if a building contains more than one major occupancy and a fire alarm system is required, a single system shall serve all occupancies.
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), if a fire alarm system is required in any portion of a building, it shall be installed throughout the building.
4) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentence (5), the requirements in this Subsection are permitted to be applied to each portion of a building not more than 3 storeys in building height, in which a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h separates the portion from the remainder of the building as if it were a separate building, provided there are no openings through the fire separation, other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and totally enclosed noncombustible raceways.
5) Intent StatementThe permission in Sentence (4) to consider separated portions of a building as separate buildings does not apply to service rooms and storage rooms.
6) Intent Statementchange beginBuildings interconnected by walkways permitted in Articles 3.2.3.19. and 3.2.3.20. or by vestibules provided in conformance with Article 3.2.6.3. shall be treated as separate buildings for the purpose of fire alarm installation required by this Subsection.change end
3.2.4.3. Types of Fire Alarm Systems
1) Intent StatementA fire alarm system shall be
a) a single-stage system in a Group F, Division 1 occupancy,
b) except as permitted in Clause (c), a 2-stage system in a Group B occupancy,
c) a single- or 2-stage system in a change beginGroup B, Division 3 occupancy where thechange end building is 3 storeys or less in building height, and
d) a single- or 2-stage system in all other cases.
3.2.4.4. Description of Fire Alarm Systems
1) Intent StatementA single stage fire alarm system shall, upon the operation of any manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector, cause an alarm signal to sound on all audible signal devices in the system. (See Appendix A.)
2) Intent StatementA 2-stage fire alarm system shall
a) cause an alert signal to sound upon the operation of any manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector,
b) automatically cause an alarm signal to sound if the alert signal is not acknowledged within 5 min of its initiation, and
c) have manual stations, each of which is equipped so that the use of a key or other similar device causes an alarm signal to sound that continues to sound upon removal of the key or similar device from the manual station (see Appendix A).
(See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementA 2-stage fire alarm system is permitted to be zone coded so that, upon the operation of any manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector,
a) a coded alert signal is sounded indicating the zone of alarm initiation,
b) the coded alert signal is repeated in its entirety not less than 4 times, and
c) a continuous alert signal is sounded upon completion of the coded signals referred to in Clause (b) and Sentence (4).
4) Intent StatementIf a second manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector is operated in a fire alarm system with zone coding as permitted by Sentence (3), in a zone other than that for which the first alert signal was sounded, the coded alert signal for the first zone shall be completed before the coded alert signal for the second zone is repeated not less than 4 times.
3.2.4.5. Installation and Verification of Fire Alarm Systems
1) Intent StatementFire alarm systems, including the voice communication capability where provided, shall be installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire Alarm Systems.”
2) Intent StatementFire alarm systems shall be verified in conformance with CAN/ULC-S537, “Verification of Fire Alarm Systems,” to ensure they are operating satisfactorily.
3.2.4.6. change beginCommissioning of Life Safety and Fire Protection Systems
1) Where life safety and fire protection systems are installed to comply with the provisions of this Code or the British Columbia Fire Code, the commissioning of these integrated systems must be performed as a whole to ensure the proper operation and inter-relationship between the systems. (See Appendix A.)change end

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3.2.4.7. Silencing of Alarm Signals
1) Intent StatementA fire alarm system shall be designed so that when an alarm signal is actuated, it cannot be silenced automatically before a period of time has elapsed that is not less than
a) 5 min for a building not required to be equipped with an annunciator, and
b) 20 min for any other building.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence 3.2.4.19.(7) and Sentences 3.2.4.22.(3) and (4), a fire alarm system shall not incorporate manual silencing switches other than those installed inside the fire alarm control unit. (See Appendix A.)
3.2.4.8. Signals to Fire Department
1) Intent StatementA single stage fire alarm system installed in a building of assembly occupancy that has an occupant load more than 300 shall be designed to notify the fire department, in conformance with Sentence (4), that an alarm signal has been initiated.
2) Intent StatementA fire alarm system that includes waterflow-indicating devices shall be designed to notify the fire department in conformance with Sentence (4) when an alarm is initiated.
3) Intent StatementA 2-stage fire alarm system shall be designed to notify the fire department, in conformance with Sentence (4), that an alert signal has been initiated.
4) Intent StatementNotification of the fire department, as required by Sentences (1), (2) and (3), shall be provided in conformance with CAN/ULC-S561, “Installation and Services for Fire Signal Receiving Centres and Systems.” (See Appendix A.)
5) Intent StatementWhere a single stage fire alarm system is installed in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and Sentence (1) does not apply, a legible notice that is not easily removed shall be affixed to the wall near each manual station stating
a) that the fire department is to be notified in the event of a fire emergency, and
b) the emergency telephone number for the municipality or for the fire department (see Appendix A).
6) Intent Statementchange beginHelicopter landing areas on roofs shall be provided with telephone extensions or means to notify the fire department.change end
3.2.4.9. Annunciator and Zone Indication
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (3) to (5), an annunciator shall be installed in close proximity to a building entrance that faces a street or an access route for fire department vehicles that complies with Sentence 3.2.5.5.(1).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (6), the annunciator required by Sentence (1) shall have separate zone indication of the actuation of the alarm initiating devices in each
a) floor area so that the area of coverage for each zone in a building that is not sprinklered is not more than 2 000 m2,
b) floor area so that the area of coverage for each zone is neither
i) more than one storey, nor
ii) more than the system area limits specified in NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems,”
c) shaft required to be equipped with smoke detectors,
d) air-handling system required to be equipped with smoke detectors,
e) change beginfire extinguishing system required by NFPA 96, “Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations,”change end
(See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementAn annunciator need not be provided for a fire alarm system if not more than one zone indicator is required by Sentence (2).
4) Intent StatementIf an annunciator is not installed as part of a fire alarm system in conformance with Sentence (1), a visual and audible trouble signal device shall be provided inside the main entrance of the building.
5) Intent StatementThe requirements of Sentence (1) are waived in a building
a) in which an automatic sprinkler system is not installed,
b) that has an aggregate area for all storeys of not more than 2 000 m2, and
c) that is not more than 3 storeys in building height.
6) Intent StatementThe area limits of Clause (2)(a) are waived for an interior undivided open space used as an arena, a rink, or a swimming pool provided that other spaces in the building that are separated from the open space are individually zoned in accordance with the requirements of Sentence (2).
7) Intent StatementA fire alarm control unit installed in close proximity to a building entrance that faces a street or an access route for fire department vehicles that complies with Sentence 3.2.5.5.(1) is deemed to satisfy the requirement for an annunciator, provided all indicators required for an annunciator or trouble signal device are included on the control unit.
3.2.4.10. Electrical Supervision
1) Intent StatementElectrical supervision shall be provided for a fire alarm system.
2) change beginIf a fire alarm system in a building is required to have an annunciator by Sentence 3.2.4.9.(1), except for hose valves, all valves controlling water supplies in a standpipe system shall be equipped with an electrically supervised switch for transmitting a trouble signal to the annunciator in the event of movement of the valve handle.change end

