Department of Justice

September 15, 2010

2010 ADA Standards

for Accessible Design
Reproduction of this document is encouraged.

This publication may be viewed or downloaded

from the ADA website (www.ADA.gov). 

Additional copies may be obtained 

by calling the ADA Information Line:

800-514-0301 (voice)

800-514-0383 (TTY)

September 15, 2010

i Department of Justice
Introduction.......................................................1

2010 Standards for State and

Local Government Facilities: Title II....................3

2010 Standards for Public Accommodations 

and Commercial Facilities: Title III......................15

2010 Standards for Titles II

and III Facilities: 2004 ADAAG............................ 31

1

2

3

4

Department of Justice ii

Contents
iii Department of Justice
The Department of Justice published revised regulations for Titles II and III 

of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 "ADA" in the Federal Register

on September 15, 2010. These regulations adopted revised, enforceable 

accessibility standards called the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible 

Design "2010 Standards" or "Standards". The 2010 Standards set 

minimum requirements – both scoping and technical – for newly designed 

and constructed or altered State and local government facilities, public 

accommodations, and commercial facilities to be readily accessible to and 

usable by individuals with disabilities.

Adoption of the 2010 Standards also establishes a revised reference 

point for Title II entities that choose to make structural changes to existing 

facilities to meet their program accessibility requirements; and it establishes 

a similar reference for Title III entities undertaking readily achievable barrier 

removal.

The Department is providing this document with the official 2010 Standards 

in one publication. The document includes:

• The 2010 Standards for State and local governments, which consist

 of the Title II regulations at 28 CFR 35.151 and the 2004 ADAAG at

 36 CFR part 1191, appendices B and D;

• The 2010 Standards for public accommodations and commercial

 facilities, which consist of the Title III regulations at 28 CFR part 36,

 subpart D, and the 2004 ADAAG at 36 CFR part 1191, appendices

 B and D.

The Department has assembled into a separate publication the revised 

regulation guidance that applies to the Standards. The Department 

included guidance in its revised ADA regulations published on September 

15, 2010. This guidance provides detailed information about the 

Department’s adoption of the 2010 Standards including changes to the 

Standards, the reasoning behind those changes, and responses to public 

comments received on these topics. The document, Guidance on the 2010 

ADA Standards for Accessible Design, can be downloaded from www.ADA.

gov.

For More Information

For information about the ADA, including the revised 2010 ADA regulations, 

please visit the Department’s website www.ADA.gov; or, for answers to 

specific questions, call the toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 

(Voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY).

Department of Justice 1

Overview
2 Department of Justice
State and local government facilities must follow the requirements 

of the 2010 Standards, including both the Title II regulations at 

28 CFR 35.151; and the 2004 ADAAG at 36 CFR part 1191, 

appendices B and D.

In the few places where requirements between the two differ, the 

requirements of 28 CFR 35.151 prevail. 

Compliance Date for Title II

If the start date for construction is on or after March 15, 2012, all 

newly constructed or altered State and local government facilities must comply with the 2010 Standards. Before that date, the 

1991 Standards (without the elevator exemption), the UFAS, or 

the 2010 Standards may be used for projects when the start of 

construction commences on or after September 15, 2010.

2010 Standards for State

and Local Government

Facilities: Title II

Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II - 3
4 - 2010 Standards: Title II Department of Justice
2010 Standards: Title II - 5

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

CONTENTS

28 CFR part 35.151 New Construction and Alterations

 (a) Design and construction, including the exception

 for structural impracticability...............................................................6

(b) Alterations, including alterations to historic properties,

 path of travel, and primary function .....................................................6

(c) Accessibility standards and compliance date .......................................9

(d) Scope of coverage...........................................................................11

(e) Social service center establishments....................................................11

(f) Housing at a place of education...........................................................11

(g) Assembly areas..............................................................................12

(h) Medical care facilities .....................................................................13

(i) Curb ramps.......................................................................................13

(j) Facilities with residential dwelling units for sale

 to individual owners.........................................................................13

(k) Detention and correctional facilities......................................................13

2004 ADAAG

Chapter 1: Application and Administration..........................................37

Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements........................................................50

Chapter 3: Building Blocks...................................................................104 

Chapter 4: Accessible Routes..............................................................117

Chapter 5: General Site and Building Elements.................................149

Chapter 6: Plumbing Elements and Facilities....................................159

Chapter 7: Communication Elements.................................................186

Chapter 8: Special Rooms, Spaces, and Elements............................202

Chapter 9: Built-in Elements...............................................................219

Chapter 10: Recreational Facilities....................................................224

Department of Justice
6 - 2010 Standards: Title II

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

§ 35.151 New construction and alterations.

(a) Design and construction. 

(1) Each facility or part of a facility constructed by, on behalf of, or for the use of a public 

entity shall be designed and constructed in such manner that the facility or part of 

the facility is readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, if the 

construction was commenced after January 26, 1992.

(2) Exception for structural impracticability.

(i) Full compliance with the requirements of this section is not required where a 

public entity can demonstrate that it is structurally impracticable to meet the 

requirements. Full compliance will be considered structurally impracticable only in 

those rare circumstances when the unique characteristics of terrain prevent the 

incorporation of accessibility features.

(ii) If full compliance with this section would be structurally impracticable, compliance 

with this section is required to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable. In 

that case, any portion of the facility that can be made accessible shall be made 

accessible to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable.

(iii) If providing accessibility in conformance with this section to individuals with 

certain disabilities (e.g., those who use wheelchairs) would be structurally 

impracticable, accessibility shall nonetheless be ensured to persons with other 

types of disabilities, (e.g., those who use crutches or who have sight, hearing, or 

mental impairments) in accordance with this section.

(b) Alterations.

(1) Each facility or part of a facility altered by, on behalf of, or for the use of a public 

entity in a manner that affects or could affect the usability of the facility or part of 

the facility shall, to the maximum extent feasible, be altered in such manner that the 

altered portion of the facility is readily accessible to and usable by individuals with 

disabilities, if the alteration was commenced after January 26, 1992.

(2) The path of travel requirements of § 35.151(b)(4) shall apply only to alterations 

undertaken solely for purposes other than to meet the program accessibility 

requirements of § 35.150.

Department of Justice
2010 Standards: Title II - 7

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

(3) 

(i) Alterations to historic properties shall comply, to the maximum extent feasible,

with the provisions applicable to historic properties in the design standards 

specified in § 35.151(c). 

(ii) If it is not feasible to provide physical access to an historic property in a manner

that will not threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or facility, 

alternative methods of access shall be provided pursuant to the requirements

of § 35.150.

(4) Path of travel. An alteration that affects or could affect the usability of or access to 

an area of a facility that contains a primary function shall be made so as to ensure 

that, to the maximum extent feasible, the path of travel to the altered area and the 

restrooms, telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area are readily 

accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, including individuals who use 

wheelchairs, unless the cost and scope of such alterations is disproportionate to the 

cost of the overall alteration.

(i) Primary function. A “primary function” is a major activity for which the facility is 

intended. Areas that contain a primary function include, but are not limited to, the 

dining area of a cafeteria, the meeting rooms in a conference center, as well as 

offices and other work areas in which the activities of the public entity using the 

facility are carried out.

(A) Mechanical rooms, boiler rooms, supply storage rooms, employee lounges 

or locker rooms, janitorial closets, entrances, and corridors are not areas 

containing a primary function. Restrooms are not areas containing a primary 

function unless the provision of restrooms is a primary purpose of the area,

 e.g., in highway rest stops.

(B) For the purposes of this section, alterations to windows, hardware, controls, 

electrical outlets, and signage shall not be deemed to be alterations that 

affect the usability of or access to an area containing a primary function.

(ii) A “path of travel” includes a continuous, unobstructed way of pedestrian passage 

by means of which the altered area may be approached, entered, and exited, and 

which connects the altered area with an exterior approach (including sidewalks, 

streets, and parking areas), an entrance to the facility, and other parts of the 

facility.

(A) An accessible path of travel may consist of walks and sidewalks, curb ramps 

Department of Justice
8 - 2010 Standards: Title II

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

and other interior or exterior pedestrian ramps; clear floor paths through 

lobbies, corridors, rooms, and other improved areas; parking access aisles; 

elevators and lifts; or a combination of these elements.

(B) For the purposes of this section, the term “path of travel” also includes the 

restrooms, telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area.

(C) Safe harbor. If a public entity has constructed or altered required elements 

of a path of travel in accordance with the specifications in either the 1991 

Standards or the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards before March 

15, 2012, the public entity is not required to retrofit such elements to reflect 

incremental changes in the 2010 Standards solely because of an alteration to 

a primary function area served by that path of travel.

(iii) Disproportionality.

(A) Alterations made to provide an accessible path of travel to the altered area 

will be deemed disproportionate to the overall alteration when the cost 

exceeds 20% of the cost of the alteration to the primary function area.

(B) Costs that may be counted as expenditures required to provide an accessible 

path of travel may include:

(1) Costs associated with providing an accessible entrance and an accessible 

route to the altered area, for example, the cost of widening doorways or 

installing ramps;

(2) Costs associated with making restrooms accessible, such as installing 

grab bars, enlarging toilet stalls, insulating pipes, or installing accessible 

faucet controls;

(3) Costs associated with providing accessible telephones, such as relocating 

the telephone to an accessible height, installing amplification devices, or 

installing a text telephone (TTY); and

(4) Costs associated with relocating an inaccessible drinking fountain.

(iv) Duty to provide accessible features in the event of disproportionality.

(A) When the cost of alterations necessary to make the path of travel to the 

altered area fully accessible is disproportionate to the cost of the overall 

alteration, the path of travel shall be made accessible to the extent that it can 

be made accessible without incurring disproportionate costs.

Department of Justice
2010 Standards: Title II - 9

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

(B) In choosing which accessible elements to provide, priority should be given to 

those elements that will provide the greatest access, in the following order— 

(1) An accessible entrance;

(2) An accessible route to the altered area;

(3) At least one accessible restroom for each sex or a single unisex restroom;

(4) Accessible telephones;

(5) Accessible drinking fountains; and

(6) When possible, additional accessible elements such as parking, storage, 

and alarms.

(v) Series of smaller alterations.

(A) The obligation to provide an accessible path of travel may not be evaded by 

performing a series of small alterations to the area served by a single path of 

travel if those alterations could have been performed as a single undertaking.

(B) 

(1) If an area containing a primary function has been altered without providing 

an accessible path of travel to that area, and subsequent alterations of 

that area, or a different area on the same path of travel, are undertaken 

within three years of the original alteration, the total cost of alterations 

to the primary function areas on that path of travel during the preceding 

three year period shall be considered in determining whether the cost of 

making that path of travel accessible is disproportionate.

(2) Only alterations undertaken on or after March 15, 2011, shall be 

considered in determining if the cost of providing an accessible path of 

travel is disproportionate to the overall cost of the alterations.

(c) Accessibility standards and compliance date.

(1) If physical construction or alterations commence after July 26, 1992, but prior to 

the September 15, 2010, then new construction and alterations subject to this 

section must comply with either the UFAS or the 1991 Standards except that the 

elevator exemption contained at section 4.1.3(5) and section 4.1.6(1)(k) of the 1991 

Standards shall not apply. Departures from particular requirements of either standard 

by the use of other methods shall be permitted when it is clearly evident that 

equivalent access to the facility or part of the facility is thereby provided.

Department of Justice
10 - 2010 Standards: Title II

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

(2) If physical construction or alterations commence on or after September 15, 2010, 

and before March 15, 2012, then new construction and alterations subject to this 

section may comply with one of the following: the 2010 Standards, UFAS, or the 

1991 Standards except that the elevator exemption contained at section 4.1.3(5) and 

section 4.1.6(1)(k) of the 1991 Standards shall not apply. Departures from particular 

requirements of either standard by the use of other methods shall be permitted 

when it is clearly evident that equivalent access to the facility or part of the facility is 

thereby provided.

(3) If physical construction or alterations commence on or after March 15, 2012, then 

new construction and alterations subject to this section shall comply with the 2010 

Standards.

(4) For the purposes of this section, ceremonial groundbreaking or razing of structures 

prior to site preparation do not commence physical construction or alterations.

(5) Noncomplying new construction and alterations.

(i) Newly constructed or altered facilities or elements covered by §§ 35.151(a) or (b)

that were constructed or altered before March 15, 2012, and that do not comply 

with the 1991 Standards or with UFAS shall, before March 15, 2012, be made 

accessible in accordance with either the 1991 Standards, UFAS, or the 2010 

Standards.

(ii) Newly constructed or altered facilities or elements covered by §§ 35.151(a) or

(b) that were constructed or altered before March 15, 2012 and that do not 

comply with the 1991 Standards or with UFAS shall, on or after March 15, 2012, 

be made accessible in accordance with the 2010 Standards.

Appendix to § 35.151(c)

Compliance Date for New 

Construction or Alterations Applicable Standards

Before September 15, 2010 1991 Standards or UFAS

On or after September 15, 2010, 

and before March 15, 2012

1991 Standards, UFAS,

or 2010 Standards

On or after March 15, 2012 2010 Standards

Department of Justice
2010 Standards: Title II - 11

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

(d) Scope of coverage. The 1991 Standards and the 2010 Standards apply to fixed or 

built-in elements of buildings, structures, site improvements, and pedestrian routes 

or vehicular ways located on a site. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the advisory 

notes, appendix notes, and figures contained in the 1991 Standards and the 2010 

Standards explain or illustrate the requirements of the rule; they do not establish 

enforceable requirements. 

(e) Social service center establishments. Group homes, halfway houses, shelters, or 

similar social service center establishments that provide either temporary sleeping 

accommodations or residential dwelling units that are subject to this section shall comply 

with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to residential facilities, including, 

but not limited to, the provisions in sections 233 and 809 (pp. 91 and 212). 

(1) In sleeping rooms with more than 25 beds covered by this section, a minimum of 5% 

of the beds shall have clear floor space complying with section 806.2.3 of the 2010 

Standards (p. 209). 

(2) Facilities with more than 50 beds covered by this section that provide common use 

bathing facilities shall provide at least one roll-in shower with a seat that complies 

with the relevant provisions of section 608 of the 2010 Standards (p. 174). Transfertype showers are not permitted in lieu of a roll-in shower with a seat, and the 

exceptions in sections 608.3 and 608.4 (pp. 177 and 178) for residential dwelling 

units are not permitted. When separate shower facilities are provided for men and for 

women, at least one roll-in shower shall be provided for each group.

(f) Housing at a place of education. Housing at a place of education that is subject to this 

section shall comply with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to transient 

lodging, including, but not limited to, the requirements for transient lodging guest rooms 

in sections 224 and 806 (pp. 82 and 210) subject to the following exceptions. For the 

purposes of the application of this section, the term “sleeping room” is intended to be 

used interchangeably with the term “guest room” as it is used in the transient lodging 

standards. 

(1) Kitchens within housing units containing accessible sleeping rooms with mobility 

features (including suites and clustered sleeping rooms) or on floors containing 

accessible sleeping rooms with mobility features shall provide turning spaces 

that comply with section 809.2.2 of the 2010 Standards (p. 213) and kitchen work 

surfaces that comply with section 804.3 of the 2010 Standards (p. 208).

(2) Multi-bedroom housing units containing accessible sleeping rooms with mobility 

features shall have an accessible route throughout the unit in accordance with 

section 809.2 of the 2010 Standards (p. 212).

Department of Justice
12 - 2010 Standards: Title II

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

(3) Apartments or townhouse facilities that are provided by or on behalf of a place of 

education, which are leased on a year-round basis exclusively to graduate students 

or faculty, and do not contain any public use or common use areas available for 

educational programming, are not subject to the transient lodging standards and 

shall comply with the requirements for residential facilities in sections 233 and 809 of 

the 2010 Standards (pp. 91 and 212).

(g) Assembly areas. Assembly areas subject to this section shall comply with the provisions 

of the 2010 Standards applicable to assembly areas, including, but not limited to, 

sections 221 and 802 (pp. 78 and 202). In addition, assembly areas shall ensure that— 

(1) In stadiums, arenas, and grandstands, wheelchair spaces and companion seats are 

dispersed to all levels that include seating served by an accessible route; 

(2) Assembly areas that are required to horizontally disperse wheelchair spaces and 

companion seats by section 221.2.3.1 of the 2010 Standards (p. 79) and have 

seating encircling, in whole or in part, a field of play or performance area shall 

disperse wheelchair spaces and companion seats around that field of play or 

performance area;

(3) Wheelchair spaces and companion seats are not located on (or obstructed by) 

temporary platforms or other movable structures, except that when an entire 

seating section is placed on temporary platforms or other movable structures in an 

area where fixed seating is not provided, in order to increase seating for an event, 

wheelchair spaces and companion seats may be placed in that section. When 

wheelchair spaces and companion seats are not required to accommodate persons 

eligible for those spaces and seats, individual, removable seats may be placed in 

those spaces and seats;

(4) Stadium-style movie theaters shall locate wheelchair spaces and companion seats 

on a riser or cross-aisle in the stadium section that satisfies at least one of the 

following criteria— 

(i) It is located within the rear 60% of the seats provided in an auditorium; or

(ii) It is located within the area of an auditorium in which the vertical viewing angles 

(as measured to the top of the screen) are from the 40th to the 100th percentile 

of vertical viewing angles for all seats as ranked from the seats in the first row 

(1st percentile) to seats in the back row (100th percentile).

Department of Justice
2010 Standards: Title II - 13

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

(h) Medical care facilities. Medical care facilities that are subject to this section shall 

comply with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to medical care facilities, 

including, but not limited to, sections 223 and 805 (pp. 81 and 209). In addition, medical 

care facilities that do not specialize in the treatment of conditions that affect mobility 

shall disperse the accessible patient bedrooms required by section 223.2.1 of the 2010 

Standards (p. 82) in a manner that is proportionate by type of medical specialty. 

 

(i) Curb ramps.

(1) Newly constructed or altered streets, roads, and highways must contain curb ramps 

or other sloped areas at any intersection having curbs or other barriers to entry from 

a street level pedestrian walkway.

(2) Newly constructed or altered street level pedestrian walkways must contain curb 

ramps or other sloped areas at intersections to streets, roads, or highways.

(j) Facilities with residential dwelling units for sale to individual owners.

(1) Residential dwelling units designed and constructed or altered by public entities that 

will be offered for sale to individuals shall comply with the requirements for residential 

facilities in the 2010 Standards, including sections 233 and 809 (pp. 91 and 212).

(2) The requirements of paragraph (1) also apply to housing programs that are operated 

by public entities where design and construction of particular residential dwelling 

units take place only after a specific buyer has been identified. In such programs, 

the covered entity must provide the units that comply with the requirements for 

accessible features to those pre-identified buyers with disabilities who have 

requested such a unit.

(k) Detention and correctional facilities. 

(1) New construction of jails, prisons, and other detention and correctional facilities shall 

comply with the 2010 Standards except that public entities shall provide accessible 

mobility features complying with section 807.2 of the 2010 Standards for a minimum 

of 3%, but no fewer than one, of the total number of cells in a facility (p. 211) Cells 

with mobility features shall be provided in each classification level.

(2) Alterations to detention and correctional facilities. Alterations to jails, prisons, 

and other detention and correctional facilities shall comply with the 2010 Standards 

except that public entities shall provide accessible mobility features complying with 

section 807.2 of the 2010 Standards for a minimum of 3%, but no fewer than one, 

of the total number of cells being altered until at least 3%, but no fewer than one, of 

Department of Justice
14 - 2010 Standards: Title II

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR Part 35

the total number of cells in a facility shall provide mobility features complying with 

section 807.2 (p. 211). Altered cells with mobility features shall be provided in each 

classification level. However, when alterations are made to specific cells, detention 

and correctional facility operators may satisfy their obligation to provide the required 

number of cells with mobility features by providing the required mobility features 

in substitute cells (cells other than those where alterations are originally planned), 

provided that each substitute cell—

(i) Is located within the same prison site; 

(ii) Is integrated with other cells to the maximum extent feasible; 

(iii) Has, at a minimum, equal physical access as the altered cells to areas used by 

inmates or detainees for visitation, dining, recreation, educational programs, 

medical services, work programs, religious services, and participation in other 

programs that the facility offers to inmates or detainees; and

(iv) If it is technically infeasible to locate a substitute cell within the same prison site, 

a substitute cell must be provided at another prison site within the corrections 

system.

(3) With respect to medical and long-term care facilities in jails, prisons, and other 

detention and correctional facilities, public entities shall apply the 2010 Standards 

technical and scoping requirements for those facilities irrespective of whether those 

facilities are licensed.

The remaining text of the 2010 Standards for Title II starts on

page 31, under the heading 2010 Standards for Titles II and III: 

2004 ADAAG. 

Department of Justice
2010 Standards for Public

Accommodations and

Commercial Facilities: Title III

Public accommodations and commercial facilities must follow the 

requirements of the 2010 Standards, including both the Title III 

regulations at 28 CFR part 36, subpart D; and the 2004 ADAAG at 36 

CFR part 1191, appendices B and D. 

In the few places where requirements between the two differ, the 

requirements of 28 CFR part 36, subpart D, prevail.

Compliance Date for Title III

The compliance date for the 2010 Standards for new construction 

and alterations is determined by:

• the date the last application for a building permit or permit

 extension is certified to be complete by a State, county, or

 local government;

• the date the last application for a building permit or permit

 extension is received by a State, county, or local government,

 where the government does not certify the completion

 applications; or

• the start of physical construction or alteration, if no permit

 is required. 

If that date is on or after March 15, 2012, then new construction and 

alterations must comply with the 2010 Standards. If that date is on 

or after September 15, 2010, and before March 15, 2012, then new 

construction and alterations must comply with either the 1991 or the 

2010 Standards.

Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title III - 15
16 - 2010 Standards: Title III Department of Justice
CONTENTS

28 CFR part 36, subpart D — New Construction and Alterations

§ Sec.36.401 New construction.

(a) General......................................................................................19

(b) Commercial facilities located in private residences............................19

(c) Exception for structural impracticability.................................................19

(d) Elevator exemption.........................................................................20

§ 36.402 Alterations.

(a) General.......................................................................................21

(b) Alteration.........................................................................................21

(c) To the maximum extent feasible ......................................................22

§ 36.403 Alterations: Path of travel.

(a) General.......................................................................................22

(b) Primary function...............................................................................22

(c) Alterations to an area containing a primary function.............................22

(d) Landlord/tenant...............................................................................23

(e) Path of travel...................................................................................23

(f) Disproportionality...........................................................................23

(g) Duty to provide accessible features in the

 event of disproportionality..................................................................24

(h) Series of smaller alterations............................................................24

§ 36.404 Alterations: Elevator exemption..................................25

§ 36.405 Alterations: Historic preservation...............................26

§ 36.406 Standards for new construction and alterations.

(a) Accessibility standards and compliance date.......................................26

(b) Scope of coverage...............................................................................27

(c) Places of lodging..................................................................................28

(d) Social service center establishments...................................................28

(e) Housing at a place of education............................................................29

Department of Justice Title III 2010 Standards - 17
(f) Assembly areas.....................................................................................29

(g) Medical care facilities............................................................................30

§ § 36.407—36.499 [Reserved]........................................................... 30

2004 ADAAG

 Chapter 1: Application and Administration..........................................37

 Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements........................................................ 50

 Chapter 3: Building Blocks....................................................................104 

 Chapter 4: Accessible Routes...............................................................117

 Chapter 5: General Site and Building Elements...................................149

 Chapter 6: Plumbing Elements and Facilities......................................159

 Chapter 7: Communication Elements...................................................186

 Chapter 8: Special Rooms, Spaces, and Elements.............................202

 Chapter 9: Built-in Elements................................................................219

 Chapter 10: Recreational Facilities..................................................... 224

18 - 2010 Standards: Title III

Subpart D of 28 CFR Part 36

Department of Justice
§ 36.401 New construction. 

(a) General. 

(1) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, discrimination for 

purposes of this part includes a failure to design and construct facilities for first 

occupancy after January 26, 1993, that are readily accessible to and usable by 

individuals with disabilities. 

(2) For purposes of this section, a facility is designed and constructed for first occupancy 

after January 26, 1993, only— 

(i) If the last application for a building permit or permit extension for the facility is

certified to be complete, by a State, County, or local government after January 26, 

1992 (or, in those jurisdictions where the government does not certify completion 

of applications, if the last application for a building permit or permit extension for 

the facility is received by the State, County, or local government after January 26, 

1992); and 

(ii) If the first certificate of occupancy for the facility is issued after January 26, 1993. 

(b) Commercial facilities located in private residences.

(1) When a commercial facility is located in a private residence, the portion of the 

residence used exclusively as a residence is not covered by this subpart, but that 

portion used exclusively in the operation of the commercial facility or that portion 

used both for the commercial facility and for residential purposes is covered by the 

new construction and alterations requirements of this subpart. 

(2) The portion of the residence covered under paragraph (b)(1) of this section extends 

to those elements used to enter the commercial facility, including the homeowner’s 

front sidewalk, if any, the door or entryway, and hallways; and those portions of the 

residence, interior or exterior, available to or used by employees or visitors of the 

commercial facility, including restrooms. 

(c) Exception for structural impracticability. 

(1) Full compliance with the requirements of this section is not required where an entity 

can demonstrate that it is structurally impracticable to meet the requirements. 

Full compliance will be considered structurally impracticable only in those rare 

circumstances when the unique characteristics of terrain prevent the incorporation of 

accessibility features. 

2010 Standards: Title III - 19

Subpart D of 28 CFR Part 36

Department of Justice
(2) If full compliance with this section would be structurally impracticable, compliance 

with this section is required to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable. In 

that case, any portion of the facility that can be made accessible shall be made 

accessible to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable. 

(3) If providing accessibility in conformance with this section to individuals with certain 

disabilities (e.g., those who use wheelchairs) would be structurally impracticable, 

accessibility shall nonetheless be ensured to persons with other types of disabilities 

(e.g., those who use crutches or who have sight, hearing, or mental impairments) in 

accordance with this section. 

(d) Elevator exemption. 

(1) For purposes of this paragraph (d)— 

(i) Professional office of a health care provider means a location where a person

or entity regulated by a State to provide professional services related to the 

physical or mental health of an individual makes such services available to the 

public. The facility housing the “professional office of a health care provider” only 

includes floor levels housing at least one health care provider, or any floor level 

designed or intended for use by at least one health care provider. 

(ii) Shopping center or shopping mall means— 

(A) A building housing five or more sales or rental establishments; or 

(B) A series of buildings on a common site, either under common ownership or 

common control or developed either as one project or as a series of related 

projects, housing five or more sales or rental establishments. For purposes 

of this section, places of public accommodation of the types listed in 

paragraph (5) of the definition of “place of public accommodation” in section 

§ 36.104 are considered sales or rental establishments. The facility housing a 

“shopping center or shopping mall” only includes floor levels housing at least 

one sales or rental establishment, or any floor level designed or intended for 

use by at least one sales or rental establishment. 

(2) This section does not require the installation of an elevator in a facility that is less 

than three stories or has less than 3000 square feet per story, except with respect to 

any facility that houses one or more of the following: 

(i) A shopping center or shopping mall, or a professional office of a health care

provider. 

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(ii) A terminal, depot, or other station used for specified public transportation, or

an airport passenger terminal. In such a facility, any area housing passenger 

services, including boarding and debarking, loading and unloading, baggage 

claim, dining facilities, and other common areas open to the public, must be on an 

accessible route from an accessible entrance. 

(3) The elevator exemption set forth in this paragraph (d) does not obviate or limit, in any 

way the obligation to comply with the other accessibility requirements established in 

paragraph (a) of this section. For example, in a facility that houses a shopping center 

or shopping mall, or a professional office of a health care provider, the floors that 

are above or below an accessible ground floor and that do not house sales or rental 

establishments or a professional office of a health care provider, must meet the 

requirements of this section but for the elevator. 

§ 36.402 Alterations.

(a) General. 

(1) Any alteration to a place of public accommodation or a commercial facility, after 

January 26, 1992, shall be made so as to ensure that, to the maximum extent 

feasible, the altered portions of the facility are readily accessible to and usable by 

individuals with disabilities, including individuals who use wheelchairs. 

(2) An alteration is deemed to be undertaken after January 26, 1992, if the physical 

alteration of the property begins after that date. 

(b) Alteration. For the purposes of this part, an alteration is a change to a place of public 

accommodation or a commercial facility that affects or could affect the usability of the 

building or facility or any part thereof. 

(1) Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, 

reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or rearrangement in structural parts or 

elements, and changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of walls and fullheight partitions. Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or wallpapering, asbestos 

removal, or changes to mechanical and electrical systems are not alterations unless 

they affect the usability of the building or facility. 

(2) If existing elements, spaces, or common areas are altered, then each such altered 

element, space, or area shall comply with the applicable provisions of appendix A to 

this part. 

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(c) To the maximum extent feasible. The phrase “to the maximum extent feasible,” as 

used in this section, applies to the occasional case where the nature of an existing 

facility makes it virtually impossible to comply fully with applicable accessibility standards 

through a planned alteration. In these circumstances, the alteration shall provide the 

maximum physical accessibility feasible. Any altered features of the facility that can be 

made accessible shall be made accessible. If providing accessibility in conformance 

with this section to individuals with certain disabilities (e.g., those who use wheelchairs) 

would not be feasible, the facility shall be made accessible to persons with other types of 

disabilities (e.g., those who use crutches, those who have impaired vision or hearing, or 

those who have other impairments). 

§ 36.403 Alterations: Path of travel. 

(a) General.

(1) An alteration that affects or could affect the usability of or access to an area of a 

facility that contains a primary function shall be made so as to ensure that, to the 

maximum extent feasible, the path of travel to the altered area and the restrooms, 

telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area, are readily accessible to 

and usable by individuals with disabilities, including individuals who use wheelchairs, 

unless the cost and scope of such alterations is disproportionate to the cost of the 

overall alteration. 

(2) If a private entity has constructed or altered required elements of a path of travel 

at a place of public accommodation or commercial facility in accordance with the 

specifications in the 1991 Standards, the private entity is not required to retrofit such 

elements to reflect the incremental changes in the 2010 Standards solely because of 

an alteration to a primary function area served by that path of travel. 

(b) Primary function. A “primary function” is a major activity for which the facility is 

intended. Areas that contain a primary function include, but are not limited to, the 

customer services lobby of a bank, the dining area of a cafeteria, the meeting rooms 

in a conference center, as well as offices and other work areas in which the activities 

of the public accommodation or other private entity using the facility are carried out. 

Mechanical rooms, boiler rooms, supply storage rooms, employee lounges or locker 

rooms, janitorial closets, entrances, corridors, and restrooms are not areas containing a 

primary function.

(c) Alterations to an area containing a primary function. 

(1) Alterations that affect the usability of or access to an area containing a primary 

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function include, but are not limited to— 

(i) Remodeling merchandise display areas or employee work areas in a department

store; 

(ii) Replacing an inaccessible floor surface in the customer service or employee work

areas of a bank; 

(iii) Redesigning the assembly line area of a factory; or 

(iv) Installing a computer center in an accounting firm. 

(2) For the purposes of this section, alterations to windows, hardware, controls, electrical 

outlets, and signage shall not be deemed to be alterations that affect the usability of 

or access to an area containing a primary function. 

(d) Landlord/tenant: If a tenant is making alterations as defined in § 36.402 that would 

trigger the requirements of this section, those alterations by the tenant in areas that 

only the tenant occupies do not trigger a path of travel obligation upon the landlord 

with respect to areas of the facility under the landlord’s authority, if those areas are not 

otherwise being altered.

(e) Path of travel.

(1) A “path of travel” includes a continuous, unobstructed way of pedestrian passage by 

means of which the altered area may be approached, entered, and exited, and which 

connects the altered area with an exterior approach (including sidewalks, streets, 

and parking areas), an entrance to the facility, and other parts of the facility. 

(2) An accessible path of travel may consist of walks and sidewalks, curb ramps 

and other interior or exterior pedestrian ramps; clear floor paths through lobbies, 

corridors, rooms, and other improved areas; parking access aisles; elevators and 

lifts; or a combination of these elements. 

(3) For the purposes of this part, the term “path of travel” also includes the restrooms, 

telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area. 

(f) Disproportionality. 

(1) Alterations made to provide an accessible path of travel to the altered area will be 

deemed disproportionate to the overall alteration when the cost exceeds 20% of the 

cost of the alteration to the primary function area. 

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(2) Costs that may be counted as expenditures required to provide an accessible path of 

travel may include: 

(i) Costs associated with providing an accessible entrance and an accessible route

to the altered area, for example, the cost of widening doorways or installing 

ramps; 

(ii) Costs associated with making restrooms accessible, such as installing grab bars,

enlarging toilet stalls, insulating pipes, or installing accessible faucet controls; 

(iii) Costs associated with providing accessible telephones, such as relocating the

telephone to an accessible height, installing amplification devices, or installing a 

text telephone (TTY). 

(iv) Costs associated with relocating an inaccessible drinking fountain. 

(g) Duty to provide accessible features in the event of disproportionality.

(1) When the cost of alterations necessary to make the path of travel to the altered area 

fully accessible is disproportionate to the cost of the overall alteration, the path of 

travel shall be made accessible to the extent that it can be made accessible without 

incurring disproportionate costs. 

(2) In choosing which accessible elements to provide, priority should be given to those 

elements that will provide the greatest access, in the following order: 

(i) An accessible entrance; 

(ii) An accessible route to the altered area; 

(iii) At least one accessible restroom for each sex or a single unisex restroom; 

(iv) Accessible telephones; 

(v) Accessible drinking fountains; and 

(vi) When possible, additional accessible elements such as parking, storage,

and alarms. 

(h) Series of smaller alterations.

(1) The obligation to provide an accessible path of travel may not be evaded by 

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performing a series of small alterations to the area served by a single path of travel if 

those alterations could have been performed as a single undertaking.

(2) 

(i) If an area containing a primary function has been altered without providing an

accessible path of travel to that area, and subsequent alterations of that area, or 

a different area on the same path of travel, are undertaken within three years of 

the original alteration, the total cost of alterations to the primary function areas 

on that path of travel during the preceding three year period shall be considered 

in determining whether the cost of making that path of travel accessible is 

disproportionate. 

(ii) Only alterations undertaken after January 26, 1992, shall be considered

in determining if the cost of providing an accessible path of travel is 

disproportionate to the overall cost of the alterations. 

§ 36.404 Alterations: Elevator exemption.

(a) This section does not require the installation of an elevator in an altered facility that is 

less than three stories or has less than 3,000 square feet per story, except with respect 

to any facility that houses a shopping center, a shopping mall, the professional office 

of a health care provider, a terminal, depot, or other station used for specified public 

transportation, or an airport passenger terminal. 

(1) For the purposes of this section, professional office of a health care provider means 

a location where a person or entity regulated by a State to provide professional 

services related to the physical or mental health of an individual makes such services 

available to the public. The facility that houses a professional office of a health care 

provider only includes floor levels housing by at least one health care provider, or 

any floor level designed or intended for use by at least one health care provider. 

(2) For the purposes of this section, shopping center or shopping mall means— 

(i) A building housing five or more sales or rental establishments; or 

(ii) A series of buildings on a common site, connected by a common pedestrian

access route above or below the ground floor, that is either under common 

ownership or common control or developed either as one project or as a series 

of related projects, housing five or more sales or rental establishments. For 

purposes of this section, places of public accommodation of the types listed in 

paragraph (5) of the definition of place of public accommodation in § 36.104 are 

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considered sales or rental establishments. The facility housing a shopping center 

or shopping mall only includes floor levels housing at least one sales or rental 

establishment, or any floor level designed or intended for use by at least one 

sales or rental establishment. 

(b) The exemption provided in paragraph (a) of this section does not obviate or limit in any 

way the obligation to comply with the other accessibility requirements established in this 

subpart. For example, alterations to floors above or below the accessible ground floor 

must be accessible regardless of whether the altered facility has an elevator. 

§ 36.405 Alterations: Historic preservation.

(a) Alterations to buildings or facilities that are eligible for listing in the National Register of 

Historic Places under the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.), or 

are designated as historic under State or local law, shall comply to the maximum extent 

feasible with this part. 

(b) If it is determined that it is not feasible to provide physical access to an historic property 

that is a place of public accommodation in a manner that will not threaten or destroy the 

historic significance of the building or the facility, alternative methods of access shall be 

provided pursuant to the requirements of subpart C of this part. 

§ 36.406 Standards for new construction and alterations.

(a) Accessibility standards and compliance date.

(1) New construction and alterations subject to §§ 36.401 or 36.402 shall comply with the 

1991 Standards if the date when the last application for a building permit or permit 

extension is certified to be complete by a State, county, or local government (or, in 

those jurisdictions where the government does not certify completion of applications, 

if the date when the last application for a building permit or permit extension is 

received by the State, county, or local government) is before September 15, 2010, 

or if no permit is required, if the start of physical construction or alterations occurs 

before September 15, 2010. 

(2) New construction and alterations subject to §§ 36.401 or 36.402 shall comply 

either with the 1991 Standards or with the 2010 Standards if the date when the last 

application for a building permit or permit extension is certified to be 

complete by a State, county, or local government (or, in those jurisdictions where 

the government does not certify completion of applications, if the date when the last 

application for a building permit or permit extension is received by the State, county, 

or local government) is on or after September 15, 2010, and before March 15, 2012, 

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or if no permit is required, if the start of physical construction or alterations occurs on 

or after September 15, 2010, and before March 15, 2012. 

(3) New construction and alterations subject to §§ 36.401 or 36.402 shall comply with the 

2010 Standards if the date when the last application for a building permit or permit 

extension is certified to be complete by a State, county, or local government (or, in 

those jurisdictions where the government does not certify completion of applications, 

if the date when the last application for a building permit or permit extension is 

received by the State, county, or local government) is on or after March 15, 2012, or 

if no permit is required, if the start of physical construction or alterations occurs on or 

after March 15, 2012.

(4) For the purposes of this section, “start of physical construction or alterations” does 

not mean ceremonial groundbreaking or razing of structures prior to site preparation. 

(5) Noncomplying new construction and alterations.

(i) Newly constructed or altered facilities or elements covered by §§ 36.401 or 36.402

that were constructed or altered before March 15, 2012, and that do not comply 

with the 1991 Standards shall, before March 15, 2012, be made accessible in 

accordance with either the 1991 Standards or the 2010 Standards.

(ii) Newly constructed or altered facilities or elements covered by §§ 36.401 or

36.402 that were constructed or altered before March 15, 2012 and that do 

not comply with the 1991 Standards shall, on or after March 15, 2012, be made 

accessible in accordance with the 2010 Standards. 

Appendix to § 36.406(a) 

Compliance Dates for

New Construction and Alterations Applicable Standards

On or after January 26, 1993, and

before September 15, 2010 

1991 Standards

On or after September 15, 2010, and 

before March 15, 2012 

1991 Standards or 2010 Standards

On or after March 15, 2012 2010 Standards

(b) Scope of coverage. The 1991 Standards and the 2010 Standards apply to fixed or 

built-in elements of buildings, structures, site improvements, and pedestrian routes or 

vehicular ways located on a site. Unless specifically stated otherwise, advisory notes, 

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appendix notes, and figures contained in the 1991 Standards and 2010 Standards 

explain or illustrate the requirements of the rule; they do not establish enforceable 

requirements. 

(c) Places of lodging. Places of lodging subject to this part shall comply with the provisions 

of the 2010 Standards applicable to transient lodging, including, but not limited to, the 

requirements for transient lodging guest rooms in sections 224 and 806 of the 2010 

Standards (pp. 82 and 210). 

(1) Guest rooms. Guest rooms with mobility features in places of lodging subject to the 

transient lodging requirements of 2010 Standards shall be provided as follows— 

(i) Facilities that are subject to the same permit application on a common site that

each have 50 or fewer guest rooms may be combined for the purposes of 

determining the required number of accessible rooms and type of accessible 

bathing facility in accordance with table 224.2 to section 224.2 of the 2010 

Standards (pp 83). 

(ii) Facilities with more than 50 guest rooms shall be treated separately for the

purposes of determining the required number of accessible rooms and type of 

accessible bathing facility in accordance with table 224.2 to section 224.2 of the 

2010 Standards (p. 83). 

(2) Exception. Alterations to guest rooms in places of lodging where the guest rooms 

are not owned or substantially controlled by the entity that owns, leases, or operates 

the overall facility and the physical features of the guest room interiors are controlled 

by their individual owners are not required to comply with § 36.402 or the alterations 

requirements in section 224.1.1 of the 2010 Standards (p. 83). 

(3) Facilities with residential units and transient lodging units. Residential dwelling 

units that are designed and constructed for residential use exclusively are not subject 

to the transient lodging standards. 

(d) Social service center establishments. Group homes, halfway houses, shelters, or 

similar social service center establishments that provide either temporary sleeping 

accommodations or residential dwelling units that are subject to this part shall comply 

with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to residential facilities, including, 

but not limited to, the provisions in sections 233 and 809 

(pp. 91 and 212) .

