As of July 1, 2025, the use of innovative products and materials on projects in Ontario is no longer governed by Minister’s Rulings, but by Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC) evaluations. This change is part of the building code harmonization effort and was announced via CodeNews (issue 368) in early August.

Along with reliance on CCMC evaluations, CodeNews reported the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) will revoke existing Minister’s Rulings made under clause 29(1)(a) of the Building Code Act, 1992.

Practices should check that all materials and products being specified which were subject to a Minister’s Ruling have already been evaluated and accepted by CCMC, along with any conditions or limitations on their use. It is possible some materials and products subject to a Minister’s Ruling have not yet been accepted federally by CCMC. Practices should verify the ongoing acceptability of any products or materials currently being used or contemplated for use.

Should there be any concerns or confusion, communicate with clients, your project team, contractors and authorities having jurisdiction to avoid last-minute surprises. You can also consult resources such as Pro-Demnity Insurance Co.’s “Dealing with Substitutions to your Design.”



This article originally appeared in an issue of  Practice Advisory—a newsletter developed by the OAA’s Practice Advisory Services team, which offers numerous resources for both members and the public.

The OAA does not provide legal, insurance, or accounting advice. Readers are advised to consult their own legal, accounting, or insurance representatives to obtain suitable professional advice in those regards.