Vancouver Building By-law
Part 10 of Division B: Existing Buildings
(See Appendix A 
[126kb])
» Section 10.1. Application
» Section 10.2. Alternatives to Assist Rehabilitation
» Section 10.3. Building Conversions
» Section 10.4. Heritage Buildings
Section 10.1. Application
10.1.1. Alteration, Addition and Change of Occupancy
10.1.1.1. General
1) If construction of an existing building occurred before the effective date of this By-law then, despite anything to the contrary in this By-law except for Articles 10.1.1.3 to 10.1.1.8, reconstruction or alteration of the existing building is not a requirement of this By-law.
2) Except as provided in Sentences (3) and (4), a person who makes an alteration to an existing building shall
a) comply with this By-law,
b) not increase the non-conformity of the existing building or create a non-conformity with respect to this By-law, and
c) upgrade the existing building to an acceptable level in accordance with the objectives set out in Article 10.1.1.2.
(See A-10 in Appendix A
3) If
a) construction or full upgrading of a building occurred after June 1, 1987,
b) a person corrects all unsafe conditions to an acceptable level, and
c) the work does not involve an addition or a change in major occupancy except for a change of occupancy to a small suite,
then further upgrading is not a requirement of this By-law.
4) If
a) a person makes an alteration to a one-family dwelling or two-family dwelling without a sprinkler system,
b) the alteration is not a change of use,
c) the alteration will not result in more dwelling units, other than a secondary suite, and
d) the value of the alteration is less than 50% of the replacement value of the building,
then installation of a sprinkler system is not a requirement of this By-law.
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10.1.1.2. Upgrade Objectives
1) An alteration to an existing building shall trigger upgrading of the existing building in accordance with the following objectives:
a) all unsafe conditions shall require correction to an acceptable level,
b) all new materials and construction work shall comply with this By-law,
c) an alteration shall not create a non-conformity or substantially increase the level of non-conformity of the existing building with this By-law,
d) an acceptable level of upgrading shall meet requirements having the objectives of health, safety, accessibility, and protection of adjacent property,
e) any significant extension of the life of an existing building beyond its original design life shall require upgrading to an acceptable level,
f) an alteration to an individual suite within an existing building shall not trigger upgrades within any other suites except if the alteration creates or increases non-conformity with the By-law within such other suites, and
g) an alteration involving reconstruction of an existing building shall require improvement of energy efficiency to an acceptable level.
10.1.1.3. Self-contained Buildings
1) If
a) a person makes an alteration to part of an existing building, and constructs that part as a completely self-contained separate building with a 2 h non-combustible fire separation,
b) the self-contained part does not increase or create a non-conformity to the existing building, and
c) the self-contained part does not exit through the remaining part of the existing building,
then the person shall upgrade the self-contained part to comply with this By-law but upgrading of the remaining part of the existing building is not a requirement of this By-law.
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10.1.1.4. Relocated Buildings
1) A person who relocates all or any part of an existing building either within or into the city, including relocation relative to property lines created by subdivision or consolidation, shall upgrade the existing building to an acceptable level.
10.1.1.5. Demolished Buildings
1) A person who demolishes all or any part of an existing building shall comply with this By-law, and this By-law shall apply to the work involved in the demolition and to the work required to any part of the existing building remaining after demolition.
10.1.1.6. Damaged buildings
1) In case of damage to an existing building, this By-law and the Vancouver Fire By-law shall apply to the work necessary to reconstruct damaged portions of the existing building and to correct any deficiencies in the remainder of the existing building to the extent required by Article 10.1.1.1.
10.1.1.7. Unsafe Condition
1) If an unsafe condition exists in or about an existing building, this By-law and the Vancouver Fire By-law shall apply to the work necessary to correct the unsafe condition.
10.1.1.8. Fire Department Upgrade Program
1) If an order issued under the Vancouver Fire By-law requires upgrading of an existing building, and the Chief Building Official is satisfied as to the provision of an acceptable level of safety, the Chief Building Official may allow deviations from this By-law.
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Section 10.2. Alternatives to Assist Rehabilitation
10.2.1. Objectives
10.2.1.1. Scope
1) The provisions of this Section are alternative requirements to assist in the rehabilitation and the change of major occupancy of existing buildings and shall not be used for any alterations or additions which may increase the non-conformance of existing buildings.
10.2.1.2. Conditions for Using Alternative Measures
1) Where an existing building or portion of an existing building is required by Subsection 10.1.1. to comply with this By-law, the provisions contained in this Section may be selected as alternative measures under the conditions specified in Sentences (2) to (8) provided the existing building was originally constructed pursuant to a building permit issued prior to 1 January 1980.
2) Where the building height and building area limitations of Subsection 3.2.2. require an existing building to be of noncombustible construction, the applicable Article of Subsection 10.2.2. may be used as an alternative in its entirety.
3) Where the spatial separation and exposure protection requirements of Subsection 3.2.3. require the exterior walls of an existing building to be of noncombustible construction, Subsection 10.2.3. may be used.
4) Where an existing building requires structural assessment or upgrading, Subsection 10.2.4. may be used.
5) Where the fire containment measures of an existing building are deficient, Subsection 10.2.5. may be used.
6) Where the exits in an existing building are deficient, Subsection 10.2.6. may be used.
7) Where an existing building is sprinklered throughout, the applicable relaxations of Subsection 10.2.7. may be used.
8) Where an existing building is designated as a heritage building, alternate compliance methods as detailed in Subsection 10.4.1. can be substituted for the requirements contained elsewhere in this By-law.
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10.2.1.3. Noncombustible Construction Required
1) Where required by Subsection 3.2.2., all additions and new work shall be of noncombustible construction, except that minor infill of existing floor or wall assemblies may be of combustible construction where permitted by the Chief Building Official provided
a) the minor infill for the floor assembly does not exceed 5 percent of the floor area of the room in which it is located, and
b) the minor infill for the wall assembly does not exceed 5 percent of the wall plane of the wall on which it is located.
10.2.2. Building Safety
10.2.2.1. Group A1 up to 600 Auditorium Occupants
1) A Group A, Division 1 occupancy having an occupant load of not more than 600 may be permitted within the first and second storey of an existing building provided the building conforms to Sentence (2).