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3) Intent StatementAn automatic sprinkler system shall be electrically supervised to indicate a supervisory signal on the building fire alarm system annunciator for each of the following:
a) movement of a valve handle that controls the supply of water to sprinklers,
b) loss of excess water pressure required to prevent false alarms in a wet pipe system,
c) loss of air pressure in a dry pipe system,
d) loss of air pressure in a pressure tank,
e) a significant change in water level in any water storage container used for firefighting purposes,
f) loss of power to any automatically starting fire pump (see Appendix A), and
g) a temperature approaching the freezing point in any dry pipe valve enclosure or water storage container used for firefighting purposes.
4) Intent Statementchange beginA fire pump shall be electrically supervised as stipulated in NFPA 20, “Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection.”change end
5) Intent Statement Indication of a supervisory signal in accordance with Sentence (3) shall be transmitted to the fire department in conformance with Sentence 3.2.4.8.(4).
3.2.4.11. Fire Detectors
1) Intent StatementFire detectors required by this Code shall be connected to the fire alarm system.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3), if a fire alarm system is required in a building that is not sprinklered, fire detectors shall be installed in the following spaces:
a) storage rooms not within dwelling units,
c) janitors’ rooms,
d) rooms in which hazardous substances are to be used or stored (see A-3.3.1.2.(1) in Appendix A),
e) elevator hoistways and dumbwaiter shafts, and
f) laundry rooms in buildings of residential occupancy, but not those within dwelling units.
3) Intent StatementFire detectors required by Sentence (2) need not be provided within floor areas that are sprinklered.
4) Intent Statementchange beginFire detectors required by Sentence (2) shall be installed in elevator hoistways and dumbwaiter shafts where a sprinkler system is not installed within the hoistway or shaft.change end
3.2.4.12. Smoke Detectors
1) Intent StatementIf a fire alarm system is installed, smoke detectors shall be installed in
a) change beginexcept as permitted in Sentence (2),change end each sleeping room and each corridor serving as part of a means of egress from sleeping rooms in portions of a building classified as a Group B major occupancy,
b) each room in a contained use area and corridors serving those rooms,
c) each corridor in portions of a building classified as a Group A, Division 1 major occupancy,
d) each public corridor in portions of a building classified as a Group C major occupancy,
e) each exit stair shaft change beginother than those serving only a Group A, Division 4 occupancy or an open storage garagechange end,
f) the vicinity of draft stops required by Article 3.2.8.7., and
g) change beginelevator machine rooms.change end
(See Appendix A.)
2) Intent Statementchange beginSmoke detectors need not be installed in sleeping rooms and in corridors serving the sleeping rooms within a suite of care occupancy where smoke alarms are installed in accordance with Article 3.2.4.21.change end
3) Intent StatementSmoke detectors required in the sleeping rooms of a care, change begintreatmentchange end or detention occupancy shall, upon actuation, provide an audible and visible signal to staff serving those rooms so that the room or location containing the actuated smoke detector can be easily identified. (See Appendix A.)
4) Intent Statementchange beginSmoke detectors required in Clause (1)(g) shall, upon actuation, recall the elevators served by the elevator machine room in which the smoke detector is installed.
5) Intent StatementExcept as permitted in Sentences (6) and (7), smoke detectors installed in buildings required to be equipped with a fire alarm system shall be located near the entrance to walkways described in Articles 3.2.3.19. and 3.2.3.20. or vestibules provided in conformance with Article 3.2.6.3.
6) Intent StatementSmoke detectors installed at the entrance to the walkways in conformance with Article 3.1.8.12. shall be deemed to meet the requirements of Sentence (5).
7) Intent StatementSmoke detectors required by Sentence (5) may be replaced with fire detectors in Group F occupancies where the smoke detectors may be subjected to false alarms due to the activities within the building.change end
3.2.4.13. Prevention of Smoke Circulation
1) Intent StatementIf a fire alarm system is installed, an air-handling system shall be designed to prevent the circulation of smoke upon a signal from a duct-type smoke detector if the air-handling system
a) serves more than one storey,
b) serves more than one suite in a storey, or
c) serves more than one fire compartment required by Sentence 3.3.3.5.(2).
3.2.4.14. Vacuum Cleaning System Shutdown
1) Intent StatementA central vacuum cleaning system in a building equipped with a fire alarm system shall be designed to shut down upon actuation of the fire alarm system.
3.2.4.15. Elevator Emergency Return
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3), in a building having elevators that serve storeys above the first storey and that are equipped with an automatic emergency recall feature, smoke detectors shall be installed in the elevator lobbies on the recall level so that when these smoke detectors are actuated, the elevators will automatically return directly to an alternate floor level.
2) Intent StatementSmoke detectors required by Sentence (1) shall be designed as part of the building fire alarm system.
3) Intent StatementThe alternate floor recall feature required by Sentence (1) is not required if the floor area containing the recall level is sprinklered throughout.
3.2.4.16. System Monitoring
1) Intent StatementAn automatic sprinkler system shall be equipped with waterflow detecting devices and, if an annunciator is required by Article 3.2.4.9., shall be installed so that each device serves
a) not more than one storey, and
b) an area on each storey that is not more than the system area limits as specified in NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems.”
2) Intent StatementWaterflow-detecting devices required by Sentence (1) shall be connected to the fire alarm system so that, upon its actuation, an alert signal or an alarm signal is initiated.
3) Intent StatementThe actuation of each waterflow detecting device required by Sentence (1) shall be indicated separately on the fire alarm system annunciator.
3.2.4.17. Manual Stations
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), where a fire alarm system is installed, a manual station shall be installed in every floor area near
a) every principal entrance to the building,
b) every required exitchange begin, and
c) every other egress facility that has been designed and identified as an exit and has all the features of a required exit.change end
(See Appendix A.)