(1) In sleeping rooms with more than 25 beds covered by this part, a minimum of 5% 

of the beds shall have clear floor space complying with section 806.2.3 of the 2010 

Standards (p. 210). 

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(2) Facilities with more than 50 beds covered by this part that provide common use 

bathing facilities shall provide at least one roll-in shower with a seat that complies 

with the relevant provisions of section 608 of the 2010 Standards (p. 174). 

Transfer-type showers are not permitted in lieu of a roll-in shower with a seat, and 

the exceptions in sections 608.3 and 608.4 for residential dwelling units are not 

permitted. When separate shower facilities are provided for men and for women, at 

least one roll-in shower shall be provided for each group.

(e) Housing at a place of education. Housing at a place of education that is subject to 

this part shall comply with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to transient 

lodging, including, but not limited to, the requirements for transient lodging guest rooms 

in sections 224 and 806 (pp. 82 and 210), subject to the following exceptions. For the 

purposes of the application of this section, the term “sleeping room” is intended to be 

used interchangeably with the term “guest room” as it is used in the transient lodging 

standards. 

(1) Kitchens within housing units containing accessible sleeping rooms with mobility 

features (including suites and clustered sleeping rooms) or on floors containing 

accessible sleeping rooms with mobility features shall provide turning spaces 

that comply with section 809.2.2 of the 2010 Standards (p. 213) and kitchen work 

surfaces that comply with section 804.3 of the 2010 Standards (p. 208). 

(2) Multi-bedroom housing units containing accessible sleeping rooms with mobility 

features shall have an accessible route throughout the unit in accordance with 

section 809.2 of the 2010 Standards (p. 212). 

(3) Apartments or townhouse facilities that are provided by or on behalf of a place of 

education, which are leased on a year-round basis exclusively to graduate students 

or faculty and do not contain any public use or common use areas available for 

educational programming, are not subject to the transient lodging standards and 

shall comply with the requirements for residential facilities in sections 233 and 809 of 

the 2010 Standards (pp. 91 and 212). 

(f) Assembly areas. Assembly areas that are subject to this part shall comply with the 

provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to assembly areas, including, but not limited 

to, sections 221 and 802 (p. 78 and 202). In addition, assembly areas shall ensure 

that–– 

(1) In stadiums, arenas, and grandstands, wheelchair spaces and companion seats are 

dispersed to all levels that include seating served by an accessible route; 

(2) Assembly areas that are required to horizontally disperse wheelchair spaces and 

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companion seats by section 221.2.3.1 of the 2010 Standards (p. 79) and that have 

seating encircling, in whole or in part, a field of play or performance, wheelchair 

spaces and companion seats are dispersed around that field of play or performance 

area;

(3) Wheelchair spaces and companion seats are not located on (or obstructed by) 

temporary platforms or other movable structures, except that when an entire 

seating section is placed on temporary platforms or other movable structures in an 

area where fixed seating is not provided, in order to increase seating for an event, 

wheelchair spaces and companion seats may be placed in that section. When 

wheelchair spaces and companion seats are not required to accommodate persons 

eligible for those spaces and seats, individual, removable seats may be placed in 

those spaces and seats; 

(4) In stadium-style movie theaters, wheelchair spaces and companion seats are located 

on a riser or cross-aisle in the stadium section that satisfies at least one of the 

following criteria–– 

(i) It is located within the rear 60% of the seats provided in an auditorium; or 

(ii) It is located within the area of an auditorium in which the vertical viewing angles

(as measured to the top of the screen) are from the 40th to the 100th percentile of 

vertical viewing angles for all seats as ranked from the seats in the first row (1st 

percentile) to seats in the back row (100th percentile). 

(g) Medical care facilities. Medical care facilities that are subject to this part shall comply 

with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to medical care facilities, including, 

but not limited to, sections 223 and 805 (pp. 81 and 209). In addition, medical care 

facilities that do not specialize in the treatment of conditions that affect mobility shall 

disperse the accessible patient bedrooms required by section 223.2.1 of the 2010 

Standards (p. 82) in a manner that is proportionate by type of medical specialty. 

§§ 36.407—36.499 [Reserved]

The remaining text of the 2010 Standards for Title III start on

page 31, under the heading 2010 Standards for Titles II and III: 

2004 ADAAG. 

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2010 Standards for

Titles II and III Facilities:

2004 ADAAG

The following section applies to both State and local government 

facilities (Title II) and public accommodations and commercial 

facilities (Title III). The section consists of (ADA) Chapters 1 and 2 

and Chapters 3 through 10, of the 2004 ADAAG (36 CFR part 1191, 

appendices B and D, adopted as part of both the Title II and Title III 

2010 Standards).

State and local government facilities must follow the requirements of 

the 2010 Standards, including both the Title II regulations at 28 CFR 

35.151; and the 2004 ADAAG at 36 CFR part 1191, appendices B 

and D.

Public accommodations and commercial facilities must follow the 

requirements of the 2010 Standards, including both the Title III 

regulations at 28 CFR part 36, subpart D; and the 2004 ADAAG at 

36 CFR part 1191, appendices B and D.

 

In the few places where requirements between the regulation and 

the 2004 ADAAG differ, the requirements of 28 CFR 35.151 or

28 CFR part 36, subpart D, prevail.

Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Titles II and III - 31
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 

ADA CHAPTER 1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION 5

101 Purpose 5

102 Dimensions for Adults and Children 5

103 Equivalent Facilitation 5

104 Conventions 5

105 Referenced Standards 8

106 Definitions 12

ADA CHAPTER 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS 18

201 Application 18

202 Existing Buildings and Facilities 18

203 General Exceptions 21

204 Protruding Objects 22

205 Operable Parts 23

206 Accessible Routes 23

207 Accessible Means of Egress 32

208 Parking Spaces 33

209 Passenger Loading Zones and Bus Stops 35

210 Stairways 36

211 Drinking Fountains 36

212 Kitchens, Kitchenettes, and Sinks 37

213 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities 37

214 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers 38

215 Fire Alarm Systems 39

216 Signs 39

217 Telephones 42

218 Transportation Facilities 44

219 Assistive Listening Systems 44

220 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines 45

221 Assembly Areas 46

222 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms 49

223 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities 49

224 Transient Lodging Guest Rooms 50

225 Storage 53

226 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces 54

227 Sales and Service 55

228 Depositories, Vending Machines, Change Machines, Mail Boxes, and Fuel Dispensers 56

229 Windows 56

230 Two-Way Communication Systems 56

231 Judicial Facilities 57

232 Detention Facilities and Correctional Facilities 57

233 Residential Facilities 59

234 Amusement Rides 62

235 Recreational Boating Facilities 63

236 Exercise Machines and Equipment 65

237 Fishing Piers and Platforms 65

238 Golf Facilities 65

239 Miniature Golf Facilities 66

Titles II and III - 2010 Standards - 3

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 

ADA CHAPTER 1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION 5

101 Purpose 5

102 Dimensions for Adults and Children 5

103 Equivalent Facilitation 5

104 Conventions 5

105 Referenced Standards 8

106 Definitions 12

ADA CHAPTER 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS 18

201 Application 18

202 Existing Buildings and Facilities 18

203 General Exceptions 21

204 Protruding Objects 22

205 Operable Parts 23

206 Accessible Routes 23

207 Accessible Means of Egress 32

208 Parking Spaces 33

209 Passenger Loading Zones and Bus Stops 35

210 Stairways 36

211 Drinking Fountains 36

212 Kitchens, Kitchenettes, and Sinks 37

213 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities 37

214 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers 38

215 Fire Alarm Systems 39

216 Signs 39

217 Telephones 42

218 Transportation Facilities 44

219 Assistive Listening Systems 44

220 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines 45

221 Assembly Areas 46

222 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms 49

223 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities 49

224 Transient Lodging Guest Rooms 50

225 Storage 53

226 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces 54

227 Sales and Service 55

228 Depositories, Vending Machines, Change Machines, Mail Boxes, and Fuel Dispensers 56

229 Windows 56

230 Two-Way Communication Systems 56

231 Judicial Facilities 57

232 Detention Facilities and Correctional Facilities 57

233 Residential Facilities 59

234 Amusement Rides 62

235 Recreational Boating Facilities 63

236 Exercise Machines and Equipment 65

237 Fishing Piers and Platforms 65

238 Golf Facilities 65

239 Miniature Golf Facilities 66

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240 Play Areas 66

241 Saunas and Steam Rooms 70

242 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas 70

243 Shooting Facilities with Firing Positions 71

Titles II and III - 2010 Standards - 4

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CHAPTER 3: BUILDING BLOCKS 141

301 General 141

302 Floor or Ground Surfaces 141

303 Changes in Level 142

304 Turning Space 143

305 Clear Floor or Ground Space 144

306 Knee and Toe Clearance 146

307 Protruding Objects 148

308 Reach Ranges 150

309 Operable Parts 153

CHAPTER 4: ACCESSIBLE ROUTES 154

401 General 154

402 Accessible Routes 154

403 Walking Surfaces 154

404 Doors, Doorways, and Gates 156

405 Ramps 164

406 Curb Ramps 168

407 Elevators 170

408 Limited-Use/Limited-Application Elevators 180

409 Private Residence Elevators 182

410 Platform Lifts 184

CHAPTER 5: GENERAL SITE AND BUILDING ELEMENTS 186

501 General 186

502 Parking Spaces 186

503 Passenger Loading Zones 189

504 Stairways 190

505 Handrails 191

CHAPTER 6: PLUMBING ELEMENTS AND FACILITIES 196

601 General 196

602 Drinking Fountains 196

603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms 197

604 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments 198

605 Urinals 207

606 Lavatories and Sinks 207

607 Bathtubs 208

608 Shower Compartments 211

609 Grab Bars 218

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610 Seats 219

611 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers 222

612 Saunas and Steam Rooms 222

CHAPTER 7: COMMUNICATION ELEMENTS AND FEATURES 223

701 General 223

702 Fire Alarm Systems 223

703 Signs 223

704 Telephones 231

705 Detectable Warnings 233

706 Assistive Listening Systems 234

707 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines 235

708 Two-Way Communication Systems 238

CHAPTER 8: SPECIAL ROOMS, SPACES, AND ELEMENTS 239

801 General 239

802 Wheelchair Spaces, Companion Seats, and Designated Aisle Seats 239

803 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms 243

804 Kitchens and Kitchenettes 243

805 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities 246

806 Transient Lodging Guest Rooms 247

807 Holding Cells and Housing Cells 248

808 Courtrooms 249

809 Residential Dwelling Units 249

810 Transportation Facilities 251

811 Storage 255

CHAPTER 9: BUILT-IN ELEMENTS 256

901 General 256

902 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces 256

903 Benches 256

904 Check-Out Aisles and Sales and Service Counters 257

CHAPTER 10: RECREATION FACILITIES 261

1001 General 261

1002 Amusement Rides 261

1003 Recreational Boating Facilities 265

1004 Exercise Machines and Equipment 270

1005 Fishing Piers and Platforms 271

1006 Golf Facilities 272

1007 Miniature Golf Facilities 273

1008 Play Areas 274

1009 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas 279

1010 Shooting Facilities with Firing Positions 289

LIST OF FIGURES AND INDEX 290

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228

233

234

235

236

237

242

252

224

219

INDEX AND LIST OF FIGURES 253
TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

610 Seats 219

611 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers 222

612 Saunas and Steam Rooms 222

CHAPTER 7: COMMUNICATION ELEMENTS AND FEATURES 223

701 General 223

702 Fire Alarm Systems 223

703 Signs 223

704 Telephones 231

705 Detectable Warnings 233

706 Assistive Listening Systems 234

707 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines 235

708 Two-Way Communication Systems 238

CHAPTER 8: SPECIAL ROOMS, SPACES, AND ELEMENTS 239

801 General 239

802 Wheelchair Spaces, Companion Seats, and Designated Aisle Seats 239

803 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms 243

804 Kitchens and Kitchenettes 243

805 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities 246

806 Transient Lodging Guest Rooms 247

807 Holding Cells and Housing Cells 248

808 Courtrooms 249

809 Residential Dwelling Units 249

810 Transportation Facilities 251

811 Storage 255

CHAPTER 9: BUILT-IN ELEMENTS 256

901 General 256

902 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces 256

903 Benches 256

904 Check-Out Aisles and Sales and Service Counters 257

CHAPTER 10: RECREATION FACILITIES 261

1001 General 261

1002 Amusement Rides 261

1003 Recreational Boating Facilities 265

1004 Exercise Machines and Equipment 270

1005 Fishing Piers and Platforms 271

1006 Golf Facilities 272

1007 Miniature Golf Facilities 273

1008 Play Areas 274

1009 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas 279

1010 Shooting Facilities with Firing Positions 289

LIST OF FIGURES AND INDEX 290

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101 Purpose

101.1 General. This document contains scoping and technical requirements for accessibility to sites, 

facilities, buildings, and elements by individuals with disabilities. The requirements are to be applied 

during the design, construction, additions to, and alteration of sites, facilities, buildings, and elements to 

the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under the Americans with Disabilities Act 

of 1990 (ADA). 

101.2 Effect on Removal of Barriers in Existing Facilities. This document does not address existing 

facilities unless altered at the discretion of a covered entity. The Department of Justice has authority 

over existing facilities that are subject to the requirement for removal of barriers under title III of the ADA. 

Any determination that this document applies to existing facilities subject to the barrier removal 

requirement is solely within the discretion of the Department of Justice and is effective only to the extent 

required by regulations issued by the Department of Justice.

102 Dimensions for Adults and Children

The technical requirements are based on adult dimensions and anthropometrics. In addition, this 

document includes technical requirements based on children’s dimensions and anthropometrics for 

drinking fountains, water closets, toilet compartments, lavatories and sinks, dining surfaces, and work 

surfaces.

103 Equivalent Facilitation

Nothing in these requirements prevents the use of designs, products, or technologies as alternatives to 

those prescribed, provided they result in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability. 

104 Conventions

104.1 Dimensions. Dimensions that are not stated as “maximum” or “minimum” are absolute.

Advisory 101.1 General. In addition to these requirements, covered entities must comply 

with the regulations issued by the Department of Justice and the Department of 

Transportation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are issues affecting 

individuals with disabilities which are not addressed by these requirements, but which are 

covered by the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation regulations.

Advisory 103 Equivalent Facilitation. The responsibility for demonstrating equivalent 

facilitation in the event of a challenge rests with the covered entity. With the exception of 

transit facilities, which are covered by regulations issued by the Department of 

Transportation, there is no process for certifying that an alternative design provides 

equivalent facilitation.

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104.1.1 Construction and Manufacturing Tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional 

industry tolerances except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific minimum and 

maximum end points. 

104.2 Calculation of Percentages. Where the required number of elements or facilities to be provided 

is determined by calculations of ratios or percentages and remainders or fractions result, the next 

greater whole number of such elements or facilities shall be provided. Where the determination of the 

required size or dimension of an element or facility involves ratios or percentages, rounding down for 

values less than one half shall be permitted.

104.3 Figures. Unless specifically stated otherwise, figures are provided for informational purposes 

only. 

Advisory 104.1.1 Construction and Manufacturing Tolerances. Conventional industry 

tolerances recognized by this provision include those for field conditions and those that may 

be a necessary consequence of a particular manufacturing process. Recognized tolerances 

are not intended to apply to design work.

It is good practice when specifying dimensions to avoid specifying a tolerance where 

dimensions are absolute. For example, if this document requires “11⁄2 inches,” avoid 

specifying “11⁄2 inches plus or minus X inches.”

Where the requirement states a specified range, such as in Section 609.4 where grab bars 

must be installed between 33 inches and 36 inches above the floor, the range provides an 

adequate tolerance and therefore no tolerance outside of the range at either end point is 

permitted.

Where a requirement is a minimum or a maximum dimension that does not have two 

specific minimum and maximum end points, tolerances may apply. Where an element is to 

be installed at the minimum or maximum permitted dimension, such as “15 inches minimum” 

or “5 pounds maximum”, it would not be good practice to specify “5 pounds (plus X pounds) 

or 15 inches (minus X inches).” Rather, it would be good practice to specify a dimension 

less than the required maximum (or more than the required minimum) by the amount of the 

expected field or manufacturing tolerance and not to state any tolerance in conjunction with 

the specified dimension.

Specifying dimensions in design in the manner described above will better ensure that 

facilities and elements accomplish the level of accessibility intended by these requirements. 

It will also more often produce an end result of strict and literal compliance with the stated 

requirements and eliminate enforcement difficulties and issues that might otherwise arise. 

Information on specific tolerances may be available from industry or trade organizations, 

code groups and building officials, and published references.

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Figure 104

Graphic Convention for Figures

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105 Referenced Standards

105.1 General. The standards listed in 105.2 are incorporated by reference in this document and are 

part of the requirements to the prescribed extent of each such reference. The Director of the Federal 

Register has approved these standards for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 

552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of the referenced standards may be inspected at the Architectural 

and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, 1331 F Street, NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004; 

at the Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Disability Rights Section, 1425 New York Avenue, 

NW, Washington, DC; at the Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Room 10424, 

Washington DC; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the 

availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/

federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. 

105.2 Referenced Standards. The specific edition of the standards listed below are referenced in this 

document. Where differences occur between this document and the referenced standards, this 

document applies.

105.2.1 ANSI/BHMA. Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the Builders 

Hardware Manufacturers Association, 355 Lexington Avenue, 17th floor, New York, NY 10017 (http:/

/www.buildershardware.com).

ANSI/BHMA A156.10-1999 American National Standard for Power Operated Pedestrian Doors 

(see 404.3).

ANSI/BHMA A156.19-1997 American National Standard for Power Assist and Low Energy Power 

Operated Doors (see 404.3, 408.3.2.1, and 409.3.1).

ANSI/BHMA A156.19-2002 American National Standard for Power Assist and Low Energy Power 

Operated Doors (see 404.3, 408.3.2.1, and 409.3.1). 

105.2.2 ASME. Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the American Society of 

Mechanical Engineers, Three Park Avenue, New York, New York 10016 (http://www.asme.org).

ASME A17.1- 2000 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, including ASME A17.1a-2002 

Addenda and ASME A17.1b-2003 Addenda (see 407.1, 408.1, 409.1, and 810.9).

ASME A18.1-1999 Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts, including ASME 

A18.1a-2001 Addenda and ASME A18.1b-2001 Addenda (see 410.1).

Advisory 105.2.1 ANSI/BHMA. ANSI/BHMA A156.10-1999 applies to power operated 

doors for pedestrian use which open automatically when approached by pedestrians. 

Included are provisions intended to reduce the chance of user injury or entrapment.

ANSI/BHMA A156.19-1997 and A156.19-2002 applies to power assist doors, low energy 

power operated doors or low energy power open doors for pedestrian use not provided for in 

ANSI/BHMA A156.10 for Power Operated Pedestrian Doors. Included are provisions 

intended to reduce the chance of user injury or entrapment.

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ASME A18.1-2003 Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts, (see 410.1). 

105.2.3 ASTM. Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the American Society for 

Testing and Materials, 100 Bar Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428 (http://

www.astm.org).

Advisory 105.2.2 ASME. ASME A17.1-2000 is used by local jurisdictions throughout the 

United States for the design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, 

maintenance, alteration, and repair of elevators and escalators. The majority of the 

requirements apply to the operational machinery not seen or used by elevator passengers. 

ASME A17.1 requires a two-way means of emergency communications in passenger 

elevators. This means of communication must connect with emergency or authorized 

personnel and not an automated answering system. The communication system must be 

push button activated. The activation button must be permanently identified with the word 

“HELP.” A visual indication acknowledging the establishment of a communications link to 

authorized personnel must be provided. The visual indication must remain on until the call 

is terminated by authorized personnel. The building location, the elevator car number, and 

the need for assistance must be provided to authorized personnel answering the emergency 

call. The use of a handset by the communications system is prohibited. Only the authorized 

personnel answering the call can terminate the call. Operating instructions for the 

communications system must be provided in the elevator car.

The provisions for escalators require that at least two flat steps be provided at the entrance 

and exit of every escalator and that steps on escalators be demarcated by yellow lines 2 

inches wide maximum along the back and sides of steps.

ASME A18.1-1999 and ASME A18.1-2003 address the design, construction, installation, 

operation, inspection, testing, maintenance and repair of lifts that are intended for 

transportation of persons with disabilities. Lifts are classified as: vertical platform lifts, 

inclined platform lifts, inclined stairway chairlifts, private residence vertical platform lifts, 

private residence inclined platform lifts, and private residence inclined stairway chairlifts.

This document does not permit the use of inclined stairway chairlifts which do not provide 

platforms because such lifts require the user to transfer to a seat. 

ASME A18.1 contains requirements for runways, which are the spaces in which platforms or 

seats move. The standard includes additional provisions for runway enclosures, electrical 

equipment and wiring, structural support, headroom clearance (which is 80 inches 

minimum), lower level access ramps and pits. The enclosure walls not used for entry or exit 

are required to have a grab bar the full length of the wall on platform lifts. Access ramps are 

required to meet requirements similar to those for ramps in Chapter 4 of this document.

Each of the lift types addressed in ASME A18.1 must meet requirements for capacity, load, 

speed, travel, operating devices, and control equipment. The maximum permitted height for 

operable parts is consistent with Section 308 of this document. The standard also 

addresses attendant operation. However, Section 410.1 of this document does not permit 

attendant operation.

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ASTM F 1292-99 Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surface Systems Under and 

Around Playground Equipment (see 1008.2.6.2).

ASTM F 1292-04 Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials Within the 

Use Zone of Playground Equipment (see 1008.2.6.2).

ASTM F 1487-01 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground 

Equipment for Public Use (see 106.5).

ASTM F 1951-99 Standard Specification for Determination of Accessibility of Surface Systems 

Under and Around Playground Equipment (see 1008.2.6.1). 

105.2.4 ICC/IBC. Copies of the referenced standard may be obtained from the International Code 

Council, 5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 600, Falls Church, Virginia 22041 (www.iccsafe.org).

International Building Code, 2000 Edition (see 207.1, 207.2, 216.4.2, 216.4.3, and 1005.2.1).

Advisory 105.2.3 ASTM. ASTM F 1292-99 and ASTM F 1292-04 establish a uniform 

means to measure and compare characteristics of surfacing materials to determine whether 

materials provide a safe surface under and around playground equipment. These standards 

are referenced in the play areas requirements of this document when an accessible surface 

is required inside a play area use zone where a fall attenuating surface is also required. The 

standards cover the minimum impact attenuation requirements, when tested in accordance 

with Test Method F 355, for surface systems to be used under and around any piece of 

playground equipment from which a person may fall.

ASTM F 1487-01 establishes a nationally recognized safety standard for public playground 

equipment to address injuries identified by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. 

It defines the use zone, which is the ground area beneath and immediately adjacent to a 

play structure or play equipment designed for unrestricted circulation around the equipment 

and on whose surface it is predicted that a user would land when falling from or exiting a 

play structure or equipment. The play areas requirements in this document reference the 

ASTM F 1487 standard when defining accessible routes that overlap use zones requiring 

fall attenuating surfaces. If the use zone of a playground is not entirely surfaced with an 

accessible material, at least one accessible route within the use zone must be provided from 

the perimeter to all accessible play structures or components within the playground.

ASTM F 1951-99 establishes a uniform means to measure the characteristics of surface 

systems in order to provide performance specifications to select materials for use as an 

accessible surface under and around playground equipment. Surface materials that comply 

with this standard and are located in the use zone must also comply with ASTM F 1292. 

The test methods in this standard address access for children and adults who may traverse 

the surfacing to aid children who are playing. When a surface is tested it must have an 

average work per foot value for straight propulsion and for turning less than the average 

work per foot values for straight propulsion and for turning, respectively, on a hard, smooth 

surface with a grade of 7% (1:14).

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International Building Code, 2001 Supplement (see 207.1 and 207.2).

International Building Code, 2003 Edition (see 207.1, 207.2, 216.4.2, 216.4.3, and 1005.2.1). 

105.2.5 NFPA. Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the National Fire 

Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169-7471, (http://

www.nfpa.org).

NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code, 1999 Edition (see 702.1 and 809.5.2).

NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code, 2002 Edition (see 702.1 and 809.5.2). 

Advisory 105.2.4 ICC/IBC. International Building Code (IBC)-2000 (including 2001 

Supplement to the International Codes) and IBC-2003 are referenced for means of egress, 

areas of refuge, and railings provided on fishing piers and platforms. At least one 

accessible means of egress is required for every accessible space and at least two 

accessible means of egress are required where more than one means of egress is required. 

The technical criteria for accessible means of egress allow the use of exit stairways and 

evacuation elevators when provided in conjunction with horizontal exits or areas of refuge. 

While typical elevators are not designed to be used during an emergency evacuation, 

evacuation elevators are designed with standby power and other features according to the 

elevator safety standard and can be used for the evacuation of individuals with disabilities. 

The IBC also provides requirements for areas of refuge, which are fire-rated spaces on 

levels above or below the exit discharge levels where people unable to use stairs can go to 

register a call for assistance and wait for evacuation.

The recreation facilities requirements of this document references two sections in the IBC 

for fishing piers and platforms. An exception addresses the height of the railings, guards, or 

handrails where a fishing pier or platform is required to include a guard, railing, or handrail 

higher than 34 inches (865 mm) above the ground or deck surface.

Advisory 105.2.5 NFPA. NFPA 72-1999 and NFPA 72-2002 address the application, 

installation, performance, and maintenance of protective signaling systems and their 

components. The NFPA 72 incorporates Underwriters Laboratory (UL) 1971 by reference. 

The standard specifies the characteristics of audible alarms, such as placement and sound 

levels. However, Section 702 of these requirements limits the volume of an audible alarm to 

110 dBA, rather than the maximum 120 dBA permitted by NFPA 72-1999.

NFPA 72 specifies characteristics for visible alarms, such as flash frequency, color, intensity, 

placement, and synchronization. However, Section 702 of this document requires that 

visual alarm appliances be permanently installed. UL 1971 specifies intensity dispersion 

requirements for visible alarms. In particular, NFPA 72 requires visible alarms to have a light 

source that is clear or white and has polar dispersion complying with UL 1971.

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106 Definitions

106.1 General. For the purpose of this document, the terms defined in 106.5 have the indicated 

meaning. 

106.2 Terms Defined in Referenced Standards. Terms not defined in 106.5 or in regulations issued by 

the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation to implement the Americans with 

Disabilities Act, but specifically defined in a referenced standard, shall have the specified meaning from 

the referenced standard unless otherwise stated.

106.3 Undefined Terms. The meaning of terms not specifically defined in 106.5 or in regulations issued 

by the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation to implement the Americans with 

Disabilities Act or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that 

the context implies.

106.4 Interchangeability. Words, terms and phrases used in the singular include the plural and those 

used in the plural include the singular.

106.5 Defined Terms.

Accessible. A site, building, facility, or portion thereof that complies with this part.

Accessible Means of Egress. A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any point in 

a building or facility that provides an accessible route to an area of refuge, a horizontal exit, or a public 

way.

Addition. An expansion, extension, or increase in the gross floor area or height of a building or 

facility.

Administrative Authority. A governmental agency that adopts or enforces regulations and 

guidelines for the design, construction, or alteration of buildings and facilities.

Alteration. A change to a building or facility that affects or could affect the usability of the building or 

facility or portion thereof. Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, 

rehabilitation, reconstruction, historic restoration, resurfacing of circulation paths or vehicular ways, 

changes or rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrangement in the 

plan configuration of walls and full-height partitions. Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or 

wallpapering, or changes to mechanical and electrical systems are not alterations unless they affect 

the usability of the building or facility.

Amusement Attraction. Any facility, or portion of a facility, located within an amusement park or 

theme park which provides amusement without the use of an amusement device. Amusement 

attractions include, but are not limited to, fun houses, barrels, and other attractions without seats.

Advisory 106.1 General. Terms defined in Section 106.5 are italicized in the text of this 

document.

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Amusement Ride. A system that moves persons through a fixed course within a defined area for the 

purpose of amusement.

Amusement Ride Seat. A seat that is built-in or mechanically fastened to an amusement ride

intended to be occupied by one or more passengers.

Area of Sport Activity. That portion of a room or space where the play or practice of a sport occurs.

Assembly Area. A building or facility, or portion thereof, used for the purpose of entertainment, 

educational or civic gatherings, or similar purposes. For the purposes of these requirements, 

assembly areas include, but are not limited to, classrooms, lecture halls, courtrooms, public meeting 

rooms, public hearing rooms, legislative chambers, motion picture houses, auditoria, theaters, 

playhouses, dinner theaters, concert halls, centers for the performing arts, amphitheaters, arenas, 

stadiums, grandstands, or convention centers.

Assistive Listening System (ALS). An amplification system utilizing transmitters, receivers, and 

coupling devices to bypass the acoustical space between a sound source and a listener by means of 

induction loop, radio frequency, infrared, or direct-wired equipment.

Boarding Pier. A portion of a pier where a boat is temporarily secured for the purpose of embarking 

or disembarking.

Boat Launch Ramp. A sloped surface designed for launching and retrieving trailered boats and other 

water craft to and from a body of water.

Boat Slip. That portion of a pier, main pier, finger pier, or float where a boat is moored for the purpose 

of berthing, embarking, or disembarking.

Building. Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.

Catch Pool. A pool or designated section of a pool used as a terminus for water slide flumes.

Characters. Letters, numbers, punctuation marks and typographic symbols.

Children’s Use. Describes spaces and elements specifically designed for use primarily by people 12 

years old and younger.

Circulation Path. An exterior or interior way of passage provided for pedestrian travel, including but 

not limited to, walks, hallways, courtyards, elevators, platform lifts, ramps, stairways, and landings.

Closed-Circuit Telephone. A telephone with a dedicated line such as a house phone, courtesy 

phone or phone that must be used to gain entry to a facility.

Common Use. Interior or exterior circulation paths, rooms, spaces, or elements that are not for public 

use and are made available for the shared use of two or more people.

Cross Slope. The slope that is perpendicular to the direction of travel (see running slope).

Curb Ramp. A short ramp cutting through a curb or built up to it.

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Detectable Warning. A standardized surface feature built in or applied to walking surfaces or other 

elements to warn of hazards on a circulation path.

Element. An architectural or mechanical component of a building, facility, space, or site.

Elevated Play Component. A play component that is approached above or below grade and that is 

part of a composite play structure consisting of two or more play components attached or functionally 

linked to create an integrated unit providing more than one play activity.

Employee Work Area. All or any portion of a space used only by employees and used only for work. 

Corridors, toilet rooms, kitchenettes and break rooms are not employee work areas.

Entrance. Any access point to a building or portion of a building or facility used for the purpose of 

entering. An entrance includes the approach walk, the vertical access leading to the entrance

platform, the entrance platform itself, vestibule if provided, the entry door or gate, and the hardware of 

the entry door or gate.

Facility. All or any portion of buildings, structures, site improvements, elements, and pedestrian 

routes or vehicular ways located on a site.

Gangway. A variable-sloped pedestrian walkway that links a fixed structure or land with a floating 

structure. Gangways that connect to vessels are not addressed by this document.

Golf Car Passage. A continuous passage on which a motorized golf car can operate.

Ground Level Play Component. A play component that is approached and exited at the ground 

level.

Key Station. Rapid and light rail stations, and commuter rail stations, as defined under criteria 

established by the Department of Transportation in 49 CFR 37.47 and 49 CFR 37.51, respectively.

Mail Boxes. Receptacles for the receipt of documents, packages, or other deliverable matter. Mail

boxes include, but are not limited to, post office boxes and receptacles provided by commercial mailreceiving agencies, apartment facilities, or schools.

Marked Crossing. A crosswalk or other identified path intended for pedestrian use in crossing a 

vehicular way.

Mezzanine. An intermediate level or levels between the floor and ceiling of any story with an 

aggregate floor area of not more than one-third of the area of the room or space in which the level or 

levels are located. Mezzanines have sufficient elevation that space for human occupancy can be 

provided on the floor below.

Occupant Load. The number of persons for which the means of egress of a building or portion of a 

building is designed.

Operable Part. A component of an element used to insert or withdraw objects, or to activate, 

deactivate, or adjust the element.

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Pictogram. A pictorial symbol that represents activities, facilities, or concepts.

Play Area. A portion of a site containing play components designed and constructed for children.

Play Component. An element intended to generate specific opportunities for play, socialization, or 

learning. Play components are manufactured or natural; and are stand-alone or part of a composite 

play structure.

Private Building or Facility. A place of public accommodation or a commercial building or facility

subject to title III of the ADA and 28 CFR part 36 or a transportation building or facility subject to title III 

of the ADA and 49 CFR 37.45.

Public Building or Facility. A building or facility or portion of a building or facility designed, 

constructed, or altered by, on behalf of, or for the use of a public entity subject to title II of the ADA and 

28 CFR part 35 or to title II of the ADA and 49 CFR 37.41 or 37.43.

Public Entrance. An entrance that is not a service entrance or a restricted entrance.

Public Use. Interior or exterior rooms, spaces, or elements that are made available to the public. 

Public use may be provided at a building or facility that is privately or publicly owned.

Public Way. Any street, alley or other parcel of land open to the outside air leading to a public street, 

which has been deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated to the public for public use

and which has a clear width and height of not less than 10 feet (3050 mm).

Qualified Historic Building or Facility. A building or facility that is listed in or eligible for listing in the 

National Register of Historic Places, or designated as historic under an appropriate State or local law.

Ramp. A walking surface that has a running slope steeper than 1:20.

Residential Dwelling Unit. A unit intended to be used as a residence, that is primarily long-term in 

nature. Residential dwelling units do not include transient lodging, inpatient medical care, licensed 

long-term care, and detention or correctional facilities.

Restricted Entrance. An entrance that is made available for common use on a controlled basis but 

not public use and that is not a service entrance.

Running Slope. The slope that is parallel to the direction of travel (see cross slope).

Self-Service Storage. Building or facility designed and used for the purpose of renting or leasing 

individual storage spaces to customers for the purpose of storing and removing personal property on 

a self-service basis.

Service Entrance. An entrance intended primarily for delivery of goods or services.

Site. A parcel of land bounded by a property line or a designated portion of a public right-of-way.

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Soft Contained Play Structure. A play structure made up of one or more play components where 

the user enters a fully enclosed play environment that utilizes pliable materials, such as plastic, 

netting, or fabric.

Space. A definable area, such as a room, toilet room, hall, assembly area, entrance, storage room, 

alcove, courtyard, or lobby.

Story. That portion of a building or facility designed for human occupancy included between the 

upper surface of a floor and upper surface of the floor or roof next above. A story containing one or 

more mezzanines has more than one floor level.

Structural Frame. The columns and the girders, beams, and trusses having direct connections to the 

columns and all other members that are essential to the stability of the building or facility as a whole.

Tactile. An object that can be perceived using the sense of touch.

Technically Infeasible. With respect to an alteration of a building or a facility, something that has 

little likelihood of being accomplished because existing structural conditions would require removing 

or altering a load-bearing member that is an essential part of the structural frame; or because other 

existing physical or site constraints prohibit modification or addition of elements, spaces, or features 

that are in full and strict compliance with the minimum requirements.

Teeing Ground. In golf, the starting place for the hole to be played.

Transfer Device. Equipment designed to facilitate the transfer of a person from a wheelchair or other 

mobility aid to and from an amusement ride seat.

Transient Lodging. A building or facility containing one or more guest room(s) for sleeping that 

provides accommodations that are primarily short-term in nature. Transient lodging does not include

residential dwelling units intended to be used as a residence, inpatient medical care facilities, licensed 

long-term care facilities, detention or correctional facilities, or private buildings or facilities that contain 

not more than five rooms for rent or hire and that are actually occupied by the proprietor as the 

residence of such proprietor.

Transition Plate. A sloping pedestrian walking surface located at the end(s) of a gangway.

TTY. An abbreviation for teletypewriter. Machinery that employs interactive text-based 

communication through the transmission of coded signals across the telephone network. TTYs may 

include, for example, devices known as TDDs (telecommunication display devices or 

telecommunication devices for deaf persons) or computers with special modems. TTYs are also 

called text telephones.

Use Zone. The ground level area beneath and immediately adjacent to a play structure or play 

equipment that is designated by ASTM F 1487 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced 

Standards” in Chapter 1) for unrestricted circulation around the play equipment and where it is 

predicted that a user would land when falling from or exiting the play equipment.

Vehicular Way. A route provided for vehicular traffic, such as in a street, driveway, or parking facility.

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Walk. An exterior prepared surface for pedestrian use, including pedestrian areas such as plazas and 

courts.

Wheelchair Space. Space for a single wheelchair and its occupant.

Work Area Equipment. Any machine, instrument, engine, motor, pump, conveyor, or other 

apparatus used to perform work. As used in this document, this term shall apply only to equipment 

that is permanently installed or built-in in employee work areas. Work area equipment does not 

include passenger elevators and other accessible means of vertical transportation. 

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ADA CHAPTER 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

201 Application

201.1 Scope. All areas of newly designed and newly constructed buildings and facilities and altered

portions of existing buildings and facilities shall comply with these requirements. 

201.2 Application Based on Building or Facility Use. Where a site, building, facility, room, or space

contains more than one use, each portion shall comply with the applicable requirements for that use.

201.3 Temporary and Permanent Structures. These requirements shall apply to temporary and 

permanent buildings and facilities. 

202 Existing Buildings and Facilities

202.1 General. Additions and alterations to existing buildings or facilities shall comply with 202.

202.2 Additions. Each addition to an existing building or facility shall comply with the requirements for 

new construction. Each addition that affects or could affect the usability of or access to an area 

containing a primary function shall comply with 202.4.

202.3 Alterations. Where existing elements or spaces are altered, each altered element or space shall 

comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 2.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Unless required by 202.4, where elements or spaces are altered and the 

circulation path to the altered element or space is not altered, an accessible route shall not be 

required.

2. In alterations, where compliance with applicable requirements is technically infeasible, the 

alteration shall comply with the requirements to the maximum extent feasible.

Advisory 201.1 Scope. These requirements are to be applied to all areas of a facility 

unless exempted, or where scoping limits the number of multiple elements required to be 

accessible. For example, not all medical care patient rooms are required to be accessible; 

those that are not required to be accessible are not required to comply with these 

requirements. However, common use and public use spaces such as recovery rooms, 

examination rooms, and cafeterias are not exempt from these requirements and must be 

accessible.

Advisory 201.3 Temporary and Permanent Structures. Temporary buildings or facilities 

covered by these requirements include, but are not limited to, reviewing stands, temporary 

classrooms, bleacher areas, stages, platforms and daises, fixed furniture systems, wall 

systems, and exhibit areas, temporary banking facilities, and temporary health screening 

facilities. Structures and equipment directly associated with the actual processes of 

construction are not required to be accessible as permitted in 203.2.

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3. Residential dwelling units not required to be accessible in compliance with a standard issued 

pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as 

amended, shall not be required to comply with 202.3. 

202.3.1 Prohibited Reduction in Access. An alteration that decreases or has the effect of 

decreasing the accessibility of a building or facility below the requirements for new construction at 

the time of the alteration is prohibited.

202.3.2 Extent of Application. An alteration of an existing element, space, or area of a building or 

facility shall not impose a requirement for accessibility greater than required for new construction.

202.4 Alterations Affecting Primary Function Areas. In addition to the requirements of 202.3, an 

alteration that affects or could affect the usability of or access to an area containing a primary function 

shall be made so as to ensure that, to the maximum extent feasible, the path of travel to the altered area, 

including the rest rooms, telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area, are readily 

accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, unless such alterations are disproportionate to 

the overall alterations in terms of cost and scope as determined under criteria established by the 

Attorney General. In existing transportation facilities, an area of primary function shall be as defined 

under regulations published by the Secretary of the Department of Transportation or the Attorney 

General.

EXCEPTION: Residential dwelling units shall not be required to comply with 202.4. 

Advisory 202.3 Alterations. Although covered entities are permitted to limit the scope of 

an alteration to individual elements, the alteration of multiple elements within a room or 

space may provide a cost-effective opportunity to make the entire room or space accessible. 

Any elements or spaces of the building or facility that are required to comply with these 

requirements must be made accessible within the scope of the alteration, to the maximum 

extent feasible. If providing accessibility in compliance with these requirements for people 

with one type of disability (e.g., people who use wheelchairs) is not feasible, accessibility 

must still be provided in compliance with the requirements for people with other types of 

disabilities (e.g., people who have hearing impairments or who have vision impairments) to 

the extent that such accessibility is feasible.