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a) be upgraded to comply with Sentence 3.2.2.21.(2), except that all floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) be provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4., notwithstanding any exemptions permitted by Article 3.2.4.1.,
c) be provided with lighting and emergency power systems conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
d) be upgraded to provide all exit locations with a maximum travel distance of 22.5 m for sprinklered buildings and 15 m for unsprinklered buildings,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., be upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
f) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., be upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
h) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7. and as required by Clause (d), be upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
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10.2.2.2. Group A1 up to 300 Auditorium Occupants
1) A Group A, Division 1 occupancy having an auditorium occupant load of not more than 300, may be permitted within the first and second storey of an existing building, provided the building conforms to Sentence (2).
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a) be upgraded to comply with Sentence 3.2.2.22.(2), except that all floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h,
b) be provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4., notwithstanding any exemptions permitted by Article 3.2.4.1.,
c) be provided with lighting and emergency power systems conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
d) be upgraded to provide all exit locations with a maximum travel distance of 22.5 m for sprinklered buildings and 15 m for unsprinklered buildings,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., be upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
f) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., be upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
h) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7. and as required by Clause (d), be upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
10.2.2.3. Group A2 in Building More Than 3 Storeys
1) A Group A, Division 2 occupancy may be permitted within the first 3 storeys of an existing building which is more than three storeys in building height, provided the building conforms to Sentence (2), and provided
a) the entire building is sprinklered where the occupancy is located on the third storey or where the building area exceeds 400 m², or
b) where the occupancy is located on the first or second storey, the building is sprinklered up to and including the storey containing the Group A2 occupancy.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall conform to Sentence 10.2.2.4.(2).
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10.2.2.4. Group A2 Up to 3 Storeys
1) A Group A, Division 2 occupancy may be permitted in an existing building not more than three storeys in building height, provided the building conforms to Sentence (2), and provided the entire building is sprinklered where
a) the building area exceeds 400 m², or
b) the occupancy is located on the third storey.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a) be upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.25.(2),
b) be provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4., notwithstanding any exemptions permitted by Article 3.2.4.1.,
c) be provided with lighting and emergency power systems conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
d) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., be upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., be upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
f) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
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10.2.2.5. Group B2 Ambulatory Occupants
1) A Group B, Division 2 occupancy containing only occupants that are capable of walking up or down stairs unaided may be permitted within the first 3 storeys of an existing building, provided it conforms to Sentence (2), and provided the entire building is sprinklered.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a) be upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.40.(2),
b) be provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4. where the building contains more than 2 storeys including storeys below grade or where the building area exceeds 250 m² regardless of the occupant load,
c) be provided with lighting and emergency power systems conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
d) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., be upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., be upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
f) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
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10.2.2.6. Group B2 Non-ambulatory Occupants
1) A Group B, Division 2, non-ambulatory occupancy may be permitted only within a storey of an existing building which has direct or ramped access to ground level, provided the building conforms to Sentence (2) and provided the entire building is sprinklered.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a) be upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.40.(2),
b) be provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4. where the building contains more than 2 storeys including storeys below grade or where the building area exceeds 250 m² regardless of the occupant load,
c) be provided with lighting and emergency power systems conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
d) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., be upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., be upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
f) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
10.2.2.7. Group C More Than 3 Storeys
1) A Group C occupancy may be permitted in an existing building more than 3 storeys in building height provided it conforms to Sentence (2) and provided the entire building is sprinklered.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a) be upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.45.(2), provided the building conforms to Clause 3.2.2.43.(1)(c),
b) where the limitations of Clause 3.2.2.43.(1)(c) are exceeded, be upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.43.(2), except that existing combustible construction is permitted,
c) be provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4.,
d) be provided with lighting and emergency power systems conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., be upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
f) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., be upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
h) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., be upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
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10.2.2.8. Single Room Occupancies
1) Single Room occupancies are permitted in an existing building classified as a Group C hotel occupancy where the entire building is
a) provided with a sprinkler system which incorporates quick-response heads,
b) upgraded to provide fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h between storeys and between suites, except that a 45 min fire-resistance rating or existing lath and plaster in good repair is acceptable when the building is no more than 3 storeys in building height,
c) upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4., except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7.,
d) upgraded to provide public corridors conforming to Article 3.3.1.4., except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.6.,
e) provided with emergency lighting conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
f) when the number of living units exceeds 5, provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4., including smoke detectors in public corridors and a smoke alarm in each sleeping area,
g) provided with a structural survey conforming to Article 10.2.4.2. and provided all floors and beams are substantially connected to walls and columns,
h) provided, as a minimum, with shared washroom facilities installed to conform to the Standards of Maintenance By-law for lodging houses, and
i) provided with sound insulation conforming to Article 3.3.4.6. installed between suites, except that where suites share washroom and kitchen facilities no sound insulation need be provided.
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10.2.2.9. Group D Occupancies
1) A Group D occupancy shall be permitted in an existing building provided the building conforms to Sentence (2), and where the building exceeds 3 storeys in building height the entire building shall be sprinklered.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be
a) upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.53.(2) provided the limitations of Table 3.2.2.50. are not exceeded,
b) where the limitations of Table 3.2.2.50. are exceeded, upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.50.(2), except that existing combustible construction shall be permitted,
c) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
d) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
e) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
f) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
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10.2.2.10. Group E Occupancies
1) A Group E occupancy shall be permitted in an existing building provided the building conforms to Sentence (2) and is entirely sprinklered when the building exceeds
a) 1 000 m² in building area, or
b) 3 storeys in building height.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be
a) upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.59.(2) provided the building is not more than 4 storeys in building height and the building area is not more than 1 800 m²,
b) except as required in Clause (c), upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.58.(2) provided the building is not more than 6 storeys in building height and the building area conforms to Table 10.2.2.10.,
c) upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.57.(2), except that existing combustible construction and floor assemblies with a 1 1/2 h fire separation shall be permitted, when the building is more than 6 storeys in building height,
d) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
f) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
Table 10.2.2.10.
Forming Part of Sentence 10.2.2.10.(2)
| No. of Storeys | Sprinklered Maximum Area, m² | ||
| Facing 1 Street | Facing 2 Streets | Facing 2 Streets | |
| 1 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| 2 | 7 500 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| 3 | 5 000 | 6 250 | 7 500 |
| 4 | 3 750 | 4 688 | 5 625 |
| 5 | 3 000 | 3 750 | 4 500 |
| 6 | 2 500 | 3 125 | 3 750 |
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10.2.2.11. Group F2 or F3 Occupancies
1) A Group F, Division 2 or 3 occupancy shall be permitted in an existing building, provided the building conforms to Sentence (2) and is entirely sprinklered when the building exceeds
a) 1 000 m² in building area, or
b) 2 storeys in building height.
