Ontario Building Code — Stair Railing Height Requirements (2026)

Ontario Building Code requires a handrail on any stair with more than 2 risers. A guardrail (vertical barrier) is required on any open side of a floor, mezzanine, landing, balcony, or deck where the drop exceeds 600 mm (about 24 inches). For most Ontario homes this means: basement stairs need a handrail on at least one side, decks over 24 inches need a guardrail, and any open-sided landing or balcony needs a guardrail.

When Is a Stair Railing Required in Ontario?

Ontario Building Code requires a handrail on any stair with more than 2 risers. A guardrail (vertical barrier) is required on any open side of a floor, mezzanine, landing, balcony, or deck where the drop exceeds 600 mm (about 24 inches). For most Ontario homes this means: basement stairs need a handrail on at least one side, decks over 24 inches need a guardrail, and any open-sided landing or balcony needs a guardrail.

Common Railing Code Violations Found in Ontario Home Inspections

Replacing an existing railing with the same configuration generally does not require a permit in Ontario. Adding a new railing where none existed, or making structural changes to a staircase, typically requires a building permit. Always check with your local municipality — requirements vary between Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, Hamilton, and other Ontario cities.

Stair Railing Installation and Replacement Costs in Ontario (2026)

Replacing an existing railing with the same configuration generally does not require a permit in Ontario. Adding a new railing where none existed, or making structural changes to a staircase, typically requires a building permit. Always check with your local municipality — requirements vary between Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, Hamilton, and other Ontario cities.

Do You Need a Permit to Replace a Stair Railing in Ontario?

Replacing an existing railing with the same configuration generally does not require a permit in Ontario. Adding a new railing where none existed, or making structural changes to a staircase, typically requires a building permit. Always check with your local municipality — requirements vary between Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, Hamilton, and other Ontario cities.

Stair Railing Height Ontario 2026 | Building Code Rules

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