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2) Intent StatementIn a building that is sprinklered throughout, a manual station is not required at an exterior egress doorway from a suite that does not lead to an interior shared means of egress in a hotel or motel not more than 3 storeys in building height, provided each suite is served by an exterior exit facility leading directly to ground level.
3) Intent StatementIn a building that is sprinklered throughout, a manual station is not required at an exterior egress doorway from a dwelling unit that does not lead to an interior shared means of egress in a building not more than 3 storeys in building height containing only dwelling units, provided each dwelling unit is served by an exterior exit facility leading directly to ground level.
4) Intent Statement In a building referred to in Sentences (2) or (3), manual stations shall be installed near doorways leading from shared interior corridors to the exterior.
5) Intent Statementchange beginWhere a fire alarm system is installed, a manually operated fire alarm station shall be installed on the roof at each exit from a helicopter landing area.change end
3.2.4.18. Alert and Alarm Signals
1) Intent StatementIn a 2-stage fire alarm system described in Sentence 3.2.4.4.(2), the same audible signal devices are permitted to be used to sound the alert signals and the alarm signals.
2) Intent StatementIf audible signal devices with voice reproduction capabilities are intended for paging and similar voice message use, other than during a fire emergency, they shall be installed so that alert signals and alarm signals take priority over all other signals.
3) Intent StatementAudible signal devices forming part of a fire alarm or voice communication system shall not be used for playing music or background noise.
3.2.4.19. Audibility of Alarm Systems
(See Appendix A.)
1) Intent StatementAudible signal devices forming part of a fire alarm system shall be installed in a building so that
a) change beginalarm signals are clearly audible throughout the floor area, andchange end
b) change beginalert signals are clearly audible in continuously staffed locations, and where there are no continuously staffed locations, throughout the floor area.change end
(See Appendix A.)
2) Intent StatementThe sound pattern of an alarm signal shall conform to the temporal pattern defined in Clause 4.2 of ISO 8201, “Acoustics – Audible emergency evacuation signal.” (See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementThe sound patterns of alert signals shall be significantly different from the temporal patterns of alarm signals. (See Appendix A.)
4) Intent StatementThe fire alarm signal sound pressure level shall be not more than 110 dBA in any normally occupied area. (See Appendix A.)
5) Intent StatementThe sound pressure level in a sleeping room from a fire alarm audible signal device shall be not less than 75 dBA in a building of residential change beginor care occupancychange end when any intervening doors between the device and the sleeping room are closed. (See Appendix A.)
6) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentence (5), the sound pressure level from a fire alarm system’s audible signal device within a floor area shall be not less than 10 dBA above the ambient noise level without being less than 65 dBA.
7) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (11), audible signal devices located within a dwelling unit shall include a means for them to be manually silenced for a period of not more than 10 min, after which time the devices shall restore themselves to normal operation. (See Appendix A.)
8) Intent StatementAudible signal devices within a dwelling unit or a suite of residential change beginor care occupancychange end shall be connected to the fire alarm system
a) in a manner such that a single open circuit at one device will not impair the operation of other audible signal devices on that same circuit that serve the other dwelling units or suites of residential change beginor care occupancychange end, or
b) on separate signal circuits that are not connected to the devices in any other dwelling unit, public corridor or suite of residential change beginor care occupancychange end.
(See Appendix A.)
9) Intent StatementIn a building or part thereof classified as a residential change beginor care occupancychange end,
a) separate circuits shall be provided for audible signal devices on each floor area, and
b) audible signal devices within dwelling units or suites of residential change beginor care occupancychange end shall be wired on separate signal circuits from those not within dwelling units or suites of residential change beginor care occupancychange end.
(See A-3.2.4.19.(8) in Appendix A.)
10) Intent StatementAudible signal devices shall be installed in a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8) and shall be connected to the fire alarm system.
11) Intent StatementAudible signal devices within dwelling units that are wired on separate signal circuits need not include a means for silencing as required by Sentence (7) provided the fire alarm system includes a provision for an automatic signal silence within dwelling units, where
a) the automatic signal silence cannot occur within the first 60 s of operation or within the zone of initiation,
b) a subsequent alarm elsewhere in the building will reactuate the silenced audible signal devices within dwelling units,
c) after a period of not more than 10 min, the silenced audible signal devices will be restored to continuous audible signal if the alarm is not acknowledged, and
d) the voice communication system referred to in Article 3.2.4.22. has a provision to override the automatic signal silence to allow the transmission of voice messages through silenced audible signal device circuits that serve the dwelling units.
(See A-3.2.4.19.(7) in Appendix A.)
12) Intent StatementIf a 2-stage fire alarm system has been installed with an automatic signal silence as described in Sentence (11), the system shall be designed so that any silenced audible signal devices serving dwelling units are reactuated whenever an alarm signal is required to be transmitted as part of the second stage. (See A-3.2.4.19.(7) in Appendix A.)
3.2.4.20. Visual Signals
1) Intent Statementchange beginVisual signal devices shall be installed in addition to audible signal devices
a) in buildings or portions thereof intended for use primarily by persons with a hearing impairment,
b) in assembly occupancies in which music and other sounds associated with performances could exceed 100 dBA,
c) in any floor area in which the ambient noise level is more than 87 dBA, and
d) in any floor area in which the occupants
i) use ear protection devices,
ii) are located in an audiometric booth, or
iii) are located in sound-insulating enclosures.change end
2) Intent StatementVisual signal devices required by change beginSentence (1)change end shall be installed so that the signal from at least one device is visible throughout the floor area or portion thereof in which they are installed. (See Appendix A.)
3) Except as provided in Sentence (6), to assist persons with a hearing impairment, a visual warning system and conforming to Sentences (4) and (5) shall be installed in locations described in Articles 3.8.2.27. to 3.8.2.31.
4) The visual warning system required by Sentence (6) and Sentences (4) and (5) shall consist of strobe lights supervised, activated and powered by means of the fire alarm system (supervised by the fire alarm system means up to, but not including, the strobe lights), and be connected to, activated by, and powered by, the sounding of the smoke alarm and
a) have a luminous intensity of not less than 2 candelas and produce between 1 and 3 flashes per second,
b) have a clear or white translucent lens,
c) have the word “FIRE” clearly visible on the lens or attached nameplate,
d) be installed in each
i) bedroom,
ii) room closed off from the living area by a door except a bathroom, and
iii) living area or hallway serving the living area, and
e) be located in conformance with the installation requirements for visual signal devices in CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire Alarm Systems.”
5) When the strobe lights described in Sentences (4) and (7) are activated by the smoke alarm, a separate small indicator light shall be activated and shall be located
a) immediately adjacent to the strobe lights and clearly identified as “SMOKE,” or
b) on the smoke alarm, or immediately adjacent to the smoke alarm.
6) When a fire alarm system is not provided in occupancies required by Subsection 3.8.2. to have a warning system, smoke alarms required by Sentence 3.2.4.21.(1) and Article 9.10.19.1. in such occupancies shall be provided with strobe lights, in locations described in Articles 3.8.2.27. to 3.8.2.31., change beginthatchange end
a) change beginarechange end connected to, and activated by, the sounding of the smoke alarm,
b) have a luminous intensity of not less than 2 candelas and produce between 1 and 3 flashes per second,
c) have a clear or white translucent lens,
d) have the word “SMOKE” clearly visible on the lens or attached nameplate,
e) change beginarechange end installed in each
i) bedroom,
ii) room closed off from the living area by a door except a bathroom, and
iii) living area or hallway serving the living area, and
f) be located not less than 2 100 mm above the floor on a wall or ceiling in a location that will maximize effectiveness.
7) The special outlet boxes change beginandchange end cover plates required by Sentence 3.8.2.27.(3) shall change beginbechange end
a) designed and wired specifically to allow strobe lights conforming to Clause (6)(a) above
i) to operate as required by Sentence (4) for a fire alarm system where a fire alarm system is provided, and
ii) to be connected to, and activated by, the sounding of the smoke alarm (see also Sentence (5)),
b) permanently identified as “FIRE — Strobe Light Connection Only,”
c) change begininstalled in each
i) bedroom,
ii) room closed off from the living area by a door except a bathroom, and
iii) living area or hallway serving the living area, and
d) be located not less than 2 100 mm above the floor, on a wall or ceiling, in a location that will maximize effectiveness.change end
8) For the purpose of providing power to the strobe lights that may be connected to the outlets described in Sentence (7), it shall be assumed that the total special outlets for at least change begin20 per cent of the dwelling units in the buildingchange end are in use.
3.2.4.21. Smoke Alarms
1) change beginExcept as required by Sentence (4) and permitted by Sentence (7),change end smoke alarms conforming to change beginCAN/ULC-S531, “Standard for Smoke-Alarms,”change end shall be installed in each dwelling unit and, except for change begincare, treatment or detention occupancieschange end required to have a fire alarm system, in each sleeping room not within a dwelling unit change beginor suite of care occupancychange end.

