Alternative Solution Application Requirements

In Ontario, an alternative solution for building permits refers to a design or approach that differs from the standard requirements outlined in the Ontario Building Code (OBC), but still meets or exceeds the safety, performance, and functionality standards set by the code.

If a project cannot fully comply with the OBC in its traditional form, an alternative solution may be proposed. This solution needs to be carefully justified, demonstrating that it will provide equivalent or better safety and performance than what the OBC requires.

Refusal or acceptance of any requests for acceptance of an Alternative Solution/existing conditions with mitigating features is at the sole discretion of the Chief Building Official or designated Deputy and shall extend only to the building under consideration. Acceptance of a request shall in no circumstance be construed as creating any precedent or obligation for its acceptance on subsequent projects.

It is required that you contact the Building Division in advance of submitting an Alternative Solution.

Basis for Alternative Solutions

An alternative solution may be applied for when it is beneficial for a project to use a different method, material, or design than what the code typically requires, but it still meets the safety and performance standards of the code.

Here’s when you might need one:

New or Unusual Designs: If you're using a new technology or unique design that isn't listed in the code.
Special Site Conditions: If your building is in a special location or has unique conditions that make the standard rules hard to follow.
Non-Traditional Materials: If you're using materials that aren't specifically mentioned in the code but still meet the code's safety or performance goals.
Achieving the Same Safety or Performance: If your design or method offers the same or better safety, energy efficiency, or other important requirements as the code.
Building-Specific Needs: For taller and larger, more complex buildings with special functions, a different approach may be needed to meet code.
Cost or Practical Reasons: If a solution is more practical or cost-effective, but still meets the code’s requirements.

* This is not a fully comprehensive list as to when you may need to apply for an alternative solution *

Required documentation for an Alternative Solution

When submitting your application, ensure you include all necessary documents to clearly explain how your project differs from the Ontario Building Code (OBC) requirements, and how your proposals will meet or exceed those standards. The following are required:

Completed Alternative Solution Application Form: This form must be filled out, and it should include all functional statements and objectives explaining the performance levels being achieved.
Accompanying Documentation: With your application, provide the necessary documentation that supports the proposed drawings. All documents and drawings must be sealed by a professional engineer and/or architect. This documentation should include:

o Relevant assumptions, limiting or restricting factors, testing procedures, studies, or building performance parameters.

o Commissioning, operational, and maintenance requirements.

If no published test method exists for the proposed alternative solution, the tests used must simulate or exceed anticipated service conditions. Alternatively, they should compare the performance of the proposed material or system with one known to be acceptable. The results from tests or evaluations based on alternative standards may be used if they provide comparable results to those required by the Code.

Relevant Drawings: Include any drawings related to the scope of work that illustrate the proposed alternative solution

Peer reviews

In certain circumstances, the Town may require an evaluation of an Alternative Solution by a third party peer review. This review is not intended to provide an appeal process for failed Alternative Solution
proposals. It will generally only be permitted where the Town feels that the specialized technical expertise required for a fair and effective evaluation of an Alternative Solution should be provided by independent experts with in-depth knowledge of the issues.

The third party review cost will be added to the required alternative solution application fees. These fees are to be paid by the applicant.

Inquiries related to conditional permit requests can be submitted by phone Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. To reach an agent, call 905-309-2022, or email building@grimsby.ca