Advisory 202.4 Alterations Affecting Primary Function Areas. An area of a building or 

facility containing a major activity for which the building or facility is intended is a primary 

function area. Department of Justice ADA regulations state, “Alterations made to provide an 

accessible path of travel to the altered area will be deemed disproportionate to the overall 

alteration when the cost exceeds 20% of the cost of the alteration to the primary function 

area.” (28 CFR 36.403 (f)(1)). See also Department of Transportation ADA regulations, 

which use similar concepts in the context of public sector transportation facilities (49 CFR 

37.43 (e)(1)).

There can be multiple areas containing a primary function in a single building. Primary 

function areas are not limited to public use areas. For example, both a bank lobby and the 

bank’s employee areas such as the teller areas and walk-in safe are primary function areas.

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202.5 Alterations to Qualified Historic Buildings and Facilities. Alterations to a qualified historic 

building or facility shall comply with 202.3 and 202.4.

EXCEPTION: Where the State Historic Preservation Officer or Advisory Council on Historic 

Preservation determines that compliance with the requirements for accessible routes, entrances, or 

toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or facility, the 

exceptions for alterations to qualified historic buildings or facilities for that element shall be permitted 

to apply. 

Advisory 202.4 Alterations Affecting Primary Function Areas (Continued). Also, mixed 

use facilities may include numerous primary function areas for each use. Areas containing a 

primary function do not include: mechanical rooms, boiler rooms, supply storage rooms, 

employee lounges or locker rooms, janitorial closets, entrances, corridors, or restrooms.

Advisory 202.5 Alterations to Qualified Historic Buildings and Facilities Exception. 

State Historic Preservation Officers are State appointed officials who carry out certain 

responsibilities under the National Historic Preservation Act. State Historic Preservation 

Officers consult with Federal and State agencies, local governments, and private entities on 

providing access and protecting significant elements of qualified historic buildings and 

facilities. There are exceptions for alterations to qualified historic buildings and facilities for 

accessible routes (206.2.1 Exception 1 and 206.2.3 Exception 7); entrances (206.4 

Exception 2); and toilet facilities (213.2 Exception 2). When an entity believes that 

compliance with the requirements for any of these elements would threaten or destroy the 

historic significance of the building or facility, the entity should consult with the State Historic 

Preservation Officer. If the State Historic Preservation Officer agrees that compliance with 

the requirements for a specific element would threaten or destroy the historic significance of 

the building or facility, use of the exception is permitted. Public entities have an additional 

obligation to achieve program accessibility under the Department of Justice ADA 

regulations. See 28 CFR 35.150. These regulations require public entities that operate 

historic preservation programs to give priority to methods that provide physical access to 

individuals with disabilities. If alterations to a qualified historic building or facility to achieve 

program accessibility would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or 

facility, fundamentally alter the program, or result in undue financial or administrative 

burdens, the Department of Justice ADA regulations allow alternative methods to be used to 

achieve program accessibility. In the case of historic preservation programs, such as an 

historic house museum, alternative methods include using audio-visual materials to depict 

portions of the house that cannot otherwise be made accessible. In the case of other 

qualified historic properties, such as an historic government office building, alternative 

methods include relocating programs and services to accessible locations. The Department 

of Justice ADA regulations also allow public entities to use alternative methods when 

altering qualified historic buildings or facilities in the rare situations where the State Historic 

Preservation Officer determines that it is not feasible to provide physical access using the 

exceptions permitted in Section 202.5 without threatening or destroying the historic 

significance of the building or facility. See 28 CFR 35.151(d).

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203 General Exceptions

203.1 General. Sites, buildings, facilities, and elements are exempt from these requirements to the 

extent specified by 203.

203.2 Construction Sites. Structures and sites directly associated with the actual processes of 

construction, including but not limited to, scaffolding, bridging, materials hoists, materials storage, and 

construction trailers shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible

route. Portable toilet units provided for use exclusively by construction personnel on a construction site

shall not be required to comply with 213 or to be on an accessible route. 

203.3 Raised Areas. Areas raised primarily for purposes of security, life safety, or fire safety, including 

but not limited to, observation or lookout galleries, prison guard towers, fire towers, or life guard stands 

shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

203.4 Limited Access Spaces. Spaces accessed only by ladders, catwalks, crawl spaces, or very 

narrow passageways shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible

route.

203.5 Machinery Spaces. Spaces frequented only by service personnel for maintenance, repair, or 

occasional monitoring of equipment shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on 

an accessible route. Machinery spaces include, but are not limited to, elevator pits or elevator 

penthouses; mechanical, electrical or communications equipment rooms; piping or equipment catwalks; 

water or sewage treatment pump rooms and stations; electric substations and transformer vaults; and 

highway and tunnel utility facilities.

203.6 Single Occupant Structures. Single occupant structures accessed only by passageways below 

grade or elevated above standard curb height, including but not limited to, toll booths that are accessed 

only by underground tunnels, shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an 

accessible route.

203.7 Detention and Correctional Facilities. In detention and correctional facilities, common use

areas that are used only by inmates or detainees and security personnel and that do not serve holding 

cells or housing cells required to comply with 232, shall not be required to comply with these 

requirements or to be on an accessible route.

203.8 Residential Facilities. In residential facilities, common use areas that do not serve residential 

dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall not be 

required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

Advisory 202.5 Alterations to Qualified Historic Buildings and Facilities Exception 

(Continued). The AccessAbility Office at the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) 

provides a variety of resources for museum operators and historic properties including: the 

Design for Accessibility Guide and the Disability Symbols. Contact NEA about these and 

other resources at (202) 682-5532 or www.arts.gov.

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203.9 Employee Work Areas. Spaces and elements within employee work areas shall only be required 

to comply with 206.2.8, 207.1, and 215.3 and shall be designed and constructed so that individuals with 

disabilities can approach, enter, and exit the employee work area. Employee work areas, or portions of 

employee work areas, other than raised courtroom stations, that are less than 300 square feet (28 m2) 

and elevated 7 inches (180 mm) or more above the finish floor or ground where the elevation is essential 

to the function of the space shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an 

accessible route. 

203.10 Raised Refereeing, Judging, and Scoring Areas. Raised structures used solely for 

refereeing, judging, or scoring a sport shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be 

on an accessible route.

203.11 Water Slides. Water slides shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on 

an accessible route.

203.12 Animal Containment Areas. Animal containment areas that are not for public use shall not be 

required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. 

203.13 Raised Boxing or Wrestling Rings. Raised boxing or wrestling rings shall not be required to 

comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

203.14 Raised Diving Boards and Diving Platforms. Raised diving boards and diving platforms shall 

not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

204 Protruding Objects

204.1 General. Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with 307.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Within areas of sport activity, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be 

required to comply with 307.

2. Within play areas, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with 307 

provided that ground level accessible routes provide vertical clearance in compliance with 1008.2.

Advisory 203.9 Employee Work Areas. Although areas used exclusively by employees 

for work are not required to be fully accessible, consider designing such areas to include 

non-required turning spaces, and provide accessible elements whenever possible. Under 

the ADA, employees with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations in the 

workplace; accommodations can include alterations to spaces within the facility. Designing 

employee work areas to be more accessible at the outset will avoid more costly retrofits 

when current employees become temporarily or permanently disabled, or when new 

employees with disabilities are hired. Contact the Equal Employment Opportunity 

Commission (EEOC) at www.eeoc.gov for information about title I of the ADA prohibiting 

discrimination against people with disabilities in the workplace.

Advisory 203.12 Animal Containment Areas. Public circulation routes where animals 

may travel, such as in petting zoos and passageways alongside animal pens in State fairs, 

are not eligible for the exception.

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205 Operable Parts

205.1 General. Operable parts on accessible elements, accessible routes, and in accessible rooms and 

spaces shall comply with 309.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Operable parts that are intended for use only by service or maintenance 

personnel shall not be required to comply with 309.

2. Electrical or communication receptacles serving a dedicated use shall not be required to comply 

with 309.

3. Where two or more outlets are provided in a kitchen above a length of counter top that is 

uninterrupted by a sink or appliance, one outlet shall not be required to comply with 309.

4. Floor electrical receptacles shall not be required to comply with 309.

5. HVAC diffusers shall not be required to comply with 309.

6. Except for light switches, where redundant controls are provided for a single element, one control 

in each space shall not be required to comply with 309.

7. Cleats and other boat securement devices shall not be required to comply with 309.3.

8. Exercise machines and exercise equipment shall not be required to comply with 309. 

206 Accessible Routes

206.1 General. Accessible routes shall be provided in accordance with 206 and shall comply with 

Chapter 4.

206.2 Where Required. Accessible routes shall be provided where required by 206.2.

206.2.1 Site Arrival Points. At least one accessible route shall be provided within the site from 

accessible parking spaces and accessible passenger loading zones; public streets and sidewalks; 

and public transportation stops to the accessible building or facility entrance they serve.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic buildings or facilities are 

permitted by 202.5, no more than one accessible route from a site arrival point to an accessible

entrance shall be required.

2. An accessible route shall not be required between site arrival points and the building or facility

entrance if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian 

access. 

Advisory 205.1 General. Controls covered by 205.1 include, but are not limited to, light 

switches, circuit breakers, duplexes and other convenience receptacles, environmental and 

appliance controls, plumbing fixture controls, and security and intercom systems.

Advisory 206.2.1 Site Arrival Points. Each site arrival point must be connected by an 

accessible route to the accessible building entrance or entrances served. Where two or 

more similar site arrival points, such as bus stops, serve the same accessible entrance or 

entrances, both bus stops must be on accessible routes. In addition, the accessible routes 

must serve all of the accessible entrances on the site.

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206.2.2 Within a Site. At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, accessible

facilities, accessible elements, and accessible spaces that are on the same site.

EXCEPTION: An accessible route shall not be required between accessible buildings, 

accessible facilities, accessible elements, and accessible spaces if the only means of access 

between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access. 

206.2.3 Multi-Story Buildings and Facilities. At least one accessible route shall connect each 

story and mezzanine in multi-story buildings and facilities.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In private buildings or facilities that are less than three stories or that have 

less than 3000 square feet (279 m2) per story, an accessible route shall not be required to 

connect stories provided that the building or facility is not a shopping center, a shopping mall, the 

professional office of a health care provider, a terminal, depot or other station used for specified 

public transportation, an airport passenger terminal, or another type of facility as determined by 

the Attorney General.

2. Where a two story public building or facility has one story with an occupant load of five or 

fewer persons that does not contain public use space, that story shall not be required to be 

connected to the story above or below.

3. In detention and correctional facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect 

stories where cells with mobility features required to comply with 807.2, all common use areas 

serving cells with mobility features required to comply with 807.2, and all public use areas are on 

an accessible route.

4. In residential facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories where 

residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with 809.2 through 809.4, all 

common use areas serving residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply 

with 809.2 through 809.4, and public use areas serving residential dwelling units are on an 

accessible route.

5. Within multi-story transient lodging guest rooms with mobility features required to comply with 

806.2, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories provided that spaces

complying with 806.2 are on an accessible route and sleeping accommodations for two persons 

minimum are provided on a story served by an accessible route.

6. In air traffic control towers, an accessible route shall not be required to serve the cab and the 

floor immediately below the cab.

Advisory 206.2.1 Site Arrival Points Exception 2. Access from site arrival points may 

include vehicular ways. Where a vehicular way, or a portion of a vehicular way, is provided 

for pedestrian travel, such as within a shopping center or shopping mall parking lot, this 

exception does not apply.

Advisory 206.2.2 Within a Site. An accessible route is required to connect to the boundary 

of each area of sport activity. Examples of areas of sport activity include: soccer fields, 

basketball courts, baseball fields, running tracks, skating rinks, and the area surrounding a 

piece of gymnastic equipment. While the size of an area of sport activity may vary from 

sport to sport, each includes only the space needed to play. Where multiple sports fields or 

courts are provided, an accessible route is required to each field or area of sport activity.

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7. Where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic buildings or facilities are permitted by 

202.5, an accessible route shall not be required to stories located above or below the accessible

story. 

206.2.3.1 Stairs and Escalators in Existing Buildings. In alterations and additions, where an 

escalator or stair is provided where none existed previously and major structural modifications 

are necessary for the installation, an accessible route shall be provided between the levels 

served by the escalator or stair unless exempted by 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

206.2.4 Spaces and Elements. At least one accessible route shall connect accessible building or 

facility entrances with all accessible spaces and elements within the building or facility which are 

otherwise connected by a circulation path unless exempted by 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Raised courtroom stations, including judges' benches, clerks' stations, bailiffs' 

stations, deputy clerks' stations, and court reporters' stations shall not be required to provide 

vertical access provided that the required clear floor space, maneuvering space, and, if 

appropriate, electrical service are installed at the time of initial construction to allow future 

installation of a means of vertical access complying with 405, 407, 408, or 410 without requiring 

substantial reconstruction of the space.

2. In assembly areas with fixed seating required to comply with 221, an accessible route shall 

not be required to serve fixed seating where wheelchair spaces required to be on an accessible

route are not provided.

3. Accessible routes shall not be required to connect mezzanines where buildings or facilities

have no more than one story. In addition, accessible routes shall not be required to connect 

stories or mezzanines where multi-story buildings or facilities are exempted by 206.2.3 

Exceptions 1 through 7. 

Advisory 206.2.3 Multi-Story Buildings and Facilities. Spaces and elements located on 

a level not required to be served by an accessible route must fully comply with this 

document. While a mezzanine may be a change in level, it is not a story. If an accessible 

route is required to connect stories within a building or facility, the accessible route must 

serve all mezzanines.

Advisory 206.2.3 Multi-Story Buildings and Facilities Exception 4. Where common use 

areas are provided for the use of residents, it is presumed that all such common use areas 

“serve” accessible dwelling units unless use is restricted to residents occupying certain 

dwelling units. For example, if all residents are permitted to use all laundry rooms, then all 

laundry rooms "serve" accessible dwelling units. However, if the laundry room on the first 

floor is restricted to use by residents on the first floor, and the second floor laundry room is 

for use by occupants of the second floor, then first floor accessible units are “served” only by 

laundry rooms on the first floor. In this example, an accessible route is not required to the 

second floor provided that all accessible units and all common use areas serving them are 

on the first floor.

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206.2.5 Restaurants and Cafeterias. In restaurants and cafeterias, an accessible route shall be 

provided to all dining areas, including raised or sunken dining areas, and outdoor dining areas.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In buildings or facilities not required to provide an accessible route between 

stories, an accessible route shall not be required to a mezzanine dining area where the 

mezzanine contains less than 25 percent of the total combined area for seating and dining and 

where the same decor and services are provided in the accessible area.

2. In alterations, an accessible route shall not be required to existing raised or sunken dining 

areas, or to all parts of existing outdoor dining areas where the same services and decor are 

provided in an accessible space usable by the public and not restricted to use by people with 

disabilities.

3. In sports facilities, tiered dining areas providing seating required to comply with 221 shall be 

required to have accessible routes serving at least 25 percent of the dining area provided that 

accessible routes serve seating complying with 221 and each tier is provided with the same 

services. 

206.2.6 Performance Areas. Where a circulation path directly connects a performance area to an 

assembly seating area, an accessible route shall directly connect the assembly seating area with the 

performance area. An accessible route shall be provided from performance areas to ancillary areas 

or facilities used by performers unless exempted by 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

206.2.7 Press Boxes. Press boxes in assembly areas shall be on an accessible route.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. An accessible route shall not be required to press boxes in bleachers that 

have points of entry at only one level provided that the aggregate area of all press boxes is 500 

square feet (46 m2) maximum.

2. An accessible route shall not be required to free-standing press boxes that are elevated 

above grade 12 feet (3660 mm) minimum provided that the aggregate area of all press boxes is 

500 square feet (46 m2) maximum. 

Advisory 206.2.4 Spaces and Elements. Accessible routes must connect all spaces and 

elements required to be accessible including, but not limited to, raised areas and speaker 

platforms.

Advisory 206.2.4 Spaces and Elements Exception 1. The exception does not apply to 

areas that are likely to be used by members of the public who are not employees of the 

court such as jury areas, attorney areas, or witness stands.

Advisory 206.2.5 Restaurants and Cafeterias Exception 2. Examples of “same services” 

include, but are not limited to, bar service, rooms having smoking and non-smoking 

sections, lotto and other table games, carry-out, and buffet service. Examples of “same 

decor” include, but are not limited to, seating at or near windows and railings with views, 

areas designed with a certain theme, party and banquet rooms, and rooms where 

entertainment is provided.

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206.2.8 Employee Work Areas. Common use circulation paths within employee work areas shall 

comply with 402.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Common use circulation paths located within employee work areas that are 

less than 1000 square feet (93 m2) and defined by permanently installed partitions, counters, 

casework, or furnishings shall not be required to comply with 402.

2. Common use circulation paths located within employee work areas that are an integral 

component of work area equipment shall not be required to comply with 402.

3. Common use circulation paths located within exterior employee work areas that are fully 

exposed to the weather shall not be required to comply with 402. 

206.2.9 Amusement Rides. Amusement rides required to comply with 234 shall provide accessible

routes in accordance with 206.2.9. Accessible routes serving amusement rides shall comply with 

Chapter 4 except as modified by 1002.2.

206.2.9.1 Load and Unload Areas. Load and unload areas shall be on an accessible route. 

Where load and unload areas have more than one loading or unloading position, at least one 

loading and unloading position shall be on an accessible route.

Advisory 206.2.7 Press Boxes Exception 2. Where a facility contains multiple assembly 

areas, the aggregate area of the press boxes in each assembly area is to be calculated 

separately. For example, if a university has a soccer stadium with three press boxes 

elevated 12 feet (3660 mm) or more above grade and each press box is 150 square feet (14 

m2), then the aggregate area of the soccer stadium press boxes is less than 500 square feet 

(46 m2) and Exception 2 applies to the soccer stadium. If that same university also has a 

football stadium with two press boxes elevated 12 feet (3660 mm) or more above grade and 

one press box is 250 square feet (23 m2), and the second is 275 square feet (26 m2), then 

the aggregate area of the football stadium press boxes is more than 500 square feet (46 m2) 

and Exception 2 does not apply to the football stadium.

Advisory 206.2.8 Employee Work Areas Exception 1. Modular furniture that is not 

permanently installed is not directly subject to these requirements. The Department of 

Justice ADA regulations provide additional guidance regarding the relationship between 

these requirements and elements that are not part of the built environment. Additionally, the 

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) implements title I of the ADA which 

requires non-discrimination in the workplace. EEOC can provide guidance regarding 

employers’ obligations to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with 

disabilities.

Advisory 206.2.8 Employee Work Areas Exception 2. Large pieces of equipment, such 

as electric turbines or water pumping apparatus, may have stairs and elevated walkways 

used for overseeing or monitoring purposes which are physically part of the turbine or pump. 

However, passenger elevators used for vertical transportation between stories are not 

considered “work area equipment” as defined in Section 106.5.

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206.2.9.2 Wheelchair Spaces, Ride Seats Designed for Transfer, and Transfer Devices. 

When amusement rides are in the load and unload position, wheelchair spaces complying with 

1002.4, amusement ride seats designed for transfer complying with 1002.5, and transfer devices

complying with 1002.6 shall be on an accessible route.

206.2.10 Recreational Boating Facilities. Boat slips required to comply with 235.2 and boarding 

piers at boat launch ramps required to comply with 235.3 shall be on an accessible route. 

Accessible routes serving recreational boating facilities shall comply with Chapter 4, except as 

modified by 1003.2.

206.2.11 Bowling Lanes. Where bowling lanes are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than 

one of each type of bowling lane, shall be on an accessible route.

206.2.12 Court Sports. In court sports, at least one accessible route shall directly connect both 

sides of the court.

206.2.13 Exercise Machines and Equipment. Exercise machines and equipment required to 

comply with 236 shall be on an accessible route.

206.2.14 Fishing Piers and Platforms. Fishing piers and platforms shall be on an accessible route.

Accessible routes serving fishing piers and platforms shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified 

by 1005.1.

206.2.15 Golf Facilities. At least one accessible route shall connect accessible elements and 

spaces within the boundary of the golf course. In addition, accessible routes serving golf car rental 

areas; bag drop areas; course weather shelters complying with 238.2.3; course toilet rooms; and 

practice putting greens, practice teeing grounds, and teeing stations at driving ranges complying with 

238.3 shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified by 1006.2.

EXCEPTION: Golf car passages complying with 1006.3 shall be permitted to be used for all or 

part of accessible routes required by 206.2.15.

206.2.16 Miniature Golf Facilities. Holes required to comply with 239.2, including the start of play, 

shall be on an accessible route. Accessible routes serving miniature golf facilities shall comply with 

Chapter 4 except as modified by 1007.2.

206.2.17 Play Areas. Play areas shall provide accessible routes in accordance with 206.2.17. 

Accessible routes serving play areas shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified by 1008.2.

206.2.17.1 Ground Level and Elevated Play Components. At least one accessible route shall 

be provided within the play area. The accessible route shall connect ground level play 

components required to comply with 240.2.1 and elevated play components required to comply 

with 240.2.2, including entry and exit points of the play components.

206.2.17.2 Soft Contained Play Structures. Where three or fewer entry points are provided for 

soft contained play structures, at least one entry point shall be on an accessible route. Where 

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four or more entry points are provided for soft contained play structures, at least two entry points 

shall be on an accessible route.

206.3 Location. Accessible routes shall coincide with or be located in the same area as general 

circulation paths. Where circulation paths are interior, required accessible routes shall also be interior. 

206.4 Entrances. Entrances shall be provided in accordance with 206.4. Entrance doors, doorways, 

and gates shall comply with 404 and shall be on an accessible route complying with 402.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where an alteration includes alterations to an entrance, and the building or

facility has another entrance complying with 404 that is on an accessible route, the altered entrance

shall not be required to comply with 206.4 unless required by 202.4.

2. Where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic buildings or facilities are permitted by 202.5, 

no more than one public entrance shall be required to comply with 206.4. Where no public entrance

can comply with 206.4 under criteria established in 202.5 Exception, then either an unlocked 

entrance not used by the public shall comply with 206.4; or a locked entrance complying with 206.4 

with a notification system or remote monitoring shall be provided.

206.4.1 Public Entrances. In addition to entrances required by 206.4.2 through 206.4.9, at least 60 

percent of all public entrances shall comply with 404.

206.4.2 Parking Structure Entrances. Where direct access is provided for pedestrians from a 

parking structure to a building or facility entrance, each direct access to the building or facility

entrance shall comply with 404.

206.4.3 Entrances from Tunnels or Elevated Walkways. Where direct access is provided for 

pedestrians from a pedestrian tunnel or elevated walkway to a building or facility, at least one direct 

entrance to the building or facility from each tunnel or walkway shall comply with 404.

206.4.4 Transportation Facilities. In addition to the requirements of 206.4.2, 206.4.3, and 206.4.5 

through 206.4.9, transportation facilities shall provide entrances in accordance with 206.4.4.

206.4.4.1 Location. In transportation facilities, where different entrances serve different 

transportation fixed routes or groups of fixed routes, at least one public entrance serving each 

fixed route or group of fixed routes shall comply with 404.

EXCEPTION: Entrances to key stations and existing intercity rail stations retrofitted in 

accordance with 49 CFR 37.49 or 49 CFR 37.51 shall not be required to comply with 

206.4.4.1.

Advisory 206.3 Location. The accessible route must be in the same area as the general 

circulation path. This means that circulation paths, such as vehicular ways designed for 

pedestrian traffic, walks, and unpaved paths that are designed to be routinely used by 

pedestrians must be accessible or have an accessible route nearby. Additionally, 

accessible vertical interior circulation must be in the same area as stairs and escalators, not 

isolated in the back of the facility.

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206.4.4.2 Direct Connections. Direct connections to other facilities shall provide an accessible

route complying with 404 from the point of connection to boarding platforms and all transportation 

system elements required to be accessible. Any elements provided to facilitate future direct 

connections shall be on an accessible route connecting boarding platforms and all transportation 

system elements required to be accessible.

EXCEPTION: In key stations and existing intercity rail stations, existing direct connections 

shall not be required to comply with 404.

206.4.4.3 Key Stations and Intercity Rail Stations. Key stations and existing intercity rail 

stations required by Subpart C of 49 CFR part 37 to be altered, shall have at least one entrance

complying with 404.

206.4.5 Tenant Spaces. At least one accessible entrance to each tenancy in a facility shall comply 

with 404.

EXCEPTION: Self-service storage facilities not required to comply with 225.3 shall not be 

required to be on an accessible route.

206.4.6 Residential Dwelling Unit Primary Entrance. In residential dwelling units, at least one 

primary entrance shall comply with 404. The primary entrance to a residential dwelling unit shall not 

be to a bedroom.

206.4.7 Restricted Entrances. Where restricted entrances are provided to a building or facility, at 

least one restricted entrance to the building or facility shall comply with 404.

206.4.8 Service Entrances. If a service entrance is the only entrance to a building or to a tenancy in 

a facility, that entrance shall comply with 404.

206.4.9 Entrances for Inmates or Detainees. Where entrances used only by inmates or detainees 

and security personnel are provided at judicial facilities, detention facilities, or correctional facilities, 

at least one such entrance shall comply with 404.

206.5 Doors, Doorways, and Gates. Doors, doorways, and gates providing user passage shall be 

provided in accordance with 206.5.

206.5.1 Entrances. Each entrance to a building or facility required to comply with 206.4 shall have 

at least one door, doorway, or gate complying with 404.

206.5.2 Rooms and Spaces. Within a building or facility, at least one door, doorway, or gate serving 

each room or space complying with these requirements shall comply with 404.

206.5.3 Transient Lodging Facilities. In transient lodging facilities, entrances, doors, and 

doorways providing user passage into and within guest rooms that are not required to provide 

mobility features complying with 806.2 shall comply with 404.2.3.

EXCEPTION: Shower and sauna doors in guest rooms that are not required to provide mobility 

features complying with 806.2 shall not be required to comply with 404.2.3.

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206.5.4 Residential Dwelling Units. In residential dwelling units required to provide mobility 

features complying with 809.2 through 809.4, all doors and doorways providing user passage shall 

comply with 404.

206.6 Elevators. Elevators provided for passengers shall comply with 407. Where multiple elevators 

are provided, each elevator shall comply with 407.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In a building or facility permitted to use the exceptions to 206.2.3 or permitted by 

206.7 to use a platform lift, elevators complying with 408 shall be permitted.

2. Elevators complying with 408 or 409 shall be permitted in multi-story residential dwelling units.

206.6.1 Existing Elevators. Where elements of existing elevators are altered, the same element

shall also be altered in all elevators that are programmed to respond to the same hall call control as 

the altered elevator and shall comply with the requirements of 407 for the altered element.

206.7 Platform Lifts. Platform lifts shall comply with 410. Platform lifts shall be permitted as a 

component of an accessible route in new construction in accordance with 206.7. Platform lifts shall be 

permitted as a component of an accessible route in an existing building or facility.

206.7.1 Performance Areas and Speakers’ Platforms. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide 

accessible routes to performance areas and speakers’ platforms.

206.7.2 Wheelchair Spaces. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an accessible route to 

comply with the wheelchair space dispersion and line-of-sight requirements of 221 and 802.

206.7.3 Incidental Spaces. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an accessible route to 

incidental spaces which are not public use spaces and which are occupied by five persons 

maximum.

206.7.4 Judicial Spaces. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an accessible route to: jury 

boxes and witness stands; raised courtroom stations including, judges' benches, clerks' stations, 

bailiffs' stations, deputy clerks' stations, and court reporters' stations; and to depressed areas such 

as the well of a court.

206.7.5 Existing Site Constraints. Platform lifts shall be permitted where existing exterior site

constraints make use of a ramp or elevator infeasible. 

Advisory 206.7.5 Existing Site Constraints. This exception applies where topography or 

other similar existing site constraints necessitate the use of a platform lift as the only feasible 

alternative. While the site constraint must reflect exterior conditions, the lift can be installed 

in the interior of a building. For example, a new building constructed between and 

connected to two existing buildings may have insufficient space to coordinate floor levels 

and also to provide ramped entry from the public way. In this example, an exterior or interior 

platform lift could be used to provide an accessible entrance or to coordinate one or more 

interior floor levels.

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206.7.6 Guest Rooms and Residential Dwelling Units. Platform lifts shall be permitted to connect 

levels within transient lodging guest rooms required to provide mobility features complying with 806.2 

or residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4.

206.7.7 Amusement Rides. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to load 

and unload areas serving amusement rides.

206.7.8 Play Areas. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to play

components or soft contained play structures.

206.7.9 Team or Player Seating. Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to 

team or player seating areas serving areas of sport activity. 

206.7.10 Recreational Boating Facilities and Fishing Piers and Platforms. Platform lifts shall be

permitted to be used instead of gangways that are part of accessible routes serving recreational 

boating facilities and fishing piers and platforms.

206.8 Security Barriers. Security barriers, including but not limited to, security bollards and security 

check points, shall not obstruct a required accessible route or accessible means of egress.

EXCEPTION: Where security barriers incorporate elements that cannot comply with these 

requirements such as certain metal detectors, fluoroscopes, or other similar devices, the accessible

route shall be permitted to be located adjacent to security screening devices. The accessible route 

shall permit persons with disabilities passing around security barriers to maintain visual contact with 

their personal items to the same extent provided others passing through the security barrier.

207 Accessible Means of Egress

207.1 General. Means of egress shall comply with section 1003.2.13 of the International Building Code 

(2000 edition and 2001 Supplement) or section 1007 of the International Building Code (2003 edition) 

(incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where means of egress are permitted by local building or life safety codes to 

share a common path of egress travel, accessible means of egress shall be permitted to share a 

common path of egress travel.

2. Areas of refuge shall not be required in detention and correctional facilities.

207.2 Platform Lifts. Standby power shall be provided for platform lifts permitted by section 1003.2.13.4 

of the International Building Code (2000 edition and 2001 Supplement) or section 1007.5 of the 

International Building Code (2003 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in 

Chapter 1) to serve as a part of an accessible means of egress.

Advisory 206.7.9 Team or Player Seating. While the use of platform lifts is allowed, ramps 

are recommended to provide access to player seating areas serving an area of sport 

activity.

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208 Parking Spaces

208.1 General. Where parking spaces are provided, parking spaces shall be provided in accordance 

with 208.

EXCEPTION: Parking spaces used exclusively for buses, trucks, other delivery vehicles, law 

enforcement vehicles, or vehicular impound shall not be required to comply with 208 provided that 

lots accessed by the public are provided with a passenger loading zone complying with 503.

208.2 Minimum Number. Parking spaces complying with 502 shall be provided in accordance with 

Table 208.2 except as required by 208.2.1, 208.2.2, and 208.2.3. Where more than one parking facility

is provided on a site, the number of accessible spaces provided on the site shall be calculated according 

to the number of spaces required for each parking facility. 

Table 208.2 Parking Spaces

Total Number of Parking Spaces

Provided in Parking Facility

Minimum Number of Required

Accessible Parking Spaces

1 to 25 1

26 to 50 2

51 to 75 3

76 to 100 4

101 to 150 5

151 to 200 6

201 to 300 7

301 to 400 8

401 to 500 9

501 to 1000 2 percent of total

1001 and over 20, plus 1 for each 100, or fraction thereof,

over 1000

Advisory 208.2 Minimum Number. The term “parking facility” is used Section 208.2 

instead of the term “parking lot” so that it is clear that both parking lots and parking 

structures are required to comply with this section. The number of parking spaces required 

to be accessible is to be calculated separately for each parking facility; the required number 

is not to be based on the total number of parking spaces provided in all of the parking 

facilities provided on the site.

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208.2.1 Hospital Outpatient Facilities. Ten percent of patient and visitor parking spaces provided 

to serve hospital outpatient facilities shall comply with 502. 

208.2.2 Rehabilitation Facilities and Outpatient Physical Therapy Facilities. Twenty percent of 

patient and visitor parking spaces provided to serve rehabilitation facilities specializing in treating 

conditions that affect mobility and outpatient physical therapy facilities shall comply with 502. 

208.2.3 Residential Facilities. Parking spaces provided to serve residential facilities shall comply 

with 208.2.3.

208.2.3.1 Parking for Residents. Where at least one parking space is provided for each

residential dwelling unit, at least one parking space complying with 502 shall be provided for 

each residential dwelling unit required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 

809.4.

208.2.3.2 Additional Parking Spaces for Residents. Where the total number of parking 

spaces provided for each residential dwelling unit exceeds one parking space per residential 

dwelling unit, 2 percent, but no fewer than one space, of all the parking spaces not covered by 

208.2.3.1 shall comply with 502.

208.2.3.3 Parking for Guests, Employees, and Other Non-Residents. Where parking spaces 

are provided for persons other than residents, parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 

208.2.

208.2.4 Van Parking Spaces. For every six or fraction of six parking spaces required by 208.2 to 

comply with 502, at least one shall be a van parking space complying with 502.

208.3 Location. Parking facilities shall comply with 208.3

208.3.1 General. Parking spaces complying with 502 that serve a particular building or facility shall 

be located on the shortest accessible route from parking to an entrance complying with 206.4. 

Where parking serves more than one accessible entrance, parking spaces complying with 502 shall 

be dispersed and located on the shortest accessible route to the accessible entrances. In parking 

Advisory 208.2.1 Hospital Outpatient Facilities. The term “outpatient facility” is not 

defined in this document but is intended to cover facilities or units that are located in 

hospitals and that provide regular and continuing medical treatment without an overnight 

stay. Doctors' offices, independent clinics, or other facilities not located in hospitals are not 

considered hospital outpatient facilities for purposes of this document.

Advisory 208.2.2 Rehabilitation Facilities and Outpatient Physical Therapy Facilities. 

Conditions that affect mobility include conditions requiring the use or assistance of a brace, 

cane, crutch, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or powered mobility aid; arthritic, neurological, 

or orthopedic conditions that severely limit one's ability to walk; respiratory diseases and 

other conditions which may require the use of portable oxygen; and cardiac conditions that 

impose significant functional limitations.

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facilities that do not serve a particular building or facility, parking spaces complying with 502 shall be 

located on the shortest accessible route to an accessible pedestrian entrance of the parking facility.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. All van parking spaces shall be permitted to be grouped on one level within a 

multi-story parking facility.

2. Parking spaces shall be permitted to be located in different parking facilities if substantially 

equivalent or greater accessibility is provided in terms of distance from an accessible entrance or 

entrances, parking fee, and user convenience. 

208.3.2 Residential Facilities. In residential facilities containing residential dwelling units required 

to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4, parking spaces provided in 

accordance with 208.2.3.1 shall be located on the shortest accessible route to the residential 

dwelling unit entrance they serve. Spaces provided in accordance with 208.2.3.2 shall be dispersed 

throughout all types of parking provided for the residential dwelling units.

EXCEPTION: Parking spaces provided in accordance with 208.2.3.2 shall not be required to be 

dispersed throughout all types of parking if substantially equivalent or greater accessibility is 

provided in terms of distance from an accessible entrance, parking fee, and user convenience. 

209 Passenger Loading Zones and Bus Stops

209.1 General. Passenger loading zones shall be provided in accordance with 209.

209.2 Type. Where provided, passenger loading zones shall comply with 209.2.

209.2.1 Passenger Loading Zones. Passenger loading zones, except those required to comply 

with 209.2.2 and 209.2.3, shall provide at least one passenger loading zone complying with 503 in 

every continuous 100 linear feet (30 m) of loading zone space, or fraction thereof.

209.2.2 Bus Loading Zones. In bus loading zones restricted to use by designated or specified 

public transportation vehicles, each bus bay, bus stop, or other area designated for lift or ramp

deployment shall comply with 810.2. 

Advisory 208.3.1 General Exception 2. Factors that could affect “user convenience” 

include, but are not limited to, protection from the weather, security, lighting, and 

comparative maintenance of the alternative parking site.

Advisory 208.3.2 Residential Facilities Exception. Factors that could affect “user 

convenience” include, but are not limited to, protection from the weather, security, lighting, 

and comparative maintenance of the alternative parking site.

Advisory 209.2.2 Bus Loading Zones. The terms “designated public transportation” and 

“specified public transportation” are defined by the Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 

37.3 in regulations implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act. These terms refer to 

public transportation services provided by public or private entities, respectively. For 

example, designated public transportation vehicles include buses and vans operated by 

public transit agencies, while specified public transportation vehicles include tour and 

charter buses, taxis and limousines, and hotel shuttles operated by private entities.

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209.2.3 On-Street Bus Stops. On-street bus stops shall comply with 810.2 to the maximum extent 

practicable.

209.3 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities. At least one passenger loading zone complying

with 503 shall be provided at an accessible entrance to licensed medical care and licensed long-term 

care facilities where the period of stay exceeds twenty-four hours.

209.4 Valet Parking. Parking facilities that provide valet parking services shall provide at least one 

passenger loading zone complying with 503.

209.5 Mechanical Access Parking Garages. Mechanical access parking garages shall provide at 

least one passenger loading zone complying with 503 at vehicle drop-off and vehicle pick-up areas.

210 Stairways

210.1 General. Interior and exterior stairs that are part of a means of egress shall comply with 504.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In detention and correctional facilities, stairs that are not located in public use

areas shall not be required to comply with 504.

2. In alterations, stairs between levels that are connected by an accessible route shall not be 

required to comply with 504, except that handrails complying with 505 shall be provided when the 

stairs are altered.

3. In assembly areas, aisle stairs shall not be required to comply with 504.

4. Stairs that connect play components shall not be required to comply with 504. 

211 Drinking Fountains

211.1 General. Where drinking fountains are provided on an exterior site, on a floor, or within a secured 

area they shall be provided in accordance with 211.

EXCEPTION: In detention or correctional facilities, drinking fountains only serving holding or 

housing cells not required to comply with 232 shall not be required to comply with 211.

211.2 Minimum Number. No fewer than two drinking fountains shall be provided. One drinking fountain 

shall comply with 602.1 through 602.6 and one drinking fountain shall comply with 602.7. 

EXCEPTION: Where a single drinking fountain complies with 602.1 through 602.6 and 602.7, it shall 

be permitted to be substituted for two separate drinking fountains.

211.3 More Than Minimum Number. Where more than the minimum number of drinking fountains 

specified in 211.2 are provided, 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall 

comply with 602.1 through 602.6, and 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall 

comply with 602.7.

Advisory 210.1 General. Although these requirements do not mandate handrails on stairs 

that are not part of a means of egress, State or local building codes may require handrails or 

guards.

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EXCEPTION: Where 50 percent of the drinking fountains yields a fraction, 50 percent shall be 

permitted to be rounded up or down provided that the total number of drinking fountains complying 

with 211 equals 100 percent of drinking fountains.

212 Kitchens, Kitchenettes, and Sinks

212.1 General. Where provided, kitchens, kitchenettes, and sinks shall comply with 212.

212.2 Kitchens and Kitchenettes. Kitchens and kitchenettes shall comply with 804.

212.3 Sinks. Where sinks are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type provided 

in each accessible room or space shall comply with 606.

EXCEPTION: Mop or service sinks shall not be required to comply with 212.3.

213 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities

213.1 General. Where toilet facilities and bathing facilities are provided, they shall comply with 213. 

Where toilet facilities and bathing facilities are provided in facilities permitted by 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 

and 2 not to connect stories by an accessible route, toilet facilities and bathing facilities shall be provided 

on a story connected by an accessible route to an accessible entrance.

213.2 Toilet Rooms and Bathing Rooms. Where toilet rooms are provided, each toilet room shall 

comply with 603. Where bathing rooms are provided, each bathing room shall comply with 603.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In alterations where it is technically infeasible to comply with 603, altering

existing toilet or bathing rooms shall not be required where a single unisex toilet room or bathing 

room complying with 213.2.1 is provided and located in the same area and on the same floor as 

existing inaccessible toilet or bathing rooms.

2. Where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic buildings or facilities are permitted by 202.5, 

no fewer than one toilet room for each sex complying with 603 or one unisex toilet room complying 

with 213.2.1 shall be provided.

3. Where multiple single user portable toilet or bathing units are clustered at a single location, no 

more than 5 percent of the toilet units and bathing units at each cluster shall be required to comply 

with 603. Portable toilet units and bathing units complying with 603 shall be identified by the 

International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1.

4. Where multiple single user toilet rooms are clustered at a single location, no more than 50 percent 

of the single user toilet rooms for each use at each cluster shall be required to comply with 603. 

Advisory 213.2 Toilet Rooms and Bathing Rooms. These requirements allow the use of 

unisex (or single-user) toilet rooms in alterations when technical infeasibility can be 

demonstrated. Unisex toilet rooms benefit people who use opposite sex personal care 

assistants. For this reason, it is advantageous to install unisex toilet rooms in addition to 

accessible single-sex toilet rooms in new facilities.

Advisory 213.2 Toilet Rooms and Bathing Rooms Exceptions 3 and 4. A “cluster” is a 

group of toilet rooms proximate to one another. Generally, toilet rooms in a cluster are within 

sight of, or adjacent to, one another.