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2) Intent StatementAt least one smoke alarm shall be installed on each storey of a dwelling unit change beginor suite of care occupancychange end.
3) Intent StatementOn any storey of a dwelling unit containing sleeping rooms, a smoke alarm shall be installed
a) change beginin each sleeping room, andchange end
b) in a location between the sleeping rooms and the remainder of the storey, and if the sleeping rooms are served by a hallway, the smoke alarm shall be located in the hallway.
4) Intent Statementchange beginWhere a care occupancy has individual suites for residents, a smoke alarm shall be installed
a) in each sleeping room, and
b) in a location between the sleeping rooms and the remainder of the suite, and if the sleeping rooms are served by a corridor within the suite, the smoke alarm shall be located in the corridor.change end
5) Intent StatementA smoke alarm shall be installed on or near the ceiling.
6) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as permitted in Sentence (7), smoke alarms referred in Sentence (1) shallchange end
a) be installed with permanent connections to an electrical circuit (see Appendix A),
b) have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm, and
c) change beginin case the regular power supply to the smoke alarm is interrupted, be provided with a battery as an alternative power source that can continue to provide power to the smoke alarm for a period of no less than 7 days in the normal condition, followed by 4 minutes of alarm.change end
7) change beginA suite of residential occupancy is permitted to be equipped with smoke detectors in lieu of smoke alarms, provided the smoke detectors
a) sound audible signals only within the individual suite they serve,
b) except as permitted by Sentence (8), are installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire Alarm Systems,” and
c) form part of the fire alarm system.
(See Appendix A.)

