BCAB #1296 - Installation of Solid Fuel Burning Appliance, Article 9.34.2.1.

Last updated on March 24, 2016

November 18, 1992

BCAB #1296

Re: Installation of Solid Fuel Burning Appliance, Article 9.34.2.1.

Project Description

This appeal involves an older Fisher wood stove recently installed in a single family dwelling. The appliance is not labeled to indicate conformance to any manufacturing standard.

Reason for Appeal

Article 9.34.2.1. of the 1985 B.C. Building Code requires space heaters to conform to ULC S627/CSA B366.2, "Standard for Space Heaters for Use with Solid Fuels." The stove in question bears no evidence of such conformance.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends that his appliance should be classed as a stove or range and not have to comply with ULC S627/CSA B366.2. He also contends that the unit complies with the clearance requirements of Article 9.34.2.4.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains that the appliance in question is clearly a space heater and as such must conform to ULC S627/CSA B366.2. As one cannot expect a building official to certify on site that any given appliance conforms to the referenced standard it is normal to look for a label on the appliance stating conformance. No label from a testing and certification agency appears on the unit but the official is prepared to accept an equivalency report from a reputable agency such as Warnock Hersey Professional Services but. No report has been forthcoming.

Appeal Board Decision #1296

It is the determination of the Board that the solid fuel burning appliance in question is a space heater and must conform to ULC S627/CSA B366.2. The Board notes that the Code requires conformance with the standard but does not require certification or labeling, although this is the normal method of verifying compliance with a referenced standard. The Board can only suggest the appellant discuss with the building official the option of a third party equivalency report.

George R. Humphrey, Chair