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A Code is a collection of requirements which pertain to a specific subject, to regulate specific practices. A Traffic Code is a good example. A Traffic Code is a collection of requirements (driving and parking regulations) intended to regulate practices for automobile use on public thoroughfares. A Building Code is a collection of regulations (such as exit sign and smoke detector requirements) which pertain to specific subjects (such as exiting and fire protection systems) which regulate specific practices (such as designing, constructing or remodeling buildings). The Historical Background and Uses of CodesCodes are not a product of modern civilization, but rather have evolved from the distant past. One of the earliest requirements regarding regulation of a specific subject is found in "Babylon" in the Code of Hammurabi. One of the articles held the building liable by stating that if the house collapsed and killed the householder, the builder "shall be slain". By the latter part of the 19th Century widespread loss of life and property by fire led to the first set of building regulations in North America. In 1905 the first modern code laid the basis for testing methodology, specifications and the various formats used in today’s codes. Its specific purpose was to reduce fire hazards, but it had a more general and humanitarian purpose: To protect the public health, safety and welfare. Today’s Ontario Building Code carries this early 20th Century philosophy one step further by creating uniformity in building codes in each community across Ontario and providing a process for code regulations to reflect current technology in construction methods and materials. The Purpose of CodesNo matter what the specific subject may be - construction, property maintenance, fire prevention, or plumbing - ALL codes have the same purpose: To project the health, safety and welfare of the building occupants.
The Uses of CodesCodes provide standards for the design and construction of homes and businesses. Codes are used by architects, engineers, contractors, builders and materials manufacturers to ensure safety, economy and consistency of construction. You, as a homeowner, landlord or business owners, have a substantial investment which can be seriously jeopardized through code violations. Plan review prior and inspections made during construction verify that building code regulations have been followed. Who Administers the Ontario Building Code?The Province of Ontario is responsible for the development of cost-effective building regulations; the Ontario Building Code Act and Code. Each municipality is then responsible for the enforcement of the Act and Code in the areas in which it has jurisdiction. (For questions about the Building Code, you can contact the Ontario Buildings Branch at 416 - 585-6666). Permit FeesPermit Fees have been established to help defray the costs of enforcement. Generally, fees account for less than one percent of the overall costs of a building project. Public protection is thus obtained in a cost-effective manner with the entire process, from plan review to field inspection, carried out by professionals. For Additional information see: |
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