2) The building referred to in Sentence (1) shall be
a) upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.69.(2), and provided the limitations of Table 10.2.2.11. are not exceeded, except that buildings with roofs of combustible construction shall be limited in building area to 4 800 m²,
b) except as required in Clause (c), where the limitations of Table 10.2.2.11. are exceeded, upgraded to conform to Sentence 3.2.2.68.(2), except that existing combustible construction shall be permitted,
c) upgraded to conform to Article 3.2.2.67., when the building is more than 6 storeys in building height, except that existing combustible construction and floor assemblies with a 1 1/2 h fire separation shall be permitted,
d) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.3., upgraded to provide exterior wall and opening protection conforming to Subsection 3.2.3.,
e) except as permitted in Subsection 10.2.4., upgraded to comply with the structural requirements of Part 4,
f) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., upgraded to comply with the fire containment requirements within a floor area conforming to this By-law, and
g) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.
Table 10.2.2.11.
Forming Part of Sentence 10.2.2.11.(2)
| No. of Storeys | Sprinklered Maximum Area, m² | ||
| Facing 1 Street | Facing 2 Streets | Facing 2 Streets | |
| 1 | 9 000 | 11 250 | 13 500 |
| 2 | 4 500 | 5 625 | 6 750 |
| 3 | 3 000 | 3 750 | 4 500 |
| 4 | 2 250 | 2 812 | 3 375 |
| 5 | 1 800 | 2 250 | 2 700 |
| 6 | 1 500 | 1 875 | 2 250 |
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10.2.2.12. Artist Live/work Studios
1) Artist live/work studios are permitted in an existing building classified as a Group F, Division 2 occupancy where the building is
a) sprinklered with fast-response heads,
b) upgraded to provide a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h between storeys and between suites, except that a 45 min fire-resistance rating or existing lath and plaster in good repair is acceptable when the building is less than 4 storeys in building height,
c) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.6. and 10.2.7., upgraded to provide exit systems conforming to Section 3.4.,
d) except as permitted in Subsections 10.2.5. and 10.2.7., upgraded to provide public corridors conforming to Article 3.3.1.4.,
e) provided with emergency lighting conforming to Subsection 3.2.7.,
f) when the number of living units exceeds 5, provided with a fire alarm and detection system conforming to Subsection 3.2.4., including smoke detectors in public corridors and a smoke alarm in each sleeping area,
g) provided with equipment and electrical wiring which comply with the Vancouver Fire By-law if dust or fumes are produced in the studios,
h) in compliance with the Vancouver Fire By-law and to the British Columbia Gas Safety Act when flammable or combustible liquids or gases are stored or used in the studios,
i) heated only by hot water, electrical equipment, or elevated gas-fired forced-air heaters when dust or fume producing processes are used in the studios,
j) upgraded to provide service rooms and storage rooms conforming to Section 3.6. when these rooms are located outside of the studios,
k) provided with a structural survey conforming to Article 10.2.4.2. and provided all floors and beams are substantially connected to walls and columns,
l) provided with sound insulation conforming to Article 3.3.4.6. installed between suites, except that where suites share washroom and kitchen facilities no sound insulation need be provided,
m) provided, as a minimum, with light and ventilation requirements for sleeping areas from the remaining studio area, and
n) provided, as a minimum, with shared washroom facilities installed to conform to the Standards of Maintenance By-law for lodging houses.
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10.2.3. Alternatives to Spatial Separation
10.2.3.1. General
1) Except for additions and new construction, where the exterior wall of an existing building is required by Article 3.2.3.7. to be of noncombustible construction, the provisions of this Subsection may be used as alternatives to the spatial separation requirements of Subsection 3.2.3.
10.2.3.2. Exterior Wall Construction
1) In a building of Group B or C occupancy, existing combustible construction may be retained in an existing exterior wall provided
a) the wall has at least a 1 h fire-resistive rating,
b) the building is sprinklered, and
c) all voids in the wall are filled with noncombustible insulation and firestopped.
2) In a building of other than Group B or C occupancy, existing combustible construction may be retained in an existing exterior wall provided the wall has at least a 1 h fire-resistance rating, and either
a) the building is sprinklered, or
b) all voids in the wall are completely filled with noncombustible insulation and firestopped.
3) When an existing exterior wall requires a 2 h fire-resistance rating, existing combustible construction may be retained provided
a) the wall has at least a 1 h fire-resistance rating,
b) the building is sprinklered, and
c) all voids in the wall are completely filled with noncombustible insulation and firestopped.
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10.2.3.3. Exterior Cladding
1) Existing combustible cladding may be retained provided
a) the building is sprinklered using fast-response heads,
b) the exterior cladding is treated with acceptable exterior quality fire retardant intumescent paint, and
c) all exterior windows contain wired or safety glass in steel frames.
10.2.3.4. Existing Unprotected Openings
1) Where the limiting distance is less than 900 mm, existing unprotected openings may be retained, but not enlarged, provided
a) the openings are constructed of glass block or wired glass or tempered glass or laminated safety glass, and the building is sprinklered using fast-response heads,
or
b) acceptable self-closing fire protection shutters are installed at the existing opening locations.
2) Except as provided in Sentence (3), where a limiting distance is 900 mm or more, existing unprotected openings, which have a total area exceeding the values listed in or extrapolated from Tables 3.2.3.1.A., 3.2.3.1.B., 3.2.3.1.C. or 3.2.3.1.D., may be retained provided
a) the openings are constructed of glass blocks or wired glass, or
b) the building is sprinklered with fast-response heads.
3) The requirements for existing unprotected openings in dwelling units may be relaxed so that
a) where the distance from the adjacent property line is 900 mm or more to existing openings, no opening protection need be provided,
b) where the distance from the adjacent property line is less than 900 mm to an existing bedroom window, protection as required in Sentence (2) shall be provided and the window shall not be enlarged, and
c) where the distance from the adjacent property line is more than 1.2 m, existing openings may be retained but no new openings shall be permitted unless they comply with Tables 3.2.3.1.A. and 3.2.3.1.C.
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10.2.4. Structural Upgrading of Buildings
10.2.4.1. Structural Analysis
1) A structural analysis of an existing building shall be provided to the Chief Building Official by a registered structural engineer when
a) the total cost of the intended work, as determined in Subsection 10.1.1. exceeds 200% of the value of the building as determined by the British Columbia Assessment Authority,
b) the work includes a major addition as determined by Subsection 10.1.1., or
c) the work includes a change of major occupancy as determined by Subsection 10.1.1.