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213.2.1 Unisex (Single-Use or Family) Toilet and Unisex Bathing Rooms. Unisex toilet rooms 

shall contain not more than one lavatory, and two water closets without urinals or one water closet 

and one urinal. Unisex bathing rooms shall contain one shower or one shower and one bathtub, one 

lavatory, and one water closet. Doors to unisex toilet rooms and unisex bathing rooms shall have 

privacy latches.

213.3 Plumbing Fixtures and Accessories. Plumbing fixtures and accessories provided in a toilet 

room or bathing room required to comply with 213.2 shall comply with 213.3.

213.3.1 Toilet Compartments. Where toilet compartments are provided, at least one toilet 

compartment shall comply with 604.8.1. In addition to the compartment required to comply with 

604.8.1, at least one compartment shall comply with 604.8.2 where six or more toilet compartments 

are provided, or where the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures. 

213.3.2 Water Closets. Where water closets are provided, at least one shall comply with 604.

213.3.3 Urinals. Where more than one urinal is provided, at least one shall comply with 605.

213.3.4 Lavatories. Where lavatories are provided, at least one shall comply with 606 and shall not 

be located in a toilet compartment.

213.3.5 Mirrors. Where mirrors are provided, at least one shall comply with 603.3.

213.3.6 Bathing Facilities. Where bathtubs or showers are provided, at least one bathtub 

complying with 607 or at least one shower complying with 608 shall be provided.

213.3.7 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in toilet rooms 

without toilet compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with 603.4. Where coat hooks or 

shelves are provided in toilet compartments, at least one of each type complying with 604.8.3 shall 

be provided in toilet compartments required to comply with 213.3.1. Where coat hooks or shelves 

are provided in bathing facilities, at least one of each type complying with 603.4 shall serve fixtures 

required to comply with 213.3.6.

214 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers

214.1 General. Where provided, washing machines and clothes dryers shall comply with 214.

214.2 Washing Machines. Where three or fewer washing machines are provided, at least one shall 

comply with 611. Where more than three washing machines are provided, at least two shall comply with 

611.

Advisory 213.3.1 Toilet Compartments. A toilet compartment is a partitioned space that is 

located within a toilet room, and that normally contains no more than one water closet. A 

toilet compartment may also contain a lavatory. A lavatory is a sink provided for hand 

washing. Full-height partitions and door assemblies can comprise toilet compartments 

where the minimum required spaces are provided within the compartment.

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214.3 Clothes Dryers. Where three or fewer clothes dryers are provided, at least one shall comply with 

611. Where more than three clothes dryers are provided, at least two shall comply with 611.

215 Fire Alarm Systems

215.1 General. Where fire alarm systems provide audible alarm coverage, alarms shall comply with 

215.

EXCEPTION: In existing facilities, visible alarms shall not be required except where an existing fire 

alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed. 

215.2 Public and Common Use Areas. Alarms in public use areas and common use areas shall 

comply with 702.

215.3 Employee Work Areas. Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the wiring 

system shall be designed so that visible alarms complying with 702 can be integrated into the alarm 

system.

215.4 Transient Lodging. Guest rooms required to comply with 224.4 shall provide alarms complying 

with 702.

215.5 Residential Facilities. Where provided in residential dwelling units required to comply with 

809.5, alarms shall comply with 702.

216 Signs

216.1 General. Signs shall be provided in accordance with 216 and shall comply with 703.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Building directories, menus, seat and row designations in assembly areas, 

occupant names, building addresses, and company names and logos shall not be required to comply 

with 216.

2. In parking facilities, signs shall not be required to comply with 216.2, 216.3, and 216.6 through 

216.12.

3. Temporary, 7 days or less, signs shall not be required to comply with 216.

4. In detention and correctional facilities, signs not located in public use areas shall not be required 

to comply with 216.

216.2 Designations. Interior and exterior signs identifying permanent rooms and spaces shall comply 

with 703.1, 703.2, and 703.5. Where pictograms are provided as designations of permanent interior 

Advisory 215.1 General. Unlike audible alarms, visible alarms must be located within the 

space they serve so that the signal is visible. Facility alarm systems (other than fire alarm 

systems) such as those used for tornado warnings and other emergencies are not required 

to comply with the technical criteria for alarms in Section 702. Every effort should be made 

to ensure that such alarms can be differentiated in their signal from fire alarms systems and 

that people who need to be notified of emergencies are adequately safeguarded. Consult 

local fire departments and prepare evacuation plans taking into consideration the needs of 

every building occupant, including people with disabilities.

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rooms and spaces, the pictograms shall comply with 703.6 and shall have text descriptors complying 

with 703.2 and 703.5.

EXCEPTION: Exterior signs that are not located at the door to the space they serve shall not be 

required to comply with 703.2. 

216.3 Directional and Informational Signs. Signs that provide direction to or information about interior 

spaces and facilities of the site shall comply with 703.5. 

216.4 Means of Egress. Signs for means of egress shall comply with 216.4.

216.4.1 Exit Doors. Doors at exit passageways, exit discharge, and exit stairways shall be identified 

by tactile signs complying with 703.1, 703.2, and 703.5. 

216.4.2 Areas of Refuge. Signs required by section 1003.2.13.5.4 of the International Building 

Code (2000 edition) or section 1007.6.4 of the International Building Code (2003 edition) 

(incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1) to provide instructions in 

areas of refuge shall comply with 703.5.

216.4.3 Directional Signs. Signs required by section 1003.2.13.6 of the International Building Code 

(2000 edition) or section 1007.7 of the International Building Code (2003 edition) (incorporated by 

reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1) to provide directions to accessible means of 

egress shall comply with 703.5.

216.5 Parking. Parking spaces complying with 502 shall be identified by signs complying with 502.6.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where a total of four or fewer parking spaces, including accessible parking 

spaces, are provided on a site, identification of accessible parking spaces shall not be required.

2. In residential facilities, where parking spaces are assigned to specific residential dwelling units, 

identification of accessible parking spaces shall not be required.

Advisory 216.2 Designations. Section 216.2 applies to signs that provide designations, 

labels, or names for interior rooms or spaces where the sign is not likely to change over 

time. Examples include interior signs labeling restrooms, room and floor numbers or letters, 

and room names. Tactile text descriptors are required for pictograms that are provided to 

label or identify a permanent room or space. Pictograms that provide information about a 

room or space, such as “no smoking,” occupant logos, and the International Symbol of 

Accessibility, are not required to have text descriptors.

Advisory 216.3 Directional and Informational Signs. Information about interior spaces 

and facilities includes rules of conduct, occupant load, and similar signs. Signs providing 

direction to rooms or spaces include those that identify egress routes.

Advisory 216.4.1 Exit Doors. An exit passageway is a horizontal exit component that is 

separated from the interior spaces of the building by fire-resistance-rated construction and 

that leads to the exit discharge or public way. The exit discharge is that portion of an egress 

system between the termination of an exit and a public way.

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216.6 Entrances. Where not all entrances comply with 404, entrances complying with 404 shall be 

identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Directional signs 

complying with 703.5 that indicate the location of the nearest entrance complying with 404 shall be 

provided at entrances that do not comply with 404. 

216.7 Elevators. Where existing elevators do not comply with 407, elevators complying with 407 shall 

be clearly identified with the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1.

216.8 Toilet Rooms and Bathing Rooms. Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply 

with 603, directional signs indicating the location of the nearest toilet room or bathing room complying 

with 603 within the facility shall be provided. Signs shall comply with 703.5 and shall include the 

International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Where existing toilet rooms or bathing 

rooms do not comply with 603, the toilet rooms or bathing rooms complying with 603 shall be identified 

by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Where clustered single user toilet 

rooms or bathing facilities are permitted to use exceptions to 213.2, toilet rooms or bathing facilities

complying with 603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 

703.7.2.1 unless all toilet rooms and bathing facilities comply with 603.

216.9 TTYs. Identification and directional signs for public TTYs shall be provided in accordance with 

216.9.

216.9.1 Identification Signs. Public TTYs shall be identified by the International Symbol of TTY

complying with 703.7.2.2.

216.9.2 Directional Signs. Directional signs indicating the location of the nearest public TTY shall 

be provided at all banks of public pay telephones not containing a public TTY. In addition, where 

signs provide direction to public pay telephones, they shall also provide direction to public TTYs. 

Directional signs shall comply with 703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of TTY

complying with 703.7.2.2.

216.10 Assistive Listening Systems. Each assembly area required by 219 to provide assistive 

listening systems shall provide signs informing patrons of the availability of the assistive listening 

system. Assistive listening signs shall comply with 703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of 

Access for Hearing Loss complying with 703.7.2.4.

EXCEPTION: Where ticket offices or windows are provided, signs shall not be required at each 

assembly area provided that signs are displayed at each ticket office or window informing patrons of 

the availability of assistive listening systems.

216.11 Check-Out Aisles. Where more than one check-out aisle is provided, check-out aisles 

complying with 904.3 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 

703.7.2.1. Where check-out aisles are identified by numbers, letters, or functions, signs identifying 

Advisory 216.6 Entrances. Where a directional sign is required, it should be located to 

minimize backtracking. In some cases, this could mean locating a sign at the beginning of a 

route, not just at the inaccessible entrances to a building.

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check-out aisles complying with 904.3 shall be located in the same location as the check-out aisle 

identification.

EXCEPTION: Where all check-out aisles serving a single function comply with 904.3, signs 

complying with 703.7.2.1 shall not be required.

216.12 Amusement Rides. Signs identifying the type of access provided on amusement rides shall be 

provided at entries to queues and waiting lines. In addition, where accessible unload areas also serve 

as accessible load areas, signs indicating the location of the accessible load and unload areas shall be 

provided at entries to queues and waiting lines. 

217 Telephones

217.1 General. Where coin-operated public pay telephones, coinless public pay telephones, public 

closed-circuit telephones, public courtesy phones, or other types of public telephones are provided, 

public telephones shall be provided in accordance with 217 for each type of public telephone provided. 

For purposes of this section, a bank of telephones shall be considered to be two or more adjacent 

telephones. 

217.2 Wheelchair Accessible Telephones. Where public telephones are provided, wheelchair 

accessible telephones complying with 704.2 shall be provided in accordance with Table 217.2.

EXCEPTION: Drive-up only public telephones shall not be required to comply with 217.2. 

217.3 Volume Controls. All public telephones shall have volume controls complying with 704.3.

217.4 TTYs. TTYs complying with 704.4 shall be provided in accordance with 217.4. 

Advisory 216.12 Amusement Rides. Amusement rides designed primarily for children, 

amusement rides that are controlled or operated by the rider, and amusement rides without 

seats, are not required to provide wheelchair spaces, transfer seats, or transfer systems, 

and need not meet the sign requirements in 216.12. The load and unload areas of these 

rides must, however, be on an accessible route and must provide turning space.

Advisory 217.1 General. These requirements apply to all types of public telephones 

including courtesy phones at airports and rail stations that provide a free direct connection to 

hotels, transportation services, and tourist attractions.

Table 217.2 Wheelchair Accessible Telephones

Number of Telephones Provided

on a Floor, Level, or Exterior Site

Minimum Number of Required

Wheelchair Accessible Telephones

1 or more single units 1 per floor, level, and exterior site

1 bank 1 per floor, level, and exterior site

2 or more banks 1 per bank

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217.4.1 Bank Requirement. Where four or more public pay telephones are provided at a bank of 

telephones, at least one public TTY complying with 704.4 shall be provided at that bank.

EXCEPTION: TTYs shall not be required at banks of telephones located within 200 feet (61 m) 

of, and on the same floor as, a bank containing a public TTY.

217.4.2 Floor Requirement. TTYs in public buildings shall be provided in accordance with 

217.4.2.1. TTYs in private buildings shall be provided in accordance with 217.4.2.2.

217.4.2.1 Public Buildings. Where at least one public pay telephone is provided on a floor of a 

public building, at least one public TTY shall be provided on that floor.

217.4.2.2 Private Buildings. Where four or more public pay telephones are provided on a floor 

of a private building, at least one public TTY shall be provided on that floor.

217.4.3 Building Requirement. TTYs in public buildings shall be provided in accordance with 

217.4.3.1. TTYs in private buildings shall be provided in accordance with 217.4.3.2.

217.4.3.1 Public Buildings. Where at least one public pay telephone is provided in a public 

building, at least one public TTY shall be provided in the building. Where at least one public pay 

telephone is provided in a public use area of a public building, at least one public TTY shall be 

provided in the public building in a public use area.

217.4.3.2 Private Buildings. Where four or more public pay telephones are provided in a 

private building, at least one public TTY shall be provided in the building.

217.4.4 Exterior Site Requirement. Where four or more public pay telephones are provided on an 

exterior site, at least one public TTY shall be provided on the site.

217.4.5 Rest Stops, Emergency Roadside Stops, and Service Plazas. Where at least one public 

pay telephone is provided at a public rest stop, emergency roadside stop, or service plaza, at least 

one public TTY shall be provided.

217.4.6 Hospitals. Where at least one public pay telephone is provided serving a hospital 

emergency room, hospital recovery room, or hospital waiting room, at least one public TTY shall be 

provided at each location.

Advisory 217.4 TTYs. Separate requirements are provided based on the number of public 

pay telephones provided at a bank of telephones, within a floor, a building, or on a site. In 

some instances one TTY can be used to satisfy more than one of these requirements. For 

example, a TTY required for a bank can satisfy the requirements for a building. However, 

the requirement for at least one TTY on an exterior site cannot be met by installing a TTY in 

a bank inside a building. Consideration should be given to phone systems that can 

accommodate both digital and analog transmissions for compatibility with digital and analog 

TTYs.

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217.4.7 Transportation Facilities. In transportation facilities, in addition to the requirements of 

217.4.1 through 217.4.4, where at least one public pay telephone serves a particular entrance to a 

bus or rail facility, at least one public TTY shall be provided to serve that entrance. In airports, in 

addition to the requirements of 217.4.1 through 217.4.4, where four or more public pay telephones 

are located in a terminal outside the security areas, a concourse within the security areas, or a 

baggage claim area in a terminal, at least one public TTY shall be provided in each location.

217.4.8 Detention and Correctional Facilities. In detention and correctional facilities, where at 

least one pay telephone is provided in a secured area used only by detainees or inmates and 

security personnel, at least one TTY shall be provided in at least one secured area.

217.5 Shelves for Portable TTYs. Where a bank of telephones in the interior of a building consists of 

three or more public pay telephones, at least one public pay telephone at the bank shall be provided with 

a shelf and an electrical outlet in accordance with 704.5.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Secured areas of detention and correctional facilities where shelves and outlets 

are prohibited for purposes of security or safety shall not be required to comply with 217.5.

2. The shelf and electrical outlet shall not be required at a bank of telephones with a TTY.

218 Transportation Facilities

218.1 General. Transportation facilities shall comply with 218.

218.2 New and Altered Fixed Guideway Stations. New and altered stations in rapid rail, light rail, 

commuter rail, intercity rail, high speed rail, and other fixed guideway systems shall comply with 810.5 

through 810.10.

218.3 Key Stations and Existing Intercity Rail Stations. Key stations and existing intercity rail 

stations shall comply with 810.5 through 810.10.

218.4 Bus Shelters. Where provided, bus shelters shall comply with 810.3.

218.5 Other Transportation Facilities. In other transportation facilities, public address systems shall 

comply with 810.7 and clocks shall comply with 810.8.

219 Assistive Listening Systems

219.1 General. Assistive listening systems shall be provided in accordance with 219 and shall comply 

with 706.

219.2 Required Systems. In each assembly area where audible communication is integral to the use of 

the space, an assistive listening system shall be provided.

EXCEPTION: Other than in courtrooms, assistive listening systems shall not be required where 

audio amplification is not provided.

219.3 Receivers. Receivers complying with 706.2 shall be provided for assistive listening systems in 

each assembly area in accordance with Table 219.3. Twenty-five percent minimum of receivers 

provided, but no fewer than two, shall be hearing-aid compatible in accordance with 706.3.

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EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where a building contains more than one assembly area and the assembly areas

required to provide assistive listening systems are under one management, the total number of 

required receivers shall be permitted to be calculated according to the total number of seats in the 

assembly areas in the building provided that all receivers are usable with all systems.

2. Where all seats in an assembly area are served by an induction loop assistive listening system, 

the minimum number of receivers required by Table 219.3 to be hearing-aid compatible shall not be 

required to be provided. 

220 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines

220.1 General. Where automatic teller machines or self-service fare vending, collection, or adjustment 

machines are provided, at least one of each type provided at each location shall comply with 707. 

Where bins are provided for envelopes, waste paper, or other purposes, at least one of each type shall 

comply with 811. 

Table 219.3 Receivers for Assistive Listening Systems

Capacity of Seating in 

Assembly Area

Minimum Number of

Required Receivers

Minimum Number of Required 

Receivers Required to be 

Hearing-aid Compatible

50 or less 2 2

51 to 200 2, plus 1 per 25 seats

over 50 seats1

1. Or fraction thereof.

2

201 to 500 2, plus 1 per 25 seats

over 50 seats1

1 per 4 receivers1

501 to 1000 20, plus 1 per 33 seats

over 500 seats1

1 per 4 receivers1

1001 to 2000 35, plus 1 per 50 seats

over 1000 seats1

1 per 4 receivers1

2001 and over 55 plus 1 per 100 seats

over 2000 seats1

1 per 4 receivers1

Advisory 220.1 General. If a bank provides both interior and exterior ATMs, each such 

installation is considered a separate location. Accessible ATMs, including those with 

speech and those that are within reach of people who use wheelchairs, must provide all the 

functions provided to customers at that location at all times. For example, it is unacceptable 

for the accessible ATM only to provide cash withdrawals while inaccessible ATMs also sell 

theater tickets.

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221 Assembly Areas

221.1 General. Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated 

aisle seats complying with 221 and 802. In addition, lawn seating shall comply with 221.5.

221.2 Wheelchair Spaces. Wheelchair spaces complying with 221.2 shall be provided in assembly 

areas with fixed seating.

221.2.1 Number and Location. Wheelchair spaces shall be provided complying with 221.2.1.

221.2.1.1 General Seating. Wheelchair spaces complying with 802.1 shall be provided in 

accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

221.2.1.2 Luxury Boxes, Club Boxes, and Suites in Arenas, Stadiums, and Grandstands. 

In each luxury box, club box, and suite within arenas, stadiums, and grandstands, wheelchair 

spaces complying with 802.1 shall be provided in accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

221.2.1.3 Other Boxes. In boxes other than those required to comply with 221.2.1.2, the total 

number of wheelchair spaces required shall be determined in accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

Wheelchair spaces shall be located in not less than 20 percent of all boxes provided. Wheelchair 

spaces shall comply with 802.1. 

Table 221.2.1.1 Number of Wheelchair Spaces in Assembly Areas

Number of Seats Minimum Number of

Required Wheelchair Spaces

4 to 25 1

26 to 50 2

51 to 150 4

151 to 300 5

301 to 500 6

501 to 5000 6, plus 1 for each 150, or fraction thereof, 

between 501 through 5000

5001 and over 36, plus 1 for each 200, or fraction thereof, 

over 5000

Advisory 221.2.1.2 Luxury Boxes, Club Boxes, and Suites in Arenas, Stadiums, and 

Grandstands. The number of wheelchair spaces required in luxury boxes, club boxes, and 

suites within an arena, stadium, or grandstand is to be calculated box by box and suite by 

suite.

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221 Assembly Areas

221.1 General. Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated 

aisle seats complying with 221 and 802. In addition, lawn seating shall comply with 221.5.

221.2 Wheelchair Spaces. Wheelchair spaces complying with 221.2 shall be provided in assembly 

areas with fixed seating.

221.2.1 Number and Location. Wheelchair spaces shall be provided complying with 221.2.1.

221.2.1.1 General Seating. Wheelchair spaces complying with 802.1 shall be provided in 

accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

221.2.1.2 Luxury Boxes, Club Boxes, and Suites in Arenas, Stadiums, and Grandstands. 

In each luxury box, club box, and suite within arenas, stadiums, and grandstands, wheelchair 

spaces complying with 802.1 shall be provided in accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

221.2.1.3 Other Boxes. In boxes other than those required to comply with 221.2.1.2, the total 

number of wheelchair spaces required shall be determined in accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

Wheelchair spaces shall be located in not less than 20 percent of all boxes provided. Wheelchair 

spaces shall comply with 802.1. 

Table 221.2.1.1 Number of Wheelchair Spaces in Assembly Areas

Number of Seats Minimum Number of

Required Wheelchair Spaces

4 to 25 1

26 to 50 2

51 to 150 4

151 to 300 5

301 to 500 6

501 to 5000 6, plus 1 for each 150, or fraction thereof, 

between 501 through 5000

5001 and over 36, plus 1 for each 200, or fraction thereof, 

over 5000

Advisory 221.2.1.2 Luxury Boxes, Club Boxes, and Suites in Arenas, Stadiums, and 

Grandstands. The number of wheelchair spaces required in luxury boxes, club boxes, and 

suites within an arena, stadium, or grandstand is to be calculated box by box and suite by 

suite.

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221 Assembly Areas

221.1 General. Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated 

aisle seats complying with 221 and 802. In addition, lawn seating shall comply with 221.5.

221.2 Wheelchair Spaces. Wheelchair spaces complying with 221.2 shall be provided in assembly 

areas with fixed seating.

221.2.1 Number and Location. Wheelchair spaces shall be provided complying with 221.2.1.

221.2.1.1 General Seating. Wheelchair spaces complying with 802.1 shall be provided in 

accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

221.2.1.2 Luxury Boxes, Club Boxes, and Suites in Arenas, Stadiums, and Grandstands. 

In each luxury box, club box, and suite within arenas, stadiums, and grandstands, wheelchair 

spaces complying with 802.1 shall be provided in accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

221.2.1.3 Other Boxes. In boxes other than those required to comply with 221.2.1.2, the total 

number of wheelchair spaces required shall be determined in accordance with Table 221.2.1.1. 

Wheelchair spaces shall be located in not less than 20 percent of all boxes provided. Wheelchair 

spaces shall comply with 802.1. 

Table 221.2.1.1 Number of Wheelchair Spaces in Assembly Areas

Number of Seats Minimum Number of

Required Wheelchair Spaces

4 to 25 1

26 to 50 2

51 to 150 4

151 to 300 5

301 to 500 6

501 to 5000 6, plus 1 for each 150, or fraction thereof, 

between 501 through 5000

5001 and over 36, plus 1 for each 200, or fraction thereof, 

over 5000

Advisory 221.2.1.2 Luxury Boxes, Club Boxes, and Suites in Arenas, Stadiums, and 

Grandstands. The number of wheelchair spaces required in luxury boxes, club boxes, and 

suites within an arena, stadium, or grandstand is to be calculated box by box and suite by 

suite.

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221.2.1.4 Team or Player Seating. At least one wheelchair space complying with 802.1 shall 

be provided in team or player seating areas serving areas of sport activity.

EXCEPTION: Wheelchair spaces shall not be required in team or player seating areas 

serving bowling lanes not required to comply with 206.2.11.

221.2.2 Integration. Wheelchair spaces shall be an integral part of the seating plan. 

221.2.3 Lines of Sight and Dispersion. Wheelchair spaces shall provide lines of sight complying 

with 802.2 and shall comply with 221.2.3. In providing lines of sight, wheelchair spaces shall be 

dispersed. Wheelchair spaces shall provide spectators with choices of seating locations and viewing 

angles that are substantially equivalent to, or better than, the choices of seating locations and 

viewing angles available to all other spectators. When the number of wheelchair spaces required by 

221.2.1 has been met, further dispersion shall not be required.

EXCEPTION: Wheelchair spaces in team or player seating areas serving areas of sport activity

shall not be required to comply with 221.2.3. 

221.2.3.1 Horizontal Dispersion. Wheelchair spaces shall be dispersed horizontally.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Horizontal dispersion shall not be required in assembly areas with 300 or 

fewer seats if the companion seats required by 221.3 and wheelchair spaces are located 

within the 2nd or 3rd quartile of the total row length. Intermediate aisles shall be included in 

Advisory 221.2.1.3 Other Boxes. The provision for seating in “other boxes” includes box 

seating provided in facilities such as performing arts auditoria where tiered boxes are 

designed for spatial and acoustical purposes. The number of wheelchair spaces required in 

boxes covered by 221.2.1.3 is calculated based on the total number of seats provided in 

these other boxes. The resulting number of wheelchair spaces must be located in no fewer 

than 20% of the boxes covered by this section. For example, a concert hall has 20 boxes, 

each of which contains 10 seats, totaling 200 seats. In this example, 5 wheelchair spaces 

would be required, and they must be placed in at least 4 of the boxes. Additionally, because 

the wheelchair spaces must also meet the dispersion requirements of 221.2.3, the boxes 

containing these wheelchair spaces cannot all be located in one area unless an exception to 

the dispersion requirements applies.

Advisory 221.2.2 Integration. The requirement that wheelchair spaces be an “integral part 

of the seating plan” means that wheelchair spaces must be placed within the footprint of the 

seating area. Wheelchair spaces cannot be segregated from seating areas. For example, it 

would be unacceptable to place only the wheelchair spaces, or only the wheelchair spaces 

and their associated companion seats, outside the seating areas defined by risers in an 

assembly area.

Advisory 221.2.3 Lines of Sight and Dispersion. Consistent with the overall intent of the 

ADA, individuals who use wheelchairs must be provided equal access so that their 

experience is substantially equivalent to that of other members of the audience. Thus, while 

individuals who use wheelchairs need not be provided with the best seats in the house, 

neither may they be relegated to the worst.

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determining the total row length. If the row length in the 2nd and 3rd quartile of a row is 

insufficient to accommodate the required number of companion seats and wheelchair 

spaces, the additional companion seats and wheelchair spaces shall be permitted to be 

located in the 1st and 4th quartile of the row.

2. In row seating, two wheelchair spaces shall be permitted to be located side-by-side. 

221.2.3.2 Vertical Dispersion. Wheelchair spaces shall be dispersed vertically at varying 

distances from the screen, performance area, or playing field. In addition, wheelchair spaces 

shall be located in each balcony or mezzanine that is located on an accessible route.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Vertical dispersion shall not be required in assembly areas with 300 or 

fewer seats if the wheelchair spaces provide viewing angles that are equivalent to, or better 

than, the average viewing angle provided in the facility.

2. In bleachers, wheelchair spaces shall not be required to be provided in rows other than 

rows at points of entry to bleacher seating. 

221.3 Companion Seats. At least one companion seat complying with 802.3 shall be provided for each 

wheelchair space required by 221.2.1.

221.4 Designated Aisle Seats. At least 5 percent of the total number of aisle seats provided shall 

comply with 802.4 and shall be the aisle seats located closest to accessible routes.

EXCEPTION: Team or player seating areas serving areas of sport activity shall not be required to 

comply with 221.4. 

Advisory 221.2.3.1 Horizontal Dispersion. Horizontal dispersion of wheelchair spaces is 

the placement of spaces in an assembly facility seating area from side-to-side or, in the case 

of an arena or stadium, around the field of play or performance area.

Advisory 221.2.3.2 Vertical Dispersion. When wheelchair spaces are dispersed vertically 

in an assembly facility they are placed at different locations within the seating area from 

front-to-back so that the distance from the screen, stage, playing field, area of sports activity, 

or other focal point is varied among wheelchair spaces.

Advisory 221.2.3.2 Vertical Dispersion Exception 2. Points of entry to bleacher seating 

may include, but are not limited to, cross aisles, concourses, vomitories, and entrance 

ramps and stairs. Vertical, center, or side aisles adjoining bleacher seating that are stepped 

or tiered are not considered entry points.

Advisory 221.4 Designated Aisle Seats. When selecting which aisle seats will meet the 

requirements of 802.4, those aisle seats which are closest to, not necessarily on, accessible 

routes must be selected first. For example, an assembly area has two aisles (A and B) 

serving seating areas with an accessible route connecting to the top and bottom of Aisle A 

only. The aisle seats chosen to meet 802.4 must be those at the top and bottom of Aisle A, 

working toward the middle. Only when all seats on Aisle A would not meet the five percent 

minimum would seats on Aisle B be designated.

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221.5 Lawn Seating. Lawn seating areas and exterior overflow seating areas, where fixed seats are not 

provided, shall connect to an accessible route.

222 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

222.1 General. Where dressing rooms, fitting rooms, or locker rooms are provided, at least 5 percent, 

but no fewer than one, of each type of use in each cluster provided shall comply with 803.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, where it is technically infeasible to provide rooms in accordance with 

222.1, one room for each sex on each level shall comply with 803. Where only unisex rooms are 

provided, unisex rooms shall be permitted. 

222.2 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in dressing, fitting or 

locker rooms without individual compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with 803.5. Where 

coat hooks or shelves are provided in individual compartments at least one of each type complying with 

803.5 shall be provided in individual compartments in dressing, fitting, or locker rooms required to 

comply with 222.1.

223 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities

223.1 General. In licensed medical care facilities and licensed long-term care facilities where the period 

of stay exceeds twenty-four hours, patient or resident sleeping rooms shall be provided in accordance 

with 223.

EXCEPTION: Toilet rooms that are part of critical or intensive care patient sleeping rooms shall not 

be required to comply with 603. 

Advisory 222.1 General. A “cluster” is a group of rooms proximate to one another. 

Generally, rooms in a cluster are within sight of, or adjacent to, one another. Different styles 

of design provide users varying levels of privacy and convenience. Some designs include 

private changing facilities that are close to core areas of the facility, while other designs use 

space more economically and provide only group dressing facilities. Regardless of the type 

of facility, dressing, fitting, and locker rooms should provide people with disabilities rooms 

that are equally private and convenient to those provided others. For example, in a 

physician’s office, if people without disabilities must traverse the full length of the office suite 

in clothing other than their street clothes, it is acceptable for people with disabilities to be 

asked to do the same.

Advisory 223.1 General. Because medical facilities frequently reconfigure spaces to 

reflect changes in medical specialties, Section 223.1 does not include a provision for 

dispersion of accessible patient or resident sleeping rooms. The lack of a design 

requirement does not mean that covered entities are not required to provide services to 

people with disabilities where accessible rooms are not dispersed in specialty areas. Locate 

accessible rooms near core areas that are less likely to change over time. While dispersion 

is not required, the flexibility it provides can be a critical factor in ensuring cost effective 

compliance with applicable civil rights laws, including titles II and III of the ADA and Section 

504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

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221.5 Lawn Seating. Lawn seating areas and exterior overflow seating areas, where fixed seats are not 

provided, shall connect to an accessible route.

222 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

222.1 General. Where dressing rooms, fitting rooms, or locker rooms are provided, at least 5 percent, 

but no fewer than one, of each type of use in each cluster provided shall comply with 803.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, where it is technically infeasible to provide rooms in accordance with 

222.1, one room for each sex on each level shall comply with 803. Where only unisex rooms are 

provided, unisex rooms shall be permitted. 

222.2 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in dressing, fitting or 

locker rooms without individual compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with 803.5. Where 

coat hooks or shelves are provided in individual compartments at least one of each type complying with 

803.5 shall be provided in individual compartments in dressing, fitting, or locker rooms required to 

comply with 222.1.

223 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities

223.1 General. In licensed medical care facilities and licensed long-term care facilities where the period 

of stay exceeds twenty-four hours, patient or resident sleeping rooms shall be provided in accordance 

with 223.

EXCEPTION: Toilet rooms that are part of critical or intensive care patient sleeping rooms shall not 

be required to comply with 603. 

Advisory 222.1 General. A “cluster” is a group of rooms proximate to one another. 

Generally, rooms in a cluster are within sight of, or adjacent to, one another. Different styles 

of design provide users varying levels of privacy and convenience. Some designs include 

private changing facilities that are close to core areas of the facility, while other designs use 

space more economically and provide only group dressing facilities. Regardless of the type 

of facility, dressing, fitting, and locker rooms should provide people with disabilities rooms 

that are equally private and convenient to those provided others. For example, in a 

physician’s office, if people without disabilities must traverse the full length of the office suite 

in clothing other than their street clothes, it is acceptable for people with disabilities to be 

asked to do the same.

Advisory 223.1 General. Because medical facilities frequently reconfigure spaces to 

reflect changes in medical specialties, Section 223.1 does not include a provision for 

dispersion of accessible patient or resident sleeping rooms. The lack of a design 

requirement does not mean that covered entities are not required to provide services to 

people with disabilities where accessible rooms are not dispersed in specialty areas. Locate 

accessible rooms near core areas that are less likely to change over time. While dispersion 

is not required, the flexibility it provides can be a critical factor in ensuring cost effective 

compliance with applicable civil rights laws, including titles II and III of the ADA and Section 

504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

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221.5 Lawn Seating. Lawn seating areas and exterior overflow seating areas, where fixed seats are not 

provided, shall connect to an accessible route.

222 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

222.1 General. Where dressing rooms, fitting rooms, or locker rooms are provided, at least 5 percent, 

but no fewer than one, of each type of use in each cluster provided shall comply with 803.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, where it is technically infeasible to provide rooms in accordance with 

222.1, one room for each sex on each level shall comply with 803. Where only unisex rooms are 

provided, unisex rooms shall be permitted. 

222.2 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in dressing, fitting or 

locker rooms without individual compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with 803.5. Where 

coat hooks or shelves are provided in individual compartments at least one of each type complying with 

803.5 shall be provided in individual compartments in dressing, fitting, or locker rooms required to 

comply with 222.1.

223 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities

223.1 General. In licensed medical care facilities and licensed long-term care facilities where the period 

of stay exceeds twenty-four hours, patient or resident sleeping rooms shall be provided in accordance 

with 223.

EXCEPTION: Toilet rooms that are part of critical or intensive care patient sleeping rooms shall not 

be required to comply with 603. 

Advisory 222.1 General. A “cluster” is a group of rooms proximate to one another. 

Generally, rooms in a cluster are within sight of, or adjacent to, one another. Different styles 

of design provide users varying levels of privacy and convenience. Some designs include 

private changing facilities that are close to core areas of the facility, while other designs use 

space more economically and provide only group dressing facilities. Regardless of the type 

of facility, dressing, fitting, and locker rooms should provide people with disabilities rooms 

that are equally private and convenient to those provided others. For example, in a 

physician’s office, if people without disabilities must traverse the full length of the office suite 

in clothing other than their street clothes, it is acceptable for people with disabilities to be 

asked to do the same.

Advisory 223.1 General. Because medical facilities frequently reconfigure spaces to 

reflect changes in medical specialties, Section 223.1 does not include a provision for 

dispersion of accessible patient or resident sleeping rooms. The lack of a design 

requirement does not mean that covered entities are not required to provide services to 

people with disabilities where accessible rooms are not dispersed in specialty areas. Locate 

accessible rooms near core areas that are less likely to change over time. While dispersion 

is not required, the flexibility it provides can be a critical factor in ensuring cost effective 

compliance with applicable civil rights laws, including titles II and III of the ADA and Section 

504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

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223.1.1 Alterations. Where sleeping rooms are altered or added, the requirements of 223 shall 

apply only to the sleeping rooms being altered or added until the number of sleeping rooms complies 

with the minimum number required for new construction. 

223.2 Hospitals, Rehabilitation Facilities, Psychiatric Facilities and Detoxification Facilities.

Hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, psychiatric facilities and detoxification facilities shall comply with 223.2.

223.2.1 Facilities Not Specializing in Treating Conditions That Affect Mobility. In facilities not 

specializing in treating conditions that affect mobility, at least 10 percent, but no fewer than one, of 

the patient sleeping rooms shall provide mobility features complying with 805.

223.2.2 Facilities Specializing in Treating Conditions That Affect Mobility. In facilities

specializing in treating conditions that affect mobility, 100 percent of the patient sleeping rooms shall 

provide mobility features complying with 805. 

223.3 Long-Term Care Facilities. In licensed long-term care facilities, at least 50 percent, but no fewer 

than one, of each type of resident sleeping room shall provide mobility features complying with 805.

224 Transient Lodging Guest Rooms

224.1 General. Transient lodging facilities shall provide guest rooms in accordance with 224. 

Advisory 223.1 General (Continued). Additionally, all types of features and amenities 

should be dispersed among accessible sleeping rooms to ensure equal access to and a 

variety of choices for all patients and residents.

Advisory 223.1.1 Alterations. In alterations and additions, the minimum required number 

is based on the total number of sleeping rooms altered or added instead of on the total 

number of sleeping rooms provided in a facility. As a facility is altered over time, every effort 

should be made to disperse accessible sleeping rooms among patient care areas such as 

pediatrics, cardiac care, maternity, and other units. In this way, people with disabilities can 

have access to the full-range of services provided by a medical care facility.

Advisory 223.2.2 Facilities Specializing in Treating Conditions That Affect Mobility. 

Conditions that affect mobility include conditions requiring the use or assistance of a brace, 

cane, crutch, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or powered mobility aid; arthritic, neurological, 

or orthopedic conditions that severely limit one's ability to walk; respiratory diseases and 

other conditions which may require the use of portable oxygen; and cardiac conditions that 

impose significant functional limitations. Facilities that may provide treatment for, but that do 

not specialize in treatment of such conditions, such as general rehabilitation hospitals, are 

not subject to this requirement but are subject to Section 223.2.1.

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[See additional requirements for places of lodging at 28 CFR 36.406(c), p. 28. and for housing 

at a place of education at 28 CFR 35.151(f), p. 11, and 28 CFR 36.406(e), p. 29.] 

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224.1.1 Alterations. Where guest rooms are altered or added, the requirements of 224 shall apply 

only to the guest rooms being altered or added until the number of guest rooms complies with the 

minimum number required for new construction. 

224.1.2 Guest Room Doors and Doorways. Entrances, doors, and doorways providing user 

passage into and within guest rooms that are not required to provide mobility features complying with 

806.2 shall comply with 404.2.3.

EXCEPTION: Shower and sauna doors in guest rooms that are not required to provide mobility 

features complying with 806.2 shall not be required to comply with 404.2.3. 

224.2 Guest Rooms with Mobility Features. In transient lodging facilities, guest rooms with mobility 

features complying with 806.2 shall be provided in accordance with Table 224.2. 

Advisory 224.1 General. Certain facilities used for transient lodging, including time shares, 

dormitories, and town homes may be covered by both these requirements and the Fair 

Housing Amendments Act. The Fair Housing Amendments Act requires that certain 

residential structures having four or more multi-family dwelling units, regardless of whether 

they are privately owned or federally assisted, include certain features of accessible and 

adaptable design according to guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing 

and Urban Development (HUD). This law and the appropriate regulations should be 

consulted before proceeding with the design and construction of residential housing.

Advisory 224.1.1 Alterations. In alterations and additions, the minimum required number 

of accessible guest rooms is based on the total number of guest rooms altered or added 

instead of the total number of guest rooms provided in a facility. Typically, each alteration of 

a facility is limited to a particular portion of the facility. When accessible guest rooms are 

added as a result of subsequent alterations, compliance with 224.5 (Dispersion) is more 

likely to be achieved if all of the accessible guest rooms are not provided in the same area of 

the facility.

Advisory 224.1.2 Guest Room Doors and Doorways. Because of the social interaction 

that often occurs in lodging facilities, an accessible clear opening width is required for doors 

and doorways to and within all guest rooms, including those not required to be accessible. 

This applies to all doors, including bathroom doors, that allow full user passage. Other 

requirements for doors and doorways in Section 404 do not apply to guest rooms not 

required to provide mobility features.

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224.3 Beds. In guest rooms having more than 25 beds, 5 percent minimum of the beds shall have clear 

floor space complying with 806.2.3.

224.4 Guest Rooms with Communication Features. In transient lodging facilities, guest rooms with 

communication features complying with 806.3 shall be provided in accordance with Table 224.4. 

Table 224.2 Guest Rooms with Mobility Features

Total Number of 

Guest Rooms 

Provided

Minimum

Number of Required 

Rooms Without

Roll-in Showers

Minimum

Number of Required 

Rooms With

Roll-in Showers

Total Number of 

Required Rooms

1 to 25 1 0 1

26 to 50 2 0 2

51 to 75 3 1 4

76 to 100 4 1 5

101 to 150 5 2 7

151 to 200 6 2 8

201 to 300 7 3 10

301 to 400 8 4 12

401 to 500 9 4 13

501 to 1000 2 percent of total 1 percent of total 3 percent of total

1001 and over 20, plus 1 for each 100, 

or fraction thereof,

over 1000

10, plus 1 for each 100, 

or fraction thereof,

over 1000

30, plus 2 for each 100, 

or fraction thereof,

over 1000

Table 224.4 Guest Rooms with Communication Features

Total Number of Guest Rooms Provided Minimum Number of Required Guest Rooms 

With Communication Features

2 to 25 2

26 to 50 4

51 to 75 7

76 to 100 9

101 to 150 12

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224.5 Dispersion. Guest rooms required to provide mobility features complying with 806.2 and guest 

rooms required to provide communication features complying with 806.3 shall be dispersed among the 

various classes of guest rooms, and shall provide choices of types of guest rooms, number of beds, and 

other amenities comparable to the choices provided to other guests. Where the minimum number of 

guest rooms required to comply with 806 is not sufficient to allow for complete dispersion, guest rooms 

shall be dispersed in the following priority: guest room type, number of beds, and amenities. At least 

one guest room required to provide mobility features complying with 806.2 shall also provide 

communication features complying with 806.3. Not more than 10 percent of guest rooms required to 

provide mobility features complying with 806.2 shall be used to satisfy the minimum number of guest 

rooms required to provide communication features complying with 806.3. 

