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obc - Questions and Answers
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers
Questions and Answers

This set of questions and answers has been prepared by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing as a service to
municipalities, designers and other affected stakeholders. The document is not intended to provide legal advice. Users
of the document should consult their own lawyer to answer any specific question.
● General
● Delivery of Building Enforcement Services
● Joint Enforcement Agreements
● Building Permit Application
● Permit Review
● Applicable Law
● Stock Plan Agreements
● Permit Fees
● Equivalents
● Construction Notices and Inspections
● Orders Issued During Construction
● Site Plan Disputes
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obc - Questions and Answers
● Service Level Disputes
● Designer Qualification and Registration
● Application of Qualification/Registration to Licensed Architects and Professional Engineers
● Application of Qualification/Registration to Various Types of Design Work
● Building Official Qualification
● Internship Program for Building Officials
● On-site Sewage System Installer Registration
● RCA Registration
● Administration of Designer Requirements
● Examinations
● Training
● Insurance
● Additional Information
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Copyright information:© Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2002

Last Modified: August 2, 2002

obc - General
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / General
General
When do the new requirements take effect?
The new requirements come into effect in two steps. Certain elements took effect September 1, 2003, including
provisions allowing building practitioners, including building officials (chief building officials, plans examiners and
inspectors) and designers to become qualified, and provisions allowing design firms and registered code agencies to
become registered.
Most of the new requirements take effect July 1, 2005. All building permit applications made on or after this date will
follow the new requirements. Building permit applications made before this date are subject to the requirements that
are in place June 30, 2005.
Qualification and registration requirements come into effect on July 1, 2005. All designers, building inspectors and
others are required to be qualified and/or registered by this date.
Which statutes and regulations are affected?
The Building Code Statute Law Amendment Act, 2002, introduced in November 2001, amended the Building Code Act,

obc - General
1992. The Building Code, a regulation under the Building Code Act, 1992, was amended through the filing of Ontario
Regulation 305/03 in July 2003. The Building Code was further amended with the filing of Ontario Regulation 245/04 in
August of 2004 and Ontario Regulations 145/05 and 146/05 in March of 2005.
Which clauses are already in force?
The key elements that came into force September 1, 2003 include:
● Provisions that allow building practitioners, including designers and building officials, to take Building Code
examinations and become qualified;
● Provisions that allow designers and registered code agencies to become registered; and
● A seamless transition for on-site sewage inspectors and installers who were already regulated under the
Building Code Act, 1992 into the new qualification and registration system.
Which changes will come into force on July 1, 2005?
The elements that will come into force July 1, 2005 include:
● New service delivery options for municipalities through the use of private inspection bodies, known as
registered code agencies (RCAs);
● Mandatory use of provincial building permit application form;
● A new list of “applicable law”;
● New rules governing building permit fees;
● Timeframes for building permit decisions;
● Mandatory notices and inspections at key construction stages;
● Roles defined in the Act for different building practitioners, including owners, builders, designers, and

obc - General
manufacturers;
● New measures to support innovation including binding Minister’s interpretations, Minister’s rulings;
● Mandatory registration and insurance for certain design firms and RCAs;
● Mandatory qualification for individual designers, building officials, and RCA staff; and
● A Code of Conduct for building officials.



obc - Delivery of Building Enforcement Services
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Delivery of Building Enforceme...
Delivery of Building Enforcement Services
What options will municipalities have when choosing how to deliver building enforcement services?
Municipalities currently have several options in delivering building enforcement services including: in-house service
delivery with internal or contract staff and joint service delivery with another municipality. As of July 1, 2005,
municipalities will have another option through the use of municipally appointed private inspection bodies known as
registered code agencies (RCAs).
What is a Registered Code Agency?
A registered code agency, or RCA, is a private firm that can be contracted by a principal authority to exercise plan
examination and/or inspection powers and duties under the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code.
RCAs must be registered by the Province. Registration includes having qualified staff, minimum insurance, adherence
to conflict of interest rules and standards of conduct, as well as meeting a Quality Management Plan.
What are the duties of a Registered Code Agency?
Should a municipality authorize the appointment of an RCA, the RCA has a duty to undertake plans review and/or

construction inspections on behalf of the municipality, including issuing certain orders during construction.
Every municipality must have a Chief Building Official who continues to have responsibilities for key functions including:
issuing permits; determining applicable law; issuing unsafe orders and undertaking prosecutions.
What services can a Registered Code Agency perform?
A registered code agency (RCA) can:
● Review permit application designs and materials to determine whether the proposed construction complies with
the Building Code;
● Issue certificates, including plans review, change and final review certificates;
● Inspect the construction of a building; and
● Any other functions in accordance with Act and Code.
An RCA may be appointed by a municipality to perform duties on individual buildings, types of buildings or groups of
building. An RCA may be authorized to perform work before a permit is issued, after a permit is issued, or both.
What documentation must an RCA provide to the municipality during the course of plan review and
inspection?
RCAs are required to submit certificates to the municipality’s chief building officials at designated points (e.g., the
completion of plan review). O.Reg. 146/05 specifies that certificates are to be in the form approved by the Minister of
Municipal Affairs and Housing. The certificates can be downloaded from the Building Code website: www.obc.mah.gov.
on.ca.
More complete documentation (e.g., inspection reports) shall be turned over by the RCA to the chief building official

following the expiry or termination of the RCA’s appointment, or at the request of the CBO.
Why would a municipality want to retain a Registered Code Agency?
A municipality might choose to retain an RCA to fill gaps in staff qualifications related to certain building types, for
example complex buildings. Another reason a municipality may want retain an RCA is in order to effectively manage
high volumes of building permit applications and assistance is needed to meet service delivery requirements. The
Building Code Act, 1992 also provides certain liability protection for municipalities engaging RCAs and from the action
of their RCAs.
What controls are there over the operation of a Registered Code Agency?
RCAs must be registered by the Province. Registration includes having qualified staff, minimum insurance, adherence
to conflict of interest rules and standards of conduct, as well as meeting a Quality Management Plan. The RCA must
have a professional engineer or architect on staff when the Building Code requires that the design and general review
of the construction of a building be undertaken by a professional engineer or architect,
Can a firm be both a registered code agency and a design firm?
A registered code agency (RCA) is a private inspection agency that undertakes Building Code enforcement activities on
behalf of a municipality. A firm may provide services as an RCA as well as design services. However, the firm must be
separately registered as an RCA and design firm, and must have separate insurance based on billings in these two
business areas. Such firms cannot provide both design services and registered code agency services for the same
project, and must not enter situations that would create a conflict of interest. Conflict of interest prohibitions for RCAs
are clearly outlined in the Building Code.
How does the Building Code protect against a Registered Code Agency entering a conflict of interest

situation?
The Building Code specifically prohibits situations that constitute a conflict of interest for an RCA. An RCA is in a
conflict of interest if the RCA, or an officer, director, partner or employee of the RCA or any person engaged by the
RCA:
● Has participated in any capacity in the design activities or construction relating to any part of the building to
which an appointment relates;
● Is employed (or has been employed within the previous 180 days) by a person who carried out design activities
or construction relating to any part of the building; or
● Has a professional or financial interest in the construction, building or the person responsible for designing the
building to which the appointment relates.
Furthermore, an RCA is in conflict of interest if any person engaged by the RCA is an elected official, officer or
employee of a principal authority.
How are registered code agencies appointed?
A principal authority (i.e. municipality) may authorize the use of an RCA by entering into an agreement with it to
perform the plans examination and/or inspection functions specified in the agreement for any building or class of
buildings.
Can builders appoint their own registered code agency?
No. The Building Code was amended in August 2004 to remove the ability of builders to appoint their own RCAs.
Can municipalities still hire contract staff or firms to assist with plans examination and inspections?