2) The structural analysis required by Sentence (1) shall
a) take into account the proposed alterations and the building occupancy,
b) indicate the structural sufficiency of the building to safely resist all vertical and lateral loads, including wind and earthquake forces, and any construction loads that may be expected, and
c) show the remedial work necessary to bring the structure up to the minimum standards required by Part 4 of this By-law.
3) Sealed drawings which detail the structural upgrading work required as a result of the analysis carried out under Sentence (2) shall be provided to the Chief Building Official by the owner.
4) All structural work referred to in Sentence (3) shall be completed prior to final inspection and occupancy.
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10.2.4.2. Structural Survey
1) When alterations to an existing building do not include an addition or a change of major occupancy and when the total cost of the intended work, as determined in Subsection 10.1.1., exceeds 100% but does not exceed 200% of the actual value of the building as determined by the British Columbia Assessment Authority, a structural survey of the existing building may be provided by a registered structural engineer instead of the total analysis required by Article 10.2.4.1.
2) The structural survey required by Sentence (1) shall
a) describe the condition of all structural members and connections,
b) document evidence of deterioration from physical damage, fire, weather or neglect,
c) document evidence of foundation settlement or failure,
d) include an evaluation of the building’s expected stability with respect to minimum design loads, forces and effects,
e) include an evaluation of the building in conformance with the NRC publication “Guidelines for Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings” dated December 1992,
f) document the condition of all flashings, rain gutters, downpipes, chimneys, ornamentation, parapets and appurtenances, and
g) indicate the weather protection ability of the roof and exterior cladding, and the extent of impermeability of the below ground structure, where present.
3) Sealed drawings which detail the structural upgrading work required as a result of the survey carried out under Sentence (2) shall be provided to the Chief Building Official by the owner.
4) All structural work referred to in Sentence (3) shall be completed prior to final inspection and occupancy.
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10.2.4.3. Unreinforced Masonry Walls
1) Existing walls of unreinforced masonry may be used provided
a) the walls are connected to the horizontal structural elements of the building,
b) tests are conducted to determine the safe permissible working stresses of the masonry construction,
c) a registered structural engineer has determined that the walls are safe, and
d) design stresses as determined by the registered structural engineer do not exceed the maximum stresses permitted in Part 4.
10.2.4.4. Relaxation of Seismic Upgrading
1) The Chief Building Official may relax the requirements for seismic upgrading of an existing building, but not to less than 75% of the seismic design requirements, provided
a) the required analysis in Article 10.2.4.1. has been completed to the satisfaction of the Chief Building Official,
b) all deficiencies from the requirements of Subsection 4.1.8. have been identified,
c) it can be demonstrated that the total upgrade required to comply with the seismic requirements would be unusually difficult to achieve,
d) the seismic capacity of the proposed remedial work, recommended by the structural engineer, has been expressed as a percentage of the required By-law standard as detailed in Part 4 for each of the applicable design modes, and
e) the recommended remedial work in Clause (d) takes into consideration the detrimental effects that a reduction in the safety factor may have on
i) public safety in and around the building,
ii) the expected level of awareness of the occupants as determined by the occupancy, and
iii) unusual aspects arising out of the building design which may statistically improve or worsen safety factors during an earthquake.
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10.2.5. Fire Containment Alternatives
10.2.5.1. General
1) Except as permitted in Articles 10.2.5.2., 10.2.5.3. and 10.2.5.4. and Subsection 10.2.7., all fire separations shall be upgraded to comply with the appropriate requirements of this By-law.
10.2.5.2. Public Corridors
1) Existing public corridor walls, serving Group A Division 2, D, E, F Division 2 and F Division 3 occupancies, required to have a fire-resistance rating exceeding 45 min may be terminated at the underside of a 30 min ceiling membrane, where the corridors are equipped with acceptable smoke detectors connected to the building fire alarm system.
10.2.5.3. Occupancy and Suite Separations
1) In Group A Division 2, D, E, F Division 2 and F Division 3 occupancies, existing vertical occupancy fire separations and suite fire separations need not exceed a 1 h fire-resistance rating provided acceptable smoke detectors are installed on each side of such separations and are connected to the building fire alarm system.
10.2.5.4. Equivalent 20 Minute Doors
1) A 20 min fire-protection rating may be used for an existing door assembly provided
a) the existing solid core of a wood door has a minimum thickness of not less than 45 mm, or
b) an existing hollow core or panel type suite door is covered with one layer of gypsum wall board on the suite side and a minimum 0.9 mm thick sheet steel covers the gypsum wall board and extends over the edges of the door.
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10.2.6. Exit Alternatives
10.2.6.1. General
1) Except as permitted in Articles 10.2.6.2. and 10.2.6.3. and in Subsection 10.2.7., every floor area or other space shall be served with exits in conformance with Section 3.4.
10.2.6.2. Openings in an Exit Enclosure
1) In an existing building a maximum of 2 suite doors or 2 room doors per storey may be located within an exit enclosure provided
a) the exit enclosure is not required to have a fire-resistance rating of more than 1 h,
b) the suites or rooms have a second and separate means of egress, and
c) the suite or room doors have a fire-protection rating of 45 min, are self-closing and self-latching and are not automatic locking.
2) Exit stairs shall be enclosed as required in Subsection 3.4.4. except that existing exit enclosures may have
a) wired glass set in steel frames conforming to Article 3.1.8.14. only in the portion of the enclosure which faces a public corridor, and
b) in sprinklered buildings, acceptable hold-open devices actuated by smoke detectors and the building fire alarm system.
10.2.6.3. Group C Single Exit
1) A single exit is permitted from an existing nonsprinklered dwelling unit provided
a) the exit is an exterior doorway not more than 1.5 m above adjacent ground level,
b) the total area served by the exit door does not exceed 100 m²,
c) the maximum travel distance within the dwelling unit does not exceed 15 m, and
d) it is not necessary to travel up or down more than one storey to reach the exit door, or the uppermost floor level opens from a common area to an unenclosed balcony or deck not more than 6 m above adjacent ground level.
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10.2.7. Relaxations Permitted For Sprinklered Buildings
10.2.7.1. General
1) The relaxations of Articles 10.2.7.2. to 10.2.7.9. may be used in an existing building when
a) the building is sprinklered in conformance with Subsection 3.2.5., and
b) the building has a fire alarm system in conformance with Subsection 3.2.4.
