Effective January 1, 2025, the Farm Building Code was amended to bring it into alignment with the National Building Code.
The impact these changes have on farms and farm buildings largely depends on the use of the building and/or the size of the building. Below is a brief outline of some of the key changes to be aware of.
Classification of Farm Buildings
Farm buildings are now classified based on their size, occupancy, and potential hazards.
Structural Design Standards
Updates to account for increased snow loads, wind resistance, and seismic activity. For example, a farm equipment shed exceeding 6,500 square feet will now need to comply with requirements for closer truss spacing as well as reduced spacing for end and side wall studs, among other adjustments. There is also mandated use of engineered materials and designs for large structures.
Fire Safety Requirements
These include improved fire separation requirements for buildings over a certain size or housing livestock, as well as installation of fire alarm and sprinkler systems in high-hazard and large farm buildings.
Energy Efficiency Standards
Included in the amendments are some requirements for improved insulation and energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems. There are specific updates to the ventilation requirements for buildings housing animals. Provisions have also been made for renewable energy integration, such as solar panels.
Updated By-Law Regulations
Some buildings will be subject to updated by-law regulations. In particular are farms that have buildings open to the public. For example, a building used by an apple farmer for public sales, which would have previously been classified as an Agricultural building under the old code, will now face higher construction costs to accommodate public access. The new code has more stringent fire safety measures in these cases, including the installation of exit signage, emergency lighting, and fire extinguishers.
Environmental Considerations
The updates to the code include improved manure and waste management system guidelines to minimize environmental impact, as well as provisions for water conservation and runoff management.
How the changes to the Farm Building Code affect farmers varies depending on the size and use of the buildings, and the operations of the farm itself.
It is important to ensure that buildings are insured for an adequate replacement cost that includes any additional costs that will be incurred to account for new building code requirements. Insurance policies will need to include by-law coverages as well.
If you have questions specific to your business, or would like additional information, please reach out to John Dyck, our Farm Risk Specialist. If you’re already an Ives client, please contact your Ives Insurance Advisor.