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8) Reserved.change end

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9) Intent StatementIf more than one smoke alarm is required in a dwelling unit, the smoke alarms shall be wired so that the actuation of one smoke alarm will cause all smoke alarms within the dwelling unit to sound.
10) Intent StatementA smoke alarm required by Sentence (1) shall be installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S553, “Installation of Smoke-Alarms.”
11) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as permitted in Sentence (12), achange end manually operated silencing device shall be incorporated within the circuitry of a smoke alarm installed in a dwelling unit so that it will silence the signal emitted by the smoke alarm for a period of not more than 10 min, after which the smoke alarm will reset and again sound the alarm if the level of smoke in the vicinity is sufficient to reactuate the smoke alarm.
12) Intent Statementchange beginSuites of residential occupancy equipped with smoke detectors installed to CAN/ULC-S524, “Installation of Fire Alarm Systems,” as part of the fire alarm system in lieu of smoke alarms as permitted by Sentence (7), need not incorporate the manually operated device required in Sentence (11). (See A-3.2.4.21.(7) in Appendix A.)change end
13) Intent StatementThe sound patterns of smoke alarms shall
a) meet the temporal patterns of alarm signals (see A-3.2.4.19.(2) in Appendix A), or
b) change beginbe a combination temporal pattern and voice relay.change end
3.2.4.22. Voice Communication Systems
1) Intent StatementA voice communication system required by Subsection 3.2.6. change beginand Sentences (7) to (10)change end shall consist of
a) a two-way means of communication with the central alarm and control facility and to the mechanical control centre change beginfrom each floor areachange end, and
b) loudspeakers operated from the central alarm and control facility that are designed and located so that transmitted messages are audible and intelligible as stated in Sentence (2) in all parts of the building, except that this requirement does not apply to elevator cars (see Appendix A).
2) Intent Statementchange beginThe voice communication system described in Clause (1)(b) shall be capable of broadcasting prerecorded, synthesized, or live messages with voice intelligibility meeting or exceeding the equivalent of a common intelligibility scale score of 0.70. (See Appendix A.)change end
3) Intent StatementThe voice communication system referred to in Sentence (1) shall include a means to silence the alarm signal in a single stage fire alarm system while voice instructions are being transmitted, but only after the alarm signal has initially sounded for not less than 30 s.
4) Intent StatementThe voice communication system referred to in Sentence (1) shall include a means to silence the alert signal and the alarm signal in a 2-stage fire alarm system while voice instructions are being transmitted, but only after the alert signal has initially sounded for not less than
a) 10 s in hospitals that have supervisory personnel on duty for twenty-four hours each day, or
b) 30 s for all other occupancies.
5) Intent StatementThe voice communication system referred to in Clause (1)(b) shall be designed so that the alarm signal in a 2-stage fire alarm system can be selectively transmitted to any zone or zones while maintaining an alert signal or selectively transmitting voice instructions to any other zone or zones in the building.
6) Intent StatementThe 2-way communication system referred to in Clause (1)(a) shall be installed so that emergency telephones are located in each floor area near exit stair shafts.
7) Intent Statementchange beginExcept for Group B, Division 1 and Group F, Division 1 major occupancies, where a fire alarm system is required under Subsection 3.2.4., a voice communication system shall be installed in buildings where a 2-stage fire alarm system is installed and whose occupant load exceeds 1 000.
8) Intent StatementA voice communication system required by Sentence (7) shall consist of loudspeakers that are
a) operated from the central alarm and control facility or, in the absence of such a facility, from a designated area, and
b) except in elevator cars, designed and located so that transmitted messages are audible and intelligible in all parts of the building.
(See A-3.2.4.22.(1)(b) in Appendix A.)
9) Intent StatementWhere the facility is not equipped with staff trained to provide instructions over the loudspeakers, a pre-recorded message shall be provided.
10) The voice communication system required by Sentence (7) shall meet the silencing and transmission requirements of Sentences (3) to (5).change end