Yes. Municipalities can continue to retain consultants or contract staff to assume responsibility for plans review and/or
construction inspections, although these persons would need to be appointed as inspectors and be qualified in the
applicable area of practice.
Similarly, municipalities can hire consultants to provide advice on Building Code issues. Such consultants would not
need to be qualified, provided that a municipality has staff with the required code knowledge.
In neither case, however, would the external consultant be an RCA, so the municipality could not rely on the liability
provisions of the Building Code that apply to RCAs.



obc - Joint Enforcement Agreements
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Joint Enforcement Agreements
Joint Enforcement Agreements
What are joint service agreements?
Joint service agreements are authorized under subsection 3(3) of the Act and allow the councils of two or more
municipalities to enter into an agreement providing for the joint enforcement of the Building Code in their
municipalities, cost sharing, and the appointment of a chief building official and inspectors. Joint agreements would also
address issues such as the allocation of liability.
Some municipalities may consider joint enforcement agreements as a way to assist them in complying with service
level standards required under the Building Code Act, 1992. Under a joint enforcement agreement municipalities would
share the services of a Chief Building Official and inspection staff. This would assist municipalities in complying with
new requirements related to mandatory qualifications, inspections, and mandatory permit review and inspection time
frames.
Is joint enforcement a new power?
No. Municipalities have been able to share resources and expertise in this manner since the first Building Code Act was
enacted in 1974. Over this time many jurisdictions have used this approach to meet the needs of their citizens.

obc - Joint Enforcement Agreements
Can municipalities share a chief building official or inspectors?
Yes. Principal authorities (i.e. municipalities) can enter into joint service delivery agreements with other principal
authorities, which may include the sharing of a chief building official and / or inspectors.
How is liability allocated among municipalities that have joint service delivery agreements?
The joint service agreement could specify how liability would be allocated among municipalities participating in the
agreement, as well as the nature of enforcement and cost and revenue sharing.
Can municipalities that enter into joint service delivery agreements retain RCAs?
Yes. Neither the Building Code Act, 1992 nor Building Code prevent municipalities who have entered into a joint service
agreement to also appoint RCAs.



obc - Building Permit Application
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Building Permit Application
Building Permit Application
What is the provincial building permit application form?
As of July 1, 2005, building permit applications submitted to municipalities and other principal authorities must use the
provincial building permit application. This application is available from the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.
on.ca.
Can municipalities modify the provincial building permit application form?
In general, the provincial form may not be altered. However principal authorities may convert the form into an
electronic format, provided no fields are added or deleted on the form, and no text is changed on the form. For
example, municipalities cannot add their logo to the form.
Municipalities may, however, require additional plans, specifications, documents and other information as prescribed in
municipal building by-laws.

obc - Building Permit Application



obc - Permit Review
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Permit Review
Permit Review
What time frames apply to the review of building permits?
The Building Code specifies timeframes for the review of complete building permit applications.
These timeframes include:
● 10 days for a house;
● 15 days for a small building;
● 20 days for a large building; and
● 30 days for a complex building.
The Building Code specifies timeframes for other types of buildings and structures including on-site sewage systems,
farm buildings, tents, signs, and structures designated under the Building Code (e.g., certain retaining walls, certain
communications towers and public pools).
What are the timeframes in cases where a building permit application is submitted to a municipality and a
corresponding sewage system application is filed with a conservation authority/health unit?

obc - Permit Review
The timeframe for reviewing the sewage system application will be the longer of 10 days or the time period which
applies to the class of building that the septic system serves. For example if the septic system serves a “small building”
then the time frame for permit review of the septic system would be 15 days.
What must the municipality do within the timeframe?
Within the timeframe the principal authority must either issue a building permit or refuse to issue a building permit and
provide in writing all reasons for refusal.
The timeframe begins when a permit application is considered to be complete and required fees have been paid.
When is a permit application considered complete?
A building permit application is considered complete when:
● The permit application form has been executed (the prescribed provincial application form) ;
● The application is signed by the owner of the property or the authorized agent of the owner;
● All applicable fields on the application form and required schedules are completed;
● All attachments indicated as being attached to the application are submitted with the application; and
● The application is accompanied by the types and quantities of plans and specifications that are specified by
municipal by-law.
May a municipality refuse to accept a permit application if only partial plans are submitted? For example,
full foundation plans, but only conceptual plans for the building superstructure?
Yes. A municipality may refuse to accept an application for a building permit if the provincial and municipal
requirements for a complete application are not met. Under the Building Code a complete application must be

obc - Permit Review
accompanied by the types and quantities of plans and specifications specified by municipal by-law.
While a municipality cannot refuse to accept an application because it believes the plans included in the application are
not in compliance with the Building Code, it may refuse an application if not all the required plans and specifications
specified by the municipal by-law are included in the permit application. For example, an application can be refused if it
does not include all the required superstructure plans and specifications such as structural plans, mechanical plans,
etc.
However in the interest of customer service, many municipalities are expected to accept incomplete applications to
which provincial timeframes will not apply.
May a municipality refuse to accept an application on the grounds that it does not comply with
“applicable law”?
No. A municipality cannot refuse to accept an application on the grounds that it does not comply with applicable law.
A municipality can only refuse to accept an application, which is not complete as defined in the Building Code and
where required permit fees have not been paid.
What may municipalities do to encourage applications that are complete?
Principal authorities may provide guidelines to applicants on what should be considered in providing a complete
application including, key areas of applicable law, which should be reviewed. Municipalities can also screen applications
at the point of filing to see if the permit application appears to be complete, all forms have been submitted, all
attachments are included and the required plans and specifications are included in the application package.
When an applicant resubmits a building permit application after having been denied a permit with full

obc - Permit Review
reasons for refusal, is the subsequent permit review subject to any time limits?
No. Subsequent permit review processes are not subject to any time limits.
However, given that all reasons for refusal of the permit have been provided in writing, applicants are able to modify
their submissions to indicate compliance and the follow-up review process should generally be relatively fast.
Are applications for conditional permits subject to timeframes?
No. The timeframes for building permit review do not apply to conditional permits.
The timeframes for permit review apply to complete building permit applications issued under subsection 8(1) of the
Act and do not apply to conditional permits, which are issued under subsection 8(3) of the Act.
The Act gives chief building officials discretionary power to consider and issue Conditional permits. Conditional permits
are intended to expedite construction when planning approvals are met but not all plans for the building are completed.
This allows construction to start before all plans have been completed.
Does the timeframe for building permit review begin immediately after a complete application is received
by a municipality?
Yes. Under the Building Code, the permit review time frame begins when a complete application is submitted to the
chief building official.
Though not mandated, most municipalities will generally screen applications at the point of filing to ensure they comply
with the requirements for a complete application. They may also provide a checklist to help applicants assess
application readiness.

obc - Permit Review



obc - Applicable Law
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Applicable Law
Applicable Law
What applicable law must be considered by a chief building official in determining whether to issue a
building permit?
The Building Code has been amended to include a list of applicable law that applies for the purposes of Section 8 of the
Building Code Act, 1992. This list is set out in Article 1.1.3.3. of the Code, and is scheduled to come into force on July
1, 2005.
Are the conditions of a site plan agreement or plan of subdivision considered applicable law under the
Building Code?
Subclause 1.1.3.3.(1)(a)(xix) of the Building Code specifies that Section 41 of the Planning Act is applicable law "with
respect to the approval by the council of the municipality or the Municipal Board of plans and drawings". Typically, the
act of approving the plans and drawings by the municipal council under Subsection 41(4) of the Planning Act would
satisfy the requirement of applicable law for the purposes of the Building Code.
Satisfying the terms or conditions of a site plan agreement would not be considered applicable law precedent to issuing
a permit. However, other mechanisms exist to ensure compliance with site plan agreements and other agreements

obc - Applicable Law
under the Planning Act (e.g., subdivision agreements).
Are municipalities required to provide a list of applicable law that pertains to that municipality – e.g.,
private bills, relevant by-law provisions authorized under applicable law etc?
No. Neither, the Building Code Act, 1992 nor Building Code requires principal authorities to produce a list of “local”
applicable law. However, jurisdictions with such restrictions are expected to make such a list available to add
transparency to their permit process.



