National baseline
The NBC classifies brewery and distillery spaces based on their use, which may result in multiple occupancy classifications within one building.
Canadian building code question
What are the building code requirements for brewery and distillery occupancies in Canada?
Breweries and distilleries involve mixed occupancy conditions including industrial processing, storage of flammable materials, and often a public taproom, each with different fire separation, ventilation, and egress requirements under the building code.
Brewery and distillery projects are increasingly common in Canada and present complex code compliance challenges because they combine industrial processing, hazardous material storage (particularly for distilleries handling flammable spirits), assembly-use taprooms or tasting rooms, and often food service areas. Each zone may have different occupancy classification, fire separation, ventilation, and egress requirements.
What to check first
- The production area, storage, taproom, and food service zones may each have different occupancy classifications.
- Distilleries handling flammable spirits may trigger high-hazard industrial requirements for the production and storage areas.
- Taproom and tasting room areas are typically classified as assembly occupancy with associated egress and washroom requirements.
Jurisdiction notes
Fire code requirements
Storage and handling of flammable liquids in distilleries is governed by the fire code and may require special fire suppression and ventilation systems.
Provincial liquor authority
Provincial liquor licensing may impose additional requirements for public-facing taproom and tasting room areas.
Work through it in this order
- Classify each zone of the facility by occupancy type under the applicable building code.
- Determine fire separation requirements between production, storage, and public areas.
- Verify ventilation requirements for production areas, including explosion-proof conditions for distilleries.
- Check assembly occupancy requirements for the taproom including occupant load, exits, and washrooms.
Common questions
Is a brewery classified as industrial occupancy?
The production area is typically industrial, but the taproom is assembly occupancy, so most brewery buildings have mixed occupancy conditions.
What special requirements apply to distilleries?
Distilleries handling flammable spirits may trigger high-hazard industrial requirements including explosion-proof electrical, special ventilation, and enhanced fire suppression.
What occupant load applies to a taproom?
The taproom is classified as assembly occupancy and the occupant load is calculated based on the floor area and use, which determines exit and washroom requirements.