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3.2.5. Provisions for Firefighting

(See A-3 in Appendix A.)
3.2.5.1. Access to Above-grade Storeys
1) Intent StatementExcept for storeys below the first storey, direct access for firefighting shall be provided from the outdoors to every storey that is not sprinklered throughout and whose floor level is less than 25 m above grade, by at least one unobstructed window or access panel for each 15 m of wall in each wall required to face a street by Subsection 3.2.2.
2) Intent StatementAn opening for access required by Sentence (1) shall
a) have a sill no higher than 900 mm above the inside floor, and
b) be not less than 1 100 mm high by not less than
i) 550 mm wide for a building not designed for the storage or use of dangerous goods, or
ii) 750 mm wide for a building designed for the storage or use of dangerous goods.
3) Intent StatementAccess panels above the first storey shall be readily openable from both inside and outside, or the opening shall be glazed with plain glass.
3.2.5.2. Access to Basements
1) Intent StatementDirect access from at least one street shall be provided from the outdoors in a building that is not sprinklered to each basement having a horizontal dimension more than 25 m.
2) Intent StatementThe access required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be provided by
a) doors, windows or other means that provide an opening not less than 1 100 mm high and 550 mm wide, with a sill no higher than 900 mm above the inside floor, or
b) an interior stairway immediately accessible from the outdoors.
3.2.5.3. Roof Access
1) Intent StatementOn a building more than 3 storeys in building height where the slope of the roof is less than 1 in 4, all main roof areas shall be provided with direct access from the floor areas immediately below, either by
a) a stairway, or
b) a hatch not less than 550 mm by 900 mm with a fixed ladder.
3.2.5.4. Access Routes
1) Intent StatementA building which is more than 3 storeys in building height or more than 600 m2 in building area shall be provided with access routes for fire department vehicles
a) to the building face having a principal entrance, and
b) to each building face having access openings for firefighting as required by Articles 3.2.5.1. and 3.2.5.2.
(See Appendix A.)
3.2.5.5. Location of Access Routes
1) Intent StatementAccess routes required by Article 3.2.5.4. shall be located so that the principal entrance and every access opening required by Articles 3.2.5.1. and 3.2.5.2. are located not less than 3 m and not more than 15 m from the closest portion of the access route required for fire department use, measured horizontally from the face of the building.
2) Intent StatementAccess routes shall be provided to a building so that
a) for a building provided with a fire department connection, a fire department pumper vehicle can be located adjacent to the hydrants referred to in Article 3.2.5.15.,
b) for a building not provided with a fire department connection, a fire department pumper vehicle can be located so that the length of the access route from a hydrant to the vehicle plus the unobstructed path of travel for the firefighter from the vehicle to the building is not more than 90 m, and
c) the unobstructed path of travel for the firefighter from the vehicle to the building is not more than 45 m.
3) Intent StatementThe unobstructed path of travel for the firefighter required by Sentence (2) from the vehicle to the building shall be measured from the vehicle to the fire department connection provided for the building, except that if no fire department connection is provided, the path of travel shall be measured to the principal entrance of the building.
4) Intent StatementIf a portion of a building is completely cut off from the remainder of the building so that there is no access to the remainder of the building, the access routes required by Sentence (2) shall be located so that the unobstructed path of travel from the vehicle to one entrance of each portion of the building is not more than 45 m.
3.2.5.6. Access Route Design
1) Intent StatementA portion of a roadway or yard provided as a required access route for fire department use shall
a) have a clear width not less than 6 m, unless it can be shown that lesser widths are satisfactory,
b) have a centreline radius not less than 12 m,
c) have an overhead clearance not less than 5 m,
d) have a change of gradient not more than 1 in 12.5 over a minimum distance of 15 m,
e) be designed to support the expected loads imposed by firefighting equipment and be surfaced with concrete, asphalt or other material designed to permit accessibility under all climatic conditions,
f) have turnaround facilities for any dead-end portion of the access route more than 90 m long, and
g) be connected with a public thoroughfare.
(See Appendix A.)
3.2.5.7. Water Supply
1) Intent StatementEvery building shall be provided with an adequate water supply for firefighting. (See Appendix A.)
2) Buildings change beginthatchange end are sprinklered throughout with a sprinkler system conforming to change beginArticle 3.2.5.12.change end or have a standpipe system conforming to Article 3.2.5.9. to 3.2.5.11. need not comply with Sentence 3.2.5.7.(1).
3.2.5.8. Standpipe Systems
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence 3.2.5.9.(4), a standpipe system shall be installed in a building that is
a) more than 3 storeys in building height,
b) more than 14 m high measured between grade and the ceiling of the top storey, or
c) not more than 14 m high measured between grade and the ceiling of the top storey but has a building area exceeding the area shown in Table 3.2.5.8. for the applicable building height unless the building is sprinklered throughout.
Table 3.2.5.8.
Building Limits without Standpipe Systems
Forming part of Sentence 3.2.5.8.(1)