obc - Stock Plan Agreements
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Stock Plan Agreements
Stock Plan Agreements
What are stock plan agreements?
The Building Code Act, 1992 provides mechanisms for two or more principal authorities (i.e. municipalities), to enter
into an agreement whereby one municipality reviews plans and specifications for compliance with the Building Code,
and the other municipality (ies) agrees to expedited review of the same “stock plans”. Stock plans may be the plans
and specifications for standard houses or commercial buildings that do not vary significantly between locations.
How is liability assigned when there is a building failure?
The Building Code Act, 1992 allows the municipalities to address a number of issues in the agreements including the
allocation of responsibility for reviews and compliance between municipalities, resolution of disagreements about
compliance, indemnification and other matters they deem necessary to ensure smooth operation of this approach.
What are “substantially similar” plans?
The Building Code Act, 1992 allows these agreements for the expedited review of plans and specifications where they
are “substantially similar”.

obc - Stock Plan Agreements
What are the time frames for the review of building permit applications involving stock plans?
The presence of a stock plan agreement does not affect the timeframe within which a building permit determination
must be made effective July 1, 2005. O.Reg. 146/05 removed a Building Code provision that required that stock plans
for houses be reviewed in five days where an agreement is in place. As a result of this regulatory provision, the
standard ten-day timeframe for houses will apply.



obc - Permit Fees
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Permit Fees
Permit Fees
What are the rules that govern how municipalities establish building permit fees?
Under the Building Code Act, 1992, the total amount of building permit fees collected by a principal authority (i.e.
municipality) must not exceed the anticipated reasonable costs of the authority to administer and enforce the Act
within its jurisdiction.
As of January 1, 2006, the Building Code requires a public meeting before a principal authority changes its permit fees.
At the meeting, the principal authority must make information available regarding the direct and indirect costs of
delivering services related to the administration and enforcement of the Act in the jurisdiction and the rationale for the
fee change.
How can the public stay informed about the introduction or change in building permit fees?
Under the Building Code principal authorities (i.e. municipalities) are required to hold a public meeting before changing
its building permit fee structure. The principal authority is required to provide 21 days notice of the meeting with
notice being sent by regular mail to the last address provided by the person or organization requesting the meeting.
The information that must be made available to the public at the meeting includes an estimate of the costs of

obc - Permit Fees
administering and enforcing of the Act, the amount of the fee changes to the existing fee and the rationale for imposing
or changing the fee. In addition, any person who attends has an opportunity to make representations on the matter.
The municipality is also required to prepare an annual report, which includes the total fees collected in the previous 12-
month period. The report must identify direct and indirect costs of delivering services, and the amount of any reserve
fund that has been established. The municipality is required to give notice of the report to any person and organization
that has requested the information.
The requirements for annual reporting take effect January 1, 2006.
Must a principal authority recover all building permit administration and enforcement costs from permit
fees?
No. A principal authority may rely on property tax revenues to supplement Building Code Act, 1992 enforcement.
Are principal authorities required to calculate permit fees based on individual projects or classes of
permits?
No. The limits on fees apply to the aggregate fee income anticipated from all classes of permits.
What costs can be covered by building permit fees?
Permit fees can cover the direct costs of building permit administration and enforcement under the Building Code Act,
1992 such as salary costs and the costs of conducting prosecutions. Permit fees can also cover indirect costs such as
those related to staff training, information technology, accommodation, insurance and legal services. In addition, costs
that can be covered may include a reserve fund to cover future enforcement and administrative costs.
May building permit fees cover expenses associated with hiring an RCA?

obc - Permit Fees
Yes. In preparing its budget, a principal authority could consider the costs of appointing one or more RCAs. The
requirement that total anticipated fees are based on costs would still apply.
May municipalities maintain a reserve fund?
Yes. Municipalities are specifically authorized to maintain a reserve fund. Information about the reserve fund is
required to be provided in the municipality’s annual report of Building Code enforcement related costs and revenues.
May building permit fee revenues be used to cover the costs of municipal property standards
enforcement?
No. Section 1.1 of the Building Code Act, 1992 specifically excludes costs associated with property standards
enforcement from those costs that may be considered in determining building permit fees.
Are annual reports on building permit fees submitted to the Province?
No. Annual building permit fee reports are for the public, and principal authorities must send notice of the report to
persons and organizations that have requested to be notified.



obc - Equivalents
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Equivalents
Equivalents
What new rules have been established for the issuance of equivalents?
Chief building officials remain able to allow the use of equivalent materials, systems or building designs where the use
of the proposed equivalents provides the level of performance that would be achieved by conforming to the Building
Code. Effective July 1, 2005, RCAs will also be able to allow the use of equivalents. CBOs and RCAs must keep a record
of the decision, and all documents in support of the request, to allow the use of an equivalent material, system or
building design.


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obc - Construction Notices and Inspections
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Construction Notices and...
Construction Notices and Inspections
When must the building permit holder submit readiness to inspect notices?
Building permit holders must submit a notice of inspection to the chief building official or registered code agency at
each stage of construction set out under Article 2.4.5.1. of the Building Code, as they apply to their project.
The building permit holder must also submit a notice of inspection at the stages of construction required under a
municipal by-law or resolution authorized under Article 2.4.5.2. of the Building Code.
Who receives notices?
The chief building official or registered code agency, if one has been appointed for the construction, receives the notice
of inspection.
What is the timeframe for the required inspections?
The Building Code requires an inspector or RCA to undertake a site inspection not later than 2 working days after the
receipt of a notice submitted to a chief building official or RCA. The timeframe is 5 working days where the notice
relates to sewage systems.

obc - Construction Notices and Inspections
The timeframes for additional inspections required by a municipality through a by-law or resolution, under Article
2.4.5.2. of the Building Code, is to be established by the municipality itself.



obc - Orders Issued During Construction
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Orders Issued During Construct...
Orders Issued During Construction
Who issues Orders?
Orders may be issued by chief building officials, and in some cases, by building inspectors and registered code
agencies.
What form is to be used for Orders?
There are new prescribed forms for five orders issued by building inspectors, chief building officials or RCAs. The five
orders are: Order to Comply, Stop Work Order, Order Requiring Tests and Samples, Order Not to Cover, Order to
Uncover.
O.Reg. 146/05 specifies that these orders are to be in the form approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and
Housing.
The forms can be downloaded from the Building Code website: www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca. These orders can be
augmented to include the principal authority logo and business address.
There is no provincial form for “unsafe” orders. These can continue to be issued in a format established by

obc - Orders Issued During Construction
municipalities.



obc - Site Plan Disputes
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Site Plan Disputes
Site Plan Disputes
What new tools are available to resolve disputes over term of site plan conditions?
The Building Code Statute Law Amendment Act, 2002 also amends the Planning Act to expedite the resolution of
disputes concerning whether or not a matter is subject to site plan control (e.g., the owner of the land does not believe
that the municipality has jurisdiction, through site control, over a particular building element). The Planning Act has
been amended to authorize the owner or the municipality to apply to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) by means of a
notice of motion for directions. This potentially could take less time than a full OMB hearing. Furthermore, the OMB
would make a final determination, which is not subject to further appeal or review. These provisions will take effect on
July 1, 2005.


obc - Service Level Disputes
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Service Level Disputes
Service Level Disputes
What form of dispute resolution is available for service level issues?
Service level disputes can be appealed to the Provincial Building Code Commission where they are between:
● A permit applicant and a chief building official concerning whether an application for a permit was issued or
refused within the prescribed timeframes;
● A permit applicant and a chief building official concerning whether all of the reasons for the refusal of the permit
were provided within the prescribed timeframe; and
● A permit holder and a chief building official or registered code agency if, after receiving a notice of readiness for
inspection, an inspection was not carried out within the prescribed time frame.
What is my recourse if my complete permit application is not reviewed within the required timeframe?
Where a permit applicant’s complete application has not been reviewed within the prescribed timeframe, the applicant
may wish to first speak with a municipal building official to inquire about the status of the application. Should the
applicant not feel satisfied with the response from the building official, the applicant may appeal to the Building Code
Commission (BCC). The BCC can hear the dispute and make a ruling on whether the municipality met the permit

obc - Service Level Disputes
review time frame after receiving a complete application. The BCC must hear the appeal within 5 business days after it
is received.
While the BCC does not have the authority to substitute its own decision with respect to a permit application it will
issue an order which may include requiring the chief building official to review the application and either issue the
permit or refuse it stating the reasons.



