What are the Ontario Electrical Safety Code rules for installing a light fixture directly above a bathtub?

Installing a light fixture directly above a bathtub is prohibited by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code — no electrical fixtures are allowed in the zone directly above the bathtub rim and extending 3 feet (0.9 metres) horizontally from the tub edge.

The Ontario Electrical Safety Code establishes specific zones around bathtubs and showers where electrical fixtures are restricted or prohibited entirely. Zone 0 covers the interior of the tub or shower enclosure itself. Zone 1 extends from the floor to 2.25 metres (7.4 feet) above the tub rim and horizontally to the outer edge of the tub or shower base. Zone 2 extends an additional 0.6 metres (2 feet) horizontally beyond Zone 1 and up to 2.25 metres high. No light fixtures, switches, or outlets are permitted in Zones 0 or 1 — this means you cannot install a light fixture directly above the bathtub area.

For bathroom lighting above or near tubs, fixtures must be located outside Zone 1 — at least 3 feet horizontally from the tub edge and below the 2.25-metre height limit, or higher than 2.25 metres above the floor if closer to the tub. All bathroom light fixtures must be rated for wet or damp locations and must be connected to a GFCI-protected circuit. Recessed pot lights are the most common choice for bathroom ceiling lighting because they provide good illumination while meeting code requirements when properly positioned.

In GTA bathroom renovations, the most common lighting solution is to install recessed LED pot lights in the general bathroom ceiling area (outside the tub zone) combined with vanity lighting and possibly a separate exhaust fan with integrated light. For bathtub task lighting, consider wall-mounted sconces positioned outside Zone 1 or track lighting on the ceiling outside the restricted zone. Many Toronto homeowners want dramatic lighting over freestanding soaker tubs — this requires careful planning to position fixtures outside the electrical code zones while still providing adequate illumination.

Condo bathroom renovations have additional considerations — the building's electrical panel capacity, existing circuit availability, and potential need for electrical permit approvals through both the City of Toronto and the condominium corporation. Some older GTA condos have limited electrical capacity in bathroom areas, requiring circuit modifications to support new lighting loads.

Always hire a licensed electrician for bathroom lighting installation — the combination of electricity and water creates serious safety risks, and all bathroom electrical work requires ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspection before being concealed behind drywall. The electrician will verify proper GFCI protection, appropriate fixture ratings, and code-compliant positioning relative to water sources. Attempting DIY electrical work in bathrooms violates Ontario electrical code and creates liability issues with insurance and home sales.

For bathroom lighting design in the GTA market, plan for multiple light sources rather than relying on a single overhead fixture. Vanity lighting (36-48 inches above the counter), general ambient lighting (recessed ceiling fixtures outside tub zones), and accent lighting create a more functional and attractive bathroom environment than trying to position one fixture to do everything.

Need help finding a licensed electrician for your bathroom renovation? Toronto Bath Remodeling can match you with electrical professionals through the Toronto Construction Network.