Occupancy Classification

Building Area, m2

1 storey

2 storeys

3 storeys

Group A 2 500 2 000 1 500
Group C 2 000 1 500 1 000
Group D 4 000 3 000 2 000
Group F, Division 2 1 500 1 500 1 000
Group F, Division 3 3 000 2 000 1 000
3.2.5.9. Standpipe System Design
1) Intent StatementExcept as required or permitted by Sentences (2) to (6) and Articles 3.2.5.10. and 3.2.5.11. and Sentence 3.2.4.10.(2), the design, construction, installation and testing of a standpipe system shall conform to NFPA 14, “Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems.”
2) Intent StatementA dry standpipe that is not connected to a water supply shall not be considered as fulfilling the requirements of this Article.
3) Intent StatementIf more than one standpipe is provided, the total water supply need not be more than 30 L/s.
4) Intent StatementA standpipe need not be installed in a storage garage conforming to Article 3.2.2.88. provided the building is not more than 15 m high.
5) Intent StatementThe residual water pressure at the design flow rate at the topmost hose connection of a standpipe system that is required to be installed in a building is permitted to be less than 690 kPa provided
a) the building is sprinklered throughout,
b) the water supply at the base of the sprinkler riser is capable of meeting, without a fire pump, the design flow rate and pressure demand of the sprinkler system, including the inside and outside hose allowance, and
c) fire protection equipment is available to deliver, by means of the fire department connection, the full demand flow rate at a residual water pressure of 690 kPa at the topmost hose connection of the standpipe system. (See Appendix A.)
6) Intent StatementA fire department connection shall be provided for every standpipe system.
3.2.5.10. Hose Connections
1) Intent StatementHose connections shall be located in exits, in accordance with NFPA 14, “Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems.”
2) Intent StatementHose connections are not required within a floor area.
3) Intent StatementHose connections shall be provided with sufficient clearance to permit the use of a standard fire department hose key.
4) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (5), 64 mm diam hose connections shall be installed in a standpipe system.
5) Intent StatementHose connections for 64 mm diam hose are not required in a building that is not more than 25 m high, measured between grade and the ceiling level of the top storey and in which an automatic sprinkler system is not installed.
3.2.5.11. Hose Stations
1) Intent StatementHose stations for 38 mm diam hose shall be installed for a standpipe system in a building that is not sprinklered throughout.
2) Intent StatementHose stations for a 38 mm diam hose shall be installed for a standpipe system within every floor area that is not sprinklered throughout. (See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementHose stations shall be located in the floor area within 5 m of exits and at other locations to provide coverage of the entire floor area.
4) Intent StatementA hose station located on one side of a horizontal exit shall be considered to serve only the floor area on that side of the horizontal exit.
5) Intent StatementA hose cabinet shall be located so that its door, when fully opened, will not obstruct the required width of a means of egress.
6) Intent Statementchange beginWhere a building or part thereof is used as a distillery and the building is sprinklered in conformance with Article 3.2.5.12., small hose (38 mm) stations are permitted to be supplied from interior sprinkler piping.
7) Intent StatementWhere a hose station is provided in grain handling and storage facilities in which combustible dusts are produced in quantities or concentrations that create an explosion or fire hazard, fog and fine spray nozzles shall be used instead of nozzles that discharge a solid stream of water to prevent combustible dusts from being raised into suspension.change end
3.2.5.12. Automatic Sprinkler Systems
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2), (3) and (4), an automatic sprinkler system shall be designed, constructed, installed and tested in conformance with NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems.” (See Appendix A.)
2) Instead of the requirements of Sentence (1), NFPA 13R, “Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies,” is permitted to be used for the design, construction and installation of an automatic sprinkler system installed
a) in a building of change beginGroup C major occupancy containing no other major occupancies, thatchange end
i) is not more than 4 storeys in building height and conforms to Articles 3.2.2.47., 3.2.2.48., 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.53., or
ii) change beginis not more than 3 storeys in building height and conforms to Article 9.10.1.3., orchange end
b) change beginin a building of care occupancy with not more than 10 occupants that is not more than 3 storeys in building height and conforms to Articles 3.2.2.42. to 3.2.2.46.change end

