National Fire Code of Canada

National Fire Code of Canada Excerpts

The following information are excerpts from the National Fire Code of Canada pertaining to solid fuel burning appliances, chimneys and flues.  
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1.1.1.1. Application of this Code

1)  This Code applies to all new and existing buildings and facilities, and to building construction,
      renovation or demolition sites. (See Appendix A.)
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2.6.1.2. Coal and Wood Bins

1)  Coal and wood bins shall be located not less than 1.2 m from the appliance served.
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2.6.1.4. Chimneys, Flues and Flue Pipes

1)  Every chimney, flue and flue pipe shall be inspected to identify any dangerous condition
      a)  at intervals not greater than 12 months,
      b)  at the time of addition of any appliance, and
      c)  after any chimney fire.
2)  Chimneys, flues and flue pipes shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them free from dangerous accumulations of       
      combustible deposits.
3)  A chimney, flue, or flue pipe shall be replaced or repaired to eliminate
      a)  any structural deficiency or decay, and
      b)  all abandoned or unused openings that are not effectively sealed in a manner that would prevent the passage of fire or smoke.

Appendix A

A-2.6.1.4.(1)

External inspection of enclosed chimneys and surrounding construction may require the installation of
one or more access openings in the enclosure surrounding the chimney. The presence of scorched or
charred adjacent combustible construction will indicate the need for further investigation of the cause
of the overheating.
Internal inspection of chimneys can be accomplished by lowering a light from the top, insertion of a
light at the bottom or at intermediate locations, together with the use of one or more mirrors.
During inspection of a chimney connected to an operating appliance, the presence of dense smoke at
the outlet will indicate improper operation of the appliance, incorrect sizing of the chimney or that
unsuitable fuels are being used. These factors must be promptly corrected to reduce the
accumulation of combustible deposits on the chimney and flue pipe walls.
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A-2.6.1.4.(2)

The presence in a chimney of deposits of soot or creosote in excess of 3 mm thick will indicate the
need for immediate cleaning, possible modification of burning procedures, and more frequent
inspections.
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A-2.6.1.4.(3)(a)

Structural deficiencies are deviations from required construction, such as the absence of a liner or
inadequate design of supports or ties. Instances of decay are cracking, settling, crumbling mortar,
distortion, advanced corrosion, separation of sections, or loose or broken supports.
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2.6.1.5. Clearances

​1)  Required clearances between chimneys, flue pipes or appliances and combustible construction
     shall be maintained in conformance with the NBC.
2)  Combustible materials shall not be located within the required clearance space surrounding
     chimneys, flue pipes or appliances, or adjacent to ash pit or cleanout doors.
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2.6.1.6. Operation and Maintenance Procedures

​1)  Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, including appliances, chimneys and flue pipes,
     shall be operated and maintained so as not to create a hazardous condition.
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2.6.2.3. Spark Arresters

​1)  Spark arresters installed in conformance with Articles 2.6.2.1. and 2.6.2.2. shall be inspected and
     cleaned at intervals not greater than 12 months or more frequently where accumulations of debris will
     adversely affect operations.
2)  Burnt-out spark arresters shall be repaired or replaced.