10.2.7.2. Group C and D Fire Containment
1) Fire containment protection need not exceed a fire-resistance ratings of 45 min for Group C or D occupancies and in a building of not more than 3 storeys existing lath and plaster may be permitted when properly restored to its original condition.
10.2.7.3. Occupancy Separations
1) Fire-resistance ratings for an occupancy separation need not exceed 1 h when the By-law elsewhere requires 2 h, and need not exceed 45 min when the By-law elsewhere requires 1 h.
10.2.7.4. Flame Spread Rating
1) The flame-spread rating for an existing wall or ceiling finish may be increased to 300 for not more than 25 per cent of the wall or ceiling area, provided the wall or ceiling has no exposed foamed plastic.
10.2.7.5. Fire Dampers
1) Where a fire separation is permitted to have a 45 min fire-resistance rating, a fire damper may be exempted for existing noncombustible ducts less than 0.065 m² in cross-sectional area.
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10.2.7.6. Plastic Sprinkler Piping
1) Plastic sprinkler piping may be permitted to penetrate a vertical fire separation provided
a) the piping and its installation are listed by an acceptable testing agency, and
b) the piping is tightly fitted or fire stopped to maintain the integrity of the separation.
10.2.7.7. High Buildings
1) Smoke-venting to aid fire-fighting may penetrate exterior openings and existing shafts in adjacent fire compartments.
10.2.7.8. Corridors
1) In a building which is provided with a sprinkler system with fast-response heads, corridors which have smoke detectors installed and connected to the fire alarm system may contain existing dead-end corridors of lengths not exceeding 10 m to the nearest exit in Group C occupancies and 15 m to the nearest exit in Group D, E, F Divisions 2 and F Division 3 occupancies.
2) In a building containing exits conforming to Article 10.2.7.9., one dead-end corridor per floor is permitted provided
a) the dead-end corridor does not exceed the lengths specified in Sentence (1), and
b) each exit stair serving the public corridor contains a smoke barrier between each storey, where the barrier
i) is positioned as to permit occupants to safely avoid any smoke hazard within one stairway, and be able to make their way to the alternate stairway, and
ii) has a door equipped with acceptable hold-open device actuated by a local smoke detector circuit, and
c) the building sprinkler system has fast-response heads.
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10.2.7.9. Exit Relaxations
1) Existing open exit stairways located at the ends of public corridors need not be enclosed provided
a) the building does not exceed 3 storeys in building height,
b) a smoke barrier is installed within each public corridor approximately midway between the exit stairways,
c) the smoke barrier
i) has a door provided with an acceptable hold-open device actuated by the fire alarm system and smoke detectors on that floor,
ii) is constructed of either tempered or wired glass, or has a fire-protection rating of not less than 20 min, and
iii) is designed to retard the passage of smoke,
d) the public corridor contains no dead-ends,
e) the public corridor on both sides of the smoke barrier is continuously pressurized, and
f) the building sprinkler system has fast-response heads.
2) Wired glass in steel frame exposure protection for exterior fire escapes need not be provided in an existing building provided
a) there is at least one exit enclosure which conforms to this By-law and which leads directly to the exterior of the building,
b) access to the fire escape is made by means of a full-size door at floor levels,
c) the fire escape goes directly to grade level or leads to grade level by means of an interior stair enclosure which is not less than 750 mm in width,
d) a sprinkler head is located on the ceiling adjacent to and within 1 500 mm of each opening requiring protection, and
e) the building sprinkler system has fast-response heads.
3) Where a building is provided with a sprinkler system with fast-response heads, the Chief Building Official may allow existing exit doors to be retained provided they do not swing over stairs and do not significantly impede safe egress and provided the Chief Building Official is satisfied that the existing exit door-swings and existing exit and corridor widths approach the requirements of Section 3.4.
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Section 10.3. Building Conversions
10.3.1. Alternative Requirements to Convert an Existing One-Family Dwelling into Two or More Residential Suites or into a Special Needs Residential Facility
10.3.1.1. Application
1) This Subsection shall apply when an existing one-family dwelling
a) is sprinklered in conformance with NFPA-13R, and
b) is altered to create
i) 2 or more suites of residential occupancy, or
ii) a Special Needs Residential Facility as defined in the Zoning and Development By-law, provided the facility contains no more than 10 occupants in addition to staff.
10.3.1.2. Building Height
1) For the purposes of this Subsection an existing one-family dwelling constructed pursuant to a building permit issued prior to 31 October 1999 may be considered as if it were 3 storeys in building height.
10.3.1.3. Exterior Wall Construction
1) Existing exterior wood-frame walls may be permitted to remain instead of required noncombustible construction, provided
a) a minimum 45 min fire-resistance rating is provided, and
b) all voids are filled with an acceptable insulation, which may include fibreglass batts.
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10.3.1.4. Combustible Cladding
1) The following combustible cladding materials may be used instead of required noncombustible cladding provided the materials have a flame-spread rating of not more than 25 and are underlaid with 1 layer of a minimum 12.7 mm thick exterior gypsum board sheathing:
a) aluminum panelling,
b) fire-retardant treated wood panelling,
c) fire-retardant treated cedar shakes or shingles, or
d) vinyl siding.
10.3.1.5. Exterior Wall Openings
1) Where exterior walls and openings are required by Subsections 3.2.3. or 9.10.14. to have exposure protection, existing openings need only conform to Article 10.2.3.4.
10.3.1.6. Fire Separations
1) Where a fire separation with a 45 min fire-resistance rating is required
a) existing lath and plaster may be permitted when properly restored to original condition, and
b) fibreglass batts may be permitted instead of mineral fibre batts.
10.3.1.7. Exit Stair Width
1) Where one interior exit stair is not less than 900 mm in width, a second interior exit stair may be not less than 750 mm in width.
10.3.1.8. Sliding Doors
1) A sliding door may be permitted in an access to exit provided it leads to an exterior exit stair or fire escape either directly or by means of a deck or balcony.
10.3.1.9. Suite Doors
1) An existing suite door assembly need not meet the requirements for a 20 min fire-protection rating provided the door
a) if unglazed, is in good condition, or
b) if glazed, contains only wired or tempered glass.
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10.3.1.10. Glass Transoms
1) Fixed wired glass or tempered glass transoms or side-lights in a public corridor need not meet the requirements for a fire-protection rating.