obc - Designer Qualification and Registration
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Designer Qualification and...
Designer Qualification and Registration
When must a designer be qualified / registered under the Building Code?
In general, designers that engage in the following “design activities” are required to meet the qualification/registration
requirements under the Building Code:
● Preparing a design as part of a building permit application;
● Giving information or an opinion concerning whether a building or part of a building complies with the Building
Code if the information or opinion is to be submitted to a chief building official in connection with a building
permit application; and
● Preparing a written report for submission to the chief building official based on a general review, where a
general review is required by the Building Code.
Qualification/registration applies to a designer’s area of practice.
What are the “areas of practice” for designers?
The “areas of practice” for a designer are the types of buildings or systems for which the designer undertakes design

activities. Table 2.20.2.1. of the Building Code sets out the classes of registration and categories of qualification for
building practitioners, including designers, that correspond to a type of building or “area of practice”.
Who is required to be registered, the individual designer or the design firm?
Subject to certain exemptions, design firms, which may be sole proprietors and partnerships, must be registered in
their area of practice. Individuals are required to be qualified. Both the firm and qualified individual are given a
Building Code Identification Number (BCIN).
Which design firms are subject to the registration requirements set out in the Building Code?
In general design firms that provide design activities to the public, as defined under subsection 15.11(5) of the Building
Code Act, 1992, and take responsibility for these activities, are subject to the registration requirements set out in
Subsection 2.17.5. of the Building Code.
Are there exceptions to the types of design firms providing design activities to the public that must be
registered?
Yes. Sentence 2.17.4.1.(3) of the Building Code list the designers that are exempt from the registration requirements,
including:
● Designers that work exclusively for a homebuilder registered under the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act
(Tarion) where the design activities of the house to be constructed or sold by the firm is done by the in-house
designer;
● In-house designers providing design activities for the construction of a building owned by the firm;
● Designers of farm buildings that are of low human occupancy, of 2 storeys or less in building height, and have a
building area of less that 600 m2 (6420 ft2);

● Design firms providing design activities for the renovation of houses (a detached house, semi-detached house,
townhouse or row house containing not more than two dwelling units in each house);
● Designers registered as an on-site sewage system installer where the sewage system will be constructed by the
designer;
● Designers of certain tents;
● Designers of signs;
● Designers of surface drainage and plumbing located underground, either outside or under the building;
● Designers of factory-built houses certifed to CAN/CSA-A277 "Procedure for Certification of Factory-Built Houses";
● Designers of mobile homes conforming to CAN/CSA-Z240 Series "Mobile Homes";
● Designers of park model trailers conforming to CAN/CSA-Z241 Series "Park Model Trailers";
● Designers of pre-engineered building elements if the design of the elements is carried out by a person
competent in the specific discipline appropriate to the circumstances;
● Designers of appliances, equipment and similar incidental components of a building;
● Designers of plumbing systems for houses;
● Designers of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems for houses; and
● Designers of ancillary buildings to houses.
NOTE: Designers exempt from the requirements to be registered may still need to be qualified.
What are the requirements that a design firm must meet to become registered? What fees are payable?
The requirements that a registered design firm must meet include:
● The successful completion of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program by key
personnel in the firm and all persons in the firm that review and take responsibility for design activities;

● Possession of the necessary insurance coverage;
● Filing a complete application for registration; and
● A fee of $125.
What is the process for registering a design firm?
The process for firm registration is:
● Key personnel and individual designers that will review and take responsibility for design work become qualified
by successfully completing the Ministry Examination Program;
● The firm obtains the necessary insurance;
● The firm submits its registration application with the Director of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s
Building and Development Branch including a $125 fee.
Registrations are renewed annually. Firms must update their information, and key personnel and individual designers
must maintain Building Code knowledge.
Registration forms can be downloaded from the Building Code website: www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca.
I work for a registered design firm, and will review and take responsibility for design activities. Do I need
to be qualified? If so, what is the process?
Yes. A condition for the registration of a design firm is that key personnel and all persons who will review and take
responsibility for design activities provided to the public must be qualified and therefore have successfully completed
the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program in their area of practice. Successful completion of
the Examination Program includes passing a legal examination as well as technical examinations that correspond with
area(s) of practice.

A designer who is an employee of a registered design firm does not need to file his/her qualification information
separately with the Ministry; this filing is done through the firm registration.
Must all designers in a registered firm be qualified?
No, only designers that review and take responsibility for design activities must be qualified.
What is an “Other Designer”?
An “Other Designer” is a designer that undertakes design activities and is required to be qualified, but not registered.
Subsection 2.17.5. of the Building Code sets out the requirements for “Other Designers”. Examples include in-house
designers of certain design/build firms.
In order to be qualified as an “Other Designer”, individual must successfully complete the Ministry of Municipal Affairs
and Housing Examination Program and file qualification information with the Director of the Building and Development
Branch.
Filing forms can be downloaded from the Building Code website: www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca.
I want to be qualified as an “Other Designer”. What must I do to become qualified? What fees are
payable?
The qualification requirements for “Other Designers” include:
● Successful completion of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program, which includes
passing a legal/process examination, as well as technical exam(s) in the designer’s area(s) of practice;
● Filing qualification information with the Director of the Building and Development Branch. The $80 filing fee is

reduced to $70 if done electronically over the internet on the QuARTS system at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca; and
● Maintaining Building Code knowledge.
Is qualification or registration necessary if a design firm’s plans are not actually submitted as part of a
building permit application?
No. Even where plans are related to construction requiring a building permit, no “design activity”, as defined under the
Building Code takes place if those plans are not submitted as part of the building permit application, and are not
required for the issuance of such a permit. Certain municipalities, for example, do not require plumbing drawings for
houses at the time of building permit application. In such circumstances, a qualified / registered designer is not
required.
Are there exceptions to the types of designers providing design activities to the public that must be qualified?
Yes. Sentence 2.17.5.1.(2) of the Building Code lists the designers that are exempt from qualification, including:
● Designers that design a house they own;
● Designers that design an ancillary building that serves the house they own;
● Designers of farm buildings that are of low human occupancy, of 2 storeys or less in building height, and have a
building area of less that 600 m2 (6420ft2);
● Designers registered as an on-site sewage system installer where the sewage system will be constructed by the
designer;
● Designers of on-site sewage systems owned by that person;
● Designers of certain tents;
● Designers of signs;
● Designers of surface drainage and plumbing located underground, either outside or under the building;

● Designers of pre-engineered building elements if the design of the elements is carried out by a person
competent in the specific discipline appropriate to the circumstances;
● Designers of appliances, equipment and similar incidental components of a building; and
● Designers of ancillary buildings to houses that do not exceed 50 m2 in building area.
In many cases, a number of people contribute to the preparation of a building design. Which ones must
be qualified?
Only those designers that review and take responsibility for the preparation of a building design, as part of a building
permit application, must be qualified.
May drawings prepared by one firm be “signed off” by another firm?
Yes. Neither the Building Code Act, 1992 nor Building Code prevents a situation where a registered firm or qualified
designer assumes responsibility for design activities undertaken by another designer.
Drawings prepared by one designer can be “stamped” or signed off” by a designer in another firm if:
● The second designer works for a firm registered in the appropriate area of practice (in cases where registration
is required);
● The designer in the second firm is qualified in that area of practice; and
● The designer is the second firm is prepared to “review and take responsibility for the drawings.
Professional engineers and licensed architects should consult with their respective associations to verify that the
individual circumstances are in accordance with professional standards under the Professional Engineers Act and
Architects Act, respectively.

