As Ontario prepares to transition from the 1995 Farm Building Code to the new 2024 Ontario Building Code, industry experts are closely examining the implications for greenhouse construction. Greg Van Geest of Westbrook Greenhouse Systems highlights how the updated regulations will impact greenhouse design and increase construction costs.
National Building Code Compliance
The National Building Code, which governs construction standards across Canada, was updated in 2020 and released in 2022. Ontario has revised its own Building Code to align with these national standards. The new 2024 Ontario Building Code, which takes effect on January 1, 2025, mandates significant changes that greenhouse builders must adhere to, particularly concerning snow and wind loading requirements.
Van Geest points out that while these updates are essential for safety and resilience, they will necessitate substantial upgrades to greenhouse structures, driving up construction costs. “Our goal is to minimize price increases as much as possible while remaining compliant with the new code,” he says, assuring that Westbrook will provide ongoing updates as more information becomes available.
Transitional Period
According to Ontario CodeNews, there will be a transitional period during which permit applicants can continue using the 2012 Building Code, which incorporates the 1995 Farm Building Code. This period extends to March 31, 2025, for applications with substantially completed plans as of December 31, 2024. This transition allows some flexibility for growers to adapt to the new regulations.
“This means that anyone with substantially completed working plans as of December 31, 2024, will be allowed to continue applying for permits under the existing building code until March 31, 2025,” Van Geest clarifies. He advises growers to confirm permit validity with their local municipalities, as building permits in Ontario are typically valid for six months prior to construction.
Industry Response and Advocacy
Westbrook and other greenhouse manufacturers are collaborating with industry associations like Flowers Canada Ontario and Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers to advocate for the continued use of the 1995 Farm Building Code in Ontario. They encourage stakeholders to reach out to their local Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) to voice their concerns and support these efforts.
For entrepreneurs and investors, understanding these regulatory changes is crucial for making informed decisions in the greenhouse sector. The anticipated increase in construction costs underscores the need for strategic planning and collaboration with experienced partners to navigate the evolving landscape of greenhouse agriculture.