10.3.1.11. Existing Interior Finish
1) An existing interior finish in a means of egress need not meet other requirements of this By-law provided the flame-spread rating of the finish does not exceed 150.
10.3.1.12. Fire Dampers
1) Ducts passing through fire separations need not be equipped with fire dampers provided
a) the duct opening is less than 150 cm² in cross-sectional area, or
b) the ductwork is constructed entirely of sheet steel, in which case the duct opening may be a maximum 1 000 cm² in cross-sectional area.
10.3.1.13. Pull Stations
1) Where a fire alarm system is required by Subsection 3.2.4., pull stations may be omitted where both the fire alarm system and the sprinkler water flow alarm are designed to notify the fire department in accordance with Sentence 3.2.4.7.(4).
10.3.1.14. Exterior Wall Openings
1) An existing exterior wall opening adjacent to an exterior exit stair or fire escape need not conform to Sentence 3.2.3.12.(2) where the opening is glazed with wired or tempered glass in an aluminum or wood sash.
10.3.1.15. Single Exit
1) A single exit from a dwelling unit need not conform to Sentence 3.3.4.4.(3) where the exit serves only one dwelling unit and where the vertical travel distance from the uppermost floor level to the adjacent ground level does not exceed 6 m.
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10.3.2. Alternative Requirements to Convert an Existing One-Family Dwelling into a Small Special Needs Residential Facility or a Small Child Day Care Facility
10.3.2.1. General
1) This Subsection provides alternative requirements to facilitate conversion or alteration of an existing one-family dwelling into
a) a Child Day Care Facility, as defined in the Zoning and Development By-law, provided it contains no more than 8 children, or
b) a Special Needs Residential Facility, as defined in the Zoning and Development By-law, provided it contains no more than 6 occupants in addition to staff.
10.3.2.2. Application
1) Where a one-family dwelling is altered to include a Child Day Care Facility or a Special Needs Residential Facility referred to in Article 10.3.2.1., the following requirements may be substituted for the otherwise applicable provisions of this By-law, provided the building otherwise complies with this By-law for one-family dwellings:
a) the facility shall be sprinklered to conform to NFPA-13D,
b) where a large room requires more than two sprinkler heads to provide complete sprinkler coverage, heat baffles shall be installed on the ceiling to create areas that contain not more than 2 sprinkler heads, or the supply pressure shall be sufficient to supply the water necessary for simultaneous operation of all the room sprinklers, and
c) the heat baffles shall project downward from the ceiling a distance of not less than 200 mm and shall consist of heavy timber beams, solid noncombustible material (e.g., sheet metal) or a 45 min minimum fire-rated construction assembly.
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10.3.3. Alternative Requirements to Facilitate Conversion of an Existing One- Family Dwelling to Include a Secondary Suite
10.3.3.1. Secondary Suites
1) If a one-family dwelling constructed under a building permit issued prior to June 22, 2004 is, or was, altered to include a secondary suite, the alternative fire and general life safety requirements in Table 10.3.3.1. shall apply to the entire building, and the requirements of Part 9 shall apply to all major additions.
2) Despite the requirements of Sentence 9.34.1.1.(1) for the installation and the number and distribution of circuits and receptacles, the following circuits and receptacles shall be provided in the secondary suite:
a) a minimum of two kitchen counter duplex receptacles supplied by two appliance circuits; and these receptacles may be wired on single circuits or a split circuit for both,
b) a minimum of two duplex receptacles located on different walls in each bedroom, and
c) a minimum of three duplex receptacles located on different walls in the living area.
3) Despite Paragraph 9.34.1.1.(2)(c), a single existing panel board may supply electrical loads in the principal dwelling and in the secondary suite.
4) If:
a) the one-family dwelling referred to in Sentence (1) was constructed under a building permit issued prior to 25 April 1990,
b) there are no major additions to the building,
c) the building is currently not sprinklered,
d) the cost of the renovations and improvements does not exceed 50% of the replacement cost of the building, and
e) the building is provided with smoke alarms conforming to Subsection 9.10.18.,
then the building is exempt from the requirements for sprinklering.
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Table 10.3.3.1. Fire Safety Requirements Forming Part of Article 10.3.3.1. |
|
| Item | |
| Windows In Side Yards | Original openings may remain. New openings to conform to Part 9 |
| Fire Compartmentation | |
| Separation between Secondary Suite and Principal Dwelling. | Fire resistant combustible construction (1) |
| Heating ducts that penetrate fire separations | No fire dampers or fire stopping required |
| Plastic pipes for plumbing and sprinklers | Permitted anywhere if tightly fitted or fire-stopped |
| Suite entry doors in separation between secondary suite and principal dwelling | Existing solid core doors and frames in good condition are acceptable if unglazed or if glazed with wired glass. Doors to be provided with closers. |
| Exits | |
| Egress from each suite | Minimum of a single conforming exit is required from both the principal dwelling and the secondary suite. |
| Windows adjacent to exits | No requirements |
| Flame Spread Rating of Finishes | |
| Exits | 150 or less |
| Remainder of building | No requirements |
| Heating Sytems [See Section 9.33.] | |
| Furnace room enclosures | No separation required but provide proper combustion air and required clearances from all equipment (2) |
| Smoke Alarms | Interconnected smoke alarms shall be provided outside every bedroom, and at least one smoke alarm shall be provided on every storey. Smoke alarms shall be installed by permanent connections to an electrical circuit. (See Subsection 9.10.19., except that Sentence 9.10.19.1.(2) does not apply to sprinklered buildings) In addition, smoke alarms for unsprinklered suites shall be provided with battery backup and manual silencing devices which will silence the alarm for a period of 10 minutes, after which the alarm will continue to function.[see Sentence 9.10.19.1.(2)] |
| Stairs | Stair treads, rise and run shall be reconstructed or modified to conform to Subsection 9.8.3. when a) the existing stairs are considered to present an unsafe condition as determined by the Chief Building Official. All existing stairs shall have at least one handrail meeting the requirements of Subsection 9.8.7. |
| Guardrail Protection | Guards shall be provided around all stairways, balconies, landings, decks, and porches in accordance with Subsection 9.8.8. and Article 4.1.5.15. Existing guards may remain where they are structurally sound and a minimum of 900 mm high. |
| Existing Headroom | May be reduced to 1980 mm over 80% of the suite area and all egress routes. |
| Unsafe Conditions | Any condition that could cause undue hazard or risk to life, limb or health of any person authorized, expected or anticipated to be on or about the premises shall be corrected as required by the Chief Building Official. |
NOTES TO TABLE 10.3.3.1. (1) “Fire resistant combustible construction” shall mean existing lath and plaster in good condition, or minimum ½ inch gypsum wallboard on wood studs at maximum 600 mm on centre. (2) The Gas Code places restrictions on locating gas furnaces adjacent to sleeping rooms or bathrooms. |
|
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10.3.4. Alternative Requirements to Convert an Exterior Open Balcony in an Enclosed Balcony in a Residential Building
10.3.4.1. Application
1) An existing exterior balcony in a residential building may be enclosed without being considered an addition, provided the enclosure conforms to the following requirements of this By-law:
a) suite fire separations,
b) spatial separation between buildings,
c) travel distance within suites,
d) height and openings for guards,
e) ventilation of suites and associated facilities,
f) light and natural ventilation of suites,
g) structural requirements of Part 4, and
h) provisions for a smoke-free refuge area, where applicable.
