Balcony Railing Height Requirements

Balcony Railing Height

The Quebec Construction Code, aligned with the National Building Code of Canada, requires that all balcony railings measure at least 1.07 metres (42 inches) in height. This rule applies to new builds, major renovations, and any complete railing replacement.

This measurement is taken from the finished balcony floor surface to the top of the guardrail. It must remain consistent across the entire perimeter of the balcony, including corners and transitional areas, ensuring there are no weak points in the safety barrier.

Why It Matters:

Balcony railing height is not just a design element; it’s a critical safety feature.

Fall Prevention: A railing that is too low significantly increases the risk of accidental falls, particularly in multi-storey buildings, where the consequences can be severe or fatal.
Child & Pet Safety: The height, combined with restricted spacing between balusters, helps prevent small children or animals from climbing over or slipping through.
Legal & Insurance Compliance: Non-compliant railings can lead to fines, insurance claim denials, or even legal liability if an accident occurs.

Additional Requirements

Baluster Spacing: Openings must be small enough that a 100 mm (4-inch) sphere cannot pass through. This prevents children from slipping between vertical or horizontal members.
Strength & Stability: Railings must withstand specified horizontal loads as outlined in the building code, ensuring they remain secure even under force.
Material Durability: Approved materials include aluminum, stainless steel, tempered safety glass, and treated wood — all resistant to corrosion and weather-related damage.
Secure Anchoring: Railing posts must be anchored into the balcony’s structural slab or approved framing, using corrosion-resistant fasteners and proper waterproof sealing.

Common Triggers for Railing Upgrades

Major balcony repairs or resurfacing projects.
Replacement of damaged or corroded railings.
Change in balcony use (e.g., converting from decorative to functional).
Non-compliance discovered during an RBQ or municipal inspection.

Safety Tip: Even if your railings appear solid, older balconies built before the regulation change may still be too short. Upgrading proactively not only improves safety but can also modernize your building’s appearance and increase property value.

Balcony Railing Height Requirements

Montreal’s Safety Standard