225 Storage

225.1 General. Storage facilities shall comply with 225.

225.2 Storage. Where storage is provided in accessible spaces, at least one of each type shall comply 

with 811. 

225.2.1 Lockers. Where lockers are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one of each 

type, shall comply with 811. 

151 to 200 14

201 to 300 17

301 to 400 20

401 to 500 22

501 to 1000 5 percent of total

1001 and over 50, plus 3 for each 100 over 1000

Advisory 224.5 Dispersion. Factors to be considered in providing an equivalent range of 

options may include, but are not limited to, room size, bed size, cost, view, bathroom fixtures 

such as hot tubs and spas, smoking and nonsmoking, and the number of rooms provided.

Advisory 225.2 Storage. Types of storage include, but are not limited to, closets, cabinets, 

shelves, clothes rods, hooks, and drawers. Where provided, at least one of each type of 

storage must be within the reach ranges specified in 308; however, it is permissible to install 

additional storage outside the reach ranges.

Table 224.4 Guest Rooms with Communication Features

Total Number of Guest Rooms Provided Minimum Number of Required Guest Rooms 

With Communication Features

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225.2.2 Self-Service Shelving. Self-service shelves shall be located on an accessible route 

complying with 402. Self-service shelving shall not be required to comply with 308. 

225.3 Self-Service Storage Facilities. Self-service storage facilities shall provide individual selfservice storage spaces complying with these requirements in accordance with Table 225.3. 

225.3.1 Dispersion. Individual self-service storage spaces shall be dispersed throughout the 

various classes of spaces provided. Where more classes of spaces are provided than the number 

required to be accessible, the number of spaces shall not be required to exceed that required by 

Table 225.3. Self-service storage spaces complying with Table 225.3 shall not be required to be 

dispersed among buildings in a multi-building facility.

226 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces

226.1 General. Where dining surfaces are provided for the consumption of food or drink, at least 5 

percent of the seating spaces and standing spaces at the dining surfaces shall comply with 902. In 

addition, where work surfaces are provided for use by other than employees, at least 5 percent shall 

comply with 902.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Sales counters and service counters shall not be required to comply with 902.

Advisory 225.2.1 Lockers. Different types of lockers may include full-size and half-size 

lockers, as well as those specifically designed for storage of various sports equipment.

Advisory 225.2.2 Self-Service Shelving. Self-service shelves include, but are not limited 

to, library, store, or post office shelves.

Table 225.3 Self-Service Storage Facilities

Total Spaces in Facility Minimum Number of Spaces

Required to be Accessible

1 to 200 5 percent, but no fewer than 1

201 and over 10, plus 2 percent of total number of units over 

200

Advisory 225.3 Self-Service Storage Facilities. Although there are no technical 

requirements that are unique to self-service storage facilities, elements and spaces provided 

in facilities containing self-service storage spaces required to comply with these 

requirements must comply with this document where applicable. For example: the number 

of storage spaces required to comply with these requirements must provide Accessible 

Routes complying with Section 206; Accessible Means of Egress complying with Section 

207; Parking Spaces complying with Section 208; and, where provided, other public use or 

common use elements and facilities such as toilet rooms, drinking fountains, and telephones 

must comply with the applicable requirements of this document.

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2. Check writing surfaces provided at check-out aisles not required to comply with 904.3 shall not be 

required to comply with 902. 

226.2 Dispersion. Dining surfaces and work surfaces required to comply with 902 shall be dispersed 

throughout the space or facility containing dining surfaces and work surfaces.

227 Sales and Service

227.1 General. Where provided, check-out aisles, sales counters, service counters, food service lines, 

queues, and waiting lines shall comply with 227 and 904.

227.2 Check-Out Aisles. Where check-out aisles are provided, check-out aisles complying with 904.3 

shall be provided in accordance with Table 227.2. Where check-out aisles serve different functions, 

check-out aisles complying with 904.3 shall be provided in accordance with Table 227.2 for each 

function. Where check-out aisles are dispersed throughout the building or facility, check-out aisles 

complying with 904.3 shall be dispersed.

EXCEPTION: Where the selling space is under 5000 square feet (465 m2) no more than one checkout aisle complying with 904.3 shall be required. 

227.2.1 Altered Check-Out Aisles. Where check-out aisles are altered, at least one of each checkout aisle serving each function shall comply with 904.3 until the number of check-out aisles complies 

with 227.2.

Advisory 226.1 General. In facilities covered by the ADA, this requirement does not apply 

to work surfaces used only by employees. However, the ADA and, where applicable, 

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide that employees are 

entitled to “reasonable accommodations.” With respect to work surfaces, this means that 

employers may need to procure or adjust work stations such as desks, laboratory and work 

benches, fume hoods, reception counters, teller windows, study carrels, commercial kitchen 

counters, and conference tables to accommodate the individual needs of employees with 

disabilities on an “as needed” basis. Consider work surfaces that are flexible and permit 

installation at variable heights and clearances.

Table 227.2 Check-Out Aisles

Number of Check-Out Aisles of Each Function Minimum Number of Check-Out Aisles of 

Each Function Required to Comply with 904.3

1 to 4 1

5 to 8 2

9 to 15 3

16 and over 3, plus 20 percent of additional aisles

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227.3 Counters. Where provided, at least one of each type of sales counter and service counter shall 

comply with 904.4. Where counters are dispersed throughout the building or facility, counters complying 

with 904.4 also shall be dispersed. 

227.4 Food Service Lines. Food service lines shall comply with 904.5. Where self-service shelves are 

provided, at least 50 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type provided shall comply with 308.

227.5 Queues and Waiting Lines. Queues and waiting lines servicing counters or check-out aisles 

required to comply with 904.3 or 904.4 shall comply with 403.

228 Depositories, Vending Machines, Change Machines, Mail Boxes, and Fuel Dispensers

228.1 General. Where provided, at least one of each type of depository, vending machine, change 

machine, and fuel dispenser shall comply with 309.

EXCEPTION: Drive-up only depositories shall not be required to comply with 309. 

228.2 Mail Boxes. Where mail boxes are provided in an interior location, at least 5 percent, but no 

fewer than one, of each type shall comply with 309. In residential facilities, where mail boxes are 

provided for each residential dwelling unit, mail boxes complying with 309 shall be provided for each 

residential dwelling unit required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4.

229 Windows

229.1 General. Where glazed openings are provided in accessible rooms or spaces for operation by 

occupants, at least one opening shall comply with 309. Each glazed opening required by an 

administrative authority to be operable shall comply with 309.

EXCEPTION: 1. Glazed openings in residential dwelling units required to comply with 809 shall not 

be required to comply with 229.

2. Glazed openings in guest rooms required to provide communication features and in guest rooms 

required to comply with 206.5.3 shall not be required to comply with 229.

230 Two-Way Communication Systems

230.1 General. Where a two-way communication system is provided to gain admittance to a building or 

facility or to restricted areas within a building or facility, the system shall comply with 708. 

Advisory 227.3 Counters. Types of counters that provide different services in the same 

facility include, but are not limited to, order, pick-up, express, and returns. One continuous 

counter can be used to provide different types of service. For example, order and pick-up 

are different services. It would not be acceptable to provide access only to the part of the 

counter where orders are taken when orders are picked-up at a different location on the 

same counter. Both the order and pick-up section of the counter must be accessible.

Advisory 228.1 General. Depositories include, but are not limited to, night receptacles in 

banks, post offices, video stores, and libraries.

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231 Judicial Facilities

231.1 General. Judicial facilities shall comply with 231.

231.2 Courtrooms. Each courtroom shall comply with 808.

231.3 Holding Cells. Where provided, central holding cells and court-floor holding cells shall comply 

with 231.3.

231.3.1 Central Holding Cells. Where separate central holding cells are provided for adult male, 

juvenile male, adult female, or juvenile female, one of each type shall comply with 807.2. Where 

central holding cells are provided and are not separated by age or sex, at least one cell complying 

with 807.2 shall be provided.

231.3.2 Court-Floor Holding Cells. Where separate court-floor holding cells are provided for adult 

male, juvenile male, adult female, or juvenile female, each courtroom shall be served by one cell of 

each type complying with 807.2. Where court-floor holding cells are provided and are not separated 

by age or sex, courtrooms shall be served by at least one cell complying with 807.2. Cells may serve 

more than one courtroom.

231.4 Visiting Areas. Visiting areas shall comply with 231.4.

231.4.1 Cubicles and Counters. At least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of cubicles shall comply 

with 902 on both the visitor and detainee sides. Where counters are provided, at least one shall 

comply with 904.4.2 on both the visitor and detainee sides.

EXCEPTION: The detainee side of cubicles or counters at non-contact visiting areas not serving 

holding cells required to comply with 231 shall not be required to comply with 902 or 904.4.2.

231.4.2 Partitions. Where solid partitions or security glazing separate visitors from detainees at 

least one of each type of cubicle or counter partition shall comply with 904.6.

232 Detention Facilities and Correctional Facilities

232.1 General. Buildings, facilities, or portions thereof, in which people are detained for penal or 

correction purposes, or in which the liberty of the inmates is restricted for security reasons shall comply 

with 232. 

Advisory 230.1 General. This requirement applies to facilities such as office buildings, 

courthouses, and other facilities where admittance to the building or restricted spaces is 

dependent on two-way communication systems.

Advisory 232.1 General. Detention facilities include, but are not limited to, jails, detention 

centers, and holding cells in police stations. Correctional facilities include, but are not 

limited to, prisons, reformatories, and correctional centers.

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[See additional requirements at 28 CFR 35.151(k), p. 13.] 

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232.2 General Holding Cells and General Housing Cells. General holding cells and general housing 

cells shall be provided in accordance with 232.2.

EXCEPTION: Alterations to cells shall not be required to comply except to the extent determined by 

the Attorney General. 

232.2.1 Cells with Mobility Features. At least 2 percent, but no fewer than one, of the total number 

of cells in a facility shall provide mobility features complying with 807.2.

232.2.1.1 Beds. In cells having more than 25 beds, at least 5 percent of the beds shall have 

clear floor space complying with 807.2.3.

232.2.2 Cells with Communication Features. At least 2 percent, but no fewer than one, of the total 

number of general holding cells and general housing cells equipped with audible emergency alarm 

systems and permanently installed telephones within the cell shall provide communication features 

complying with 807.3.

232.3 Special Holding Cells and Special Housing Cells. Where special holding cells or special 

housing cells are provided, at least one cell serving each purpose shall provide mobility features 

complying with 807.2. Cells subject to this requirement include, but are not limited to, those used for 

purposes of orientation, protective custody, administrative or disciplinary detention or segregation, 

detoxification, and medical isolation.

EXCEPTION: Alterations to cells shall not be required to comply except to the extent determined by 

the Attorney General.

232.4 Medical Care Facilities. Patient bedrooms or cells required to comply with 223 shall be provided 

in addition to any medical isolation cells required to comply with 232.3.

232.5 Visiting Areas. Visiting areas shall comply with 232.5.

Advisory 232.2 General Holding Cells and General Housing Cells. Accessible cells or 

rooms should be dispersed among different levels of security, housing categories, and 

holding classifications (e.g., male/female and adult/juvenile) to facilitate access. Many 

detention and correctional facilities are designed so that certain areas (e.g., “shift” areas) 

can be adapted to serve as different types of housing according to need. For example, a 

shift area serving as a medium-security housing unit might be redesignated for a period of 

time as a high-security housing unit to meet capacity needs. Placement of accessible cells 

or rooms in shift areas may allow additional flexibility in meeting requirements for dispersion 

of accessible cells or rooms.

Advisory 232.2 General Holding Cells and General Housing Cells Exception. Although 

these requirements do not specify that cells be accessible as a consequence of an 

alteration, title II of the ADA requires that each service, program, or activity conducted by a 

public entity, when viewed in its entirety, be readily accessible to and usable by individuals 

with disabilities. This requirement must be met unless doing so would fundamentally alter 

the nature of a service, program, or activity or would result in undue financial and 

administrative burdens.

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232.5.1 Cubicles and Counters. At least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of cubicles shall comply 

with 902 on both the visitor and detainee sides. Where counters are provided, at least one shall 

comply with 904.4.2 on both the visitor and detainee or inmate sides.

EXCEPTION: The inmate or detainee side of cubicles or counters at non-contact visiting areas 

not serving holding cells or housing cells required to comply with 232 shall not be required to 

comply with 902 or 904.4.2.

232.5.2 Partitions. Where solid partitions or security glazing separate visitors from detainees or 

inmates at least one of each type of cubicle or counter partition shall comply with 904.6.

233 Residential Facilities

233.1 General. Facilities with residential dwelling units shall comply with 233. 

233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD Section 504 Regulations. 

Where facilities with residential dwelling units are provided by entities subject to regulations issued by 

the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 

Advisory 233.1 General. Section 233 outlines the requirements for residential facilities 

subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The facilities covered by Section 233, 

as well as other facilities not covered by this section, may still be subject to other Federal 

laws such as the Fair Housing Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as 

amended. For example, the Fair Housing Act requires that certain residential structures 

having four or more multi-family dwelling units, regardless of whether they are privately 

owned or federally assisted, include certain features of accessible and adaptable design 

according to guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 

Development (HUD). These laws and the appropriate regulations should be consulted 

before proceeding with the design and construction of residential facilities.

Residential facilities containing residential dwelling units provided by entities subject to 

HUD’s Section 504 regulations and residential dwelling units covered by Section 233.3 must 

comply with the technical and scoping requirements in Chapters 1 through 10 included this 

document. Section 233 is not a stand-alone section; this section only addresses the 

minimum number of residential dwelling units within a facility required to comply with 

Chapter 8. However, residential facilities must also comply with the requirements of this 

document. For example: Section 206.5.4 requires all doors and doorways providing user 

passage in residential dwelling units providing mobility features to comply with Section 404; 

Section 206.7.6 permits platform lifts to be used to connect levels within residential dwelling 

units providing mobility features; Section 208 provides general scoping for accessible 

parking and Section 208.2.3.1 specifies the required number of accessible parking spaces 

for each residential dwelling unit providing mobility features; Section 228.2 requires mail 

boxes to be within reach ranges when they serve residential dwelling units providing mobility 

features; play areas are addressed in Section 240; and swimming pools are addressed in 

Section 242. There are special provisions applicable to facilities containing residential 

dwelling units at: Exception 3 to 202.3; Exception to 202.4; 203.8; and Exception 4 to 

206.2.3.

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 [See additional 

requirements at 28 CFR 35.151(e) and (f), p. 11, and 28 CFR 36.406(d) and (e), pp. 28 and 29.] 

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232.5.1 Cubicles and Counters. At least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of cubicles shall comply 

with 902 on both the visitor and detainee sides. Where counters are provided, at least one shall 

comply with 904.4.2 on both the visitor and detainee or inmate sides.

EXCEPTION: The inmate or detainee side of cubicles or counters at non-contact visiting areas 

not serving holding cells or housing cells required to comply with 232 shall not be required to 

comply with 902 or 904.4.2.

232.5.2 Partitions. Where solid partitions or security glazing separate visitors from detainees or 

inmates at least one of each type of cubicle or counter partition shall comply with 904.6.

233 Residential Facilities

233.1 General. Facilities with residential dwelling units shall comply with 233. 

233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD Section 504 Regulations. 

Where facilities with residential dwelling units are provided by entities subject to regulations issued by 

the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 

Advisory 233.1 General. Section 233 outlines the requirements for residential facilities 

subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The facilities covered by Section 233, 

as well as other facilities not covered by this section, may still be subject to other Federal 

laws such as the Fair Housing Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as 

amended. For example, the Fair Housing Act requires that certain residential structures 

having four or more multi-family dwelling units, regardless of whether they are privately 

owned or federally assisted, include certain features of accessible and adaptable design 

according to guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 

Development (HUD). These laws and the appropriate regulations should be consulted 

before proceeding with the design and construction of residential facilities.

Residential facilities containing residential dwelling units provided by entities subject to 

HUD’s Section 504 regulations and residential dwelling units covered by Section 233.3 must 

comply with the technical and scoping requirements in Chapters 1 through 10 included this 

document. Section 233 is not a stand-alone section; this section only addresses the 

minimum number of residential dwelling units within a facility required to comply with 

Chapter 8. However, residential facilities must also comply with the requirements of this 

document. For example: Section 206.5.4 requires all doors and doorways providing user 

passage in residential dwelling units providing mobility features to comply with Section 404; 

Section 206.7.6 permits platform lifts to be used to connect levels within residential dwelling 

units providing mobility features; Section 208 provides general scoping for accessible 

parking and Section 208.2.3.1 specifies the required number of accessible parking spaces 

for each residential dwelling unit providing mobility features; Section 228.2 requires mail 

boxes to be within reach ranges when they serve residential dwelling units providing mobility 

features; play areas are addressed in Section 240; and swimming pools are addressed in 

Section 242. There are special provisions applicable to facilities containing residential 

dwelling units at: Exception 3 to 202.3; Exception to 202.4; 203.8; and Exception 4 to 

206.2.3.

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232.5.1 Cubicles and Counters. At least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of cubicles shall comply 

with 902 on both the visitor and detainee sides. Where counters are provided, at least one shall 

comply with 904.4.2 on both the visitor and detainee or inmate sides.

EXCEPTION: The inmate or detainee side of cubicles or counters at non-contact visiting areas 

not serving holding cells or housing cells required to comply with 232 shall not be required to 

comply with 902 or 904.4.2.

232.5.2 Partitions. Where solid partitions or security glazing separate visitors from detainees or 

inmates at least one of each type of cubicle or counter partition shall comply with 904.6.

233 Residential Facilities

233.1 General. Facilities with residential dwelling units shall comply with 233. 

233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD Section 504 Regulations. 

Where facilities with residential dwelling units are provided by entities subject to regulations issued by 

the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 

Advisory 233.1 General. Section 233 outlines the requirements for residential facilities 

subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The facilities covered by Section 233, 

as well as other facilities not covered by this section, may still be subject to other Federal 

laws such as the Fair Housing Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as 

amended. For example, the Fair Housing Act requires that certain residential structures 

having four or more multi-family dwelling units, regardless of whether they are privately 

owned or federally assisted, include certain features of accessible and adaptable design 

according to guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 

Development (HUD). These laws and the appropriate regulations should be consulted 

before proceeding with the design and construction of residential facilities.

Residential facilities containing residential dwelling units provided by entities subject to 

HUD’s Section 504 regulations and residential dwelling units covered by Section 233.3 must 

comply with the technical and scoping requirements in Chapters 1 through 10 included this 

document. Section 233 is not a stand-alone section; this section only addresses the 

minimum number of residential dwelling units within a facility required to comply with 

Chapter 8. However, residential facilities must also comply with the requirements of this 

document. For example: Section 206.5.4 requires all doors and doorways providing user 

passage in residential dwelling units providing mobility features to comply with Section 404; 

Section 206.7.6 permits platform lifts to be used to connect levels within residential dwelling 

units providing mobility features; Section 208 provides general scoping for accessible 

parking and Section 208.2.3.1 specifies the required number of accessible parking spaces 

for each residential dwelling unit providing mobility features; Section 228.2 requires mail 

boxes to be within reach ranges when they serve residential dwelling units providing mobility 

features; play areas are addressed in Section 240; and swimming pools are addressed in 

Section 242. There are special provisions applicable to facilities containing residential 

dwelling units at: Exception 3 to 202.3; Exception to 202.4; 203.8; and Exception 4 to 

206.2.3.

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of 1973, as amended, such entities shall provide residential dwelling units with mobility features 

complying with 809.2 through 809.4 in a number required by the applicable HUD regulations. 

Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall 

be on an accessible route as required by 206. In addition, such entities shall provide residential dwelling 

units with communication features complying with 809.5 in a number required by the applicable HUD 

regulations. Entities subject to 233.2 shall not be required to comply with 233.3. 

233.3 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Not Subject to HUD Section 504 

Regulations. Facilities with residential dwelling units provided by entities not subject to regulations 

issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, shall comply with 233.3.

233.3.1 Minimum Number: New Construction. Newly constructed facilities with residential 

dwelling units shall comply with 233.3.1.

EXCEPTION: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are 

constructed under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a 

common site.

233.3.1.1 Residential Dwelling Units with Mobility Features. In facilities with residential

dwelling units, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of residential

dwelling units shall provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 and shall be on 

an accessible route as required by 206.

233.3.1.2 Residential Dwelling Units with Communication Features. In facilities with 

residential dwelling units, at least 2 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of 

residential dwelling units shall provide communication features complying with 809.5.

233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. Residential dwelling units offered for sale shall 

provide accessible features to the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under 

the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

Advisory 233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD 

Section 504 Regulations. Section 233.2 requires that entities subject to HUD’s regulations 

implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide residential 

dwelling units containing mobility features and residential dwelling units containing 

communication features complying with these regulations in a number specified in HUD’s 

Section 504 regulations. Further, the residential dwelling units provided must be dispersed 

according to HUD’s Section 504 criteria. In addition, Section 233.2 defers to HUD the 

specification of criteria by which the technical requirements of this document will apply to 

alterations of existing facilities subject to HUD’s Section 504 regulations.

Advisory 233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. A public entity that conducts a 

program to build housing for purchase by individual home buyers must provide access 

according to the requirements of the ADA regulations and a program receiving Federal 

financial assistance must comply with the applicable Section 504 regulation.

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of 1973, as amended, such entities shall provide residential dwelling units with mobility features 

complying with 809.2 through 809.4 in a number required by the applicable HUD regulations. 

Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall 

be on an accessible route as required by 206. In addition, such entities shall provide residential dwelling 

units with communication features complying with 809.5 in a number required by the applicable HUD 

regulations. Entities subject to 233.2 shall not be required to comply with 233.3. 

233.3 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Not Subject to HUD Section 504 

Regulations. Facilities with residential dwelling units provided by entities not subject to regulations 

issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, shall comply with 233.3.

233.3.1 Minimum Number: New Construction. Newly constructed facilities with residential 

dwelling units shall comply with 233.3.1.

EXCEPTION: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are 

constructed under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a 

common site.

233.3.1.1 Residential Dwelling Units with Mobility Features. In facilities with residential

dwelling units, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of residential

dwelling units shall provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 and shall be on 

an accessible route as required by 206.

233.3.1.2 Residential Dwelling Units with Communication Features. In facilities with 

residential dwelling units, at least 2 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of 

residential dwelling units shall provide communication features complying with 809.5.

233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. Residential dwelling units offered for sale shall 

provide accessible features to the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under 

the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

Advisory 233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD 

Section 504 Regulations. Section 233.2 requires that entities subject to HUD’s regulations 

implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide residential 

dwelling units containing mobility features and residential dwelling units containing 

communication features complying with these regulations in a number specified in HUD’s 

Section 504 regulations. Further, the residential dwelling units provided must be dispersed 

according to HUD’s Section 504 criteria. In addition, Section 233.2 defers to HUD the 

specification of criteria by which the technical requirements of this document will apply to 

alterations of existing facilities subject to HUD’s Section 504 regulations.

Advisory 233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. A public entity that conducts a 

program to build housing for purchase by individual home buyers must provide access 

according to the requirements of the ADA regulations and a program receiving Federal 

financial assistance must comply with the applicable Section 504 regulation.

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of 1973, as amended, such entities shall provide residential dwelling units with mobility features 

complying with 809.2 through 809.4 in a number required by the applicable HUD regulations. 

Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall 

be on an accessible route as required by 206. In addition, such entities shall provide residential dwelling 

units with communication features complying with 809.5 in a number required by the applicable HUD 

regulations. Entities subject to 233.2 shall not be required to comply with 233.3. 

233.3 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Not Subject to HUD Section 504 

Regulations. Facilities with residential dwelling units provided by entities not subject to regulations 

issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, shall comply with 233.3.

233.3.1 Minimum Number: New Construction. Newly constructed facilities with residential 

dwelling units shall comply with 233.3.1.

EXCEPTION: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are 

constructed under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a 

common site.

233.3.1.1 Residential Dwelling Units with Mobility Features. In facilities with residential

dwelling units, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of residential

dwelling units shall provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 and shall be on 

an accessible route as required by 206.

233.3.1.2 Residential Dwelling Units with Communication Features. In facilities with 

residential dwelling units, at least 2 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of 

residential dwelling units shall provide communication features complying with 809.5.

233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. Residential dwelling units offered for sale shall 

provide accessible features to the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under 

the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

Advisory 233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD 

Section 504 Regulations. Section 233.2 requires that entities subject to HUD’s regulations 

implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide residential 

dwelling units containing mobility features and residential dwelling units containing 

communication features complying with these regulations in a number specified in HUD’s 

Section 504 regulations. Further, the residential dwelling units provided must be dispersed 

according to HUD’s Section 504 criteria. In addition, Section 233.2 defers to HUD the 

specification of criteria by which the technical requirements of this document will apply to 

alterations of existing facilities subject to HUD’s Section 504 regulations.

Advisory 233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. A public entity that conducts a 

program to build housing for purchase by individual home buyers must provide access 

according to the requirements of the ADA regulations and a program receiving Federal 

financial assistance must comply with the applicable Section 504 regulation.

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of 1973, as amended, such entities shall provide residential dwelling units with mobility features 

complying with 809.2 through 809.4 in a number required by the applicable HUD regulations. 

Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall 

be on an accessible route as required by 206. In addition, such entities shall provide residential dwelling 

units with communication features complying with 809.5 in a number required by the applicable HUD 

regulations. Entities subject to 233.2 shall not be required to comply with 233.3. 

233.3 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Not Subject to HUD Section 504 

Regulations. Facilities with residential dwelling units provided by entities not subject to regulations 

issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, shall comply with 233.3.

233.3.1 Minimum Number: New Construction. Newly constructed facilities with residential 

dwelling units shall comply with 233.3.1.

EXCEPTION: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are 

constructed under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a 

common site.

233.3.1.1 Residential Dwelling Units with Mobility Features. In facilities with residential

dwelling units, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of residential

dwelling units shall provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 and shall be on 

an accessible route as required by 206.

233.3.1.2 Residential Dwelling Units with Communication Features. In facilities with 

residential dwelling units, at least 2 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of 

residential dwelling units shall provide communication features complying with 809.5.

233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. Residential dwelling units offered for sale shall 

provide accessible features to the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under 

the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

Advisory 233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD 

Section 504 Regulations. Section 233.2 requires that entities subject to HUD’s regulations 

implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide residential 

dwelling units containing mobility features and residential dwelling units containing 

communication features complying with these regulations in a number specified in HUD’s 

Section 504 regulations. Further, the residential dwelling units provided must be dispersed 

according to HUD’s Section 504 criteria. In addition, Section 233.2 defers to HUD the 

specification of criteria by which the technical requirements of this document will apply to 

alterations of existing facilities subject to HUD’s Section 504 regulations.

Advisory 233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. A public entity that conducts a 

program to build housing for purchase by individual home buyers must provide access 

according to the requirements of the ADA regulations and a program receiving Federal 

financial assistance must comply with the applicable Section 504 regulation.

Titles II and III - 2010 Standards - 62

[See additional requirements at 28 CFR 35.151(j), p. 13.] 

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of 1973, as amended, such entities shall provide residential dwelling units with mobility features 

complying with 809.2 through 809.4 in a number required by the applicable HUD regulations. 

Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall 

be on an accessible route as required by 206. In addition, such entities shall provide residential dwelling 

units with communication features complying with 809.5 in a number required by the applicable HUD 

regulations. Entities subject to 233.2 shall not be required to comply with 233.3. 

233.3 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Not Subject to HUD Section 504 

Regulations. Facilities with residential dwelling units provided by entities not subject to regulations 

issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 504 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, shall comply with 233.3.

233.3.1 Minimum Number: New Construction. Newly constructed facilities with residential 

dwelling units shall comply with 233.3.1.

EXCEPTION: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are 

constructed under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a 

common site.

233.3.1.1 Residential Dwelling Units with Mobility Features. In facilities with residential

dwelling units, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of residential

dwelling units shall provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 and shall be on 

an accessible route as required by 206.

233.3.1.2 Residential Dwelling Units with Communication Features. In facilities with 

residential dwelling units, at least 2 percent, but no fewer than one unit, of the total number of 

residential dwelling units shall provide communication features complying with 809.5.

233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. Residential dwelling units offered for sale shall 

provide accessible features to the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under 

the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. 

Advisory 233.2 Residential Dwelling Units Provided by Entities Subject to HUD 

Section 504 Regulations. Section 233.2 requires that entities subject to HUD’s regulations 

implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide residential 

dwelling units containing mobility features and residential dwelling units containing 

communication features complying with these regulations in a number specified in HUD’s 

Section 504 regulations. Further, the residential dwelling units provided must be dispersed 

according to HUD’s Section 504 criteria. In addition, Section 233.2 defers to HUD the 

specification of criteria by which the technical requirements of this document will apply to 

alterations of existing facilities subject to HUD’s Section 504 regulations.

Advisory 233.3.2 Residential Dwelling Units for Sale. A public entity that conducts a 

program to build housing for purchase by individual home buyers must provide access 

according to the requirements of the ADA regulations and a program receiving Federal 

financial assistance must comply with the applicable Section 504 regulation.

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233.3.3 Additions. Where an addition to an existing building results in an increase in the number of 

residential dwelling units, the requirements of 233.3.1 shall apply only to the residential dwelling units 

that are added until the total number of residential dwelling units complies with the minimum number 

required by 233.3.1. Residential dwelling units required to comply with 233.3.1.1 shall be on an 

accessible route as required by 206.

233.3.4 Alterations. Alterations shall comply with 233.3.4.

EXCEPTION: Where compliance with 809.2, 809.3, or 809.4 is technically infeasible, or where it 

is technically infeasible to provide an accessible route to a residential dwelling unit, the entity 

shall be permitted to alter or construct a comparable residential dwelling unit to comply with 

809.2 through 809.4 provided that the minimum number of residential dwelling units required by 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2, as applicable, is satisfied. 

233.3.4.1 Alterations to Vacated Buildings. Where a building is vacated for the purposes of 

alteration, and the altered building contains more than 15 residential dwelling units, at least 5 

percent of the residential dwelling units shall comply with 809.2 through 809.4 and shall be on an 

accessible route as required by 206. In addition, at least 2 percent of the residential dwelling 

units shall comply with 809.5. 

233.3.4.2 Alterations to Individual Residential Dwelling Units. In individual residential 

dwelling units, where a bathroom or a kitchen is substantially altered, and at least one other room 

is altered, the requirements of 233.3.1 shall apply to the altered residential dwelling units until the 

total number of residential dwelling units complies with the minimum number required by 

233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2. Residential dwelling units required to comply with 233.3.1.1 shall be on 

an accessible route as required by 206.

EXCEPTION: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the 

requirements of 233.3.1.1 and 233.3.1.2 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling 

units that are altered under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not 

located on a common site. 

Advisory 233.3.4 Alterations Exception. A substituted dwelling unit must be comparable 

to the dwelling unit that is not made accessible. Factors to be considered in comparing one 

dwelling unit to another should include the number of bedrooms; amenities provided within 

the dwelling unit; types of common spaces provided within the facility; and location with 

respect to community resources and services, such as public transportation and civic, 

recreational, and mercantile facilities.

Advisory 233.3.4.1 Alterations to Vacated Buildings. This provision is intended to apply 

where a building is vacated with the intent to alter the building. Buildings that are vacated 

solely for pest control or asbestos removal are not subject to the requirements to provide 

residential dwelling units with mobility features or communication features.

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233.3.5 Dispersion. Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with 

809.2 through 809.4 and residential dwelling units required to provide communication features 

complying with 809.5 shall be dispersed among the various types of residential dwelling units in the 

facility and shall provide choices of residential dwelling units comparable to, and integrated with, 

those available to other residents.

EXCEPTION: Where multi-story residential dwelling units are one of the types of residential 

dwelling units provided, one-story residential dwelling units shall be permitted as a substitute for 

multi-story residential dwelling units where equivalent spaces and amenities are provided in the 

one-story residential dwelling unit.

234 Amusement Rides

234.1 General. Amusement rides shall comply with 234.

EXCEPTION: Mobile or portable amusement rides shall not be required to comply with 234. 

Advisory 233.3.4.2 Alterations to Individual Residential Dwelling Units. Section 

233.3.4.2 uses the terms “substantially altered” and “altered.” A substantial alteration to a 

kitchen or bathroom includes, but is not limited to, alterations that are changes to or 

rearrangements in the plan configuration, or replacement of cabinetry. Substantial 

alterations do not include normal maintenance or appliance and fixture replacement, unless 

such maintenance or replacement requires changes to or rearrangements in the plan 

configuration, or replacement of cabinetry. The term “alteration” is defined both in Section 

106 of these requirements and in the Department of Justice ADA regulations.

Advisory 234.1 General. These requirements apply generally to newly designed and 

constructed amusement rides and attractions. A custom designed and constructed ride is 

new upon its first use, which is the first time amusement park patrons take the ride. With 

respect to amusement rides purchased from other entities, new refers to the first permanent 

installation of the ride, whether it is used off the shelf or modified before it is installed. 

Where amusement rides are moved after several seasons to another area of the park or to 

another park, the ride would not be considered newly designed or newly constructed.

Some amusement rides and attractions that have unique designs and features are not 

addressed by these requirements. In those situations, these requirements are to be applied 

to the extent possible. An example of an amusement ride not specifically addressed by 

these requirements includes “virtual reality” rides where the device does not move through a 

fixed course within a defined area. An accessible route must be provided to these rides. 

Where an attraction or ride has unique features for which there are no applicable scoping 

provisions, then a reasonable number, but at least one, of the features must be located on 

an accessible route. Where there are appropriate technical provisions, they must be applied 

to the elements that are covered by the scoping provisions.

Advisory 234.1 General Exception. Mobile or temporary rides are those set up for short 

periods of time such as traveling carnivals, State and county fairs, and festivals. The 

amusement rides that are covered by 234.1 are ones that are not regularly assembled and 

disassembled.

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234.2 Load and Unload Areas. Load and unload areas serving amusement rides shall comply with 

1002.3.

234.3 Minimum Number. Amusement rides shall provide at least one wheelchair space complying with 

1002.4, or at least one amusement ride seat designed for transfer complying with 1002.5, or at least one 

transfer device complying with 1002.6.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Amusement rides that are controlled or operated by the rider shall not be 

required to comply with 234.3.

2. Amusement rides designed primarily for children, where children are assisted on and off the ride 

by an adult, shall not be required to comply with 234.3.

3. Amusement rides that do not provide amusement ride seats shall not be required to comply with 

234.3. 

234.4 Existing Amusement Rides. Where existing amusement rides are altered, the alteration shall 

comply with 234.4. 

234.4.1 Load and Unload Areas. Where load and unload areas serving existing amusement rides

are newly designed and constructed, the load and unload areas shall comply with 1002.3.

234.4.2 Minimum Number. Where the structural or operational characteristics of an amusement 

ride are altered to the extent that the amusement ride’s performance differs from that specified by the 

manufacturer or the original design, the amusement ride shall comply with 234.3.

235 Recreational Boating Facilities

235.1 General. Recreational boating facilities shall comply with 235.

Advisory 234.3 Minimum Number Exceptions 1 through 3. Amusement rides controlled 

or operated by the rider, designed for children, or rides without ride seats are not required to 

comply with 234.3. These rides are not exempt from the other provisions in 234 requiring an 

accessible route to the load and unload areas and to the ride. The exception does not apply 

to those rides where patrons may cause the ride to make incidental movements, but where 

the patron otherwise has no control over the ride.

Advisory 234.3 Minimum Number Exception 2. The exception is limited to those rides 

designed “primarily” for children, where children are assisted on and off the ride by an adult. 

This exception is limited to those rides designed for children and not for the occasional adult 

user. An accessible route to and turning space in the load and unload area will provide 

access for adults and family members assisting children on and off these rides.

Advisory 234.4 Existing Amusement Rides. Routine maintenance, painting, and 

changing of theme boards are examples of activities that do not constitute an alteration 

subject to this section.

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235.2 Boat Slips. Boat slips complying with 1003.3.1 shall be provided in accordance with Table 235.2. 

Where the number of boat slips is not identified, each 40 feet (12 m) of boat slip edge provided along the 

perimeter of the pier shall be counted as one boat slip for the purpose of this section. 

235.2.1 Dispersion. Boat slips complying with 1003.3.1 shall be dispersed throughout the various 

types of boat slips provided. Where the minimum number of boat slips required to comply with 

1003.3.1 has been met, no further dispersion shall be required. 

Table 235.2 Boat Slips

Total Number of Boat Slips

Provided in Facility

Minimum Number of Required

Accessible Boat Slips

1 to 25 1

26 to 50 2

51 to 100 3

101 to 150 4

151 to 300 5

301 to 400 6

401 to 500 7

501 to 600 8

601 to 700 9

701 to 800 10

801 to 900 11

901 to 1000 12

1001 and over 12, plus 1 for every 100,

or fraction thereof, over 1000

Advisory 235.2 Boat Slips. The requirement for boat slips also applies to piers where boat 

slips are not demarcated. For example, a single pier 25 feet (7620 mm) long and 5 feet 

(1525 mm) wide (the minimum width specified by Section 1003.3) allows boats to moor on 

three sides. Because the number of boat slips is not demarcated, the total length of boat 

slip edge (55 feet, 17 m) must be used to determine the number of boat slips provided (two). 

This number is based on the specification in Section 235.2 that each 40 feet (12 m) of boat 

slip edge, or fraction thereof, counts as one boat slip. In this example, Table 235.2 would 

require one boat slip to be accessible.

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235.3 Boarding Piers at Boat Launch Ramps. Where boarding piers are provided at boat launch 

ramps, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of the boarding piers shall comply with 1003.3.2.

236 Exercise Machines and Equipment

236.1 General. At least one of each type of exercise machine and equipment shall comply with 1004. 

237 Fishing Piers and Platforms

237.1 General. Fishing piers and platforms shall comply with 1005.

238 Golf Facilities

238.1 General. Golf facilities shall comply with 238.

238.2 Golf Courses. Golf courses shall comply with 238.2.

238.2.1 Teeing Grounds. Where one teeing ground is provided for a hole, the teeing ground shall 

be designed and constructed so that a golf car can enter and exit the teeing ground. Where two 

teeing grounds are provided for a hole, the forward teeing ground shall be designed and constructed 

so that a golf car can enter and exit the teeing ground. Where three or more teeing grounds are 

provided for a hole, at least two teeing grounds, including the forward teeing ground, shall be 

designed and constructed so that a golf car can enter and exit each teeing ground.

EXCEPTION: In existing golf courses, the forward teeing ground shall not be required to be one 

of the teeing grounds on a hole designed and constructed so that a golf car can enter and exit the 

teeing ground where compliance is not feasible due to terrain.

Advisory 235.2.1 Dispersion. Types of boat slips are based on the size of the boat slips; 

whether single berths or double berths, shallow water or deep water, transient or longerterm lease, covered or uncovered; and whether slips are equipped with features such as 

telephone, water, electricity or cable connections. The term “boat slip” is intended to cover 

any pier area other than launch ramp boarding piers where recreational boats are moored 

for purposes of berthing, embarking, or disembarking. For example, a fuel pier may contain 

boat slips, and this type of short term slip would be included in determining compliance with 

235.2.

Advisory 236.1 General. Most strength training equipment and machines are considered 

different types. Where operators provide a biceps curl machine and cable-cross-over 

machine, both machines are required to meet the provisions in this section, even though an 

individual may be able to work on their biceps through both types of equipment.

Similarly, there are many types of cardiovascular exercise machines, such as stationary 

bicycles, rowing machines, stair climbers, and treadmills. Each machine provides a 

cardiovascular exercise and is considered a different type for purposes of these 

requirements.

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238.2.2 Putting Greens. Putting greens shall be designed and constructed so that a golf car can 

enter and exit the putting green.

238.2.3 Weather Shelters. Where provided, weather shelters shall be designed and constructed so 

that a golf car can enter and exit the weather shelter and shall comply with 1006.4.

238.3 Practice Putting Greens, Practice Teeing Grounds, and Teeing Stations at Driving Ranges. 

At least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of practice putting greens, practice teeing grounds, and teeing 

stations at driving ranges shall be designed and constructed so that a golf car can enter and exit the 

practice putting greens, practice teeing grounds, and teeing stations at driving ranges.