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Section 10.4. Heritage Buildings
10.4.1. Alternative Compliance Methods for Heritage Buildings
10.4.1.1. Application
1) This Subsection provides alternative compliance methods for the restoration and rehabilitation of heritage buildings.
10.4.1.2. Heritage Buildings
1) The alternate compliance method for fire and life safety requirements in Table 10.4.1.2. can apply to the building referred to in Sentence (1).
Table 10.4.1.2.
Fire and Life Safety Requirements for Heritage Buildings
Forming Part of Sentence 10.4.1.2.(1)
| No. | Code Requirement | Alternate Compliance Method |
| 1. | Fire Separations 2 h fire separation required between some major occupancies |
Except for F1 occupancies, 1 h fire separation is acceptable, if the building is sprinklered. |
| 2. | Fire Separations 1 h fire separation required between some major occupancies. |
1/2 h fire separation is acceptable if the building is sprinklered. |
| 3. | Noncombustible Construction All materials used in noncombustible construction must be noncombustible unless otherwise permitted. |
1. Roofs may be of combustible construction provided the building is sprinklered. 2. Up to 10% gross floor area to a maximum of 10% of any one floor area may be of combustible construction provided the building is sprinklered. |
| 4. | Fire-resistance Rating Where a material, assembly of materials or structural member is required to have a fire-resistance rating it shall be tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S101 |
A fire-resistance rating may also be used based on: 1. HUD No. 8 Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies. 2. Fire Endurance of Protected Steel Columns and Beams, DBR Technical Paper No. 194. 3. Fire Endurance of Unit Masonry Walls, DBR Technical Paper No. 207. 4. Fire Endurance of Light-Framed and Miscellaneous Assemblies, DBR Technical Paper No. 222. |
| 5. | Rating of Supporting Construction Supporting assemblies to have fire resistance rating at least equivalent to that of the supported floor. |
Heavy timber construction is permitted to have a fire resistance rating less than would be required by the Code provided the building: (a) is sprinklered, and (b) does not exceed 6 storeys in building height. |
| 6. | Continuity of Fire Separations Fire separations are required to be continuous above the ceiling space. |
Fire separations are not required to be continuous above the ceiling space where: (a) the ceiling space is non-combustible construction, (b) both fire compartments are sprinklered, or (c) the ceiling has a minimum rating of 30 minutes. |
| 7. | Wired Glass 6 mm wired glass in steel frame required in fire separations. |
For fixed transoms or sidelights, 6 mm wired glass fixed to a wood frame of at least 50 mm thickness with steel stops is permitted in a required fire separation. |
| 8. | Mezzanines Mezzanines enclosing more than 10% above the horizontal plane are considered as storey in building height. |
Enclosed mezzanines may be up to 40% of the storey in which they occur and not be considered a storey in building height if the building is sprinklered. |
| 9. | Building Height Noncombustible construction required for buildings over 3 storeys in building height. |
Buildings may be of combustible construction up to 6 storeys provided: (a) the building is sprinklered (b) the building contains Group C, D, E, F2 or F3 occupancies, and (c) floor assemblies not required to exceed 1 h fire separation requirements may be of heavy timber construction. |
| 10. | Spatial Separation The area of unprotected opening shall not exceed the limits in Tables 3.2.3.1.A. to 3.2.3.1.D. |
The area of unprotected opening is not limited provided: (a) the limiting distance is a minimum 1 m, (b) the building has a supervised sprinkler system in conformance with Sentence 3.2.4.9.(2), and (c) the sprinkler system is connected to the fire department in conformance with Sentence 3.2.4.7.(4). |
| 11. | Construction of Exposing Building Face The exposing building face is required to have a fire-resistance rating and/or be of noncombustible construction. |
Exposing building face is not required to have a fire resistance rating if the building is sprinklered. Also, the exposing building face is not required to be of noncombustible construction if it is protected by an exterior sprinkler system conforming to NFPA 13. |
| 12. | Roof Covering Rating Class A, B or C roof covering in conformance with CAN/ULC-S107 required. |
For existing roofs not covered by a Class A, B or C roofing a manually operated deluge system in accordance with NFPA 13 is permitted. |
| 13. | Smoke Alarms Smoke alarms are required to be connected to an electric circuit. |
Smoke alarms may be battery operated in single family homes only. |
| 14. | Interconnected Floor Space. 3.2.8.; 9.10.1.3.(6) |
1. Open stairs in buildings of maximum 4 storeys in building height need not comply with Subsection 3.2.8. provided: (a) the building contains a Group C or D occupancy, (b) the building is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, (c) corridors opening into the interconnected floor space are separated from the interconnected floor space by a fire separation with the rating required for the corridor, and (d) smoke detectors are installed in the rooms opening into the interconnected floor space and the smoke detectors are connected to the fire alarm system. 2. Open stairs in buildings of maximum 3 storeys in building height, or the first 2 storeys and basement, need not comply with Subsection 3.2.8. provided: (a) the building contains a Group C or D occupancy, (b) the building is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, (c) smoke detectors are installed in the rooms opening into the interconnected floor space and the smoke detectors are connected to the fire alarm system, and (d) at least one means of egress is not through the interconnected floor space. |
| 15. | Separation of Suites 3.3.1.1.; 9.10.9.13., 9.10.9.14. Suites are required to be separated from adjoining suites by 3/4 h or 1 h rated fire separations. |
Existing fire separations of 1/2 h, such as wood lath and plaster in good condition, are acceptable in sprinklered buildings not exceeding 6 storeys in building height. |
| 16. | Corridor Fire Separation Public corridors are required to be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire resistance rating of at least 3/4 h. |
Existing corridors with 1/2 h fire-resistance ratings, such as wood lath and plaster in good condition, are acceptable in residential occupancies provided the building: (a) does not exceed 6 storeys in building height, and (b) is fully sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers. |
| 17. | Corridor Width Public corridors and exit corridors are permitted to have a minimum width of 1 100 mm. |
