Exit Requirements for Residential Buildings
Last updated: June 2026
Principal entrances, egress paths, and travel distance in Part 9 dwellings.
Detailed explanation
Every floor area must have access to an exit that leads to the exterior. The principal entrance can serve as an exit for small dwelling units meeting travel distance limits.
Bedrooms need a direct egress path to an exterior door or compliant egress window. Dead-end corridors and locked doors along the path can violate egress rules.
Travel distance from any point in a floor area to an exit is limited. Open plans still require a clear path without passing through another unit unless permitted.
Ontario Building Code references
Ontario Building Code
Section 9.9.9. — Exit doors
Number and location of exit doors.
Ontario Building Code
Section 9.9.10. — Egress windows or doors
Emergency egress from bedrooms.
Examples
- A single-family home uses the front door and compliant bedroom windows as egress.
- A basement suite may need two exits or a single exit with limited travel distance depending on layout.
Common mistakes
- Bedrooms without compliant egress windows or doors.
- Blocking exit paths with renovation layouts or storage.
- Assuming one exit is always enough for a secondary suite.
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