New Building Code Changes Impacting Ontario Farms

The 2024 Ontario Building Code introduces a landmark shift for the agricultural sector with the creation of a dedicated section known as Division B - Part 2: Farm Buildings which came into effect on January 1, 2025. This formal recognition sets the stage for more precise, consistent regulation of farm-related structures by addressing their unique uses, risks, and design considerations. The result is a new framework that not only modernizes standards but also impacts the cost and complexity of construction across Ontario farms. Below, we’ve summarized the most significant changes producers should be aware of.

🛠1. Mandatory Ventilation for Below-Floor Liquid Manure StorageBuildings with below-floor manure storage must now include mechanical ventilation systems that limit flammable gas concentrations to below 25% of the lower explosive limit and toxic gases within ACGIH thresholds. A minimum of two air changes per hour is required​.

⚡2.Emergency Power Supply for Ventilation SystemsIf ventilation depends on electricity, buildings must now have a backup power source capable of running the system for 2 hours at full load, with alarms and automatic switchover on power failure. This is a new requirement for safety redundancy​.

🔥3. Stricter Fire Separation for Pesticide StoragePesticide storage areas must now have 1-hour fire-rated separations from other uses and a minimum 6 m distance from other buildings. They must also have spill curbing and no floor drains, increasing infrastructure requirements​.

🐄4. Elevated Structural Load Requirements for Livestock HousingMinimum live load requirements have increased, with cattle barns now needing to support 5.0 kPa (or 4.5 kN/m on slats), and similar increases for other species. This may impact truss design and concrete reinforcement​.

🌿5. Combustion Air Separation for GreenhousesGreenhouses with fuel-fired appliances must have dedicated combustion air and flue systems unless the equipment is used specifically for CO₂ enrichment and meets CSA B149.1 standards​

❄️ 6. Updated Roof Snow Load RequirementsAll farm buildings must now meet enhanced snow load standards, with a minimum roof snow load of 1 kPa across Ontario. Adjustments are required for site-specific factors such as roof slope, snow drifting, and heating in greenhouses. These changes are designed to improve structural safety during Ontario’s winter conditions.

As a firm specializing in farm appraisals, we’re closely monitoring how these code changes influence building costs, functional utility, and long-term value. Whether you’re planning new construction, expansion, or simply updating facilities, understanding the regulatory environment is critical to protecting your investment. If you have questions about how these changes affect the valuation of your farm property, our team is here to help.

If you need guidance on how these changes impact value, get in touch with our appraisal experts today.

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1. Feeling overwhelmed with all the farm succession planning content out there? We’ve made a top 10 list just for you! Top 10 Considerations to Successfully Navigate Farm Succession Planning.

2. Ready to get a handle on the value of your farm? Contact farms@swiappraisals.com or call 519-763-5956 to discuss!

3. Want to skip the back and forth? Request your farm appraisal directly: Request Farm Appraisal.

DISCLAIMER: The predictions of farmland values for the upcoming year presented in this newsletter are solely the opinions of S.W. Irvine & Associates. These opinions are for general information purposes only and should be regarded as such. They are based on our analysis of current market trends and historical data, but they do not constitute guarantees of future performance. S.W. Irvine & Associates, is not legally bound by these opinions, and they should not be used as the sole basis for any financial decisions.

For individuals or entities with a more vested interest in the precise value of specific properties, S.W. Irvine & Associates offers professional appraisal services. Our team of experts can provide a detailed, property-specific analysis to help you make informed decisions. For more information please contact us at farms@swiappraisals.com | 519-763-5956 or submit your appraisal request here.