239 Miniature Golf Facilities

239.1 General. Miniature golf facilities shall comply with 239.

239.2 Minimum Number. At least 50 percent of holes on miniature golf courses shall comply with 

1007.3. 

239.3 Miniature Golf Course Configuration. Miniature golf courses shall be configured so that the

holes complying with 1007.3 are consecutive. Miniature golf courses shall provide an accessible route 

from the last hole complying with 1007.3 to the course entrance or exit without requiring travel through 

any other holes on the course.

EXCEPTION: One break in the sequence of consecutive holes shall be permitted provided that the 

last hole on the miniature golf course is the last hole in the sequence. 

240 Play Areas

240.1 General. Play areas for children ages 2 and over shall comply with 240. Where separate play

areas are provided within a site for specific age groups, each play area shall comply with 240.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Play areas located in family child care facilities where the proprietor actually 

resides shall not be required to comply with 240.

2. In existing play areas, where play components are relocated for the purposes of creating safe use 

zones and the ground surface is not altered or extended for more than one use zone, the play area

shall not be required to comply with 240.

Advisory 239.2 Minimum Number. Where possible, providing access to all holes on a 

miniature golf course is recommended. If a course is designed with the minimum 50 percent 

accessible holes, designers or operators are encouraged to select holes which provide for 

an equivalent experience to the maximum extent possible.

Advisory 239.3 Miniature Golf Course Configuration. Where only the minimum 50 

percent of the holes are accessible, an accessible route from the last accessible hole to the 

course exit or entrance must not require travel back through other holes. In some cases, 

this may require an additional accessible route. Other options include increasing the 

number of accessible holes in a way that limits the distance needed to connect the last 

accessible hole with the course exit or entrance.

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3. Amusement attractions shall not be required to comply with 240.

4. Where play components are altered and the ground surface is not altered, the ground surface 

shall not be required to comply with 1008.2.6 unless required by 202.4. 

240.1.1 Additions. Where play areas are designed and constructed in phases, the requirements of 

240 shall apply to each successive addition so that when the addition is completed, the entire play

area complies with all the applicable requirements of 240. 

240.2 Play Components. Where provided, play components shall comply with 240.2.

240.2.1 Ground Level Play Components. Ground level play components shall be provided in the

number and types required by 240.2.1. Ground level play components that are provided to comply 

with 240.2.1.1 shall be permitted to satisfy the additional number required by 240.2.1.2 if the 

minimum required types of play components are satisfied. Where two or more required ground level 

play components are provided, they shall be dispersed throughout the play area and integrated with 

other play components. 

Advisory 240.1 General. Play areas may be located on exterior sites or within a building. 

Where separate play areas are provided within a site for children in specified age groups 

(e.g., preschool (ages 2 to 5) and school age (ages 5 to 12)), each play area must comply 

with this section. Where play areas are provided for the same age group on a site but are 

geographically separated (e.g., one is located next to a picnic area and another is located 

next to a softball field), they are considered separate play areas and each play area must 

comply with this section.

Advisory 240.1.1 Additions. These requirements are to be applied so that when each 

successive addition is completed, the entire play area complies with all applicable 

provisions. For example, a play area is built in two phases. In the first phase, there are 10 

elevated play components and 10 elevated play components are added in the second 

phase for a total of 20 elevated play components in the play area. When the first phase was 

completed, at least 5 elevated play components, including at least 3 different types, were to 

be provided on an accessible route. When the second phase is completed, at least 10 

elevated play components must be located on an accessible route, and at least 7 ground 

level play components, including 4 different types, must be provided on an accessible route. 

At the time the second phase is complete, ramps must be used to connect at least 5 of the 

elevated play components and transfer systems are permitted to be used to connect the rest 

of the elevated play components required to be located on an accessible route.

Advisory 240.2.1 Ground Level Play Components. Examples of ground level play 

components may include spring rockers, swings, diggers, and stand-alone slides. When 

distinguishing between the different types of ground level play components, consider the 

general experience provided by the play component. Examples of different types of 

experiences include, but are not limited to, rocking, swinging, climbing, spinning, and 

sliding. 

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240.2.1.1 Minimum Number and Types. Where ground level play components are provided, at 

least one of each type shall be on an accessible route and shall comply with 1008.4.

240.2.1.2 Additional Number and Types. Where elevated play components are provided, 

ground level play components shall be provided in accordance with Table 240.2.1.2 and shall 

comply with 1008.4.

EXCEPTION: If at least 50 percent of the elevated play components are connected by a 

ramp and at least 3 of the elevated play components connected by the ramp are different 

types of play components, the play area shall not be required to comply with 240.2.1.2. 

Advisory 240.2.1 Ground Level Play Components (Continued). A spiral slide may 

provide a slightly different experience from a straight slide, but sliding is the general 

experience and therefore a spiral slide is not considered a different type of play component 

from a straight slide.

Ground level play components accessed by children with disabilities must be integrated into 

the play area. Designers should consider the optimal layout of ground level play 

components accessed by children with disabilities to foster interaction and socialization 

among all children. Grouping all ground level play components accessed by children with 

disabilities in one location is not considered integrated.

Where a stand-alone slide is provided, an accessible route must connect the base of the 

stairs at the entry point to the exit point of the slide. A ramp or transfer system to the top of 

the slide is not required. Where a sand box is provided, an accessible route must connect to 

the border of the sand box. Accessibility to the sand box would be enhanced by providing a 

transfer system into the sand or by providing a raised sand table with knee clearance 

complying with 1008.4.3.

Ramps are preferred over transfer systems since not all children who use wheelchairs or 

other mobility devices may be able to use, or may choose not to use, transfer systems. 

Where ramps connect elevated play components, the maximum rise of any ramp run is 

limited to 12 inches (305 mm). Where possible, designers and operators are encouraged to 

provide ramps with a slope less than the 1:12 maximum. Berms or sculpted dirt may be 

used to provide elevation and may be part of an accessible route to composite play 

structures.

Platform lifts are permitted as a part of an accessible route. Because lifts must be 

independently operable, operators should carefully consider the appropriateness of their 

use in unsupervised settings.

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240.2.2 Elevated Play Components. Where elevated play components are provided, at least 50 

percent shall be on an accessible route and shall comply with 1008.4. 

Table 240.2.1.2 Number and Types of Ground Level Play

Components Required to be on Accessible Routes

Number of Elevated Play

Components Provided

Minimum Number of Ground 

Level Play Components 

Required to be on an 

Accessible Route

Minimum Number of Different 

Types of Ground Level Play 

Components Required to be 

on an Accessible Route

1 Not applicable Not applicable

2 to 4 1 1

5 to 7 2 2

8 to 10 3 3

11 to 13 4 3

14 to 16 5 3

17 to 19 6 3

20 to 22 7 4

23 to 25 8 4

26 and over 8, plus 1 for each additional 3,

or fraction thereof, over 25

5

Advisory 240.2.1.2 Additional Number and Types. Where a large play area includes two 

or more composite play structures designed for the same age group, the total number of 

elevated play components on all the composite play structures must be added to determine 

the additional number and types of ground level play components that must be provided on 

an accessible route.

Advisory 240.2.2 Elevated Play Components. A double or triple slide that is part of a 

composite play structure is one elevated play component. For purposes of this section, 

ramps, transfer systems, steps, decks, and roofs are not considered elevated play 

components. Although socialization and pretend play can occur on these elements, they 

are not primarily intended for play.

Some play components that are attached to a composite play structure can be approached 

or exited at the ground level or above grade from a platform or deck. For example, a climber 

attached to a composite play structure can be approached or exited at the ground level or 

above grade from a platform or deck on a composite play structure. 

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241 Saunas and Steam Rooms

241 General. Where provided, saunas and steam rooms shall comply with 612.

EXCEPTION: Where saunas or steam rooms are clustered at a single location, no more than 5 

percent of the saunas and steam rooms, but no fewer than one, of each type in each cluster shall be 

required to comply with 612.

242 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas

242.1 General. Swimming pools, wading pools, and spas shall comply with 242.

242.2 Swimming Pools. At least two accessible means of entry shall be provided for swimming pools. 

Accessible means of entry shall be swimming pool lifts complying with 1009.2; sloped entries complying 

with 1009.3; transfer walls complying with 1009.4; transfer systems complying with 1009.5; and pool 

stairs complying with 1009.6. At least one accessible means of entry provided shall comply with 1009.2 

or 1009.3. 

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where a swimming pool has less than 300 linear feet (91 m) of swimming pool 

wall, no more than one accessible means of entry shall be required provided that the accessible

means of entry is a swimming pool lift complying with 1009.2 or sloped entry complying with 1009.3.

2. Wave action pools, leisure rivers, sand bottom pools, and other pools where user access is limited 

to one area shall not be required to provide more than one accessible means of entry provided that 

the accessible means of entry is a swimming pool lift complying with 1009.2, a sloped entry 

complying with 1009.3, or a transfer system complying with 1009.5.

3. Catch pools shall not be required to provide an accessible means of entry provided that the catch 

pool edge is on an accessible route. 

242.3 Wading Pools. At least one accessible means of entry shall be provided for wading pools. 

Accessible means of entry shall comply with sloped entries complying with 1009.3.

Advisory 240.2.2 Elevated Play Components (Continued). Play components that are 

attached to a composite play structure and can be approached from a platform or deck (e.g., 

climbers and overhead play components) are considered elevated play components. These 

play components are not considered ground level play components and do not count toward 

the requirements in 240.2.1.2 regarding the number of ground level play components that 

must be located on an accessible route.

Advisory 242.2 Swimming Pools. Where more than one means of access is provided into 

the water, it is recommended that the means be different. Providing different means of 

access will better serve the varying needs of people with disabilities in getting into and out of 

a swimming pool. It is also recommended that where two or more means of access are 

provided, they not be provided in the same location in the pool. Different locations will 

provide increased options for entry and exit, especially in larger pools.

Advisory 242.2 Swimming Pools Exception 1. Pool walls at diving areas and areas along 

pool walls where there is no pool entry because of landscaping or adjacent structures are to 

be counted when determining the number of accessible means of entry required.

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242.4 Spas. At least one accessible means of entry shall be provided for spas. Accessible means of 

entry shall comply with swimming pool lifts complying with1009.2; transfer walls complying with 1009.4; 

or transfer systems complying with 1009.5.

EXCEPTION: Where spas are provided in a cluster, no more than 5 percent, but no fewer than one, 

spa in each cluster shall be required to comply with 242.4.

243 Shooting Facilities with Firing Positions

243.1 General. Where shooting facilities with firing positions are designed and constructed at a site, at 

least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type of firing position shall comply with 1010.

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CHAPTER 3: BUILDING BLOCKS

301 General

301.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 3 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document.

302 Floor or Ground Surfaces

302.1 General. Floor and ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant and shall comply with 

302.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Within animal containment areas, floor and ground surfaces shall not be required 

to be stable, firm, and slip resistant.

2. Areas of sport activity shall not be required to comply with 302. 

302.2 Carpet. Carpet or carpet tile shall be securely attached and shall have a firm cushion, pad, or 

backing or no cushion or pad. Carpet or carpet tile shall have a level loop, textured loop, level cut pile, or 

level cut/uncut pile texture. Pile height shall be 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) maximum. Exposed edges of carpet 

shall be fastened to floor surfaces and shall have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge. Carpet 

edge trim shall comply with 303. 

Advisory 302.1 General. A stable surface is one that remains unchanged by contaminants 

or applied force, so that when the contaminant or force is removed, the surface returns to its 

original condition. A firm surface resists deformation by either indentations or particles 

moving on its surface. A slip-resistant surface provides sufficient frictional counterforce to 

the forces exerted in walking to permit safe ambulation.

Advisory 302.2 Carpet. Carpets and permanently affixed mats can significantly increase 

the amount of force (roll resistance) needed to propel a wheelchair over a surface. The 

firmer the carpeting and backing, the lower the roll resistance. A pile thickness up to 1⁄2 inch 

(13 mm) (measured to the backing, cushion, or pad) is allowed, although a lower pile 

provides easier wheelchair maneuvering. If a backing, cushion or pad is used, it must be 

firm. Preferably, carpet pad should not be used because the soft padding increases roll 

resistance. 

Figure 302.2

Carpet Pile Height

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302.3 Openings. Openings in floor or ground surfaces shall not allow passage of a sphere more than 1⁄2 

inch (13 mm) diameter except as allowed in 407.4.3, 409.4.3, 410.4, 810.5.3 and 810.10. Elongated 

openings shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel. 

303 Changes in Level

303.1 General. Where changes in level are permitted in floor or ground surfaces, they shall comply with 

303.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Animal containment areas shall not be required to comply with 303.

2. Areas of sport activity shall not be required to comply with 303.

303.2 Vertical. Changes in level of 1⁄4 inch (6.4 mm) high maximum shall be permitted to be vertical. 

Figure 302.3

Elongated Openings in Floor or Ground Surfaces

Figure 303.2

Vertical Change in Level

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303.3 Beveled. Changes in level between 1⁄4 inch (6.4 mm) high minimum and 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) high 

maximum shall be beveled with a slope not steeper than 1:2. 

303.4 Ramps. Changes in level greater than 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) high shall be ramped, and shall comply 

with 405 or 406.

304 Turning Space

304.1 General. Turning space shall comply with 304.

304.2 Floor or Ground Surfaces. Floor or ground surfaces of a turning space shall comply with 302. 

Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted. 

304.3 Size. Turning space shall comply with 304.3.1 or 304.3.2.

304.3.1 Circular Space. The turning space shall be a space of 60 inches (1525 mm) diameter 

minimum. The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with 306.

304.3.2 T-Shaped Space. The turning space shall be a T-shaped space within a 60 inch (1525 mm) 

square minimum with arms and base 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum. Each arm of the T shall be 

clear of obstructions 12 inches (305 mm) minimum in each direction and the base shall be clear of 

Advisory 303.3 Beveled. A change in level of 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) is permitted to be 1⁄4 inch 

(6.4 mm) vertical plus 1⁄4 inch (6.4 mm) beveled. However, in no case may the combined 

change in level exceed 1⁄2 inch (13 mm). Changes in level exceeding 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) must 

comply with 405 (Ramps) or 406 (Curb Ramps). 

Figure 303.3

Beveled Change in Level

Advisory 304.2 Floor or Ground Surface Exception. As used in this section, the phrase 

“changes in level” refers to surfaces with slopes and to surfaces with abrupt rise exceeding 

that permitted in Section 303.3. Such changes in level are prohibited in required clear floor 

and ground spaces, turning spaces, and in similar spaces where people using wheelchairs 

and other mobility devices must park their mobility aids such as in wheelchair spaces, or 

maneuver to use elements such as at doors, fixtures, and telephones. The exception 

permits slopes not steeper than 1:48.

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obstructions 24 inches (610 mm) minimum. The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe 

clearance complying with 306 only at the end of either the base or one arm. 

304.4 Door Swing. Doors shall be permitted to swing into turning spaces.

305 Clear Floor or Ground Space

305.1 General. Clear floor or ground space shall comply with 305.

305.2 Floor or Ground Surfaces. Floor or ground surfaces of a clear floor or ground space shall 

comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

305.3 Size. The clear floor or ground space shall be 30 inches (760 mm) minimum by 48 inches (1220 

mm) minimum. 

Figure 304.3.2

T-Shaped Turning Space

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305.4 Knee and Toe Clearance. Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be 

permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with 306.

305.5 Position. Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be positioned for either 

forward or parallel approach to an element. 

305.6 Approach. One full unobstructed side of the clear floor or ground space shall adjoin an 

accessible route or adjoin another clear floor or ground space.

305.7 Maneuvering Clearance. Where a clear floor or ground space is located in an alcove or 

otherwise confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering clearance shall be provided in 

accordance with 305.7.1 and 305.7.2.

Figure 305.3

Clear Floor or Ground Space

Figure 305.5

Position of Clear Floor or Ground Space

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305.7.1 Forward Approach. Alcoves shall be 36 inches (915 mm)wide minimum where the depth 

exceeds 24 inches (610 mm). 

305.7.2 Parallel Approach. Alcoves shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum where the depth 

exceeds 15 inches (380 mm). 

306 Knee and Toe Clearance

306.1 General. Where space beneath an element is included as part of clear floor or ground space or 

turning space, the space shall comply with 306. Additional space shall not be prohibited beneath an 

element but shall not be considered as part of the clear floor or ground space or turning space. 

Figure 305.7.1

Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove, Forward Approach

Figure 305.7.2

Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove, Parallel Approach

Advisory 306.1 General. Clearances are measured in relation to the usable clear floor 

space, not necessarily to the vertical support for an element. When determining clearance 

under an object for required turning or maneuvering space, care should be taken to ensure 

the space is clear of any obstructions.

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306.2 Toe Clearance.

306.2.1 General. Space under an element between the finish floor or ground and 9 inches (230 mm) 

above the finish floor or ground shall be considered toe clearance and shall comply with 306.2.

306.2.2 Maximum Depth. Toe clearance shall extend 25 inches (635 mm) maximum under an 

element.

306.2.3 Minimum Required Depth. Where toe clearance is required at an element as part of a 

clear floor space, the toe clearance shall extend 17 inches (430 mm) minimum under the element.

306.2.4 Additional Clearance. Space extending greater than 6 inches (150 mm) beyond the 

available knee clearance at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall not be 

considered toe clearance.

306.2.5 Width. Toe clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum. 

306.3 Knee Clearance.

306.3.1 General. Space under an element between 9 inches (230 mm) and 27 inches (685 mm) 

above the finish floor or ground shall be considered knee clearance and shall comply with 306.3.

306.3.2 Maximum Depth. Knee clearance shall extend 25 inches (635 mm) maximum under an 

element at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish floor or ground.

306.3.3 Minimum Required Depth. Where knee clearance is required under an element as part of 

a clear floor space, the knee clearance shall be 11 inches (280 mm) deep minimum at 9 inches (230 

mm) above the finish floor or ground, and 8 inches (205 mm) deep minimum at 27 inches (685 mm) 

above the finish floor or ground.

Figure 306.2

Toe Clearance

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306.3.4 Clearance Reduction. Between 9 inches (230 mm) and 27 inches (685 mm) above the 

finish floor or ground, the knee clearance shall be permitted to reduce at a rate of 1 inch (25 mm) in 

depth for each 6 inches (150 mm) in height.

306.3.5 Width. Knee clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum. 

307 Protruding Objects

307.1 General. Protruding objects shall comply with 307.

307.2 Protrusion Limits. Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 

80 inches (2030 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall protrude 4 inches (100 mm) maximum 

horizontally into the circulation path.

EXCEPTION: Handrails shall be permitted to protrude 41⁄2 inches (115 mm) maximum. 

Figure 306.3

Knee Clearance

Advisory 307.2 Protrusion Limits. When a cane is used and the element is in the 

detectable range, it gives a person sufficient time to detect the element with the cane before 

there is body contact. Elements located on circulation paths, including operable elements, 

must comply with requirements for protruding objects. For example, awnings and their 

supporting structures cannot reduce the minimum required vertical clearance. Similarly, 

casement windows, when open, cannot encroach more than 4 inches (100 mm) into 

circulation paths above 27 inches (685 mm).

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307.3 Post-Mounted Objects. Free-standing objects mounted on posts or pylons shall overhang 

circulation paths 12 inches (305 mm) maximum when located 27 inches (685 mm) minimum and 80 

inches (2030 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. Where a sign or other obstruction is 

mounted between posts or pylons and the clear distance between the posts or pylons is greater than 12 

inches (305 mm), the lowest edge of such sign or obstruction shall be 27 inches (685 mm) maximum or 

80 inches (2030 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

EXCEPTION: The sloping portions of handrails serving stairs and ramps shall not be required to 

comply with 307.3. 

Figure 307.2

Limits of Protruding Objects

Figure 307.3

Post-Mounted Protruding Objects

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307.4 Vertical Clearance. Vertical clearance shall be 80 inches (2030 mm) high minimum. Guardrails 

or other barriers shall be provided where the vertical clearance is less than 80 inches (2030 mm) high. 

The leading edge of such guardrail or barrier shall be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the 

finish floor or ground.

EXCEPTION: Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum 

above the finish floor or ground. 

307.5 Required Clear Width. Protruding objects shall not reduce the clear width required for accessible 

routes.

308 Reach Ranges

308.1 General. Reach ranges shall comply with 308. 

Figure 307.4

Vertical Clearance

Advisory 308.1 General. The following table provides guidance on reach ranges for 

children according to age where building elements such as coat hooks, lockers, or operable 

parts are designed for use primarily by children. These dimensions apply to either forward 

or side reaches. Accessible elements and operable parts designed for adult use or children 

over age 12 can be located outside these ranges but must be within the adult reach ranges 

required by 308.

Children's Reach Ranges

Forward or Side 

Reach Ages 3 and 4 Ages 5 through 8 Ages 9 through 12

High (maximum) 36 in (915 mm) 40 in (1015 mm) 44 in (1120 mm)

Low (minimum) 20 in (510 mm) 18 in (455 mm) 16 in (405 mm)

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308.2 Forward Reach.

308.2.1 Unobstructed. Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach shall be 48 

inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low forward reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above 

the finish floor or ground. 

308.2.2 Obstructed High Reach. Where a high forward reach is over an obstruction, the clear floor 

space shall extend beneath the element for a distance not less than the required reach depth over 

the obstruction. The high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum where the reach 

depth is 20 inches (510 mm) maximum. Where the reach depth exceeds 20 inches (510 mm), the 

high forward reach shall be 44 inches (1120 mm) maximum and the reach depth shall be 25 inches 

(635 mm) maximum. 

308.3 Side Reach.

308.3.1 Unobstructed. Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to an 

element and the side reach is unobstructed, the high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) 

Figure 308.2.1

Unobstructed Forward Reach

Figure 308.2.2

Obstructed High Forward Reach

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maximum and the low side reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish floor or 

ground.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. An obstruction shall be permitted between the clear floor or ground space

and the element where the depth of the obstruction is 10 inches (255 mm) maximum.

2. Operable parts of fuel dispensers shall be permitted to be 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum 

measured from the surface of the vehicular way where fuel dispensers are installed on existing 

curbs. 

308.3.2 Obstructed High Reach. Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to 

an element and the high side reach is over an obstruction, the height of the obstruction shall be 34 

inches (865 mm) maximum and the depth of the obstruction shall be 24 inches (610 mm) maximum. 

The high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum for a reach depth of 10 inches (255 

mm) maximum. Where the reach depth exceeds 10 inches (255 mm), the high side reach shall be 

46 inches (1170 mm) maximum for a reach depth of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. The top of washing machines and clothes dryers shall be permitted to be 36 

inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

2. Operable parts of fuel dispensers shall be permitted to be 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum 

measured from the surface of the vehicular way where fuel dispensers are installed on existing 

curbs. 

Figure 308.3.1

Unobstructed Side Reach

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309 Operable Parts

309.1 General. Operable parts shall comply with 309.

309.2 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be provided.

309.3 Height. Operable parts shall be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in 308.

309.4 Operation. Operable parts shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, 

pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts shall be 5 pounds (22.2 N) 

maximum.

EXCEPTION: Gas pump nozzles shall not be required to provide operable parts that have an 

activating force of 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

Figure 308.3.2

Obstructed High Side Reach

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CHAPTER 4: ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

401 General

401.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 4 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document.

402 Accessible Routes

402.1 General. Accessible routes shall comply with 402.

402.2 Components. Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components: 

walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the 

flared sides, elevators, and platform lifts. All components of an accessible route shall comply with the 

applicable requirements of Chapter 4. 

403 Walking Surfaces

403.1 General. Walking surfaces that are a part of an accessible route shall comply with 403.

403.2 Floor or Ground Surface. Floor or ground surfaces shall comply with 302.

403.3 Slope. The running slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:20. The cross slope of 

walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:48.

403.4 Changes in Level. Changes in level shall comply with 303.

403.5 Clearances. Walking surfaces shall provide clearances complying with 403.5.

EXCEPTION: Within employee work areas, clearances on common use circulation paths shall be 

permitted to be decreased by work area equipment provided that the decrease is essential to the 

function of the work being performed.

403.5.1 Clear Width. Except as provided in 403.5.2 and 403.5.3, the clear width of walking surfaces 

shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION: The clear width shall be permitted to be reduced to 32 inches (815 mm) minimum 

for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that reduced width segments are 

separated by segments that are 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) 

wide minimum. 

Advisory 402.2 Components. Walking surfaces must have running slopes not steeper 

than 1:20, see 403.3. Other components of accessible routes, such as ramps (405) and 

curb ramps (406), are permitted to be more steeply sloped. 

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403.5.2 Clear Width at Turn. Where the accessible route makes a 180 degree turn around an 

element which is less than 48 inches (1220 mm) wide, clear width shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) 

minimum approaching the turn, 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum at the turn and 42 inches (1065 mm) 

minimum leaving the turn.

EXCEPTION: Where the clear width at the turn is 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum compliance 

with 403.5.2 shall not be required. 

Figure 403.5.1

Clear Width of an Accessible Route

Figure 403.5.2

Clear Width at Turn

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403.5.3 Passing Spaces. An accessible route with a clear width less than 60 inches (1525 mm) 

shall provide passing spaces at intervals of 200 feet (61 m) maximum. Passing spaces shall be 

either: a space 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum; or, an intersection 

of two walking surfaces providing a T-shaped space complying with 304.3.2 where the base and 

arms of the T-shaped space extend 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum beyond the intersection.

403.6 Handrails. Where handrails are provided along walking surfaces with running slopes not steeper 

than 1:20 they shall comply with 505. 

404 Doors, Doorways, and Gates

404.1 General. Doors, doorways, and gates that are part of an accessible route shall comply with 404.

EXCEPTION: Doors, doorways, and gates designed to be operated only by security personnel shall 

not be required to comply with 404.2.7, 404.2.8, 404.2.9, 404.3.2 and 404.3.4 through 404.3.7. 

404.2 Manual Doors, Doorways, and Manual Gates. Manual doors and doorways and manual gates 

intended for user passage shall comply with 404.2.

404.2.1 Revolving Doors, Gates, and Turnstiles. Revolving doors, revolving gates, and turnstiles 

shall not be part of an accessible route.

404.2.2 Double-Leaf Doors and Gates. At least one of the active leaves of doorways with two 

leaves shall comply with 404.2.3 and 404.2.4.

404.2.3 Clear Width. Door openings shall provide a clear width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum. 

Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door 

and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees. Openings more than 24 inches (610 mm) deep shall 

provide a clear opening of 36 inches (915 mm) minimum. There shall be no projections into the 

required clear opening width lower than 34 inches (865 mm) above the finish floor or ground. 

Projections into the clear opening width between 34 inches (865 mm) and 80 inches (2030 mm) 

above the finish floor or ground shall not exceed 4 inches (100 mm).

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In alterations, a projection of 5/8 inch (16 mm) maximum into the required 

clear width shall be permitted for the latch side stop.

2. Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above 

the finish floor or ground. 

Advisory 403.6 Handrails. Handrails provided in elevator cabs and platform lifts are not 

required to comply with the requirements for handrails on walking surfaces. 

Advisory 404.1 General Exception. Security personnel must have sole control of doors 

that are eligible for the Exception at 404.1. It would not be acceptable for security personnel 

to operate the doors for people with disabilities while allowing others to have independent 

access.

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404.2.4 Maneuvering Clearances. Minimum maneuvering clearances at doors and gates shall 

comply with 404.2.4. Maneuvering clearances shall extend the full width of the doorway and the 

required latch side or hinge side clearance.

EXCEPTION: Entry doors to hospital patient rooms shall not be required to provide the 

clearance beyond the latch side of the door.

404.2.4.1 Swinging Doors and Gates. Swinging doors and gates shall have maneuvering 

clearances complying with Table 404.2.4.1. 

Figure 404.2.3

Clear Width of Doorways

Table 404.2.4.1 Maneuvering Clearances at Manual Swinging Doors and Gates

Type of Use Minimum Maneuvering Clearance

Approach Direction Door or Gate Side Perpendicular to 

Doorway

Parallel to Doorway 

(beyond latch side 

unless noted)

From front Pull 60 inches (1525 mm) 18 inches (455 mm)

From front Push 48 inches (1220 mm) 0 inches (0 mm)1

1. Add 12 inches (305 mm) if closer and latch are provided.

From hinge side Pull 60 inches (1525 mm) 36 inches (915 mm)

From hinge side Pull 54 inches (1370 mm) 42 inches (1065 mm)

From hinge side Push 42 inches (1065 mm)2

2. Add 6 inches (150 mm) if closer and latch are provided.

22 inches (560 mm)3

3. Beyond hinge side.

From latch side Pull 48 inches (1220 mm)4

4. Add 6 inches (150 mm) if closer is provided.

24 inches (610 mm)

From latch side Push 42 inches (1065 mm)4 24 inches (610 mm)

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Figure 404.2.4.1

Maneuvering Clearances at Manual Swinging Doors and Gates

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Figure 404.2.4.1

Maneuvering Clearances at Manual Swinging Doors and Gates

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404.2.4.2 Doorways without Doors or Gates, Sliding Doors, and Folding Doors. Doorways 

less than 36 inches (915 mm) wide without doors or gates, sliding doors, or folding doors shall 

have maneuvering clearances complying with Table 404.2.4.2. 

Table 404.2.4.2 Maneuvering Clearances at Doorways without Doors or Gates, Manual Sliding 

Doors, and Manual Folding Doors

Minimum Maneuvering Clearance

Approach Direction Perpendicular to Doorway Parallel to Doorway (beyond 

stop/latch side unless noted)

From Front 48 inches (1220 mm) 0 inches (0 mm)

From side1

1. Doorway with no door only.

42 inches (1065 mm) 0 inches (0 mm)

From pocket/hinge side 42 inches (1065 mm) 22 inches (560 mm)2

2. Beyond pocket/hinge side.

From stop/latch side 42 inches (1065 mm) 24 inches (610 mm)

Figure 404.2.4.2

Maneuvering Clearances at Doorways without Doors, Sliding Doors, Gates, and Folding Doors

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404.2.4.3 Recessed Doors and Gates. Maneuvering clearances for forward approach shall be 

provided when any obstruction within 18 inches (455 mm) of the latch side of a doorway projects 

more than 8 inches (205 mm) beyond the face of the door, measured perpendicular to the face of 

the door or gate. 

404.2.4.4 Floor or Ground Surface. Floor or ground surface within required maneuvering 

clearances shall comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted. 

2. Changes in level at thresholds complying with 404.2.5 shall be permitted.

404.2.5 Thresholds. Thresholds, if provided at doorways, shall be 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) high maximum. 

Raised thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with 302 and 303.

EXCEPTION: Existing or altered thresholds 3⁄4 inch (19 mm) high maximum that have a beveled 

edge on each side with a slope not steeper than 1:2 shall not be required to comply with 404.2.5.

Advisory 404.2.4.3 Recessed Doors and Gates. A door can be recessed due to wall 

thickness or because of the placement of casework and other fixed elements adjacent to the 

doorway. This provision must be applied wherever doors are recessed.

Figure 404.2.4.3

Maneuvering Clearances at Recessed Doors and Gates

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404.2.6 Doors in Series and Gates in Series. The distance between two hinged or pivoted doors 

in series and gates in series shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum plus the width of doors or gates 

swinging into the space. 

404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware. Handles, pulls, latches, locks, and other operable parts on doors 

and gates shall comply with 309.4. Operable parts of such hardware shall be 34 inches (865 mm) 

minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. Where sliding doors 

are in the fully open position, operating hardware shall be exposed and usable from both sides.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Existing locks shall be permitted in any location at existing glazed doors 

without stiles, existing overhead rolling doors or grilles, and similar existing doors or grilles that 

are designed with locks that are activated only at the top or bottom rail.

2. Access gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas, and hot tubs shall be 

permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches 

(1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground provided the self-latching devices are not 

also self-locking devices and operated by means of a key, electronic opener, or integral 

combination lock. 

Figure 404.2.6

Doors in Series and Gates in Series

Advisory 404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware. Door hardware that can be operated with a 

closed fist or a loose grip accommodates the greatest range of users. Hardware that 

requires simultaneous hand and finger movements require greater dexterity and 

coordination, and is not recommended.

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404.2.8 Closing Speed. Door and gate closing speed shall comply with 404.2.8.

404.2.8.1 Door Closers and Gate Closers. Door closers and gate closers shall be adjusted so 

that from an open position of 90 degrees, the time required to move the door to a position of 12 

degrees from the latch is 5 seconds minimum.

404.2.8.2 Spring Hinges. Door and gate spring hinges shall be adjusted so that from the open 

position of 70 degrees, the door or gate shall move to the closed position in 1.5 seconds 

minimum.

404.2.9 Door and Gate Opening Force. Fire doors shall have a minimum opening force allowable 

by the appropriate administrative authority. The force for pushing or pulling open a door or gate 

other than fire doors shall be as follows:

1. Interior hinged doors and gates: 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

2. Sliding or folding doors: 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

These forces do not apply to the force required to retract latch bolts or disengage other devices that 

hold the door or gate in a closed position. 

404.2.10 Door and Gate Surfaces. Swinging door and gate surfaces within 10 inches (255 mm) of 

the finish floor or ground measured vertically shall have a smooth surface on the push side extending 

the full width of the door or gate. Parts creating horizontal or vertical joints in these surfaces shall be 

within 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of the same plane as the other. Cavities created by added kick plates shall 

be capped.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Sliding doors shall not be required to comply with 404.2.10.

2. Tempered glass doors without stiles and having a bottom rail or shoe with the top leading 

edge tapered at 60 degrees minimum from the horizontal shall not be required to meet the 10 

inch (255 mm) bottom smooth surface height requirement.

3. Doors and gates that do not extend to within 10 inches (255 mm) of the finish floor or ground 

shall not be required to comply with 404.2.10.

4. Existing doors and gates without smooth surfaces within 10 inches (255 mm) of the finish floor 

or ground shall not be required to provide smooth surfaces complying with 404.2.10 provided that 

if added kick plates are installed, cavities created by such kick plates are capped.

404.2.11 Vision Lights. Doors, gates, and side lights adjacent to doors or gates, containing one or 

more glazing panels that permit viewing through the panels shall have the bottom of at least one 

glazed panel located 43 inches (1090 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

EXCEPTION: Vision lights with the lowest part more than 66 inches (1675 mm) from the finish 

floor or ground shall not be required to comply with 404.2.11.

404.3 Automatic and Power-Assisted Doors and Gates. Automatic doors and automatic gates shall 

comply with 404.3. Full-powered automatic doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.10 (incorporated 

Advisory 404.2.9 Door and Gate Opening Force. The maximum force pertains to the 

continuous application of force necessary to fully open a door, not the initial force needed to 

overcome the inertia of the door. It does not apply to the force required to retract bolts or to 

disengage other devices used to keep the door in a closed position.

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by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). Low-energy and power-assisted doors shall 

comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (1997 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced 

Standards” in Chapter 1).

404.3.1 Clear Width. Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum in 

power-on and power-off mode. The minimum clear width for automatic door systems in a doorway 

shall be based on the clear opening provided by all leaves in the open position.

404.3.2 Maneuvering Clearance. Clearances at power-assisted doors and gates shall comply with 

404.2.4. Clearances at automatic doors and gates without standby power and serving an accessible

means of egress shall comply with 404.2.4.

EXCEPTION: Where automatic doors and gates remain open in the power-off condition, 

compliance with 404.2.4 shall not be required.

404.3.3 Thresholds. Thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with 404.2.5.

404.3.4 Doors in Series and Gates in Series. Doors in series and gates in series shall comply with 

404.2.6.

404.3.5 Controls. Manually operated controls shall comply with 309. The clear floor space adjacent 

to the control shall be located beyond the arc of the door swing.

404.3.6 Break Out Opening. Where doors and gates without standby power are a part of a means 

of egress, the clear break out opening at swinging or sliding doors and gates shall be 32 inches (815 

mm) minimum when operated in emergency mode.

EXCEPTION: Where manual swinging doors and gates comply with 404.2 and serve the same 

means of egress compliance with 404.3.6 shall not be required.

404.3.7 Revolving Doors, Revolving Gates, and Turnstiles. Revolving doors, revolving gates, 

and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route.

405 Ramps

405.1 General. Ramps on accessible routes shall comply with 405.

EXCEPTION: In assembly areas, aisle ramps adjacent to seating and not serving elements required 

to be on an accessible route shall not be required to comply with 405.

405.2 Slope. Ramp runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

EXCEPTION: In existing sites, buildings, and facilities, ramps shall be permitted to have running 

slopes steeper than 1:12 complying with Table 405.2 where such slopes are necessary due to space

limitations. 

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405.3 Cross Slope. Cross slope of ramp runs shall not be steeper than 1:48. 

405.4 Floor or Ground Surfaces. Floor or ground surfaces of ramp runs shall comply with 302. 

Changes in level other than the running slope and cross slope are not permitted on ramp runs.

405.5 Clear Width. The clear width of a ramp run and, where handrails are provided, the clear width 

between handrails shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION: Within employee work areas, the required clear width of ramps that are a part of 

common use circulation paths shall be permitted to be decreased by work area equipment provided 

that the decrease is essential to the function of the work being performed.

405.6 Rise. The rise for any ramp run shall be 30 inches (760 mm) maximum.

405.7 Landings. Ramps shall have landings at the top and the bottom of each ramp run. Landings 

shall comply with 405.7. 

Table 405.2 Maximum Ramp Slope and Rise for Existing Sites, Buildings, and Facilities

Slope1 Maximum Rise

Steeper than 1:10 but not steeper than 1:8 3 inches (75 mm)

Steeper than 1:12 but not steeper than 1:10 6 inches (150 mm)

1. A slope steeper than 1:8 is prohibited.

Advisory 405.2 Slope. To accommodate the widest range of users, provide ramps with the 

least possible running slope and, wherever possible, accompany ramps with stairs for use 

by those individuals for whom distance presents a greater barrier than steps, e.g., people 

with heart disease or limited stamina.

Advisory 405.3 Cross Slope. Cross slope is the slope of the surface perpendicular to the 

direction of travel. Cross slope is measured the same way as slope is measured (i.e., the 

rise over the run).

Advisory 405.7 Landings. Ramps that do not have level landings at changes in direction 

can create a compound slope that will not meet the requirements of this document. Circular 

or curved ramps continually change direction. Curvilinear ramps with small radii also can 

create compound cross slopes and cannot, by their nature, meet the requirements for 

accessible routes. A level landing is needed at the accessible door to permit maneuvering 

and simultaneously door operation.

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405.7.1 Slope. Landings shall comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

405.7.2 Width. The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the widest ramp run leading to 

the landing.

405.7.3 Length. The landing clear length shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

405.7.4 Change in Direction. Ramps that change direction between runs at landings shall have a 

clear landing 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

405.7.5 Doorways. Where doorways are located adjacent to a ramp landing, maneuvering 

clearances required by 404.2.4 and 404.3.2 shall be permitted to overlap the required landing area.

405.8 Handrails. Ramp runs with a rise greater than 6 inches (150 mm) shall have handrails complying 

with 505.

EXCEPTION: Within employee work areas, handrails shall not be required where ramps that are part 

of common use circulation paths are designed to permit the installation of handrails complying with 

505. Ramps not subject to the exception to 405.5 shall be designed to maintain a 36 inch (915 mm) 

minimum clear width when handrails are installed.

405.9 Edge Protection. Edge protection complying with 405.9.1 or 405.9.2 shall be provided on each 

side of ramp runs and at each side of ramp landings.

Figure 405.7

Ramp Landings

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EXCEPTIONS: 1. Edge protection shall not be required on ramps that are not required to have 

handrails and have sides complying with 406.3.

2. Edge protection shall not be required on the sides of ramp landings serving an adjoining ramp run 

or stairway.

3. Edge protection shall not be required on the sides of ramp landings having a vertical drop-off of 1⁄2 

inch (13 mm) maximum within 10 inches (255 mm) horizontally of the minimum landing area 

specified in 405.7.

405.9.1 Extended Floor or Ground Surface. The floor or ground surface of the ramp run or landing 

shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of a handrail complying with 505. 

405.9.2 Curb or Barrier. A curb or barrier shall be provided that prevents the passage of a 4 inch 

(100 mm) diameter sphere, where any portion of the sphere is within 4 inches (100 mm) of the finish 

floor or ground surface. 

405.10 Wet Conditions. Landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent the 

accumulation of water.

Advisory 405.9.1 Extended Floor or Ground Surface. The extended surface prevents 

wheelchair casters and crutch tips from slipping off the ramp surface.

Figure 405.9.1

Extended Floor or Ground Surface Edge Protection

Figure 405.9.2

Curb or Barrier Edge Protection

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406 Curb Ramps

406.1 General. Curb ramps on accessible routes shall comply with 406, 405.2 through 405.5, and 

405.10.

406.2 Counter Slope. Counter slopes of adjoining gutters and road surfaces immediately adjacent to 

the curb ramp shall not be steeper than 1:20. The adjacent surfaces at transitions at curb ramps to 

walks, gutters, and streets shall be at the same level. 