If a design firm does not have a qualified person on staff, can it use a registered code agency (RCA) with
appropriately qualified people to take responsibility for the designs?
No. An RCA is a private inspection agency that undertakes Building Code enforcement activities on behalf of a
municipality. RCAs assume the role of a building official, not the designer.
Are the new qualification/registration requirements a substitute for the design and general review
requirements already set out in section 2.3 of the Code?
No. The designer qualification / registration requirements apply in addition to, and complement, the requirements for
design and general review by an architect or professional engineer, or both.



obc - Application of Qualification/Registration to Licensed Architects and Professional Engineers
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Application of Qualification/Registration to Licensed

Architects and Professional Engineers
Are architectural practices subject to qualification and registration under the Building Code?
No. O.Reg. 145/05 amends the Building Code to recognize the Ontario Association of Architect’s (OAA) establishment
of a parallel qualification and registration system to evaluate Building Code knowledge. O.Reg. 144/05 amends
Regulation 27 made under the Architects Act to set out the parallel qualification and registration requirements for
architects licensed by OAA.
What are the elements of the OAA’s “parallel system”?
The parallel system recognizes the importance of public safety and financial accountability and will include:
● Assessments of Building Code knowledge recognizing the categories of qualification set out in the Building Code;
● Mandatory continuing education; and
● Mandatory insurance for architectural practices.
A Memorandum of Understanding setting out the parameters of OAA’s parallel system has been developed and

obc - Application of Qualification/Registration to Licensed Architects and Professional Engineers
executed by OAA, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Ministry of the Attorney General.
Are engineering firms subject to qualification/ registration under the Building Code?
Yes. Engineers and engineering firms are subject to qualification / registration under the Building Code, with
qualification / registration being the responsibility of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Has the opportunity to operate a “parallel” system been extended to Professional Engineers Ontario?
Yes. The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has extended an offer to work with Professional Engineers Ontario to
develop a parallel system that would be tailored to meet the needs of engineers while also meeting the objectives of
the Building Code.



obc - Application of Qualification/Registration to Various Types of Design Work
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Application of Qualification/Registration to Various Types of

Design Work
Does every person who undertakes site inspection, where the general review must be undertaken by a
professional engineer or architect, also need to be qualified?
The Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code requires that persons who review and take responsibility for design
activities, which includes general review, must be qualified.
However, the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code do not prohibit a person from taking responsibility for general
review where individual inspection activities have been delegated to another person in the firm, provided that the
responsible person has the necessary qualifications.
Professional engineers and architects should consult with their respective associations to verify that the individual
circumstances are in accordance with professional standards under the Professional Engineers Act and Architects Act,
respectively.
How is “house” defined for the purposes of registration/qualification?

As a result of Ontario Regulation 146/05, the definition of houses has been broadened to include detached, semi-
detached, row and townhouses with not more than two dwelling units in each house (e.g. duplexes, or houses with a
basement apartment). This creates more flexibility for building officials and designers qualified in the “House”,
Plumbing – House” and “HVAC – House” categories.
What qualification/registration requirements must be met by an “in-house” designer working for a new
homebuilder registered through Tarion?
Individual designers that work exclusively for a homebuilder registered through Tarion need not be registered however;
they are subject to the qualification requirements as an “Other Designer”.
The requirements for qualification include:
passing the legal/process examination, as well as technical exam(s) in their area(s) of practice;
● Filing qualification information if an “Other Designer”; and
What qualification/registration requirements must be met by an external design firm retained by a new
homebuilder registered through Tarion?
An external design firm retained by a Tarion registered homebuilder is subject to both the qualification and registration
requirements. Therefore, persons in the firm that review and take responsibility for design activities must be qualified
and the firm must be registered.
What qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for house renovations?
Firms that provide designs to building officials for the extension, material alteration or repair of a detached house, semi-

detached house, townhouse or row house are exempt from the registration requirements but are subject to the
qualification requirements as an “Other Designer”.
What qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for buildings ancillary to
houses?
Persons who design and take responsibility for the design of buildings ancillary to houses typically qualify in the House
qualification category.
What requirements must be met by an “in-house” designer working for an industrial, commercial or
institutional owner-builder?
An in-house designer who provides design activities related only to the construction of an industrial, commercial or
institutional building that is owned by that firm or organization is exempt from the registration requirements but is
subject to the qualification requirements as an “Other Designer”.
What requirements must be met by “in-house” designers working for “design build” firms (e.g., in the
industrial, commercial or institutional fields)?
If the design activities performed by the “in-house” designer are in relation to the construction of buildings owned by
the firm at the time of permit application, then the firm is exempt from the registration requirements, although the
designer is subject to the qualification requirements as an “Other Designer”.
What requirements must be met by somebody who prepares designs for their own new home or home
renovation?
A person who prepares designs for the construction, extension, material alteration or repair of their own home is

exempt from both the qualification and registration requirements. The person must still apply for a building permit and
the designs must still comply with the requirements of the Building Code.
I design all aspects of house, which qualifications do I need?
The categories of qualification/classes of registration required for designers that take responsibility for all aspects of the
house design, include “House”, “Plumbing – House”, “HVAC – House” and possibly “On-site Sewage Systems”.
Does a designer who deals with the structural components of a house need to be qualified in the Building
Structural category?
No. Qualification in the “House” category includes the ability to carry out design activities in the structural components
of a house. Should the designer deal with the structural components of buildings other than houses, qualification in the
“Building Structural” category is required. For more information, refer to Table 2.20.2.1. of the Building Code, which
sets out the categories of qualification / classes of registration that correspond to each type of building.
Which qualification/registration category applies to designers who are responsible for sprinkler systems?
As a result of O.Reg. 146/05, persons who design only sprinkler systems will have the option of being qualified/
registered in either the “Building Services” or the new “Fire Protection” qualification category.
Which qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for the fire safety systems of a
building?
As a result of O.Reg. 146/05, persons responsible for design activities related to fire safety (including fire suppression,
fire detection, fire fighting and fire safety systems) would be able to qualify/register in the new “Fire Protection”
qualification category. Alternatively, they could qualify in Building Services and other categories that cover the

applicable building type (e.g., “Large Buildings”).
Which qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for electrical systems
governed by the Building Code?
As a result of O.Reg. 146/05, persons who design only electrical systems governed by the Building Code (e.g., fire
alarms, emergency lighting) will have the option of being qualified/registered in either the “Building Services” or the
new “Detection, Light and Power” qualification category.
Which qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for site servicing, grading and
storm water management?
As a result of O.Reg. 146/05, designers who limit their work to site servicing, including surface drainage and plumbing
located underground either outside or under a building, are exempt from qualification and registration.
What qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for manufactured buildings?
As a result of O.Reg. 146/05, persons are exempt from registration if their work is limited to factory built houses,
mobile homes and trailers conforming to Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
However, such persons would generally be subject to qualification as “other designers”.
What qualification/registration category applies to designers responsible for appliances and other
building equipment?
As a result of O.Reg.146/05, designers who limit their work to design appliances and other building equipment are
exempt from qualification and registration. This could apply, for example, to designers who are responsible for home
furnaces, cooling towers, diesel generators and lighting fixtures.

What qualification/registration requirements apply to plumbing contractors?
As a result of O.Reg.146/05, plumbing contractors who design and take responsibility for the design of plumbing
systems for a detached house, semi-detached house, townhouse or row house containing not more than two dwelling
units in each house are exempt from registration, but must still be qualified. The category of qualification for the
design of plumbing systems for houses is Plumbing-House.
Qualification as a designer of plumbing systems for houses includes the successful completion of a legal/process
examination and the Plumbing-House technical examination. However, holders of a valid Ontario Certificate of
Qualification issued by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities under the Training and Certification Program
for Plumbers are considered to have Advanced Standing for the Plumbing – House Technical Examination.
Plumbing contractors who design and take responsibility for the design of plumbing systems for buildings other than
houses, must be both qualified and registered. The category of qualification/class of registration is Plumbing-All
Buildings.
It should be noted that qualification or registration may not be necessary where plans are not submitted as part of the
building permit application, since design activities, as defined under the Building Code Act, 1992, are connected to
plans submitted as part of the building permit application. Certain municipalities, for example, do not require plumbing
drawings for houses at the time of building permit application. In such circumstances, a qualified/registered designer is
not required.
What qualification/registration requirements apply to heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)
contractors?

