A consistent numbering system has been used throughout the Codes Canada. The first number indicates the Part of the Code; the second, the Section in the Part; the third, the Subsection; and the fourth, the Article in the Subsection. The detailed provisions are found at the Sentence level (indicated by numbers in brackets), and Sentences may be broken down into Clauses and Subclauses. This structure is illustrated as follows:
| 3 3.5. 3.5.2. 3.5.2.1. 3.5.2.1.(2) 2.5.2.1.(2)(a) 2.5.2.1.(2)(a)(i) |
Part Section subsection Article Sentence Clause Subclause |
Where a technical change or addition has been made relative to the 2010 edition, a vertical line has been added in the margin next to the affected provision to indicate the approximate location of new or modified content. No change indication is provided for renumbered or deleted content.
Multiple Clauses and Subclauses are connected by the word "and" or "or" at the end of the second last Clause or Subclause in the series. Although this connecting word appears only once, it is meant to apply to all the preceding Clauses or Subclauses within that series.
For example, in a series of five Clauses-a) to e)-in a Code Sentence, the appearance of the word "and" at the end of Clause d) means that all Clauses in the Sentence are connected to each other with the word "and." Similarly, in a series of five Clauses-a) to e)-in a Code Sentence, the appearance of the word "or" at the end of Clause d) means that all Clauses in the Sentence are connected to each other with the word "or."
In all cases, it is important to note that a Clause (and its Subclauses, if any) must always be read in conjunction with its introductory text appearing at the beginning of the Sentence.