What is the minimum hallway width required for a basement apartment in Ottawa?

The minimum hallway width for a basement apartment in Ottawa is 1,100mm (43.3 inches) for corridors serving as a required means of egress, as specified in the Ontario Building Code.

When creating a secondary dwelling unit in your basement, hallway width is a critical safety requirement that's often overlooked during the planning phase. The 1,100mm minimum applies to any corridor that serves as part of the exit route from sleeping areas or main living spaces. This width ensures two people can pass each other safely during an emergency evacuation, which is especially important in basement units where egress options may be more limited.

However, the width requirements can vary depending on the specific function and occupant load of different areas. Non-required corridors (those that don't serve as primary exit routes) may be narrower, but it's generally recommended to maintain the 1,100mm standard throughout for consistency and future flexibility. Additionally, if your basement apartment will house more than typical occupancy loads, wider corridors may be required.

Ottawa-specific considerations include ensuring your secondary suite complies with R4 zoning requirements, which often influence the overall layout and circulation patterns. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services will review your hallway widths as part of the building permit process, and inspectors pay close attention to egress routes in basement dwelling units. Most basement apartments in Ottawa also require two separate means of egress, which means your hallway system needs to connect to both the internal stairs and an emergency egress window or separate exterior entrance.

Professional guidance is essential for basement apartment conversions because corridor width intersects with fire separation requirements, ceiling height minimums (2.3m in most areas), and proper ventilation. An experienced contractor will ensure your hallway layout meets all OBC requirements while maximizing your usable space. Attempting to modify these dimensions after construction begins can be costly and may require redesigning other elements of your unit.

Next steps include having your basement measured and assessed for secondary suite potential, as hallway width is just one of many interconnected requirements. For a comprehensive evaluation of your basement apartment project, including proper corridor planning and permit coordination, contact Ottawa Basements for a free consultation.