As a result of O.Reg.146/05, HVAC contractors who design and take responsibility for the design of HVAC systems in a
detached house, semi-detached house, townhouse or row house containing not more than two dwelling units in each
house are exempt from the registration requirements, but must still be qualified. The category of qualification for the
designer of an HVAC system for a house is HVAC-House. Qualification includes the successful completion of a legal/
process examination and the HVAC-House technical examination.
HVAC contractors who design and take responsibility for the design of HVAC systems for buildings other than houses,
must be both qualified and registered. The category of qualification/class of registration is Building Services.
It should be noted that qualification or registration may not be necessary where plans are not submitted as part of the
building permit application, since design activities, as defined under the Building Code Act, 1992, are connected to
plans submitted as part of the building permit application. Certain municipalities, for example, do not require HVAC
drawings for houses at the time of building permit application. In such circumstances, a qualified/registered designer is
not required.
Which qualification/registration categories apply to interior designers?
Persons who design and take responsibility for interior designs for buildings typically qualify in one or more of “Complex
Buildings”, “Large Buildings”, “Small Buildings” or “House category”. Table 2.20.2.1. of the Building Code sets out the
categories of qualification/classes of registration that correspond to each type of building.
What qualification/registration categories apply to land surveyors?
Land surveyors would be exempt from qualification and registration if their activities are limited to property surveys
showing existing conditions. This would not be a “design activity” as defined in the Building Code.
Does a firm registered as an on-site sewage installer also need to be registered as a designer?

No, on-site sewage system installers who are registered with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing as an
installer are exempt from the registration requirements as a designer for systems they install. Therefore on-site
sewage system installers who design and install sewage systems regulated by the Building Code must:
● Successfully complete the Ministry Examination Program;
● File the On Site Sewage System Installer Application for Registration with the Director of the Building and
Development Branch; and
● Pay the $50 registration fee.



obc - Building Official Qualification
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Building Official Qualification
Which building staff must be qualified?
The chief building official, supervisors, managers, inspectors (including on-site sewage system and fire protection
inspectors), and plans examiners must be qualified.
Are any building officials exempt from qualification?
Yes. As a result of O.Reg.146/05, building officials are exempt from qualification where their plan review and
inspection activities are limited to:
● Site servicing:
● Factory built houses, mobile homes and trailers conforming to Canadian Standards Association (CSA); and
● Signs.
What are the qualification requirements? What fees are payable?
The qualification requirements for building officials include:

passing a legal/process examination, as well as technical exam(s) in area(s) of practice;
● Filing qualification information with the Director of the Building and Development Branch; and
The fees payable include an examination fee of $80 per examination ($70 if the application is submitted electronically
over the Internet on the QuARTS system at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca). The fee for filing qualification information is also
$80 or $70 if done through QuARTS.
Can I be qualified if I do not work for a municipality?
No, Article 2.16.6.1. of the Building Code requires that you be appointed by a principal authority (i.e. municipality,
health unit, conservation authority or planning board) in order to file qualification information as a building official.
I work for more than one municipality as a building official; do I need to qualify in each separately?
No, however you must identify each municipality on your provincial filing form. The filing forms for inspectors,
supervisor / managers and chief building officials allow individuals to enter more than one municipality on the same
form.
What is the qualification process?
The qualification process for building officials is as follows:
● Determine area(s) of practice;
● Assess advanced standing;
● Determine legal and technical examinations that need to be written;

● Apply for and successfully complete the examinations;
● File information with the Director of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Building and Development
Branch; and
● Maintain Code knowledge.
When must fire department staff be qualified?
Fire prevention officers must be qualified as inspectors under the Building Code Act, 1992 when they are to be
appointed by the municipality to undertake plans review or inspection (e.g. issue Building Code Act, 1992 orders) in
respect of fire suppression, fire detection, fire fighting and fire safety under the Building Code Act, 1992. Such
inspectors must complete the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program, including passing the
General Legal/Process or Powers and Duties of CBO examination and the Fire Protection examination.
Similarly, if the fire chief is appointed as an inspector under the Building Code Act, 1992 and supervises other
appointed inspectors, the fire chief would be subject to the qualification requirements as a "supervisor / manager"
under 2.16.3.1 of the Building Code. Therefore the fire chief would need to successfully complete at least one technical
examination (likely Fire Protection) and the Powers and Duties of CBO examination.
A municipality has retained an RCA for certain classes of buildings. Are qualified inspectors still needed
for those classes?
No, when a municipality retains an RCA, the RCA assumes a plan examination and/or inspection role (e.g. reviewing
plans, issuing certificates, and inspecting construction in connection with the Building Code). However, the chief
building official is still responsible for key functions including determining compliance with applicable law, issuing the
building permit, issuing any Unsafe Orders and undertaking prosecutions.

What requirements apply to inspectors who are responsible for on-site sewage systems, and who were
certified before September 1, 2003 and who have maintained their qualifications?
On-site sewage system inspectors who were certified under the Building Code on August 31, 2003 have been deemed
to be qualified under the new system as of September 1, 2003.
As set out in the Ministry’s Examination Program, to maintain their qualifications, these officials must, by January 1,
2006, pass either the General Legal/Process or Powers and Duties of CBO examination and ensure that qualification
information has been filed with the Director of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s Building and Development
Branch.
What happens if required staff in a municipality are not qualified by January 1, 2006?
The Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code require building officials to be qualified in their area(s) of responsibility
to be appointed or remain appointed. Only qualified individuals may be appointed to perform Building Code Act, 1992
functions including: plans review, issuing permits, Building Code enforcement, inspection of building sites, and issuing
orders.
However, O.Reg. 146/05 amends to the Building Code to allow inspectors who have not met all Building Code
qualification requirements to perform restricted duties provided that they are enrolled in a Ministry-approved internship
program and supervised by a qualified inspector or chief building official.




obc - Internship Program for Building Officials
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Internship Program for Building Officials
What is meant by an internship program?
O.Reg. 146/05 amends to the Building Code to allow inspectors who have not met all Building Code qualification
requirements to perform restricted duties provided that they are enrolled in a Ministry-approved internship program
and supervised by a qualified inspector or chief building official.
What duties can an intern inspector perform?
An intern inspector can undertake the duties as an inspector, including plans examination, construction inspections and
the issuance of orders, except for:
● The issuance of an "Order to Comply" or an "Order Not to Cover"; and
● Site inspections for footings and foundations and completion of construction required for the issuance of an
occupancy permit.
Are there any Ministry-approved internship programs?
No. The Ministry will continue to work with the Ontario Building Officials’ Association and other stakeholders to

obc - Internship Program for Building Officials
establish appropriate internship programs.



obc - On-site Sewage System Installer Registration
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On-site Sewage System Installer Registration
What are the registration requirements that an on-site sewage system installer must meet? What fees are
payable?
On-site sewage system installers who install sewage systems regulated by the Building Code must be registered with
the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, which requires:
● Successful completion of the Ministry Examination Program;
● Filing the On Site Sewage System Installer Application for Registration with the Director of the Building and
Development Branch; and
● Payment of the $50 registration fee.
I am already licensed as an on-site sewage system installer. What new qualifications apply to me?
On-site sewage system installers who held valid licenses under the Building Code by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs
and Housing were automatically deemed registered under the new system as of September 1, 2003. The old license
and supervisor numbers of these on-site sewage system installers were converted into new Building Code Identification
Numbers (BCIN). Registration will continue on their pre-existing 3-year renewal cycle.

obc - On-site Sewage System Installer Registration



obc - RCA Registration
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / RCA Registration
RCA Registration
What are the registration requirements that an RCA must meet? What fees are payable?
The registration requirements that an RCA must meet include:
● The successful completion of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program by key
personnel and all persons who will carry out plans review and inspection activities in the firm;
● Possession of the required insurance coverage;
● The development and submission of a quality management plan;
● A complete application for registration;
● A fee of $300;and
● Annual renewal.
What is a quality management plan?
The Building Code requires a quality management plan as part of an application to become registered as an RCA and as
part of the renewal of that application.

