Accessibility Codes & Standards

Accessibility requirements in Manitoba are guided by a combination of provincial building regulations, national safety standards, and the broader framework established under The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA). Together, these rules ensure that accessibility equipment such as ramps, lifts, elevators, and stairlifts is designed and installed safely, reliably, and in a way that removes barriers for people with mobility challenges.

Manitoba has adopted the 2020 National Building Code of Canada (NBC) with specific provincial amendments through the Manitoba Building Code (MBC). These amendments address accessibility more directly and often reference national standards such as CSA B651 (Accessible Design for the Built Environment) and CSA B355 (Platform Lifts and Stair Lifts for Barrier-Free Access).

General Accessibility Requirements in Manitoba

The Manitoba Building Code requires a barrier-free path of travel in many buildings, particularly public, commercial, and multi-unit residential spaces. While private homes are not always mandated to include these features, Manitoba strongly encourages “visitable” housing design that supports long-term accessibility.

Key Requirements Include:

Barrier-Free Path of Travel

Buildings that fall under barrier-free requirements must provide a continuous, unobstructed path that individuals with mobility devices can safely use. This often includes ramps, elevators, and platform lifts to overcome level changes.

Doorway Widths

  • Public buildings: Clear width must be at least 825 mm.
  • Recommended residential/visitable housing: 915 mm for easier wheelchair access.

Handrails

Manitoba amendments require handrails on both sides of stairs and ramps. Handrails must be continuously graspable and properly anchored.

Walking Surfaces

All surfaces on a barrier-free path must be stable, firm, and slip-resistant, ensuring safe travel in all conditions.

Technical Standards for Specific Accessibility Equipment

Manitoba references nationally recognized safety standards for accessibility equipment to ensure proper installation and long-term safety.

Ramps

Ramps used as part of a barrier-free solution must meet several key requirements:

  • Maximum slope: 1:12 (gentler 1:20 slopes recommended when space allows)
  • Minimum clear width: 870 mm between handrails
  • Landings: Level landings of at least 1500 mm × 1500 mm at top, bottom, and every 9 m of ramp length
  • Handrails: Must extend 300 mm past the top and bottom of the ramp, fully graspable and continuous

These specifications ensure safe navigation for wheelchair users, walkers, and individuals with limited mobility.

Home Elevators and Lifts

This includes:

  • Porch lifts / vertical platform lifts
  • Stairlifts
  • Curved or straight platform lifts
  • Residential accessibility elevators

All must comply with CAN/CSA B355 (2019) and other relevant Canadian safety codes.

Permits and Inspections

Any lift, platform lift, or elevating device installed in Manitoba requires:

  • A permit under the Elevator Regulation
  • Inspection and approval under The Technical Safety Act

    This ensures all equipment meets Manitoba’s safety requirements before being put into service.

Additional Resources

For project-specific guidance or detailed technical requirements, the following resources may be useful:

  • Manitoba Building Code (MBC) documentation - Click here
  • Manitoba Accessibility Office - Click here
  • Government of Manitoba publications on visitable housing - Click here
  • Local municipal building departments
  • CSA standards referenced in provincial regulations - Click here

If you are planning an accessibility project and want professional guidance, we are always happy to help you navigate Manitoba’s requirements and determine what applies to your situation.

Contact us for more information