When is a new build required to be “Accessible”?

Accessibility is referring to the requirement to create a barrier free access to portions of new buildings.  We must keep in mind that the building code is only “law” prior to an occupancy permit being issued.  Once that happens, as long as you do not change the building in any way that requires a permit, you will not be require to upgrade your building to meet the Accessibility Rules.

Having said that, there are many that choose to upgrade their businesses to meet the Accessibility standards.  If you choose to do so, you will require a building permit and therefore are required to meet the full requirements of the building code.

So let’s talk about how the rules apply to a new build.  Are you required to make your new build Accessible?

Part 9 and Part 3 of the Building Code basically say the same thing.  “…every building shall be designed in conformance with Section 3.8.”   

Now before you get all bent out of shape.  There are a few exceptions.  

If your building is Residential and is a house or a triplex.  Then it is not required to be Accessible.  

If your building is a boarding house or rooming house with less than eight borders or roomers, then you are also exempt from the requirement.  

If your building is;

Group F Division 1 major occupancy

a building that is not intended to be occupied on a daily or full-time basis, such as Telephone exchanges or pump houses or sub-stations 

a camp for housing workers

Then you are exempt from the requirements of Section 3.8

One last exemption.  If your building is Residential or Office space and is less than 600 square meters and less than 4 storeys in height, then it is exempt from the requirments of Section 3.8 

Everyone else, get in line for the Accessibility requirements of Section 3.8