The purpose of the quality management plan is to describe how the activities of the RCA will be carried out and to
ensure that its procedures and conditions for registration are in place. The RCA activities and procedures to be
described in the quality management plan are detailed in Building Code Sentence 2.19.3.3 (3). Some examples of
areas to be addressed in the quality management plan include supervisory responsibilities, procedures for assessing
plans and specifications for Code compliance, procedures for issuing certificates and orders as well as administrative
procedures such as documenting the RCA's activities.
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has developed a guide to preparing a quality management plan, which is
available on the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca.
I work for an RCA and will be responsible for plans reviews and construction inspections. Do I need to be
qualified? If so, what is the process?
Yes. All persons who will carry out plans review and inspection activities on behalf of the RCA must be qualified. The
process of qualification is:
● Determine RCA class of registration;
● Assess advanced standing;
● Determine legal and technical examinations that need to be written;
● Apply for and successfully complete the examinations;
● File qualification information as part of the firm registration with the Director of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs
and Housing Building and Development Branch; and
● Maintain Code knowledge.
When must registered code agencies have architects or engineers on staff?

RCAs must have a professional engineer or architect on staff when the Building Code requires that the design and
general review of the construction of a building be undertaken by a professional engineer or architect.



obc - Administration of Designer Requirements
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Administration of Designer Requirements
Who is responsible for ensuring that building practitioners are appropriately qualified and/or registered?
Ultimately, it is the role of the individual or firm to be appropriately qualified / registered. As part of completing the
building permit application form, designers must provide their qualification information and are therefore accountable
for the information they provide.
Municipalities are responsible for assessing building permit applications for completion, including ensuring that the
designers listed on the application have the necessary qualifications, and if required have insurance and are registered
with the province.
Municipalities are also responsible for enforcing the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code, including reviewing
building permit applications for compliance with the Building Code.
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing administers the Building Code examinations necessary for building
practitioners to be qualified. The Ministry is also responsible for accepting filed qualification information, as well as
approving, renewing, suspending and revoking the registration of designers and registered code agencies.

How does a qualified and registered designer indicate responsibility for their design activities?
The Building Code requires that qualified and registered designers who review and take responsibility for design
activities include the following information on any documents submitted to a chief building official or registered code
agency:
● The name and Building Code Identification Number (BCIN) of the registered firm;
● A statement that the qualified person has reviewed and taken responsibility for the design activities;
● The name and BCIN of the qualified person; and
● The signature of the qualified person.
The provincial common building permit application form includes fields in which the above information can be included.
How can I check if my designer / building official is qualified?
The qualification and registration status of building practitioners, including designers and building officials, may be
verified through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s public registry, accessible through the Qualification and
Registration Tracking System (QuARTS) at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca.
What information on building practitioners will be included in public registries?
The public registry lists all qualified building practitioners and registered businesses. The registry is accessible online
through QuARTS (Qualification and Registration Tracking System).
The registry lists qualification information about all individuals (i.e. chief building officials, inspectors, designers, on-site
sewage system installers and registered code agencies) who have filed their qualifications with the Ministry of Municipal
Affairs and Housing including their name, BCIN, the type and category/categories of qualification and status.

The registry also contains information about firms that have registered with the Ministry (i.e. designers, on-site sewage
system installers and registered code agencies) including, the business address, type of registration and status, as well
as links to their qualified staff.
What is a Building Code Identification Number (BCIN)?
A Building Code Identification Number, or BCIN, is the unique identifying number assigned to individuals who file their
qualifications with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and firms which register with the Ministry. The BCIN is
used for several purposes: you may need to provide it on building permit applications in all correspondence with the
Ministry, and in any other building-related work that requires a qualified person or registered firm.
Where is this registry found?
The public registry can be accessed through the Qualification and Registration Tracking System (QuARTS), via the
Building Code website www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca. Click the Qualification & Registration link near the top of the page to
enter the QuARTS System.



obc - Examinations
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Examinations
Examinations
Where are the details of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program set out?
The Ministry has developed an Examination Program for each type of qualification:
● Examination Program for Chief Building Officials and Inspectors
● Examination Program for Designers
● Examination Program for On-site Sewage System Installers
● Examination Program for Registered Code Agencies
The above Examination Programs are posted on the Building Code website www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca under the
Qualification and Registration tab.
What types of examinations are there?
All persons seeking qualification must pass a legal examination and the technical examinations that apply to their area
(s) of practice.
Which legal examination needs to be taken?

obc - Examinations
There are different legal examinations that must be taken by different building practitioners. Details are set out in the
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s Examination Program.
How do I know which technical examinations I need to pass?
Building practitioners must successfully complete the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Examination Program
related to their area(s) of practice. Table 2.20.2.1. and Clause 2.16.4.1.(1)(b)of the Building Code set out categories
of qualifications that correspond to a type of building or area(s) of practice. By identifying which type of buildings or
building systems you work with, you should be able to determine in which category(ies) of qualification you must be
qualified.
The categories of qualification correspond with technical examinations, outlined in the Examination Program.
Therefore, the technical examinations you must successfully complete as part of your qualification, are those that
match with the category(ies) of qualification you have determined to be within your area(s) of practice.
What is the process for applying for examinations?
The process for applying for examinations is as follows:
● Identify examination(s) you wish to write;
● Visit the Building Code website to determine preferred locations and dates;
● Complete the examination application;
● Include fee of $80 per examination $70 if submitted electronically through QuARTS;
● Submit at least 21 days in advance;
● If application accepted, an Admission Letter will be sent to applicant;

obc - Examinations
● Candidates must bring the Admission Letter and photo identification to examination centre; and
● If the application is not accepted (i.e., the sitting is full), the Ministry will call you to reschedule.
What is the format of the examinations?
Each examination is 3 hours in length and contains 75 multiple-choice questions, except for the On-Site Sewage -
Inspector examintion which is 2 1/2 hours and contains 60 questions and the On-Site Sewage - Supervisor examination
which is 2 hours and contains 50 questions.
Where can I find sample questions?
Sample examination questions are available from the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca in the
Qualification and Registration section of the website.
Are the examinations “open book”?
Yes. The examinations are “open book”, however only certain Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Building Code
publications are permitted in the examination room. Examination candidates should refer to the Examination Policies
and Procedures: Candidate Protocol on the Building Code website to determine the books permitted during the
examination, and understand the examination rules of conduct.
Is it permissible to bring a marked up Building Code with tags and notations into the examination room?
Yes, it is permissible to bring a Building Code to the examination session that has been marked up with tags and
notations, provided that it was marked up prior to the examination session. Marking up a Building Code and/or
Supplementary Guidelines during the examination period will result in receiving a fail mark on the examination.
Is it permissible to bring a printed copy of the Building Code downloaded from the government website

obc - Examinations
into the examination room?
Yes, printed copies of the Building Code downloaded from the government website, such as e-laws, is permitted.
Is it permissible to bring a CD-ROM of the Building Code into the examination room?
No.
What is the pass mark?
The pass mark for the examinations is 70%. Examination candidates receive a letter from the Ministry of Municipal
Affairs and Housing informing them if they have passed or failed the examination. The percentage mark that an
examination candidate achieves will not be released, nor will marks be released over the phone.
What is the fee for writing an examination?
The fee for writing an examination is $80.00 per examination if the examination application is submitted by mail or
fax. The fee is $70.00 per examination if the application is submitted electronically via the Qualification and
Registration Tracking System (QuARTS).
What is meant by “examinations are non-transferable”?
Non-transferable, as it relates to Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing examinations, means that a candidate
cannot apply for a given examination in a given examination session and then change either the examination or the
session or switch with another candidate after the application has been submitted to the Ministry.
What is “advanced standing”?
Advanced standing is recognition of the successful completion of certain Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