406.3 Sides of Curb Ramps. Where provided, curb ramp flares shall not be steeper than 1:10. 

406.4 Landings. Landings shall be provided at the tops of curb ramps. The landing clear length shall be 

36 inches (915 mm) minimum. The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the curb ramp, 

excluding flared sides, leading to the landing.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, where there is no landing at the top of curb ramps, curb ramp flares 

shall be provided and shall not be steeper than 1:12. 

Figure 406.2

Counter Slope of Surfaces Adjacent to Curb Ramps

Figure 406.3

Sides of Curb Ramps

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406.5 Location. Curb ramps and the flared sides of curb ramps shall be located so that they do not 

project into vehicular traffic lanes, parking spaces, or parking access aisles. Curb ramps at marked 

crossings shall be wholly contained within the markings, excluding any flared sides.

406.6 Diagonal Curb Ramps. Diagonal or corner type curb ramps with returned curbs or other 

well-defined edges shall have the edges parallel to the direction of pedestrian flow. The bottom of 

diagonal curb ramps shall have a clear space 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum outside active traffic lanes 

of the roadway. Diagonal curb ramps provided at marked crossings shall provide the 48 inches (1220 

mm) minimum clear space within the markings. Diagonal curb ramps with flared sides shall have a 

segment of curb 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum located on each side of the curb ramp and within the 

marked crossing. 

Figure 406.4

Landings at the Top of Curb Ramps

Figure 406.6

Diagonal or Corner Type Curb Ramps

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406.7 Islands. Raised islands in crossings shall be cut through level with the street or have curb ramps

at both sides. Each curb ramp shall have a level area 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum by 36 inches 

(915 mm) wide minimum at the top of the curb ramp in the part of the island intersected by the crossings. 

Each 48 inch (1220 mm) minimum by 36 inch (915 mm) minimum area shall be oriented so that the 48 

inch (1220 mm) minimum length is in the direction of the running slope of the curb ramp it serves. The 

48 inch (1220 mm) minimum by 36 inch (915 mm) minimum areas and the accessible route shall be 

permitted to overlap. 

407 Elevators

407.1 General. Elevators shall comply with 407 and with ASME A17.1 (incorporated by reference, see 

“Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). They shall be passenger elevators as classified by ASME A17.1. 

Elevator operation shall be automatic. 

407.2 Elevator Landing Requirements. Elevator landings shall comply with 407.2.

Figure 406.7

Islands in Crossings

Advisory 407.1 General. The ADA and other Federal civil rights laws require that 

accessible features be maintained in working order so that they are accessible to and 

usable by those people they are intended to benefit. Building owners should note that the 

ASME Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators requires routine maintenance and 

inspections. Isolated or temporary interruptions in service due to maintenance or repairs 

may be unavoidable; however, failure to take prompt action to effect repairs could constitute 

a violation of Federal laws and these requirements.

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407.2.1 Call Controls. Where elevator call buttons or keypads are provided, they shall comply with 

407.2.1 and 309.4. Call buttons shall be raised or flush.

EXCEPTION: Existing elevators shall be permitted to have recessed call buttons.

407.2.1.1 Height. Call buttons and keypads shall be located within one of the reach ranges 

specified in 308, measured to the centerline of the highest operable part.

EXCEPTION: Existing call buttons and existing keypads shall be permitted to be located at 

54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor, measured to the centerline of the 

highest operable part.

407.2.1.2 Size. Call buttons shall be 3⁄4 inch (19 mm) minimum in the smallest dimension.

EXCEPTION: Existing elevator call buttons shall not be required to comply with 407.2.1.2.

407.2.1.3 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall 

be provided at call controls. 

407.2.1.4 Location. The call button that designates the up direction shall be located above the 

call button that designates the down direction.

EXCEPTION: Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.2.1.4. 

407.2.1.5 Signals. Call buttons shall have visible signals to indicate when each call is registered 

and when each call is answered.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 

407.2.1.5 provided that visible and audible signals complying with 407.2.2 indicating which 

elevator car to enter are provided.

2. Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.2.1.5.

407.2.1.6 Keypads. Where keypads are provided, keypads shall be in a standard telephone 

keypad arrangement and shall comply with 407.4.7.2.

407.2.2 Hall Signals. Hall signals, including in-car signals, shall comply with 407.2.2.

Advisory 407.2.1.3 Clear Floor or Ground Space. The clear floor or ground space 

required at elevator call buttons must remain free of obstructions including ashtrays, plants, 

and other decorative elements that prevent wheelchair users and others from reaching the 

call buttons. The height of the clear floor or ground space is considered to be a volume from 

the floor to 80 inches (2030 mm) above the floor. Recessed ashtrays should not be placed 

near elevator call buttons so that persons who are blind or visually impaired do not 

inadvertently contact them or their contents as they reach for the call buttons.

Advisory 407.2.1.4 Location Exception. A destination-oriented elevator system provides 

lobby controls enabling passengers to select floor stops, lobby indicators designating which 

elevator to use, and a car indicator designating the floors at which the car will stop. 

Responding cars are programmed for maximum efficiency by reducing the number of stops 

any passenger experiences.

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407.2.2.1 Visible and Audible Signals. A visible and audible signal shall be provided at each 

hoistway entrance to indicate which car is answering a call and the car’s direction of travel. 

Where in-car signals are provided, they shall be visible from the floor area adjacent to the hall 

call buttons.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Visible and audible signals shall not be required at each destinationoriented elevator where a visible and audible signal complying with 407.2.2 is provided 

indicating the elevator car designation information.

2. In existing elevators, a signal indicating the direction of car travel shall not be required.

407.2.2.2 Visible Signals. Visible signal fixtures shall be centered at 72 inches (1830 mm) 

minimum above the finish floor or ground. The visible signal elements shall be 2-1⁄2 inches (64 

mm) minimum measured along the vertical centerline of the element. Signals shall be visible 

from the floor area adjacent to the hall call button.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Destination-oriented elevators shall be permitted to have signals visible 

from the floor area adjacent to the hoistway entrance.

2. Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.2.2.2. 

407.2.2.3 Audible Signals. Audible signals shall sound once for the up direction and twice for 

the down direction, or shall have verbal annunciators that indicate the direction of elevator car 

travel. Audible signals shall have a frequency of 1500 Hz maximum. Verbal annunciators shall 

have a frequency of 300 Hz minimum and 3000 Hz maximum. The audible signal and verbal 

annunciator shall be 10 dB minimum above ambient, but shall not exceed 80 dB, measured at 

the hall call button.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 

407.2.2.3 provided that the audible tone and verbal announcement is the same as those 

given at the call button or call button keypad.

2. Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with the requirements for frequency and 

dB range of audible signals.

Figure 407.2.2.2

Visible Hall Signals

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407.2.2.4 Differentiation. Each destination-oriented elevator in a bank of elevators shall have 

audible and visible means for differentiation.

407.2.3 Hoistway Signs. Signs at elevator hoistways shall comply with 407.2.3.

407.2.3.1 Floor Designation. Floor designations complying with 703.2 and 703.4.1 shall be 

provided on both jambs of elevator hoistway entrances. Floor designations shall be provided in 

both tactile characters and braille. Tactile characters shall be 2 inches (51 mm) high minimum. A 

tactile star shall be provided on both jambs at the main entry level. 

407.2.3.2 Car Designations. Destination-oriented elevators shall provide tactile car 

identification complying with 703.2 on both jambs of the hoistway immediately below the floor 

designation. Car designations shall be provided in both tactile characters and braille. Tactile

characters shall be 2 inches (51 mm) high minimum. 

Figure 407.2.3.1

Floor Designations on Jambs of Elevator Hoistway Entrances

Figure 407.2.3.2

Car Designations on Jambs of Destination-Oriented Elevator Hoistway Entrances

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407.3 Elevator Door Requirements. Hoistway and car doors shall comply with 407.3.

407.3.1 Type. Elevator doors shall be the horizontal sliding type. Car gates shall be prohibited.

407.3.2 Operation. Elevator hoistway and car doors shall open and close automatically.

EXCEPTION: Existing manually operated hoistway swing doors shall be permitted provided that 

they comply with 404.2.3 and 404.2.9. Car door closing shall not be initiated until the hoistway 

door is closed.

407.3.3 Reopening Device. Elevator doors shall be provided with a reopening device complying 

with 407.3.3 that shall stop and reopen a car door and hoistway door automatically if the door 

becomes obstructed by an object or person.

EXCEPTION: Existing elevators with manually operated doors shall not be required to comply 

with 407.3.3.

407.3.3.1 Height. The device shall be activated by sensing an obstruction passing through the 

opening at 5 inches (125 mm) nominal and 29 inches (735 mm) nominal above the finish floor.

407.3.3.2 Contact. The device shall not require physical contact to be activated, although 

contact is permitted to occur before the door reverses.

407.3.3.3 Duration. Door reopening devices shall remain effective for 20 seconds minimum.

407.3.4 Door and Signal Timing. The minimum acceptable time from notification that a car is 

answering a call or notification of the car assigned at the means for the entry of destination 

information until the doors of that car start to close shall be calculated from the following equation:

T = D/(1.5 ft/s) or T = D/(455 mm/s) = 5 seconds minimum where T equals the total time in seconds 

and D equals the distance (in feet or millimeters) from the point in the lobby or corridor 60 inches 

(1525 mm) directly in front of the farthest call button controlling that car to the centerline of its 

hoistway door.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. For cars with in-car lanterns, T shall be permitted to begin when the signal is 

visible from the point 60 inches (1525 mm) directly in front of the farthest hall call button and the 

audible signal is sounded.

2. Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.3.4.

407.3.5 Door Delay. Elevator doors shall remain fully open in response to a car call for 3 seconds 

minimum.

407.3.6 Width. The width of elevator doors shall comply with Table 407.4.1.

EXCEPTION: In existing elevators, a power-operated car door complying with 404.2.3 shall be 

permitted.

407.4 Elevator Car Requirements. Elevator cars shall comply with 407.4.

407.4.1 Car Dimensions. Inside dimensions of elevator cars and clear width of elevator doors shall 

comply with Table 407.4.1.

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EXCEPTION: Existing elevator car configurations that provide a clear floor area of 16 square 

feet (1.5 m2) minimum and also provide an inside clear depth 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum and 

a clear width 36 inches (915 mm) minimum shall be permitted. 

Table 407.4.1 Elevator Car Dimensions

Minimum Dimensions

Door Location Door Clear Width Inside Car, Side 

to Side

Inside Car, Back 

Wall to Front 

Return

Inside Car, Back 

Wall to Inside 

Face of Door

Centered 42 inches

(1065 mm)

80 inches

(2030 mm)

51 inches

(1295 mm)

54 inches

(1370 mm)

Side

(off-centered)

36 inches

(915 mm)1

1. A tolerance of minus 5/8 inch (16 mm) is permitted.

68 inches

(1725 mm)

51 inches

(1295 mm)

54 inches

(1370 mm)

Any 36 inches

(915 mm)1

54 inches

(1370 mm)

80 inches

(2030 mm)

80 inches

(2030 mm)

Any 36 inches

(915 mm)1

60 inches

(1525 mm)2

2. Other car configurations that provide a turning space complying with 304 with the door closed shall be 

permited.

60 inches

(1525 mm)2

60 inches

(1525 mm)2

Figure 407.4.1

Elevator Car Dimensions

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Figure 407.4.1

Elevator Car Dimensions

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407.4.2 Floor Surfaces. Floor surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with 302 and 303.

407.4.3 Platform to Hoistway Clearance. The clearance between the car platform sill and the edge 

of any hoistway landing shall be 11⁄4 inch (32 mm) maximum.

407.4.4 Leveling. Each car shall be equipped with a self-leveling feature that will automatically bring 

and maintain the car at floor landings within a tolerance of 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) under rated loading to 

zero loading conditions.

407.4.5 Illumination. The level of illumination at the car controls, platform, car threshold and car 

landing sill shall be 5 foot candles (54 lux) minimum.

407.4.6 Elevator Car Controls. Where provided, elevator car controls shall comply with 407.4.6 

and 309.4.

EXCEPTION: In existing elevators, where a new car operating panel complying with 407.4.6 is 

provided, existing car operating panels shall not be required to comply with 407.4.6.

407.4.6.1 Location. Controls shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in 308.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where the elevator panel serves more than 16 openings and a parallel 

approach is provided, buttons with floor designations shall be permitted to be 54 inches 

(1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

2. In existing elevators, car control buttons with floor designations shall be permitted to be 

located 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor where a parallel approach is 

provided.

407.4.6.2 Buttons. Car control buttons with floor designations shall comply with 407.4.6.2 and 

shall be raised or flush.

EXCEPTION: In existing elevators, buttons shall be permitted to be recessed.

407.4.6.2.1 Size. Buttons shall be 3/4 inch (19 mm) minimum in their smallest dimension.

407.4.6.2.2 Arrangement. Buttons shall be arranged with numbers in ascending order. 

When two or more columns of buttons are provided they shall read from left to right.

407.4.6.3 Keypads. Car control keypads shall be in a standard telephone keypad arrangement 

and shall comply with 407.4.7.2.

407.4.6.4 Emergency Controls. Emergency controls shall comply with 407.4.6.4.

407.4.6.4.1 Height. Emergency control buttons shall have their centerlines 35 inches (890 

mm) minimum above the finish floor.

407.4.6.4.2 Location. Emergency controls, including the emergency alarm, shall be grouped 

at the bottom of the panel.

407.4.7 Designations and Indicators of Car Controls. Designations and indicators of car controls 

shall comply with 407.4.7.

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EXCEPTION: In existing elevators, where a new car operating panel complying with 407.4.7 is 

provided, existing car operating panels shall not be required to comply with 407.4.7.

407.4.7.1 Buttons. Car control buttons shall comply with 407.4.7.1.

407.4.7.1.1 Type. Control buttons shall be identified by tactile characters complying with 

703.2.

407.4.7.1.2 Location. Raised character and braille designations shall be placed immediately 

to the left of the control button to which the designations apply.

EXCEPTION: Where space on an existing car operating panel precludes tactile markings 

to the left of the controls, markings shall be placed as near to the control as possible.

407.4.7.1.3 Symbols. The control button for the emergency stop, alarm, door open, door 

close, main entry floor, and phone, shall be identified with tactile symbols as shown in Table 

407.4.7.1.3. 

407.4.7.1.4 Visible Indicators. Buttons with floor designations shall be provided with visible 

indicators to show that a call has been registered. The visible indication shall extinguish 

when the car arrives at the designated floor.

Table 407.4.7.1.3 Elevator Control Button Identification

Control Button Tactile Symbol Braille Message

Emergency Stop

“ST”OP Three cells

Alarm

AL“AR”M Four cells

Door Open

OP“EN” Three cells

Door Close

CLOSE Five cells

Main Entry Floor

MA“IN” Three cells

Phone

PH“ONE” Four cells

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407.4.7.2 Keypads. Keypads shall be identified by characters complying with 703.5 and shall be 

centered on the corresponding keypad button. The number five key shall have a single raised 

dot. The dot shall be 0.118 inch (3 mm) to 0.120 inch (3.05 mm) base diameter and in other 

aspects comply with Table 703.3.1.

407.4.8 Car Position Indicators. Audible and visible car position indicators shall be provided in 

elevator cars.

407.4.8.1 Visible Indicators. Visible indicators shall comply with 407.4.8.1.

407.4.8.1.1 Size. Characters shall be 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) high minimum.

407.4.8.1.2 Location. Indicators shall be located above the car control panel or above the 

door.

407.4.8.1.3 Floor Arrival. As the car passes a floor and when a car stops at a floor served 

by the elevator, the corresponding character shall illuminate.

EXCEPTION: Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 

407.4.8.1.3 provided that the visible indicators extinguish when the call has been 

answered.

407.4.8.1.4 Destination Indicator. In destination-oriented elevators, a display shall be 

provided in the car with visible indicators to show car destinations.

407.4.8.2 Audible Indicators. Audible indicators shall comply with 407.4.8.2.

407.4.8.2.1 Signal Type. The signal shall be an automatic verbal annunciator which 

announces the floor at which the car is about to stop.

EXCEPTION: For elevators other than destination-oriented elevators that have a rated 

speed of 200 feet per minute (1 m/s) or less, a non-verbal audible signal with a frequency 

of 1500 Hz maximum which sounds as the car passes or is about to stop at a floor served 

by the elevator shall be permitted.

407.4.8.2.2 Signal Level. The verbal annunciator shall be 10 dB minimum above ambient, 

but shall not exceed 80 dB, measured at the annunciator.

407.4.8.2.3 Frequency. The verbal annunciator shall have a frequency of 300 Hz minimum 

to 3000 Hz maximum.

407.4.9 Emergency Communication. Emergency two-way communication systems shall comply 

with 308. Tactile symbols and characters shall be provided adjacent to the device and shall comply 

with 703.2.

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408 Limited-Use/Limited-Application Elevators

408.1 General. Limited-use/limited-application elevators shall comply with 408 and with ASME A17.1 

(incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). They shall be passenger 

elevators as classified by ASME A17.1. Elevator operation shall be automatic.

408.2 Elevator Landings. Landings serving limited-use/limited-application elevators shall comply with 

408.2.

408.2.1 Call Buttons. Elevator call buttons and keypads shall comply with 407.2.1.

408.2.2 Hall Signals. Hall signals shall comply with 407.2.2.

408.2.3 Hoistway Signs. Signs at elevator hoistways shall comply with 407.2.3.1.

408.3 Elevator Doors. Elevator hoistway doors shall comply with 408.3.

408.3.1 Sliding Doors. Sliding hoistway and car doors shall comply with 407.3.1 through 407.3.3 

and 408.4.1.

408.3.2 Swinging Doors. Swinging hoistway doors shall open and close automatically and shall 

comply with 404, 407.3.2 and 408.3.2.

408.3.2.1 Power Operation. Swinging doors shall be power-operated and shall comply with 

ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (1997 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced 

Standards” in Chapter 1).

408.3.2.2 Duration. Power-operated swinging doors shall remain open for 20 seconds minimum 

when activated.

408.4 Elevator Cars. Elevator cars shall comply with 408.4.

408.4.1 Car Dimensions and Doors. Elevator cars shall provide a clear width 42 inches (1065 mm) 

minimum and a clear depth 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum. Car doors shall be positioned at the 

narrow ends of cars and shall provide 32 inches (815 mm) minimum clear width.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Cars that provide a clear width 51 inches (1295 mm) minimum shall be 

permitted to provide a clear depth 51 inches (1295 mm) minimum provided that car doors provide 

a clear opening 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.

2. Existing elevator cars shall be permitted to provide a clear width 36 inches (915 mm)

minimum, clear depth 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum, and a net clear platform area 15 square 

feet (1.4 m2) minimum. 

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408.4.2 Floor Surfaces. Floor surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with 302 and 303.

408.4.3 Platform to Hoistway Clearance. The platform to hoistway clearance shall comply with 

407.4.3.

408.4.4 Leveling. Elevator car leveling shall comply with 407.4.4.

Figure 408.4.1

Limited-Use/Limited-Application (LULA) Elevator Car Dimensions

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408.4.5 Illumination. Elevator car illumination shall comply with 407.4.5.

408.4.6 Car Controls. Elevator car controls shall comply with 407.4.6. Control panels shall be 

centered on a side wall.

408.4.7 Designations and Indicators of Car Controls. Designations and indicators of car controls 

shall comply with 407.4.7.

408.4.8 Emergency Communications. Car emergency signaling devices complying with 407.4.9 

shall be provided.

409 Private Residence Elevators

409.1 General. Private residence elevators that are provided within a residential dwelling unit required 

to provide mobility features complying with 809.2 through 809.4 shall comply with 409 and with ASME 

A17.1 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). They shall be passenger 

elevators as classified by ASME A17.1. Elevator operation shall be automatic.

409.2 Call Buttons. Call buttons shall be 3⁄4 inch (19 mm) minimum in the smallest dimension and shall 

comply with 309.

409.3 Elevator Doors. Hoistway doors, car doors, and car gates shall comply with 409.3 and 404.

EXCEPTION: Doors shall not be required to comply with the maneuvering clearance requirements 

in 404.2.4.1 for approaches to the push side of swinging doors.

409.3.1 Power Operation. Elevator car and hoistway doors and gates shall be power operated and 

shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (1997 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see 

“Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). Power operated doors and gates shall remain open for 20 

seconds minimum when activated.

EXCEPTION: In elevator cars with more than one opening, hoistway doors and gates shall be 

permitted to be of the manual-open, self-close type.

409.3.2 Location. Elevator car doors or gates shall be positioned at the narrow end of the clear floor 

spaces required by 409.4.1.

409.4 Elevator Cars. Private residence elevator cars shall comply with 409.4.

409.4.1 Inside Dimensions of Elevator Cars. Elevator cars shall provide a clear floor space of 36 

inches (915 mm) minimum by 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum and shall comply with 305.

409.4.2 Floor Surfaces. Floor surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with 302 and 303.

409.4.3 Platform to Hoistway Clearance. The clearance between the car platform and the edge of 

any landing sill shall be 11⁄2 inch (38 mm) maximum.

409.4.4 Leveling. Each car shall automatically stop at a floor landing within a tolerance of 1⁄2 inch 

(13 mm) under rated loading to zero loading conditions.

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409.4.5 Illumination Levels. Elevator car illumination shall comply with 407.4.5.

409.4.6 Car Controls. Elevator car control buttons shall comply with 409.4.6, 309.3, 309.4, and 

shall be raised or flush.

409.4.6.1 Size. Control buttons shall be 3/4 inch (19 mm) minimum in their smallest dimension.

409.4.6.2 Location. Control panels shall be on a side wall, 12 inches (305 mm) minimum from 

any adjacent wall. 

409.4.7 Emergency Communications. Emergency two-way communication systems shall comply 

with 409.4.7.

409.4.7.1 Type. A telephone and emergency signal device shall be provided in the car.

409.4.7.2 Operable Parts. The telephone and emergency signaling device shall comply with 

309.3 and 309.4.

409.4.7.3 Compartment. If the telephone or device is in a closed compartment, the 

compartment door hardware shall comply with 309.

409.4.7.4 Cord. The telephone cord shall be 29 inches (735 mm) long minimum.

Figure 409.4.6.2

Location of Private Residence Elevator Control Panel

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410 Platform Lifts

410.1 General. Platform lifts shall comply with ASME A18.1 (1999 edition or 2003 edition) (incorporated 

by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). Platform lifts shall not be attendant-operated 

and shall provide unassisted entry and exit from the lift. 

410.2 Floor Surfaces. Floor surfaces in platform lifts shall comply with 302 and 303.

410.3 Clear Floor Space. Clear floor space in platform lifts shall comply with 305.

410.4 Platform to Runway Clearance. The clearance between the platform sill and the edge of any 

runway landing shall be 11⁄4 inch (32 mm) maximum. 

410.5 Operable Parts. Controls for platform lifts shall comply with 309.

410.6 Doors and Gates. Platform lifts shall have low-energy power-operated doors or gates complying 

with 404.3. Doors shall remain open for 20 seconds minimum. End doors and gates shall provide a 

clear width 32 inches (815 mm) minimum. Side doors and gates shall provide a clear width 42 inches 

(1065 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION: Platform lifts serving two landings maximum and having doors or gates on opposite 

sides shall be permitted to have self-closing manual doors or gates. 

Advisory 410.1 General. Inclined stairway chairlifts and inclined and vertical platform lifts 

are available for short-distance vertical transportation. Because an accessible route 

requires an 80 inch (2030 mm) vertical clearance, care should be taken in selecting lifts as 

they may not be equally suitable for use by people using wheelchairs and people standing. 

If a lift does not provide 80 inch (2030 mm) vertical clearance, it cannot be considered part 

of an accessible route in new construction. 

The ADA and other Federal civil rights laws require that accessible features be maintained 

in working order so that they are accessible to and usable by those people they are intended 

to benefit. Building owners are reminded that the ASME A18 Safety Standard for Platform 

Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts requires routine maintenance and inspections. Isolated or 

temporary interruptions in service due to maintenance or repairs may be unavoidable; 

however, failure to take prompt action to effect repairs could constitute a violation of Federal 

laws and these requirements.

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Figure 410.6

Platform Lift Doors and Gates

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CHAPTER 5: GENERAL SITE AND BUILDING ELEMENTS

501 General

501.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 5 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document.

502 Parking Spaces

502.1 General. Car and van parking spaces shall comply with 502. Where parking spaces are marked 

with lines, width measurements of parking spaces and access aisles shall be made from the centerline of 

the markings.

EXCEPTION: Where parking spaces or access aisles are not adjacent to another parking space or 

access aisle, measurements shall be permitted to include the full width of the line defining the 

parking space or access aisle.

502.2 Vehicle Spaces. Car parking spaces shall be 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum and van 

parking spaces shall be 132 inches (3350 mm) wide minimum, shall be marked to define the width, and 

shall have an adjacent access aisle complying with 502.3.

EXCEPTION: Van parking spaces shall be permitted to be 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum 

where the access aisle is 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum. 

Figure 502.2

Vehicle Parking Spaces

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502.3 Access Aisle. Access aisles serving parking spaces shall comply with 502.3. Access aisles shall 

adjoin an accessible route. Two parking spaces shall be permitted to share a common access aisle. 

502.3.1 Width. Access aisles serving car and van parking spaces shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) 

wide minimum.

502.3.2 Length. Access aisles shall extend the full length of the parking spaces they serve.

502.3.3 Marking. Access aisles shall be marked so as to discourage parking in them. 

Advisory 502.3 Access Aisle. Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to 

accessible entrances. In parking facilities where the accessible route must cross vehicular 

traffic lanes, marked crossings enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for people using 

wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Where possible, it is preferable that the accessible 

route not pass behind parked vehicles.

Figure 502.3

Parking Space Access Aisle

Advisory 502.3.3 Marking. The method and color of marking are not specified by these 

requirements but may be addressed by State or local laws or regulations. Because these 

requirements permit the van access aisle to be as wide as a parking space, it is important 

that the aisle be clearly marked.

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502.3.4 Location. Access aisles shall not overlap the vehicular way. Access aisles shall be 

permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space except for angled van parking spaces

which shall have access aisles located on the passenger side of the parking spaces. 

502.4 Floor or Ground Surfaces. Parking spaces and access aisles serving them shall comply with 

302. Access aisles shall be at the same level as the parking spaces they serve. Changes in level are 

not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted. 

502.5 Vertical Clearance. Parking spaces for vans and access aisles and vehicular routes serving 

them shall provide a vertical clearance of 98 inches (2490 mm) minimum. 

502.6 Identification. Parking space identification signs shall include the International Symbol of 

Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Signs identifying van parking spaces shall contain the 

designation “van accessible.” Signs shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum above the finish floor or 

ground surface measured to the bottom of the sign. 

502.7 Relationship to Accessible Routes. Parking spaces and access aisles shall be designed so 

that cars and vans, when parked, cannot obstruct the required clear width of adjacent accessible routes. 

Advisory 502.3.4 Location. Wheelchair lifts typically are installed on the passenger side of 

vans. Many drivers, especially those who operate vans, find it more difficult to back into 

parking spaces than to back out into comparatively unrestricted vehicular lanes. For this 

reason, where a van and car share an access aisle, consider locating the van space so that 

the access aisle is on the passenger side of the van space.

Advisory 502.4 Floor or Ground Surfaces. Access aisles are required to be nearly level 

in all directions to provide a surface for wheelchair transfer to and from vehicles. The 

exception allows sufficient slope for drainage. Built-up curb ramps are not permitted to 

project into access aisles and parking spaces because they would create slopes greater 

than 1:48.

Advisory 502.5 Vertical Clearance. Signs provided at entrances to parking facilities 

informing drivers of clearances and the location of van accessible parking spaces can 

provide useful customer assistance.

Advisory 502.6 Identification. The required “van accessible” designation is intended to be 

informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. 

Enforcement of motor vehicle laws, including parking privileges, is a local matter.

Advisory 502.7 Relationship to Accessible Routes. Wheel stops are an effective way to 

prevent vehicle overhangs from reducing the clear width of accessible routes.

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503 Passenger Loading Zones

503.1 General. Passenger loading zones shall comply with 503.

503.2 Vehicle Pull-Up Space. Passenger loading zones shall provide a vehicular pull-up space 96 

inches (2440 mm) wide minimum and 20 feet (6100 mm) long minimum. 

503.3 Access Aisle. Passenger loading zones shall provide access aisles complying with 503 adjacent 

to the vehicle pull-up space. Access aisles shall adjoin an accessible route and shall not overlap the 

vehicular way.

503.3.1 Width. Access aisles serving vehicle pull-up spaces shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide 

minimum.

503.3.2 Length. Access aisles shall extend the full length of the vehicle pull-up spaces they serve.

503.3.3 Marking. Access aisles shall be marked so as to discourage parking in them. 

503.4 Floor and Ground Surfaces. Vehicle pull-up spaces and access aisles serving them shall 

comply with 302. Access aisles shall be at the same level as the vehicle pull-up space they serve. 

Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

503.5 Vertical Clearance. Vehicle pull-up spaces, access aisles serving them, and a vehicular route 

from an entrance to the passenger loading zone, and from the passenger loading zone to a vehicular exit 

shall provide a vertical clearance of 114 inches (2895 mm) minimum.

Figure 503.3

Passenger Loading Zone Access Aisle

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504 Stairways

504.1 General. Stairs shall comply with 504.

504.2 Treads and Risers. All steps on a flight of stairs shall have uniform riser heights and uniform 

tread depths. Risers shall be 4 inches (100 mm) high minimum and 7 inches (180 mm) high maximum. 

Treads shall be 11 inches (280 mm) deep minimum.

504.3 Open Risers. Open risers are not permitted.

504.4 Tread Surface. Stair treads shall comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Treads shall be permitted to have a slope not steeper than 1:48. 

504.5 Nosings. The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) 

maximum. Nosings that project beyond risers shall have the underside of the leading edge curved or 

beveled. Risers shall be permitted to slope under the tread at an angle of 30 degrees maximum from 

vertical. The permitted projection of the nosing shall extend 11⁄2 inches (38 mm) maximum over the tread 

below. 

504.6 Handrails. Stairs shall have handrails complying with 505.

504.7 Wet Conditions. Stair treads and landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent 

the accumulation of water.

Advisory 504.4 Tread Surface. Consider providing visual contrast on tread nosings, or at 

the leading edges of treads without nosings, so that stair treads are more visible for people 

with low vision.

Figure 504.5

Stair Nosings

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505 Handrails

505.1 General. Handrails provided along walking surfaces complying with 403, required at ramps

complying with 405, and required at stairs complying with 504 shall comply with 505. 

505.2 Where Required. Handrails shall be provided on both sides of stairs and ramps.

EXCEPTION: In assembly areas, handrails shall not be required on both sides of aisle ramps where 

a handrail is provided at either side or within the aisle width.

505.3 Continuity. Handrails shall be continuous within the full length of each stair flight or ramp run. 

Inside handrails on switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps shall be continuous between flights or runs.

EXCEPTION: In assembly areas, handrails on ramps shall not be required to be continuous in aisles 

serving seating.

505.4 Height. Top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be 34 inches (865 mm) minimum and 38 

inches (965 mm) maximum vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces. 

Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces. 

Advisory 505.1 General. Handrails are required on ramp runs with a rise greater than 6 

inches (150 mm) (see 405.8) and on certain stairways (see 504). Handrails are not required 

on walking surfaces with running slopes less than 1:20. However, handrails are required to 

comply with 505 when they are provided on walking surfaces with running slopes less than 

1:20 (see 403.6). Sections 505.2, 505.3, and 505.10 do not apply to handrails provided on 

walking surfaces with running slopes less than 1:20 as these sections only reference 

requirements for ramps and stairs.

Advisory 505.4 Height. The requirements for stair and ramp handrails in this document are 

for adults. When children are the principal users in a building or facility (e.g., elementary 

schools), a second set of handrails at an appropriate height can assist them and aid in 

preventing accidents. A maximum height of 28 inches (710 mm) measured to the top of the 

gripping surface from the ramp surface or stair nosing is recommended for handrails 

designed for children. Sufficient vertical clearance between upper and lower handrails, 9 

inches (230 mm) minimum, should be provided to help prevent entrapment.

Figure 505.4

Handrail Height

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505.5 Clearance. Clearance between handrail gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be 11⁄2 

inches (38 mm) minimum. 

505.6 Gripping Surface. Handrail gripping surfaces shall be continuous along their length and shall not 

be obstructed along their tops or sides. The bottoms of handrail gripping surfaces shall not be 

obstructed for more than 20 percent of their length. Where provided, horizontal projections shall occur 

11⁄2 inches (38 mm) minimum below the bottom of the handrail gripping surface.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where handrails are provided along walking surfaces with slopes not steeper 

than 1:20, the bottoms of handrail gripping surfaces shall be permitted to be obstructed along their 

entire length where they are integral to crash rails or bumper guards.

2. The distance between horizontal projections and the bottom of the gripping surface shall be 

permitted to be reduced by 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) for each 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) of additional handrail 

perimeter dimension that exceeds 4 inches (100 mm). 

505.7 Cross Section. Handrail gripping surfaces shall have a cross section complying with 505.7.1 or 

505.7.2.

505.7.1 Circular Cross Section. Handrail gripping surfaces with a circular cross section shall have 

an outside diameter of 11⁄4 inches (32 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum.

Figure 505.5

Handrail Clearance

Advisory 505.6 Gripping Surface. People with disabilities, older people, and others 

benefit from continuous gripping surfaces that permit users to reach the fingers outward or 

downward to grasp the handrail, particularly as the user senses a loss of equilibrium or 

begins to fall. 

Figure 505.6

Horizontal Projections Below Gripping Surface

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505.7.2 Non-Circular Cross Sections. Handrail gripping surfaces with a non-circular cross section 

shall have a perimeter dimension of 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 61⁄4 inches (160 mm) 

maximum, and a cross-section dimension of 21⁄4 inches (57 mm) maximum. 

505.8 Surfaces. Handrail gripping surfaces and any surfaces adjacent to them shall be free of sharp or 

abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

505.9 Fittings. Handrails shall not rotate within their fittings.

505.10 Handrail Extensions. Handrail gripping surfaces shall extend beyond and in the same direction 

of stair flights and ramp runs in accordance with 505.10.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Extensions shall not be required for continuous handrails at the inside turn of 

switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps.

2. In assembly areas, extensions shall not be required for ramp handrails in aisles serving seating 

where the handrails are discontinuous to provide access to seating and to permit crossovers within 

aisles.

3. In alterations, full extensions of handrails shall not be required where such extensions would be 

hazardous due to plan configuration.

505.10.1 Top and Bottom Extension at Ramps. Ramp handrails shall extend horizontally above 

the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramp runs. Extensions 

shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an 

adjacent ramp run. 

Figure 505.7.2

Handrail Non-Circular Cross Section

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505.10.2 Top Extension at Stairs. At the top of a stair flight, handrails shall extend horizontally 

above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beginning directly above the first riser nosing. 

Extensions shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail 

of an adjacent stair flight. 

505.10.3 Bottom Extension at Stairs. At the bottom of a stair flight, handrails shall extend at the 

slope of the stair flight for a horizontal distance at least equal to one tread depth beyond the last riser 

nosing. Extension shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the 

handrail of an adjacent stair flight. 

Figure 505.10.1

Top and Bottom Handrail Extension at Ramps

Figure 505.10.2

Top Handrail Extension at Stairs

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Figure 505.10.3

Bottom Handrail Extension at Stairs

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CHAPTER 6: PLUMBING ELEMENTS AND FACILITIES

601 General

601.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 6 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document.

602 Drinking Fountains

602.1 General. Drinking fountains shall comply with 307 and 602.

602.2 Clear Floor Space. Units shall have a clear floor or ground space complying with 305 positioned 

for a forward approach and centered on the unit. Knee and toe clearance complying with 306 shall be 

provided.

EXCEPTION: A parallel approach complying with 305 shall be permitted at units for children's use

where the spout is 30 inches (760 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground and is 31⁄2 inches 

(90 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

602.3 Operable Parts. Operable parts shall comply with 309.

602.4 Spout Height. Spout outlets shall be 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish floor or 

ground.

602.5 Spout Location. The spout shall be located 15 inches (380 mm) minimum from the vertical 

support and 5 inches (125 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers. 

602.6 Water Flow. The spout shall provide a flow of water 4 inches (100 mm) high minimum and shall 

be located 5 inches (125 mm) maximum from the front of the unit. The angle of the water stream shall 

be measured horizontally relative to the front face of the unit. Where spouts are located less than 3 

inches (75 mm) of the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 30 degrees maximum. 

Where spouts are located between 3 inches (75 mm) and 5 inches (125 mm) maximum from the front of 

the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 15 degrees maximum. 

Figure 602.5

Drinking Fountain Spout Location

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602.7 Drinking Fountains for Standing Persons. Spout outlets of drinking fountains for standing 

persons shall be 38 inches (965 mm) minimum and 43 inches (1090 mm) maximum above the finish 

floor or ground.

603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms

603.1 General. Toilet and bathing rooms shall comply with 603.

603.2 Clearances. Clearances shall comply with 603.2.

603.2.1 Turning Space. Turning space complying with 304 shall be provided within the room.

603.2.2 Overlap. Required clear floor spaces, clearance at fixtures, and turning space shall be 

permitted to overlap.

603.2.3 Door Swing. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance required for any 

fixture. Doors shall be permitted to swing into the required turning space.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Doors to a toilet room or bathing room for a single occupant accessed only 

through a private office and not for common use or public use shall be permitted to swing into the 

clear floor space or clearance provided the swing of the door can be reversed to comply with 

603.2.3.

2. Where the toilet room or bathing room is for individual use and a clear floor space complying 

with 305.3 is provided within the room beyond the arc of the door swing, doors shall be permitted 

to swing into the clear floor space or clearance required for any fixture. 

603.3 Mirrors. Mirrors located above lavatories or countertops shall be installed with the bottom edge of 

the reflecting surface 40 inches (1015 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. Mirrors not 

located above lavatories or countertops shall be installed with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface 

35 inches (890 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. 

Advisory 602.6 Water Flow. The purpose of requiring the drinking fountain spout to 

produce a flow of water 4 inches (100 mm) high minimum is so that a cup can be inserted 

under the flow of water to provide a drink of water for an individual who, because of a 

disability, would otherwise be incapable of using the drinking fountain.

Advisory 603.2.3 Door Swing Exception 1. At the time the door is installed, and if the 

door swing is reversed in the future, the door must meet all the requirements specified in 

404. Additionally, the door swing cannot reduce the required width of an accessible route. 

Also, avoid violating other building or life safety codes when the door swing is reversed.

Advisory 603.3 Mirrors. A single full-length mirror can accommodate a greater number of 

people, including children. In order for mirrors to be usable by people who are ambulatory 

and people who use wheelchairs, the top edge of mirrors should be 74 inches (1880 mm) 

minimum from the floor or ground.

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603.4 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Coat hooks shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified 

in 308. Shelves shall be located 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum 

above the finish floor.

604 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments

604.1 General. Water closets and toilet compartments shall comply with 604.2 through 604.8.

EXCEPTION: Water closets and toilet compartments for children's use shall be permitted to comply 

with 604.9.

604.2 Location. The water closet shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. 

The centerline of the water closet shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum to 18 inches (455 mm) 

maximum from the side wall or partition, except that the water closet shall be 17 inches (430 mm) 

minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition in the ambulatory accessible

toilet compartment specified in 604.8.2. Water closets shall be arranged for a left-hand or right-hand 

approach. 

604.3 Clearance. Clearances around water closets and in toilet compartments shall comply with 604.3.

604.3.1 Size. Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum measured 

perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1420 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from 

the rear wall. 

Figure 604.2

Water Closet Location

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604.3.2 Overlap. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the 

water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, 

accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space. 

No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

EXCEPTION: In residential dwelling units, a lavatory complying with 606 shall be permitted on

the rear wall 18 inches (455 mm) minimum from the water closet centerline where the clearance 

at the water closet is 66 inches (1675 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. 

Figure 604.3.1

Size of Clearance at Water Closets

Advisory 604.3.2 Overlap. When the door to the toilet room is placed directly in front of the 

water closet, the water closet cannot overlap the required maneuvering clearance for the 

door inside the room.

Figure 604.3.2 (Exception)

Overlap of Water Closet Clearance in Residential Dwelling Units

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604.4 Seats. The seat height of a water closet above the finish floor shall be 17 inches (430 mm) 

minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat. Seats shall not be sprung 

to return to a lifted position.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. A water closet in a toilet room for a single occupant accessed only through a 

private office and not for common use or public use shall not be required to comply with 604.4.

2. In residential dwelling units, the height of water closets shall be permitted to be 15 inches (380 

mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the 

seat.

