What are the carbon monoxide detector requirements in Ontario?

In Ontario, carbon monoxide detectors are legally required in all residential buildings that have fuel-burning appliances or attached garages, and must be installed outside all sleeping areas.

Ontario Fire Code Requirements

Under the Ontario Fire Code, carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in:

• Homes with fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves)


• Homes with attached garages


• All residential rental properties


• New construction and existing homes (as of October 15, 2014)

The detectors must be installed outside each sleeping area, typically in hallways leading to bedrooms. For multi-story homes, you need detectors on every level that contains sleeping areas.

Ottawa-Specific Installation Requirements

When renovating in Ottawa, carbon monoxide detector installation often becomes part of your building permit requirements. If you're doing electrical work that requires an ESA permit, the electrical inspector will verify CO detector compliance during the inspection process.

For new construction or major renovations in Ottawa, your contractor must ensure CO detectors are:

• Hardwired with battery backup (preferred)


• Located according to manufacturer specifications (usually 5-20 feet from fuel-burning appliances)


• Interconnected so all alarms sound when one detects CO


• CSA or ULC certified

What Triggers This Requirement

During Ottawa building permit inspections, inspectors specifically check for CO detectors when they see:

• New or replacement furnaces, water heaters, or boilers


• Fireplace installations or renovations


• Garage conversions or new attached garages


• Electrical panel upgrades (good time to hardwire detectors)

Working with Ottawa Contractors

When hiring contractors for work involving fuel-burning appliances, ensure they understand Ontario's CO detector requirements. Licensed Electrical Contractors (LEC) in Ottawa can install hardwired units - verify their ESA license at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

For gas appliance work requiring TSSA certification, your G1 or G2 certified technician should remind you about CO detector requirements and may include installation in their quote.

Compliance and Safety

The Ontario Fire Marshal's office enforces these requirements, and non-compliance can result in fines up to $50,000 for individuals or $100,000 for corporations. More importantly, CO poisoning kills approximately 50 people annually in Ontario.

Battery-only units are acceptable for existing homes, but hardwired units with battery backup are required for new construction and major electrical renovations in Ottawa.

For questions about specific installation requirements during your renovation project, contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building. They can clarify when CO detector upgrades are required as part of your permit application.