How many risers can sit on the ground without footings in Ontario?

The 2024 Ontario Building Code allows concrete steps with 1 or 2 risers to be laid on ground level. Steps with more than 2 risers follow the foundation-depth rules in section 9.12 of the Code.

The foundation requirement for those deeper steps depends on the soil under them. In clay or soils that are not clearly defined, section 9.12.2.2 of the Code sets the minimum depth at 1.2 m, but not less than the depth of frost penetration. In coarse-grained soils with good drainage, the Code sets no fixed depth limit, though the bottom of the excavation must be kept from freezing during construction under section 9.12.1.3. The contractor's drawings set the actual depth for the site.

There is also a structural question about how the steps are supported. Section 9.8.9.2 of the Code says exterior concrete stairs with more than 2 risers and 2 treads must be supported on unit masonry or concrete walls or piers not less than 150 mm in cross-section, or cantilevered from the main foundation wall. If they are cantilevered, section 9.8.10.2 requires them to be anchored to a concrete foundation wall not less than 200 mm thick, and section 9.8.10.3 requires precautions during backfilling so that later freezing of the soil does not cause uplift on the underside.

A few other Code requirements apply regardless of how many risers there are. Rise must be between 125 mm and 200 mm, and run between 255 mm and 355 mm, under Table 9.8.4.1. Risers must be uniform, with no more than 5 mm difference between adjacent treads or landings and no more than 10 mm between the tallest and shortest risers in a flight, under section 9.8.4.4. Exterior stairs serving one dwelling unit must be at least 860 mm wide under section 9.8.2.1(4). Treads and landings must be wear-resistant and slip-resistant under section 9.8.9.6. The Code also notes that these dimensional requirements apply regardless of whether a building permit is required.

If the steps serve a building entrance, the City of Ottawa's Landscaping Education Guide says stairs and landings that provide access to a building may need a building permit. The City's Building Code Services can confirm whether a permit is needed for the specific configuration you have in mind.

Since March 1, 2026 the City of Ottawa has required businesses that install concrete steps to hold a hardscaping contractor licence, which costs $319 for 2026 and requires commercial general liability insurance of not less than $2,000,000. Ask to see the licence and check the contractor's name against the City's published list yourself.

For steps, compare quotes on the base depth and compacted granular thickness in writing, the specified concrete strength, the finish, and whether removal of the old steps and disposal of the broken concrete are included or priced separately.