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What fire separation is required between a garage and house?

Last updated: June 2026

Short answer: Attached garages need fire-resistance rated separation from the dwelling, including walls and ceiling, plus a self-closing door with minimum fire-protection characteristics at the house entry.

Detailed explanation

The garage is treated as a separate fire compartment from living space. Walls and ceilings shared with the dwelling require a fire-resistance rating.

Doors between garage and house must be self-closing. Solid wood or steel doors of prescribed thickness are typical where a labeled fire door is not used.

Ducts, pipes, and wiring penetrations must be fire-stopped. CO alarms are required in adjacent living areas when a garage is attached.

Relevant OBC sections

  • Ontario Building Code

    Section 9.10.15. — Fire separations

  • Ontario Building Code

    Section 9.10.16. — Doors in fire separations

Example scenario

During a kitchen renovation you remove drywall on the garage wall and find no fire taping or rated assembly — you upgrade before closing the wall.

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