obc - Examinations
Building Code training courses, which are defined as “Advanced Standing Alternatives”. The Ministry of Municipal Affairs
and Housing or its authorized delivery agents deliver these courses. Building practitioners who successfully complete
these Advanced Standing Alternatives are recognized as having Advanced Standing and are not be required to write the
corresponding technical examinations.
The Advanced Standing Alternatives and corresponding technical examinations can be found in the Ministry of Municipal
Affairs and Housing Examination Program, available on the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca.
Will the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing pre-review my completed course to help me assess my
“advanced standing”?
Yes. Persons may apply for an “advanced standing” assessment by completing the Advanced Standing Application form
available on the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca and submit the required documentation proving
completion of the recognized Ministry Building Code training courses. Applications are to be submitted to the Ministry’s
Building and Development Branch with $25.00 payable by credit card, certified cheque, or money order.
Certified cheques and money orders are payable to the Minister of Finance.
Upon completion of advanced standing assessment, a letter confirming advanced standing status is issued to the
applicant. Advanced standing status may still be assessed, if not all of the requirements under the advanced standing
alternative category as outlined in the Ministry Examination Program are complete.
Where can I take training courses to help me prepare for the examinations?
Optional classroom-based Building Code training courses are offered through Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
authorized delivery agents. Two types of courses are available: detailed technical training and overview/refresher

obc - Examinations
courses. A list of the authorized delivery agents and the Ministry training courses can be viewed on the Building Code
website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca under the “Training” tab.
The overview/refresher training courses are also available in a self-study format. Self-study manuals can be purchased
through Orderline at www.orderline.com or 1-888-361-0003.
Must persons take training courses before sitting for examinations?
No. The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Building Code qualification examinations are challenge
examinations. There are no prerequisites to writing the examinations; however, some building practitioners may find it
beneficial to attend training courses prior to writing the examinations.
What happens if I fail an examination? May I write it again?
If a candidate fails an examination, the candidate may apply to retake the examination. Candidates must reapply for
the examination at least 21 days in advance of the examination session date and repay the full examination fee.
Will persons who have passed examinations be required to upgrade their qualifications in the future?
Yes. The Building Code is updated on a 5-year cycle. Should the Code undergo significant change, the Ministry of
Municipal Affairs and Housing may take the view that updating of qualification is required. If so, the Director of the
Building and Development Branch will give notice of the new Examination Program.
Who is responsible for administering examinations?
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing is responsible for administering the Building Code examinations.
Examination candidates must review the Examination Program – Candidate Protocol prior to applying for an
examination. The Examination Program – Candidate Protocol can be obtained from the Building Code website at www.

obc - Examinations
obc.mah.gov.on.ca under the “Qualification and Registration” tab.
Where can I find information on upcoming examinations?
Information and schedules for upcoming examinations can be obtained from the Building Code website at www.obc.
mah.gov.on.ca under the “Qualification and Registration” tab.
What material should I have to prepare for these examinations? Where can I get this information?
The latest versions of the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code are necessary to prepare for and write the
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing examinations. The Qualification Examination Syllabi lists all of the Ministry
examinations and the specific Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code references that will be tested in each
examination.
The Qualification Examination Syllabi can be obtained from the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca under
the “Qualification and Registration” tab.
Copies of the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code can be purchased through:
● ORDERLINE at:
❍ www.orderline.com
❍ Telephone 1-888-361-0003
● Publications Ontario
❍ 880 Bay Street, Toronto
❍ 1-800-668-9938
❍ www.gov.on.ca/MBS/english/publications/home

obc - Examinations



obc - Training
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Training
Training
Have training courses been developed to assist persons who want to take Ministry of Municipal Affairs
and Housing qualification examinations?
Yes, twelve new courses have been developed to assist candidates to prepare to write their Qualification Examinations.
These courses have been designed as refresher or overview courses, which match the corresponding exam syllabus.
What is the format of the new courses?
The new courses are available either as self-study or formal in-classroom formats.
Who delivers the new courses?
Our licensed delivery agents deliver the new courses. See the Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca for a
full list of these delivery agents.
Self-study manuals can be purchased through Orderline online at www.orderline.com or by telephone at 1-888-361-
0003.

obc - Training
What is the fee for the courses?
The fees for Building Code courses are set by each delivery agent.



obc - Insurance
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Insurance
Insurance
What type of insurance are registered designers required to carry?
Designers are required to carry an insurance policy which indemnifies the registered design firm against liability
imposed by law arising out of the performance or the failure to perform services as a registered design firm during any
time the person is registered. This type of insurance coverage is sometimes called professional errors and omissions
insurance or professional liability insurance.
The scope of required liability insurance for registered designers is outlined in the Building Code under Section 2.21.
Will designers who currently carry professional liability insurance meet the Ministry’s insurance
requirements?
Many designers who currently carry professional liability insurance will find that they already meet the Ministry’s
requirements. Designers should check with their brokers to ensure their coverage meets the specific requirements
outlined in the regulation including requirements related to the scope of coverage, the limits of indemnity, and
maximum deductibles.

obc - Insurance
The “Designer Firm Application for Registration” form includes a schedule for insurance providers to verify insurance
coverage.
Are insurance requirements for registered code agencies (RCAs) different from those of registered
designers?
Yes. All RCAs are required to have insurance coverage of at least $1 Million per claim regardless of fee income and $2
Million in the aggregate. In addition, the insurance coverage for RCAs must include an extended reporting period of 2
years after the RCA ceases to be registered. This “runoff” coverage is intended to allow RCA firms to respond to claims
even after they are no longer in business.
Can registered design firms also act as registered code agencies?
Yes. However the registered design firm must have a separate insurance policy with separate limits, for its activities as
a registered code agency.
Designers who also register as registered code agencies will be required to register separately and complete a separate
insurance certificate for their activities as a registered code agency.
In addition, an RCA cannot provide plans review or inspection services for buildings for which it has provided design
services, or has any other financial interest.
Can the scope of the insurance policy of a registered designer be broader than that required under the
regulation?
Yes. Typical professional liability policies or typical errors and omissions insurance policies carried by design
professionals cover areas of potential liability beyond those required under the Building Code. This could include claims
arising from the failure to meet contractual obligations such as completing designs within a certain time period.

obc - Insurance
Are billings for insurance purposes only those that relate to design activities?
Yes. Billings for the purpose of determining insurance coverage levels and deductibles are based on fee income related
solely to “design activities” described in the Building Code Act, 1992.



obc - Additional Information
Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Additional Information
Additional Information
How do I obtain further information?
You can obtain further information related to the recent changes to the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code or
general information from:
● Building Code website at www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca.
● Email codeinfo@mah.gov.on.ca
● Call the Building and Development Branch at (416) 585-6666
● Fax the Building and Development Branch at (416) 585-7531



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Home / Publications / Questions and Answers

Questions and Answers

● Delivery of Building Enforcement Services

● Joint Enforcement Agreements

● Building Permit Application

● Stock Plan Agreements

● Construction Notices and Inspections

● Orders Issued During Construction

● Site Plan Disputes

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● Service Level Disputes

● Designer Qualification and Registration

● Application of Qualification/Registration to Licensed Architects and Professional Engineers

● Application of Qualification/Registration to Various Types of Design Work

● Building Official Qualification

● Internship Program for Building Officials

● On-site Sewage System Installer Registration

● Administration of Designer Requirements

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Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / General

When do the new requirements take effect?

are in place June 30, 2005.

others are required to be qualified and/or registered by this date.

Which statutes and regulations are affected?

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Which clauses are already in force?

examinations and become qualified;

Which changes will come into force on July 1, 2005?

registered code agencies (RCAs);

● Mandatory use of provincial building permit application form;

● A new list of “applicable law”;

● New rules governing building permit fees;

● Timeframes for building permit decisions;

● Mandatory notices and inspections at key construction stages;

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● A Code of Conduct for building officials.

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Home / Publications / Questions and Answers / Delivery of Building Enforceme...

Delivery of Building Enforcement Services

registered code agencies (RCAs).

What is a Registered Code Agency?

What are the duties of a Registered Code Agency?

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What services can a Registered Code Agency perform?

A registered code agency (RCA) can:

the Building Code;

● Inspect the construction of a building; and

● Any other functions in accordance with Act and Code.

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Why would a municipality want to retain a Registered Code Agency?

of the construction of a building be undertaken by a professional engineer or architect,

Can a firm be both a registered code agency and a design firm?