Standpipe Determination
Determine whether a standpipe system is required based on building height, area, occupancy, sprinklering and applicable OBC exceptions.OBC 2024 · ARTICLE 3.2.5.8.
Determine whether a standpipe system is required based on building height, area, occupancy, sprinklering and applicable OBC exceptions.
Answer a short series of questions about the building. Codara asks only what this building needs, selects the applicable Table 3.2.5.8 value, checks any exception that could apply and shows how the result was reached.
Usually takes 1–2 minutes
How this determination works
Sentence 3.2.5.8.(1) requires a standpipe system in a building more than 3 storeys in building height, more than 14 m high measured between grade and the ceiling of the top storey, or not more than 14 m high but with a building area exceeding the value in Table 3.2.5.8 for its building height, unless the building is sprinklered throughout.
Codara asks for the building information, selects the Table 3.2.5.8 value and — only where they could change the result — checks the storage garage exception of Sentence 3.2.5.8.(2) and the Group C exception of Sentence 3.2.5.8.(3). It compares the height and building area you enter with the limits of Article 3.2.2.92; every other condition of the exceptions, including conformance with Articles 3.2.2.50 and 3.2.2.52, is your answer. It does not classify major occupancies or assess the design of a standpipe system.
Professional Responsibility & Disclaimer
This tool is a design aid only. It does not certify Ontario Building Code compliance, provide legal advice, or give an official Code interpretation, and it is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government authority. Every result must be independently verified against the current Ontario Building Code (O. Reg. 163/24, as amended) by a qualified design professional. The architect or designer of record remains solely responsible for Code compliance and for all information used in any permit application or construction. Provided "as is," without warranty of any kind, and used entirely at your own risk.