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3) Intent StatementInstead of the requirements of Sentence (1), NFPA 13D, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes,” is permitted to be used for the design, construction and installation of an automatic sprinkler system installed
a) in a building of residential occupancy throughout that contains not more than 2 dwelling units, or
b) change beginin a building of care occupancy, providedchange end
i) change beginit contains not more than 2 suites of care occupancy,change end
ii) change beginit has not more than 5 residents throughout, andchange end
iii) change begina 30-minute water supply demand can be met.change end
4) Intent StatementIf a building contains fewer than 9 sprinklers, the water supply for these sprinklers is permitted to be supplied from the domestic water system for the building provided the required flow for the sprinklers can be met by the domestic system.
5) Intent StatementIf a water supply serves both an automatic sprinkler system and a system serving other equipment, control valves shall be provided so that either system can be shut off independently.
6) Intent StatementNotwithstanding the requirements of the standards referenced in Sentences (1) and (2) regarding the installation of automatic sprinkler systems, sprinklers shall not be omitted in any room or closet in the storey immediately below a roof assembly. (See Appendix A.)
7) Fast response sprinklers shall be installed in residential occupancies, care occupancies and detention occupancies. (See Appendix A.)
8) Sprinklers in elevator machine rooms shall have a temperature rating not less than that required for an intermediate temperature classification and shall be protected against physical damage. (See Appendix A.)

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3.2.5.13. Combustible Sprinkler Piping
1) Intent StatementCombustible sprinkler piping shall be used only for wet systems in residential occupancies and other light-hazard occupancies. (See Appendix A.)
2) Intent StatementCombustible sprinkler piping shall meet the requirements of ULC/ORD-C199P, “Combustible Piping for Sprinkler Systems.”
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (5), combustible sprinkler piping shall be separated from the area served by the sprinkler system, and from any other fire compartment, by ceilings, walls, or soffits consisting of, as a minimum,
a) lath and plaster,
b) gypsum board not less than 9.5 mm thick,
c) plywood not less than 13 mm thick, or
d) a suspended membrane ceiling with
i) steel suspension grids, and
ii) lay-in panels or tiles having a mass not less than 1.7 kg/m2.
4) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (5), combustible sprinkler piping may be located above a ceiling provided that the distance between the edge of any ceiling opening that is not protected in conformance with Sentence (3) and the nearest sprinkler is not more than 300 mm.
5) Intent StatementWhere combustible sprinkler piping has been tested in conformance with ULC/ORD-C199P, “Combustible Piping for Sprinkler Systems,” and has been shown to meet the requirements therein without additional protection, conformance to Sentences (3) and (4) is not required.
3.2.5.14. Sprinklered Service Space
1) Intent StatementAn automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8) if flooring for access within the service space is other than catwalks.
2) Intent StatementThe sprinkler system required by Sentence (1) shall be equipped with waterflow detecting devices, with each device serving not more than one storey.
3) Intent StatementThe waterflow detecting devices required by Sentence (2) shall be connected to the fire alarm system, to
a) initiate an alert signal in a 2-stage system or an alarm signal in a single stage system, and
b) indicate separately on the fire alarm system annunciator the actuation of each device.
3.2.5.15. Fire Department Connections
1) Intent StatementThe fire department connection for a standpipe system shall be located so that the distance from the fire department connection to a hydrant is not more than 45 m and is unobstructed.
2) Intent StatementThe fire department connection for an automatic sprinkler system shall be located so that the distance from the fire department connection to a hydrant is not more than 45 m and is unobstructed.
3.2.5.16. Portable Fire Extinguishers
1) Portable extinguishers shall be provided and installed in accordance with the British Columbia Fire Code.

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2) Intent StatementIn a Group B, Division 1 major occupancy, portable fire extinguishers are permitted to be located in secure areas, or in lockable cabinets provided
a) identical keys for all cabinets are located at all supervisory or security stations, or
b) electrical remote release devices are provided and are connected to an emergency power supply.
3.2.5.17. Protection from Freezing
1) Intent StatementEquipment forming part of a fire protection system shall be protected from freezing if
a) it could be adversely affected by freezing temperatures, and
b) it is located in an unheated area.
3.2.5.18. Fire Pumps
1) Intent StatementIf a fire pump is installed, it shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 20, “Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection.” (See Appendix A.)

3.2.6. Additional Requirements for High Buildings

(See Appendix B.)
3.2.6.1. Application
1) Intent StatementThis Subsection applies to a building
a) of Group A, D, E or F major occupancy classification that is more than
i) 36 m high, measured between grade and the floor level of the top storey, or
ii) 18 m high, measured between grade and the floor level of the top storey, and in which the cumulative or total occupant load on or above any storey above grade, other than the first storey, divided by 1.8 times the width in metres of all exit stairs at that storey, exceeds 300,
b) containing a Group B major occupancy in which the floor level of the highest storey of that major occupancy is more than 18 m above grade,
c) containing a floor area or part of a floor area located above the third storey designed or intended as a Group B, Division 2 change beginor 3change end occupancy, or
d) containing a Group C major occupancy whose floor level is more than 18 m above grade.
3.2.6.2. Limits to Smoke Movement
1) Intent StatementA building to which this Subsection applies shall be designed in accordance with Sentences (2) to (5) and Article 3.2.6.3. to limit the danger to occupants and firefighters from exposure to smoke in a building fire.
2) Intent StatementA building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be designed so that, during a period of 2 h after the start of a fire, each exit stair serving storeys below the lowest exit level will not contain more than 1% by volume of contaminated air from the fire floor, assuming an outdoor temperature equal to the January design temperature on a 2.5% basis determined in accordance with Subsection 1.1.3. (See Appendix B.)
3) Intent Statement Each stairway that serves storeys above