National baseline
The NBC sets safety glazing, fire-rated assembly, and structural loading requirements for skylights.
Canadian building code question
What are the building code requirements for skylights in Canada?
Skylights must comply with energy performance, safety glazing, fire rating, fall protection, and condensation control requirements. The applicable provisions depend on the skylight location, the building's construction type, and whether it is on a fire-rated roof assembly.
Skylights introduce natural light but create code compliance considerations across multiple disciplines. Energy code provisions limit glazing area and set thermal performance requirements. Safety glazing is required where skylights are accessible or in overhead locations. Fire-rated roof assemblies may restrict skylight placement. Fall protection during maintenance and condensation management add further design requirements. A systematic check across these areas prevents common compliance gaps.
What to check first
- Safety glazing is required for skylights in overhead and accessible locations.
- Energy code provisions limit total glazing area and set thermal performance requirements.
- Skylights on fire-rated roof assemblies must comply with opening protection or fire-rated glazing requirements.
Jurisdiction notes
Energy code
Provincial energy codes set thermal performance requirements and may limit total skylight area based on building type and climate zone.
Occupational safety
Fall protection requirements during skylight maintenance may be governed by provincial occupational health and safety legislation.
Work through it in this order
- Determine if the skylight location is on a fire-rated roof assembly and check opening protection requirements.
- Verify safety glazing requirements for overhead and accessible skylight installations.
- Check energy code provisions for thermal performance and allowable glazing area.
- Confirm structural load requirements including snow, wind, and impact loads on the skylight.
Common questions
Do skylights need safety glass?
Yes. Safety glazing is required for skylights in overhead locations and where they are accessible, to prevent injury from breakage.
Can I install a skylight on a fire-rated roof?
It depends on the fire rating requirements. Skylights may need fire-rated glazing or may be limited in size and spacing on fire-rated assemblies.
Do skylights count toward energy code glazing limits?
Yes. Skylights are included in total glazing area calculations and must meet thermal performance requirements under the applicable energy code.