New Fire Code Changes Coming in 2026

Ontario Fire Code Changes Coming January 1, 2026

Significant updates to the Ontario Fire Code will take effect on January 1, 2026. These changes align Ontario’s regulations with the 2020 National Fire Code of Canada and are designed to strengthen fire safety across the province.

The new requirements introduce updated inspection formats, stricter fire alarm and documentation rules, and enhanced safety standards for a variety of building types—including farm buildings.

Below is a summary of key changes:

Province-Wide Fire Code Updates

• Flammable liquids, dangerous goods, aerosol products, and combustible dusts regulations now harmonize with the 2020 National Fire Code.

• New Carbon monoxide alarm requirements will impact homeowners and residential building operators as the regulation expands. (More Information here)

• Mass timber encapsulation materials have updated maintenance rules.

• Integrated life safety and fire protection systems will be subject to more rigorous testing requirements.

New Requirements for Farm Buildings

These updates apply to farm buildings larger than 600 m². Smaller buildings will continue to follow the 1997 Fire Code.

Key Changes Include:

• Fire Separation:
  Additional fire separations are required between occupancy types.
  Pesticide storage areas must now have a 1-hour fire-rated separation and be located at least 6 metres from other buildings.

• Exiting Requirements:
  More exits, with improved placement, are required.
  Exit doors must swing in the direction of travel and cannot be overhead doors.
  Most rooms or floor areas will require two egress doors.

• Fire Department Access:
  Large farm buildings must have a paved or gravelled perimeter area to allow firefighting equipment full access. A clear, unobstructed route for fire department vehicles is required.

• Ventilation:
  Buildings containing hazardous substances—such as liquid manure storage—must have proper mechanical exhaust to reduce fire, gas, and explosion risks.

• Electrical & Mechanical Systems:
  Stricter controls on wiring, equipment, and mechanical system maintenance.
  Exhaust pipes must be shielded to prevent overheating.

• Structural Requirements:
  New livestock buildings may face higher snow and wind load requirements, which could affect design and construction costs.

• Pesticide Storage:
  In addition to fire separation requirements, pesticide storage areas must have spill curbing and no floor drains.

• Greenhouses:
  Greenhouses using fuel-fired appliances must have dedicated combustion air and flue systems.

Learn More

This list highlights only some of the upcoming updates.
The Strathroy-Caradoc Fire Department (SCFD) will be hosting public information sessions to help residents, farmers, and businesses understand the changes.