SLOPE STANDARD FOR DISABLED ACCESS RAMPS IN QUEBEC

The golden rule: the 1:12 ratio

The most important standard to remember is the maximum permitted slope of 1:12. This means that for every inch of height to be bridged, 12 inches of ramp length are required.

In concrete terms: if your balcony is 21 inches off the ground (the equivalent of about three steps), your ramp will need to be at least 21 feet long.

This rule applies to residential and commercial installations in Quebec, in compliance with the Quebec Construction Code and RBQ standards.

Calculation table: ramp length by height

Use this table to quickly estimate the length of ramp you'll need, depending on the height you need to climb. Three ratios are presented according to the user's level of autonomy.

Clearance height	Slope 1:12 (RBQ standard)	Slope 1:16 (recommended)	Slope 1:20 (optimum)
6 inches	6 ft (1.8 m)	8 ft (2.4 m)	10 ft (3.0 m)
12 inches (1 ft)	12 ft (3.7 m)	16 ft (4.9 m)	20 ft (6.1 m)
18 inches	18 ft (5.5 m)	24 ft (7.3 m)	30 ft (9.1 m)
21 inches (≈3 steps)	21 ft (6.4 m)	28 ft (8.5 m)	35 ft (10.7 m)
30 inches	30 ft (9.1 m)	40 ft (12.2 m)	50 ft (15.2 m)
36 inches (3 ft)	36 ft (11.0 m)	48 ft (14.6 m)	60 ft (18.3 m)
48 inches (4 ft)	48 ft (14.6 m)	64 ft (19.5 m)	80 ft (24.4 m)

Important: beyond 30 feet in a straight line, a horizontal rest stop is mandatory before the next inclined section.

Which slope is right for you?

Slope 1:12 - the minimum legal standard

This is the steepest slope permitted by the RBQ. It is suitable for autonomous users in manual or electric wheelchairs, or when a caregiver is present. It's also the solution when space is limited.

Slope 1:16 - enhanced comfort

Recommended for manual wheelchair users who move around on their own. The ramp is longer, but the effort required to go up and down it is considerably reduced.

1:20 slope - optimum accessibility

Ideal for the elderly, walker users, or anyone with limited strength or stamina. It's also the recommended slope for ramps used extensively in commercial environments.

Not sure which slope is best for your situation? Our team can advise you during the evaluation process. Discover our access ramps for the disabled for every need.

Other important requirements in Quebec

Minimum width

According to the Quebec Building Code, the minimum width of an access ramp is 36 inches (914 mm). For commercial use or heavier traffic, a width of 48 inches or more is often recommended.

Resting bearings

Landings (or platforms) must measure at least 5 feet by 5 feet (1500 mm × 1500 mm). They are mandatory:

• At the beginning and end of each ramp
• Each time you change direction (90° or 180°)
• Every 30 feet (9 metres) in a straight line
• In front of every front door

Railings and handrails

Railings must be between 32 and 38 inches (813 and 965 mm) high. A handrail is mandatory whenever the ramp rises more than 6 inches. For wheelchair-accessible ramps, a second, lower handrail is recommended to provide support within the reach of a seated person.

Non-slip surface

In Quebec, where winter conditions are extreme, a non-slip surface is essential. Open-mesh aluminum ramps (like our Breeze series) are recognized as the best solution: water drains immediately, no puddles, no ice build-up.

Side edges

A curb at least 2 inches high must be installed along the edges of the ramp to prevent the wheels from sliding sideways.

Possible configurations: straight, L-shaped, U-shaped ramp

The shape of your ramp depends on the space available around your entrance and the height to be crossed.

• Straight ramp: the simplest solution where space permits. Maximum 30 feet in a straight line before a mandatory landing.
• L-shaped ramp (90° turn): used to adapt to the terrain or bypass an obstacle. A 5' × 5' landing is required at the corner.
• U-shaped ramp (180° turn or "switchback"): to save space when height is important. The landing must be twice as long as for a 90° turn, and must never be inclined.

To see concrete examples of each configuration, consult our gallery of projects installed in Quebec.

RBQ, CNB and ADA: which standard applies to you?

Three main standards govern access ramps in North America. Here's how to find your way around:

• RBQ (Régie du bâtiment du Québec): the reference for all installations in Quebec. It is largely based on the National Building Code of Canada, but with local peculiarities.
• NBC (National Building Code of Canada): the basic Canadian standard, integrated and adapted by each province.
• ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): the American standard. It applies in the United States, but many Quebec manufacturers and customers use it as an additional benchmark of quality. Our ramps meet ADA standards in addition to RBQ standards.

For a residential project in Quebec, the RBQ standard is the one that applies by law. For commercial or institutional projects, RBQ compliance is mandatory and often verified by a structural engineer.

Subsidies available in Québec

The installation of a standard-compliant access ramp may be eligible for several financial assistance programs:

• Programme d'adaptation de domicile (PAD): up to $50,000 in assistance to adapt the home of a disabled person. Managed by the Société d'habitation du Québec.
• Federal-provincial tax credit: a combined credit may apply to the installation of a permanent ramp.
• CNESST, SAAQ, IVAC: in certain cases (work accident, road accident, victim of a criminal act), a ramp may be fully covered.

Our team will provide you with all the technical documentation you need. To find out more about the Home Adaptation Program, visit our Home Adaptation Program page.

Frequently asked questions about slope standards

What is the maximum legal slope for an access ramp in Quebec?

The maximum slope authorized by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec is 1:12, i.e. one inch of height for every twelve inches of length. This is the steepest slope permitted.

How do I calculate the length of ramp I need?

Measure the total height to be bridged (from floor to door sill) in inches, then multiply by 12 to obtain the minimum length in inches. Divide by 12 to obtain the length in feet. Example: 24 inches × 12 = 288 inches = 24 feet of ramp.

Do I need a permit to install a residential access ramp?

It depends on your municipality. Many Quebec cities require a permit for any permanent outdoor construction. For removable modular ramps, many municipalities are more flexible. Check with your municipality before installation.

Does a wooden ramp comply with Quebec standards?

A wooden ramp can meet the required dimensions and slopes, but poses safety problems: slippery surface when wet, rapid degradation due to Quebec climate, frequent maintenance. Aluminum is widely preferred for its durability, frost resistance and minimal maintenance.

Do portable ramps also have to comply with the 1:12 ratio?

Portable ramps are a common exception. They are designed for temporary use with assistance, and their slope can be steeper. They are not a substitute for a compliant permanent ramp.

What's the difference between the RBQ standard and the ADA standard?

RBQ is the official Quebec standard. The ADA is the American standard. Both require a maximum slope of 1:12, but the ADA imposes additional requirements on signage and certain technical details. In Quebec, RBQ compliance is what counts legally.

Does my home insurance cover the installation of a ramp?

Generally not, unless the ramp is required as a result of a covered accident. Most installations are financed by the CSA, tax credits or directly by the homeowner. Our team can direct you to the programs applicable to your situation.

How long does it take to install a compliant ramp?

For a standard residential modular ramp, installation generally takes just a few hours. No digging, no concrete, no permanent alterations to your property. More complex commercial projects may require a full day.

Need a ramp that meets Quebec standards?

Whether you're planning to buy or rent a handicap rampour Groupe We Care team takes care of everything: on-site evaluation, optimal slope calculation, guaranteed RBQ compliance, rapid installation anywhere in Quebec.

With over 15 years' experience and our RBQ license 5783-1760-01, we design safe, durable solutions for homes, businesses and institutions.

Call us at 1-866-416-1024 or request your free quote. Fast response, honest advice, service in French anywhere in Quebec.