Be aware that if it has been some time since you built a greenhouse, these loads may have changed and your old structures may not be considered sturdy enough to withstand current loads. There will be specific requirements for snow and wind loads for your particular location. These codes govern fire safety issues and fire sprinkler requirements. Make sure you and the local building official are clear as to the purpose of your expansion project to ensure the proper rules are being applied.īuilding codes dictate, for example, what size structure is allowed along with the type of covering that can be installed.
#OCCUPANCY PERMIT ONTARIO BUILDING CODE CODE#
Permits and code changes may require that a grower construct a professionally engineered structure where previously a non-load rated greenhouse may have been allowed to be built. One way they have found to generate additional revenue is through the enforcement of building codes that previously had exempted construction projects like greenhouses. Municipalities and other government entities have had to deal with budget shortfalls due to the economy. Don’t be surprised if a permit is now required. Previously, growers may have only had to be concerned about snow and/or wind loads, but now other issues may be addressed including coverings, building sizes and fire-related concerns.įor previous greenhouse projects you may not have had to obtain a building permit. The governing codes have actually changed very little, but the enforcement has increased along with the issues that building officials may want to address. Growers should expect issues related to sustainability and energy efficiency will have an impact on some of their greenhouse-related projects.Over the past several years there has been a near universal adoption of some version of the International Building Code (IBC) in all states.