National baseline
NBC Part 9 covers residential fireplace and chimney requirements. Part 6 references HVAC and combustion appliance standards.
Canadian building code question
What are the building code requirements for fireplace and chimney construction in Canada?
The NBC and referenced CSA standards set requirements for fireplace construction clearances to combustibles, chimney lining materials, chimney height above the roof, and structural support. Factory-built fireplaces and chimneys must be tested and listed to referenced standards.
Fireplace and chimney construction involves fire safety, structural, and ventilation code provisions that interact. Clearances to combustible materials, chimney liner integrity, minimum height above the roof for draft and spark protection, and structural independence of masonry chimneys are all code-governed. Factory-built systems have different requirements from site-built masonry installations.
What to check first
- Clearances from fireplaces and chimneys to combustible construction are specified by the code and must be maintained throughout the installation.
- Chimney height above the roof must meet minimum values for draft performance and fire safety.
- Factory-built fireplaces and chimneys must be tested and listed to CSA or ULC standards referenced by the NBC.
Jurisdiction notes
Province and edition check
Some provinces restrict or add requirements for wood-burning appliances based on air quality regulations.
Referenced standards
CSA and ULC standards for factory-built fireplaces, chimneys, and wood-burning appliances define testing and installation requirements.
Work through it in this order
- Determine whether the installation is a site-built masonry fireplace or a factory-built system.
- Identify clearance-to-combustibles requirements for the fireplace and chimney or flue system.
- Verify chimney height above the roof and minimum draft requirements.
- Check referenced standards for factory-built systems and verify listing and installation compliance.
Common questions
What clearance is required from a chimney to combustible materials?
The required clearance depends on whether the chimney is masonry or factory-built, and the specific listing of factory-built systems. The NBC specifies minimum clearances for masonry chimneys. Verify the applicable provision.
How high must a chimney extend above the roof?
The NBC specifies a minimum chimney height above the roof surface and above any adjacent roof structure within a specified distance. The exact dimensions depend on the code edition.
Can a wood-burning fireplace be installed in any building?
Provincial air quality regulations and municipal bylaws may restrict wood-burning appliances independently of the building code. Check both the building code and environmental regulations.