The Ontario Building Code | Minimum Sound Transmission Class Ratings
9.11.2.1. Minimum Sound Transmission Class Ratings
(1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), every dwelling unitand every suite in hotelsshall be separated from every other space in a buildingin which noise may be generated, by an assembly providing a sound transmission class rating of at least 50, measured in accordance with Subsection 9.11.1. or as listed in Tables 1 and 2 of MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-3, "Fire and Sound Resistance of Building Assemblies".
(2) Where a dwelling unit or suitein a hotel is adjacent to an elevator shaft or a refuse chute, the separating assembly shall have a sound transmission class rating of at least 55, measured in accordance with Subsection 9.11.1. or as listed in Tables 1 and 2 of MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-3, "Fire and Sound Resistance of Building Assemblies".
In Plain Language
Walls, floors, and ceilings separating dwelling units must achieve a minimum sound transmission class rating as set out in this article, limiting how much noise passes between neighbouring units.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.