Building standards (RBQ) for stairs, railings and balconies

For every construction project we undertake, we must comply with certain building standards set by the Regie du batiment du Quebec (RBQ). We receive many questions on this topic, so here is a summary of the main standards for stairs, railings, guardrails, and balconies.

Standards for an interior residential staircase

Here is an overview of the requirements and dimensions to meet for the various components of an interior staircase. This applies to all staircase types, whether made of wood, steel, or another material.

• Clearance height (distance between the treads and the ceiling): 1.95 m (76 3/4 in.)
• Riser height: between 14.6 and 20 cm (5 3/4 in. and 8 in.), with a common standard of 19 cm (7.5 in.)
• Nosing: minimum 2.5 cm (1 in.)
• Depth of each tread: minimum 23.5 cm (9 1/4 in.)
• Tread depth: 21.6 to 29.2 cm (8.5 in. to 11.5 in.), usually between 25.4 and 30.5 cm (10 to 12 in.)
• Staircase width: minimum 86.4 cm (34 in.)
• Distance between stringers (supports): maximum 120 cm (47 1/4 in.)

If your staircase does not meet these building standards, do not hesitate to contact us to rectify the situation.

Standards for an exterior residential staircase

Standards for exterior residential staircases vary among municipalities, so we advise you to consult your local urban planning department. However, here are a few common indications:

• A handrail is required for a staircase with more than 3 risers.
• The guardrail of a staircase must be at least 90 cm (35.4 in.) high.
• The minimum staircase width is 86 cm (34 in.).
• The tread depth must be between 23.5 cm and 35.5 cm (9.5 and 14 in.).

Regulations for handrails

Handrails (safety devices used when going up or down stairs) are mandatory for any interior staircase with more than two risers and any exterior staircase with more than three risers.

• They must be positioned at a height of 91.5 cm (36 in.) from the nosing to above the railing.
• They must be at least 3 cm (1 1/2 in.) from the wall.

Regulations for balconies, guardrails and balustrades

A guardrail (also called a railing or balustrade) is the assembly made of glass panels or bars and posts that prevents people from falling. They can be found indoors along staircases and mezzanines, or outdoors around balconies.

Interior

• For a staircase, a guardrail must be at least 36 in. high from the floor to above the railing.
• Along a mezzanine, a guardrail must be at least 91.5 cm (42 in.) high.
• If the guardrail is made of bars, spacing must be 10 cm (4 in.) or less.

Exterior balconies

• A guardrail is required for any balcony more than 61 cm (2 ft.) above ground level.
• If the balcony is 1.83 m (6 ft.) or more above ground, the guardrail must be at least 91.5 cm (42 in.) high.
• If made of aluminum, wood, or PVC bars, spacing must be 10 cm (4 in.) or less.

Mandatory RBQ licence

Rampes et Balcons holds the mandatory Regie du batiment du Quebec licence required for any company installing staircases, railings, and balconies.

For any question about building standards for stairs, railings, or balconies, contact the experts at Rampes et Balcons!