{"id":4096,"date":"2025-09-20T10:00:31","date_gmt":"2025-09-20T10:00:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/landsignal.ai\/blog\/?p=4096"},"modified":"2026-02-17T07:09:52","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T07:09:52","slug":"areas-of-refuge-residential-buildings-toronto","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/landsignal.ai\/blog\/areas-of-refuge-residential-buildings-toronto\/","title":{"rendered":"Areas of Refuge for Small Residential Buildings in Toronto"},"content":{"rendered":"

Toronto\u2019s housing scene is full of variety, from older multiplexes and basement apartments to new laneway suites and garden houses. Each of these homes must follow strict safety rules, especially when it comes to fire protection. Normally, every residential building needs at least two safe exits, but in some smaller buildings such as triplexes, fourplexes, or garden suites that isn\u2019t always possible.
\nThat\u2019s where the concept of an Area of Refuge<\/strong> comes in. It\u2019s a designated safe space where people can wait for firefighters if they cannot leave the building. For properties no taller than three storeys, this option provides a practical and code-approved alternative to a second stairwell.<\/p>\n\t\t

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What Is an Area of Refuge?<\/h2>\n

An Area of Refuge is a protected part of a building that gives residents time and safety during an emergency. Instead of risking smoke-filled hallways or blocked exits, people can shelter in this space until Toronto Fire Services arrives.
\nIt is only allowed in certain cases, such as small buildings where no more than ten people sleep on a floor. Like a legal basement permit or a home extension project, it must be formally approved through Toronto Building with input from fire officials.<\/p>\n

\"Schematic<\/a><\/p>\n

Requirements in Toronto<\/h2>\n

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Construction and Safety<\/h3>\n

\u2022 Fire resistance:<\/strong> 30-minute fire separation for walls and roofs.
\n\u2022 Closures:<\/strong> Doors and windows must be fire-rated and self-closing.
\n\u2022 Guards:<\/strong> Minimum 1070 mm high to prevent falls.
\n\u2022 Size:<\/strong> At least 0.5 m\u00b2 per person, with a minimum of 3 m\u00b2.<\/p>\n

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\"diagram<\/a><\/p>\n

Fire Alarm and Accessibility<\/strong><\/h3>\n