Public corridors and exit corridors are permitted with a minimum width of 800 mm provided: (a) the occupant load of the building is maximum 20 people, and (b) the building does not exceed 3 storeys in building height. |
| 18. | Door Swing Doors required to swing in the direction of exit travel. |
Second egress door from a room is not required to swing in the direction of exit travel provided: (a) the building is sprinklered and the system is supervised in conformance with Sentence 3.2.4.9.(2), and (b) the occupant load of the building is a maximum of 100 people. |
| 19. | Stairs, Ramps, Handrails and Guards 3.3.1.13., 3.3.1.15., 3.3.1.17., 3.4.6.4. to 3.4.6.8.; 9.8. |
Existing conditions that do not comply fully with the requirements are permitted if they are acceptable to the Chief Building Official. |
| 20. | Transparent Doors and Panels Glass in doors and sidelights are required to be protected by guards and to be safety glass. |
Existing glass or transparent panels that do not comply fully with the requirements are permitted if sufficiently discernible or guards are provided in hazardous situations. |
| 21. | Dead-end Corridors Dead-end corridors are permitted to a maximum length of 6 m. |
1. Dead-end corridors are permitted to a maximum length of 10 m in Group C occupancies provided: (a) the building is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, and (b) smoke detectors are installed in the corridor system. 2. Dead-end corridors are permitted to a maximum of 15 m in length in Group D, E, F2 and F3 occupancies provided: (a) the building is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, and (b) smoke detectors are installed in the corridor system. |
| 22. | Exits Floor areas shall be served by not fewer than 2 exits except as permitted by 3.4.2.1.(2) |
Floor areas may be served by a single exit within the limits of 3.4.2.1.(2) provided: (a) the building does not exceed 3 storeys in building height, (b) the building is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, and (c) all floor areas are protected by a system of smoke detectors connected to a fire alarm system. |
| 23. | Reduction of Exit Width Swinging doors in their swing shall not reduce the effective width of exit stairs and landings to less than 750 mm. |
Existing swinging doors in their swing are permitted to reduce the effective width of exit stairs and landings to a minimum of 550 mm provided: (a) they serve Group C or D occupancies, (b) the building does not exceed 4 storeys in building height, and (c) the building is sprinklered |
| 24. | Fire Separation of Exits Exits are required to be separated from the remainder of the floor area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 3/4 h. |
1. Buildings of 3 storeys or less may have exits that are separated by a fire separation that does not have a fire-resistance rating provided: (a) the building is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, and (b) the sprinkler system is supervised in accordance with Sentence 3.2.4.9.(2). 2. Buildings not exceeding 6 storeys in building height may have exits that are separated by a 3/4 h fire separation provided the building is sprinklered. |
| 25. | Exits Through Lobbies Rooms adjacent to the lobby are required to be separated by a fire separation. |
Rooms adjacent to the lobby are not required to be separated by a fire separation provided: (a) the floor area is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, and (b) smoke detectors are installed in the adjacent rooms. |
| 26. | Rooms Opening into an Exit Service rooms and ancillary rooms are not permitted to open directly into an exit. |
Service rooms and ancillary rooms may open directly into an exit provided: (a) the room is sprinklered with fast-response sprinklers, and (b) weatherstripping is installed on the door to prevent the passage of smoke. |
| 27. | Illumination of Exit Signs Exit signs are required to be illuminated continuously while the building is occupied. |
Where exit signage may compromise historic appearances, or authenticity of displays, exit signs may be installed to light only on an emergency condition, such as by the fire alarm system or due to power failure. |
| 28. | Clearance from Exit Doors Stair risers shall not be closer than 300 mm from an exit door |
Except as permitted in Sentences 3.4.6.10.(2) or 9.9.6.6.(2), existing exit doors shall not extend beyond the first riser. |
| 29. | Fire Escapes Fire escapes are required to conform to Subsection 3.4.7. |
Existing fire escapes that do not completely conform to Subsection 3.4.7. are acceptable provided: (a) the fire escapes are acceptable, and (b) the building is sprinklered |
| 30. | Fire Escape Construction 3.4.7.2.; 9.9.2.3. |
Existing combustible fire escapes are permitted if the building is permitted to be of combustible construction by Part 3, Part 9 or by this table. |
| 31. | Protection of Fire Escapes Openings in the exterior wall adjacent to the fire escape are required to be protected by closures |
Existing openings in the exterior wall adjacent to the fire escape are not required to be protected by closures provided: (a) the building is sprinklered, and (b) a sprinkler head is located within 1.5 m of the opening required to be protected by Sentence 3.4.7.4. |
| 32. | Vertical Service Space Vertical service spaces are required to be separated from the adjacent floor area by a rated fire separation. |
Existing vertical service spaces that do not completely conform to the rated fire separation requirements are acceptable provided the vertical service spaces are sprinklered. |
| 33. | Height and Area of Rooms The height and area of rooms are required to comply to minimum dimension requirements. |
Existing rooms are not required to comply to the minimum dimension requirements of Subsection 3.7.1. or Section 9.5. |
| 34. | Washroom Requirements Buildings are required to be provided with a minimum number of washroom fixtures |
Existing facilities are not required to completely comply to the requirements of Subsection 3.7.2. or Section 9.31. provided it is acceptable to the Chief Building Official. |
| 35. | Access for Persons with Disabilities 3.8. |
Sentences 3.8.1.1.(3) and 3.8.4.1.(1) shall apply to existing buildings. |
| 36. | Seismic Anchorage of Exterior Decoration 4.1.8. |
Existing exterior decorations are not required to fully comply to the anchorage requirements of Subsection 4.1.8. provided: (a) adequate means of protection is provided, or (b) there is no exposure to the public. |
| 37. | Mechanical Systems Part 6 and Part 7 |
Existing mechanical systems in buildings are not required to fully comply to the requirements of Parts 6 or 7 provided: (a) it is not an unsafe condition, and (b) it is acceptable to the Chief Building Official. |
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