604.5 Grab Bars. Grab bars for water closets shall comply with 609. Grab bars shall be provided on the 

side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Grab bars shall not be required to be installed in a toilet room for a single 

occupant accessed only through a private office and not for common use or public use provided that 

reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit the installation of grab bars 

complying with 604.5.

2. In residential dwelling units, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in toilet or bathrooms 

provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit the installation of 

grab bars complying with 604.5.

3. In detention or correction facilities, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in housing or 

holding cells that are specially designed without protrusions for purposes of suicide prevention. 

604.5.1 Side Wall. The side wall grab bar shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum, located 12 

inches (305 mm) maximum from the rear wall and extending 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum from the 

rear wall. 

Advisory 604.5 Grab Bars Exception 2. Reinforcement must be sufficient to permit the 

installation of rear and side wall grab bars that fully meet all accessibility requirements 

including, but not limited to, required length, installation height, and structural strength.

Figure 604.5.1

Side Wall Grab Bar at Water Closets

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604.5.2 Rear Wall. The rear wall grab bar shall be 36 inches (915 mm) long minimum and extend 

from the centerline of the water closet 12 inches (305 mm) minimum on one side and 24 inches (610 

mm) minimum on the other side.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. The rear grab bar shall be permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum, 

centered on the water closet, where wall space does not permit a length of 36 inches (915 mm) 

minimum due to the location of a recessed fixture adjacent to the water closet.

2. Where an administrative authority requires flush controls for flush valves to be located in a 

position that conflicts with the location of the rear grab bar, then the rear grab bar shall be 

permitted to be split or shifted to the open side of the toilet area. 

604.6 Flush Controls. Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic. Hand operated flush 

controls shall comply with 309. Flush controls shall be located on the open side of the water closet 

except in ambulatory accessible compartments complying with 604.8.2. 

604.7 Dispensers. Toilet paper dispensers shall comply with 309.4 and shall be 7 inches (180 mm) 

minimum and 9 inches (230 mm) maximum in front of the water closet measured to the centerline of the 

dispenser. The outlet of the dispenser shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) 

maximum above the finish floor and shall not be located behind grab bars. Dispensers shall not be of a 

type that controls delivery or that does not allow continuous paper flow. 

Figure 604.5.2

Rear Wall Grab Bar at Water Closets

Advisory 604.6 Flush Controls. If plumbing valves are located directly behind the toilet 

seat, flush valves and related plumbing can cause injury or imbalance when a person leans 

back against them. To prevent causing injury or imbalance, the plumbing can be located 

behind walls or to the side of the toilet; or if approved by the local authority having 

jurisdiction, provide a toilet seat lid.

Advisory 604.7 Dispensers. If toilet paper dispensers are installed above the side wall 

grab bar, the outlet of the toilet paper dispenser must be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum 

above the finish floor and the top of the gripping surface of the grab bar must be 33 inches 

(840 mm) minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

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604.8 Toilet Compartments. Wheelchair accessible toilet compartments shall meet the requirements of 

604.8.1 and 604.8.3. Compartments containing more than one plumbing fixture shall comply with 603. 

Ambulatory accessible compartments shall comply with 604.8.2 and 604.8.3.

604.8.1 Wheelchair Accessible Compartments. Wheelchair accessible compartments shall 

comply with 604.8.1.

604.8.1.1 Size. Wheelchair accessible compartments shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide 

minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, and 56 inches (1420 mm) deep minimum for 

wall hung water closets and 59 inches (1500 mm) deep minimum for floor mounted water closets 

measured perpendicular to the rear wall. Wheelchair accessible compartments for children’s use

shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, and 59 

inches (1500 mm) deep minimum for wall hung and floor mounted water closets measured 

perpendicular to the rear wall. 

Figure 604.7

Dispenser Outlet Location

Advisory 604.8.1.1 Size. The minimum space required in toilet compartments is provided 

so that a person using a wheelchair can maneuver into position at the water closet. This 

space cannot be obstructed by baby changing tables or other fixtures or conveniences, 

except as specified at 604.3.2 (Overlap). If toilet compartments are to be used to house 

fixtures other than those associated with the water closet, they must be designed to exceed 

the minimum space requirements. Convenience fixtures such as baby changing tables 

must also be accessible to people with disabilities as well as to other users. Toilet 

compartments that are designed to meet, and not exceed, the minimum space requirements 

may not provide adequate space for maneuvering into position at a baby changing table.

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604.8.1.2 Doors. Toilet compartment doors, including door hardware, shall comply with 404 

except that if the approach is to the latch side of the compartment door, clearance between the 

door side of the compartment and any obstruction shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum. 

Doors shall be located in the front partition or in the side wall or partition farthest from the water 

closet. Where located in the front partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (100 mm) 

maximum from the side wall or partition farthest from the water closet. Where located in the side 

wall or partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (100 mm) maximum from the front partition. 

The door shall be self-closing. A door pull complying with 404.2.7 shall be placed on both sides 

of the door near the latch. Toilet compartment doors shall not swing into the minimum required 

compartment area. 

Figure 604.8.1.1

Size of Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartment

Figure 604.8.1.2

Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartment Doors

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604.8.1.3 Approach. Compartments shall be arranged for left-hand or right-hand approach to 

the water closet.

604.8.1.4 Toe Clearance. The front partition and at least one side partition shall provide a toe 

clearance of 9 inches (230 mm) minimum above the finish floor and 6 inches (150 mm) deep 

minimum beyond the compartment-side face of the partition, exclusive of partition support 

members. Compartments for children’s use shall provide a toe clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) 

minimum above the finish floor.

EXCEPTION: Toe clearance at the front partition is not required in a compartment greater 

than 62 inches (1575 mm) deep with a wall-hung water closet or 65 inches (1650 mm) deep 

with a floor-mounted water closet. Toe clearance at the side partition is not required in a 

compartment greater than 66 inches (1675 mm) wide. Toe clearance at the front partition is 

not required in a compartment for children’s use that is greater than 65 inches (1650 mm) 

deep. 

604.8.1.5 Grab Bars. Grab bars shall comply with 609. A side-wall grab bar complying with 

604.5.1 shall be provided and shall be located on the wall closest to the water closet. In addition, 

a rear-wall grab bar complying with 604.5.2 shall be provided.

604.8.2 Ambulatory Accessible Compartments. Ambulatory accessible compartments shall 

comply with 604.8.2.

604.8.2.1 Size. Ambulatory accessible compartments shall have a depth of 60 inches (1525 

mm) minimum and a width of 35 inches (890 mm) minimum and 37 inches (940 mm) maximum.

Figure 604.8.1.4

Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartment Toe Clearance

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604.8.2.2 Doors. Toilet compartment doors, including door hardware, shall comply with 404, 

except that if the approach is to the latch side of the compartment door, clearance between the 

door side of the compartment and any obstruction shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum. The 

door shall be self-closing. A door pull complying with 404.2.7 shall be placed on both sides of the 

door near the latch. Toilet compartment doors shall not swing into the minimum required 

compartment area.

604.8.2.3 Grab Bars. Grab bars shall comply with 609. A side-wall grab bar complying with 

604.5.1 shall be provided on both sides of the compartment. 

604.8.3 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Coat hooks shall be located within one of the reach ranges 

specified in 308. Shelves shall be located 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) 

maximum above the finish floor.

604.9 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments for Children's Use. Water closets and toilet 

compartments for children's use shall comply with 604.9. 

Figure 604.8.2

Ambulatory Accessible Toilet Compartment

Advisory 604.9 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments for Children's Use. The 

requirements in 604.9 are to be followed where the exception for children's water closets in 

604.1 is used. The following table provides additional guidance in applying the 

specifications for water closets for children according to the age group served and reflects 

the differences in the size, stature, and reach ranges of children ages 3 through 12. The 

specifications chosen should correspond to the age of the primary user group. The 

specifications of one age group should be applied consistently in the installation of a water 

closet and related elements.

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604.9.1 Location. The water closet shall be located with a wall or partition to the rear and to one 

side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 12 inches (305 mm) minimum and 18 inches (455 

mm) maximum from the side wall or partition, except that the water closet shall be 17 inches (430 

mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition in the ambulatory 

accessible toilet compartment specified in 604.8.2. Compartments shall be arranged for left-hand or 

right-hand approach to the water closet.

604.9.2 Clearance. Clearance around a water closet shall comply with 604.3.

604.9.3 Height. The height of water closets shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 17 inches 

(430 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat. Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted 

position.

604.9.4 Grab Bars. Grab bars for water closets shall comply with 604.5.

604.9.5 Flush Controls. Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic. Hand operated flush 

controls shall comply with 309.2 and 309.4 and shall be installed 36 inches (915 mm) maximum 

above the finish floor. Flush controls shall be located on the open side of the water closet except in 

ambulatory accessible compartments complying with 604.8.2.

604.9.6 Dispensers. Toilet paper dispensers shall comply with 309.4 and shall be 7 inches (180 

mm) minimum and 9 inches (230 mm) maximum in front of the water closet measured to the 

centerline of the dispenser. The outlet of the dispenser shall be 14 inches (355 mm) minimum and 

19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the finish floor. There shall be a clearance of 11⁄2 inches (38 

mm) minimum below the grab bar. Dispensers shall not be of a type that controls delivery or that 

does not allow continuous paper flow.

604.9.7 Toilet Compartments. Toilet compartments shall comply with 604.8.

Advisory Specifications for Water Closets Serving Children Ages 3 through 12

Ages 3 and 4 Ages 5 through 8 Ages 9 through 12

Water Closet 

Centerline

12 inches

(305 mm)

12 to 15 inches

(305 to 380 mm)

15 to 18 inches

(380 to 455 mm)

Toilet Seat Height 11 to 12 inches

(280 to 305 mm)

12 to 15 inches

(305 to 380 mm)

15 to 17 inches

(380 to 430 mm)

Grab Bar Height 18 to 20 inches

(455 to 510 mm)

20 to 25 inches

(510 to 635 mm)

25 to 27 inches

(635 to 685 mm)

Dispenser Height 14 inches

(355 mm)

14 to 17 inches

(355 to 430 mm)

17 to 19 inches

(430 to 485 mm)

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605 Urinals

605.1 General. Urinals shall comply with 605. 

605.2 Height and Depth. Urinals shall be the stall-type or the wall-hung type with the rim 17 inches 

(430 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. Urinals shall be 131⁄2 inches (345 mm) deep 

minimum measured from the outer face of the urinal rim to the back of the fixture. 

605.3 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 positioned for forward 

approach shall be provided.

605.4 Flush Controls. Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic. Hand operated flush 

controls shall comply with 309.

606 Lavatories and Sinks

606.1 General. Lavatories and sinks shall comply with 606. 

606.2 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor space complying with 305, positioned for a forward approach, 

and knee and toe clearance complying with 306 shall be provided.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. A parallel approach complying with 305 shall be permitted to a kitchen sink in a 

space where a cook top or conventional range is not provided and to wet bars.

Advisory 605.1 General. Stall-type urinals provide greater accessibility for a broader range 

of persons, including people of short stature.

Figure 605.2

Height and Depth of Urinals

Advisory 606.1 General. If soap and towel dispensers are provided, they must be located 

within the reach ranges specified in 308. Locate soap and towel dispensers so that they are 

conveniently usable by a person at the accessible lavatory.

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2. A lavatory in a toilet room or bathing facility for a single occupant accessed only through a private 

office and not for common use or public use shall not be required to provide knee and toe clearance 

complying with 306.

3. In residential dwelling units, cabinetry shall be permitted under lavatories and kitchen sinks 

provided that all of the following conditions are met:

(a) the cabinetry can be removed without removal or replacement of the fixture;

(b) the finish floor extends under the cabinetry; and

(c) the walls behind and surrounding the cabinetry are finished.

4. A knee clearance of 24 inches (610 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground shall be 

permitted at lavatories and sinks used primarily by children 6 through 12 years where the rim or 

counter surface is 31 inches (785 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

5. A parallel approach complying with 305 shall be permitted to lavatories and sinks used primarily 

by children 5 years and younger.

6. The dip of the overflow shall not be considered in determining knee and toe clearances.

7. No more than one bowl of a multi-bowl sink shall be required to provide knee and toe clearance 

complying with 306.

606.3 Height. Lavatories and sinks shall be installed with the front of the higher of the rim or counter 

surface 34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. A lavatory in a toilet or bathing facility for a single occupant accessed only 

through a private office and not for common use or public use shall not be required to comply with 

606.3.

2. In residential dwelling unit kitchens, sinks that are adjustable to variable heights, 29 inches (735 

mm) minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum, shall be permitted where rough-in plumbing 

permits connections of supply and drain pipes for sinks mounted at the height of 29 inches (735 

mm).

606.4 Faucets. Controls for faucets shall comply with 309. Hand-operated metering faucets shall 

remain open for 10 seconds minimum.

606.5 Exposed Pipes and Surfaces. Water supply and drain pipes under lavatories and sinks shall be 

insulated or otherwise configured to protect against contact. There shall be no sharp or abrasive 

surfaces under lavatories and sinks.

607 Bathtubs

607.1 General. Bathtubs shall comply with 607.

607.2 Clearance. Clearance in front of bathtubs shall extend the length of the bathtub and shall be 30 

inches (760 mm) wide minimum. A lavatory complying with 606 shall be permitted at the control end of 

the clearance. Where a permanent seat is provided at the head end of the bathtub, the clearance shall 

extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the wall at the head end of the bathtub. 

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607.3 Seat. A permanent seat at the head end of the bathtub or a removable in-tub seat shall be 

provided. Seats shall comply with 610.

607.4 Grab Bars. Grab bars for bathtubs shall comply with 609 and shall be provided in accordance 

with 607.4.1 or 607.4.2.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Grab bars shall not be required to be installed in a bathtub located in a bathing 

facility for a single occupant accessed only through a private office and not for common use or public 

use provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit the 

installation of grab bars complying with 607.4.

2. In residential dwelling units, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in bathtubs located in 

bathing facilities provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit 

the installation of grab bars complying with 607.4.

607.4.1 Bathtubs With Permanent Seats. For bathtubs with permanent seats, grab bars shall be 

provided in accordance with 607.4.1.

607.4.1.1 Back Wall. Two grab bars shall be installed on the back wall, one located in 

accordance with 609.4 and the other located 8 inches (205 mm) minimum and 10 inches (255 

mm) maximum above the rim of the bathtub. Each grab bar shall be installed 15 inches (380 

mm) maximum from the head end wall and 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the control end 

wall.

607.4.1.2 Control End Wall. A grab bar 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum shall be installed on 

the control end wall at the front edge of the bathtub. 

Figure 607.2

Clearance for Bathtubs

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607.4.2 Bathtubs Without Permanent Seats. For bathtubs without permanent seats, grab bars 

shall comply with 607.4.2.

607.4.2.1 Back Wall. Two grab bars shall be installed on the back wall, one located in 

accordance with 609.4 and other located 8 inches (205 mm) minimum and 10 inches (255 mm) 

maximum above the rim of the bathtub. Each grab bar shall be 24 inches (610 mm) long 

minimum and shall be installed 24 inches (610 mm) maximum from the head end wall and 12 

inches (305 mm) maximum from the control end wall.

607.4.2.2 Control End Wall. A grab bar 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum shall be installed on 

the control end wall at the front edge of the bathtub.

607.4.2.3 Head End Wall. A grab bar 12 inches (305 mm) long minimum shall be installed on 

the head end wall at the front edge of the bathtub. 

Figure 607.4.1

Grab Bars for Bathtubs with Permanent Seats

Figure 607.4.2

Grab Bars for Bathtubs with Removable In-Tub Seats

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607.5 Controls. Controls, other than drain stoppers, shall be located on an end wall. Controls shall be 

between the bathtub rim and grab bar, and between the open side of the bathtub and the centerline of 

the width of the bathtub. Controls shall comply with 309.4. 

607.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water. A shower spray unit with a hose 59 inches (1500 mm) long 

minimum that can be used both as a fixed-position shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be 

provided. The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off. If an 

adjustable-height shower head on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct 

the use of grab bars. Bathtub shower spray units shall deliver water that is 120°F (49°C) maximum. 

607.7 Bathtub Enclosures. Enclosures for bathtubs shall not obstruct controls, faucets, shower and 

spray units or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs onto bathtub seats or into bathtubs. Enclosures on 

bathtubs shall not have tracks installed on the rim of the open face of the bathtub.

608 Shower Compartments

608.1 General. Shower compartments shall comply with 608. 

608.2 Size and Clearances for Shower Compartments. Shower compartments shall have sizes and 

clearances complying with 608.2.

608.2.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartments. Transfer type shower compartments shall be 36 

inches (915 mm) by 36 inches (915 mm) clear inside dimensions measured at the center points of 

opposing sides and shall have a 36 inch (915 mm) wide minimum entry on the face of the shower 

Figure 607.5

Bathtub Control Location

Advisory 607.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water. Ensure that hand-held shower spray units 

are capable of delivering water pressure substantially equivalent to fixed shower heads.

Advisory 608.1 General. Shower stalls that are 60 inches (1525 mm) wide and have no 

curb may increase the usability of a bathroom because the shower area provides additional 

maneuvering space.

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compartment. Clearance of 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum by 48 inches (1220 mm) long 

minimum measured from the control wall shall be provided. 

608.2.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartments. Standard roll-in type shower 

compartments shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) deep minimum 

clear inside dimensions measured at center points of opposing sides and shall have a 60 inches 

(1525 mm) wide minimum entry on the face of the shower compartment. 

608.2.2.1 Clearance. A 30 inch (760 mm) wide minimum by 60 inch (1525 mm) long minimum 

clearance shall be provided adjacent to the open face of the shower compartment. 

EXCEPTION: A lavatory complying with 606 shall be permitted on one 30 inch (760 mm) 

wide minimum side of the clearance provided that it is not on the side of the clearance 

adjacent to the controls or, where provided, not on the side of the clearance adjacent to the 

shower seat. 

Figure 608.2.1

Transfer Type Shower Compartment Size and Clearance

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608.2.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments. Alternate roll-in type shower 

compartments shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide and 60 inches (1525 mm) deep minimum clear 

inside dimensions measured at center points of opposing sides. A 36 inch (915 mm) wide minimum 

entry shall be provided at one end of the long side of the compartment. 

Figure 608.2.2

Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Size and Clearance

Figure 608.2.3

Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Size and Clearance

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608.3 Grab Bars. Grab bars shall comply with 609 and shall be provided in accordance with 608.3. 

Where multiple grab bars are used, required horizontal grab bars shall be installed at the same height 

above the finish floor.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Grab bars shall not be required to be installed in a shower located in a bathing 

facility for a single occupant accessed only through a private office, and not for common use or 

public use provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit the 

installation of grab bars complying with 608.3.

2. In residential dwelling units, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in showers located in 

bathing facilities provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit 

the installation of grab bars complying with 608.3.

608.3.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartments. In transfer type compartments, grab bars shall be 

provided across the control wall and back wall to a point 18 inches (455 mm) from the control wall. 

608.3.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartments. Where a seat is provided in standard rollin type shower compartments, grab bars shall be provided on the back wall and the side wall 

opposite the seat. Grab bars shall not be provided above the seat. Where a seat is not provided in 

standard roll-in type shower compartments, grab bars shall be provided on three walls. Grab bars 

shall be installed 6 inches (150 mm) maximum from adjacent walls. 

Figure 608.3.1

Grab Bars for Transfer Type Showers

Figure 608.3.2

Grab Bars for Standard Roll-In Type Showers

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608.3.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments. In alternate roll-in type shower 

compartments, grab bars shall be provided on the back wall and the side wall farthest from the 

compartment entry. Grab bars shall not be provided above the seat. Grab bars shall be installed 6 

inches (150 mm) maximum from adjacent walls. 

608.4 Seats. A folding or non-folding seat shall be provided in transfer type shower compartments. A 

folding seat shall be provided in roll-in type showers required in transient lodging guest rooms with 

mobility features complying with 806.2. Seats shall comply with 610.

EXCEPTION: In residential dwelling units, seats shall not be required in transfer type shower 

compartments provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls so as to permit the installation 

of seats complying with 608.4.

608.5 Controls. Controls, faucets, and shower spray units shall comply with 309.4.

608.5.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartments. In transfer type shower compartments, the 

controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be installed on the side wall opposite the seat 38 

inches (965 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the shower floor and shall be 

located on the control wall 15 inches (380 mm) maximum from the centerline of the seat toward the 

shower opening. 

Figure 608.3.3

Grab Bars for Alternate Roll-In Type Showers

Figure 608.5.1

Transfer Type Shower Compartment Control Location

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608.5.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartments. In standard roll-in type shower 

compartments, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be located above the grab bar, but 

no higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) above the shower floor. Where a seat is provided, the controls, 

faucets, and shower spray unit shall be installed on the back wall adjacent to the seat wall and shall 

be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum from the seat wall. 

608.5.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments. In alternate roll-in type shower 

compartments, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be located above the grab bar, but 

no higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) above the shower floor. Where a seat is provided, the controls, 

faucets, and shower spray unit shall be located on the side wall adjacent to the seat 27 inches (685 

mm) maximum from the side wall behind the seat or shall be located on the back wall opposite the 

seat 15 inches (380 mm) maximum, left or right, of the centerline of the seat. Where a seat is not 

provided, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be installed on the side wall farthest from 

the compartment entry. 

Advisory 608.5.2 Standard Roll-in Type Shower Compartments. In standard roll-in type 

showers without seats, the shower head and operable parts can be located on any of the 

three walls of the shower without adversely affecting accessibility.

Figure 608.5.2

Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Control Location

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608.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water. A shower spray unit with a hose 59 inches (1500 mm) long 

minimum that can be used both as a fixed-position shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be 

provided. The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off. If an 

adjustable-height shower head on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct 

the use of grab bars. Shower spray units shall deliver water that is 120°F (49°C) maximum.

EXCEPTION: A fixed shower head located at 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the shower 

finish floor shall be permitted instead of a hand-held spray unit in facilities that are not medical care 

facilities, long-term care facilities, transient lodging guest rooms, or residential dwelling units. 

608.7 Thresholds. Thresholds in roll-in type shower compartments shall be 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) high 

maximum in accordance with 303. In transfer type shower compartments, thresholds 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) 

high maximum shall be beveled, rounded, or vertical.

EXCEPTION: A threshold 2 inches (51 mm) high maximum shall be permitted in transfer type 

shower compartments in existing facilities where provision of a 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) high threshold would 

disturb the structural reinforcement of the floor slab.

Figure 608.5.3

Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Control Location

Advisory 608.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water. Ensure that hand-held shower spray units 

are capable of delivering water pressure substantially equivalent to fixed shower heads.

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608.8 Shower Enclosures. Enclosures for shower compartments shall not obstruct controls, faucets, 

and shower spray units or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs onto shower seats.

609 Grab Bars

609.1 General. Grab bars in toilet facilities and bathing facilities shall comply with 609.

609.2 Cross Section. Grab bars shall have a cross section complying with 609.2.1 or 609.2.2.

609.2.1 Circular Cross Section. Grab bars with circular cross sections shall have an outside 

diameter of 11⁄4 inches (32 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum.

609.2.2 Non-Circular Cross Section. Grab bars with non-circular cross sections shall have a 

cross-section dimension of 2 inches (51 mm) maximum and a perimeter dimension of 4 inches (100 

mm) minimum and 4.8 inches (120 mm) maximum. 

609.3 Spacing. The space between the wall and the grab bar shall be 11⁄2 inches (38 mm). The space

between the grab bar and projecting objects below and at the ends shall be 11⁄2 inches (38 mm) 

minimum. The space between the grab bar and projecting objects above shall be 12 inches (305 mm) 

minimum.

EXCEPTION: The space between the grab bars and shower controls, shower fittings, and other 

grab bars above shall be permitted to be 11⁄2 inches (38 mm) minimum. 

Figure 609.2.2

Grab Bar Non-Circular Cross Section

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609.4 Position of Grab Bars. Grab bars shall be installed in a horizontal position, 33 inches (840 mm) 

minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the gripping 

surface, except that at water closets for children's use complying with 604.9, grab bars shall be installed 

in a horizontal position 18 inches (455 mm) minimum and 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the finish 

floor measured to the top of the gripping surface. The height of the lower grab bar on the back wall of a 

bathtub shall comply with 607.4.1.1 or 607.4.2.1.

609.5 Surface Hazards. Grab bars and any wall or other surfaces adjacent to grab bars shall be free of 

sharp or abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

609.6 Fittings. Grab bars shall not rotate within their fittings.

609.7 Installation. Grab bars shall be installed in any manner that provides a gripping surface at the 

specified locations and that does not obstruct the required clear floor space.

609.8 Structural Strength. Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical 

or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the grab bar, fastener, mounting 

device, or supporting structure.

610 Seats

610.1 General. Seats in bathtubs and shower compartments shall comply with 610.

610.2 Bathtub Seats. The top of bathtub seats shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches 

(485 mm) maximum above the bathroom finish floor. The depth of a removable in-tub seat shall be 15 

inches (380 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum. The seat shall be capable of secure 

placement. Permanent seats at the head end of the bathtub shall be 15 inches (380 mm) deep minimum 

and shall extend from the back wall to or beyond the outer edge of the bathtub. 

Figure 609.3

Spacing of Grab Bars

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610.3 Shower Compartment Seats. Where a seat is provided in a standard roll-in shower 

compartment, it shall be a folding type, shall be installed on the side wall adjacent to the controls, and 

shall extend from the back wall to a point within 3 inches (75 mm) of the compartment entry. Where a 

seat is provided in an alternate roll-in type shower compartment, it shall be a folding type, shall be 

installed on the front wall opposite the back wall, and shall extend from the adjacent side wall to a point 

within 3 inches (75 mm) of the compartment entry. In transfer-type showers, the seat shall extend from 

the back wall to a point within 3 inches (75 mm) of the compartment entry. The top of the seat shall be 

17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the bathroom finish floor. Seats 

shall comply with 610.3.1 or 610.3.2. 

610.3.1 Rectangular Seats. The rear edge of a rectangular seat shall be 21⁄2 inches (64 mm) 

maximum and the front edge 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum from 

Figure 610.2

Bathtub Seats

Figure 610.3

Extent of Seat

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the seat wall. The side edge of the seat shall be 11⁄2 inches (38 mm) maximum from the adjacent 

wall. 

610.3.2 L-Shaped Seats. The rear edge of an L-shaped seat shall be 21⁄2 inches (64 mm) maximum 

and the front edge 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum from the seat 

wall. The rear edge of the “L” portion of the seat shall be 11⁄2 inches (38 mm) maximum from the wall 

and the front edge shall be 14 inches (355 mm) minimum and 15 inches (380 mm) maximum from 

the wall. The end of the “L” shall be 22 inches (560 mm) minimum and 23 inches maximum (585 

mm) from the main seat wall. 

610.4 Structural Strength. Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical 

or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the seat, fastener, mounting device, 

or supporting structure.

Figure 610.3.1

Rectangular Shower Seat

Figure 610.3.2

L-Shaped Shower Seat

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611 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers

611.1 General. Washing machines and clothes dryers shall comply with 611.

611.2 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 positioned for parallel 

approach shall be provided. The clear floor or ground space shall be centered on the appliance.

611.3 Operable Parts. Operable parts, including doors, lint screens, and detergent and bleach 

compartments shall comply with 309.

611.4 Height. Top loading machines shall have the door to the laundry compartment located 36 inches 

(915 mm) maximum above the finish floor. Front loading machines shall have the bottom of the opening 

to the laundry compartment located 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum 

above the finish floor. 

612 Saunas and Steam Rooms

612.1 General. Saunas and steam rooms shall comply with 612.

612.2 Bench. Where seating is provided in saunas and steam rooms, at least one bench shall comply 

with 903. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space required by 903.2.

EXCEPTION: A readily removable bench shall be permitted to obstruct the turning space required 

by 612.3 and the clear floor or ground space required by 903.2.

612.3 Turning Space. A turning space complying with 304 shall be provided within saunas and steam 

rooms.

Figure 611.4

Height of Laundry Compartment Opening

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CHAPTER 7: COMMUNICATION ELEMENTS AND FEATURES

701 General

701.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 7 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document.

702 Fire Alarm Systems

702.1 General. Fire alarm systems shall have permanently installed audible and visible alarms 

complying with NFPA 72 (1999 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” 

in Chapter 1), except that the maximum allowable sound level of audible notification appliances 

complying with section 4-3.2.1 of NFPA 72 (1999 edition) shall have a sound level no more than 110 dB 

at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. In addition, alarms in guest rooms required 

to provide communication features shall comply with sections 4-3 and 4-4 of NFPA 72 (1999 edition) or 

sections 7.4 and 7.5 of NFPA 72 (2002 edition).

EXCEPTION: Fire alarm systems in medical care facilities shall be permitted to be provided in 

accordance with industry practice.

703 Signs

703.1 General. Signs shall comply with 703. Where both visual and tactile characters are required, 

either one sign with both visual and tactile characters, or two separate signs, one with visual, and one 

with tactile characters, shall be provided.

703.2 Raised Characters. Raised characters shall comply with 703.2 and shall be duplicated in braille 

complying with 703.3. Raised characters shall be installed in accordance with 703.4. 

703.2.1 Depth. Raised characters shall be 1/32 inch (0.8 mm) minimum above their background.

703.2.2 Case. Characters shall be uppercase.

703.2.3 Style. Characters shall be sans serif. Characters shall not be italic, oblique, script, highly 

decorative, or of other unusual forms.

703.2.4 Character Proportions. Characters shall be selected from fonts where the width of the 

uppercase letter “O” is 55 percent minimum and 110 percent maximum of the height of the 

uppercase letter “I”.

703.2.5 Character Height. Character height measured vertically from the baseline of the character

shall be 5/8 inch (16 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum based on the height of the 

uppercase letter “I”.

Advisory 703.2 Raised Characters. Signs that are designed to be read by touch should 

not have sharp or abrasive edges.

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EXCEPTION: Where separate raised and visual characters with the same information are 

provided, raised character height shall be permitted to be 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) minimum. 

703.2.6 Stroke Thickness. Stroke thickness of the uppercase letter “I” shall be 15 percent 

maximum of the height of the character.

703.2.7 Character Spacing. Character spacing shall be measured between the two closest points 

of adjacent raised characters within a message, excluding word spaces. Where characters have 

rectangular cross sections, spacing between individual raised characters shall be 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) 

minimum and 4 times the raised character stroke width maximum. Where characters have other 

cross sections, spacing between individual raised characters shall be 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) minimum 

and 4 times the raised character stroke width maximum at the base of the cross sections, and 1/8 

inch (3.2 mm) minimum and 4 times the raised character stroke width maximum at the top of the 

cross sections. Characters shall be separated from raised borders and decorative elements 3/8 inch 

(9.5 mm) minimum.

703.2.8 Line Spacing. Spacing between the baselines of separate lines of raised characters within 

a message shall be 135 percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of the raised character height.

703.3 Braille. Braille shall be contracted (Grade 2) and shall comply with 703.3 and 703.4.

703.3.1 Dimensions and Capitalization. Braille dots shall have a domed or rounded shape and 

shall comply with Table 703.3.1. The indication of an uppercase letter or letters shall only be used 

before the first word of sentences, proper nouns and names, individual letters of the alphabet, 

initials, and acronyms. 

Figure 703.2.5

Height of Raised Characters

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703.3.2 Position. Braille shall be positioned below the corresponding text. If text is multi-lined, 

braille shall be placed below the entire text. Braille shall be separated 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) minimum 

from any other tactile characters and 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) minimum from raised borders and decorative 

elements.

Table 703.3.1 Braille Dimensions

Measurement Range Minimum in Inches

Maximum in Inches

Dot base diameter 0.059 (1.5 mm)

to

0.063 (1.6 mm)

Distance between two dots in the same cell1 0.090 (2.3 mm)

to

0.100 (2.5 mm)

Distance between corresponding

dots in adjacent cells1

0.241 (6.1 mm)

to

0.300 (7.6 mm)

Dot height 0.025 (0.6 mm)

to

0.037 (0.9 mm)

Distance between corresponding dots

from one cell directly below1

0.395 (10 mm)

to

0.400 (10.2 mm)

1. Measured center to center.

Figure 703.3.1

Braille Measurement

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EXCEPTION: Braille provided on elevator car controls shall be separated 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) 

minimum and shall be located either directly below or adjacent to the corresponding raised 

characters or symbols. 

703.4 Installation Height and Location. Signs with tactile characters shall comply with 703.4. 

703.4.1 Height Above Finish Floor or Ground. Tactile characters on signs shall be located 48 

inches (1220 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground surface, measured from the baseline of 

the lowest tactile character and 60 inches (1525 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground 

surface, measured from the baseline of the highest tactile character.

EXCEPTION: Tactile characters for elevator car controls shall not be required to comply with 

703.4.1. 

Figure 703.3.2

Position of Braille

Figure 703.4.1

Height of Tactile Characters Above Finish Floor or Ground

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703.4.2 Location. Where a tactile sign is provided at a door, the sign shall be located alongside the 

door at the latch side. Where a tactile sign is provided at double doors with one active leaf, the sign 

shall be located on the inactive leaf. Where a tactile sign is provided at double doors with two active 

leafs, the sign shall be located to the right of the right hand door. Where there is no wall space at the 

latch side of a single door or at the right side of double doors, signs shall be located on the nearest 

adjacent wall. Signs containing tactile characters shall be located so that a clear floor space of 18 

inches (455 mm) minimum by 18 inches (455 mm) minimum, centered on the tactile characters, is 

provided beyond the arc of any door swing between the closed position and 45 degree open 

position.

EXCEPTION: Signs with tactile characters shall be permitted on the push side of doors with 

closers and without hold-open devices. 

703.5 Visual Characters. Visual characters shall comply with 703.5.

EXCEPTION: Where visual characters comply with 703.2 and are accompanied by braille complying 

with 703.3, they shall not be required to comply with 703.5.2 through 703.5.9.

703.5.1 Finish and Contrast. Characters and their background shall have a non-glare finish. 

Characters shall contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or 

dark characters on a light background. 

703.5.2 Case. Characters shall be uppercase or lowercase or a combination of both.

703.5.3 Style. Characters shall be conventional in form. Characters shall not be italic, oblique, 

script, highly decorative, or of other unusual forms.

703.5.4 Character Proportions. Characters shall be selected from fonts where the width of the 

uppercase letter “O” is 55 percent minimum and 110 percent maximum of the height of the 

uppercase letter “I”.

Figure 703.4.2

Location of Tactile Signs at Doors

Advisory 703.5.1 Finish and Contrast. Signs are more legible for persons with low vision 

when characters contrast as much as possible with their background. Additional factors 

affecting the ease with which the text can be distinguished from its background include 

shadows cast by lighting sources, surface glare, and the uniformity of the text and its 

background colors and textures.

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703.5.5 Character Height. Minimum character height shall comply with Table 703.5.5. Viewing 

distance shall be measured as the horizontal distance between the character and an obstruction 

preventing further approach towards the sign. Character height shall be based on the uppercase 

letter “I”. 

703.5.6 Height From Finish Floor or Ground. Visual characters shall be 40 inches (1015 mm) 

minimum above the finish floor or ground.

EXCEPTION: Visual characters indicating elevator car controls shall not be required to comply 

with 703.5.6.

703.5.7 Stroke Thickness. Stroke thickness of the uppercase letter “I” shall be 10 percent minimum 

and 30 percent maximum of the height of the character.

703.5.8 Character Spacing. Character spacing shall be measured between the two closest points 

of adjacent characters, excluding word spaces. Spacing between individual characters shall be 10 

percent minimum and 35 percent maximum of character height.

703.5.9 Line Spacing. Spacing between the baselines of separate lines of characters within a 

message shall be 135 percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of the character height.

703.6 Pictograms. Pictograms shall comply with 703.6.

Table 703.5.5 Visual Character Height

Height to Finish Floor or 

Ground From

Baseline of Character

Horizontal Viewing Distance Minimum Character Height

40 inches (1015 mm) to less

than or equal to 70 inches

(1780 mm)

less than 72 inches (1830 mm) 5/8 inch (16 mm)

72 inches (1830 mm) and 

greater

5/8 inch (16 mm), plus 1/8 inch 

(3.2 mm) per foot (305 mm) of 

viewing distance above 72 

inches (1830 mm)

Greater than 70 inches (1780 

mm) to less than or equal to 120 

inches (3050 mm)

less than 180 inches (4570 mm) 2 inches (51 mm)

180 inches (4570 mm) and 

greater

2 inches (51 mm), plus 1/8 inch 

(3.2 mm) per foot (305 mm) of 

viewing distance above 180 

inches (4570 mm)

greater than 120 inches

(3050 mm)

less than 21 feet (6400 mm) 3 inches (75 mm)

21 feet (6400 mm) and greater 3 inches (75 mm), plus 1/8 inch 

(3.2 mm) per foot (305 mm) of 

viewing distance above 21 feet 

(6400 mm)

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703.6.1 Pictogram Field. Pictograms shall have a field height of 6 inches (150 mm) minimum. 

Characters and braille shall not be located in the pictogram field. 

703.6.2 Finish and Contrast. Pictograms and their field shall have a non-glare finish. Pictograms

shall contrast with their field with either a light pictogram on a dark field or a dark pictogram on a light 

field. 

703.6.3 Text Descriptors. Pictograms shall have text descriptors located directly below the 

pictogram field. Text descriptors shall comply with 703.2, 703.3 and 703.4.

703.7 Symbols of Accessibility. Symbols of accessibility shall comply with 703.7.

703.7.1 Finish and Contrast. Symbols of accessibility and their background shall have a non-glare 

finish. Symbols of accessibility shall contrast with their background with either a light symbol on a 

dark background or a dark symbol on a light background. 

Figure 703.6.1

Pictogram Field

Advisory 703.6.2 Finish and Contrast. Signs are more legible for persons with low vision 

when characters contrast as much as possible with their background. Additional factors 

affecting the ease with which the text can be distinguished from its background include 

shadows cast by lighting sources, surface glare, and the uniformity of the text and 

background colors and textures.

Advisory 703.7.1 Finish and Contrast. Signs are more legible for persons with low vision 

when characters contrast as much as possible with their background. Additional factors 

affecting the ease with which the text can be distinguished from its background include 

shadows cast by lighting sources, surface glare, and the uniformity of the text and 

background colors and textures. 

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703.7.2 Symbols.

703.7.2.1 International Symbol of Accessibility. The International Symbol of Accessibility

shall comply with Figure 703.7.2.1. 

703.7.2.2 International Symbol of TTY. The International Symbol of TTY shall comply with 

Figure 703.7.2.2. 

703.7.2.3 Volume Control Telephones. Telephones with a volume control shall be identified by 

a pictogram of a telephone handset with radiating sound waves on a square field such as shown 

in Figure 703.7.2.3. 

Figure 703.7.2.1

International Symbol of Accessibility

Figure 703.7.2.2

International Symbol of TTY

Figure 703.7.2.3

Volume Control Telephone

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703.7.2.4 Assistive Listening Systems. Assistive listening systems shall be identified by the 

International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss complying with Figure 703.7.2.4. 

704 Telephones

704.1 General. Public telephones shall comply with 704.

704.2 Wheelchair Accessible Telephones. Wheelchair accessible telephones shall comply with 

704.2.

704.2.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be 

provided. The clear floor or ground space shall not be obstructed by bases, enclosures, or seats. 

704.2.1.1 Parallel Approach. Where a parallel approach is provided, the distance from the 

edge of the telephone enclosure to the face of the telephone unit shall be 10 inches (255 mm) 

maximum. 

Figure 703.7.2.4

International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss

Advisory 704.2.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. Because clear floor and ground space is 

required to be unobstructed, telephones, enclosures and related telephone book storage 

cannot encroach on the required clear floor or ground space and must comply with the 

provisions for protruding objects. (See Section 307).

Figure 704.2.1.1

Parallel Approach to Telephone

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704.2.1.2 Forward Approach. Where a forward approach is provided, the distance from the 

front edge of a counter within the telephone enclosure to the face of the telephone unit shall be 

20 inches (510 mm) maximum. 

704.2.2 Operable Parts. Operable parts shall comply with 309. Telephones shall have push-button 

controls where such service is available.

704.2.3 Telephone Directories. Telephone directories, where provided, shall be located in 

accordance with 309.

704.2.4 Cord Length. The cord from the telephone to the handset shall be 29 inches (735 mm) long 

minimum.

704.3 Volume Control Telephones. Public telephones required to have volume controls shall be 

equipped with a receive volume control that provides a gain adjustable up to 20 dB minimum. For 

incremental volume control, provide at least one intermediate step of 12 dB of gain minimum. An 

automatic reset shall be provided. 

Figure 704.2.1.2

Forward Approach to Telephone

Advisory 704.3 Volume Control Telephones. Amplifiers on pay phones are located in the 

base or the handset or are built into the telephone. Most are operated by pressing a button 

or key. If the microphone in the handset is not being used, a mute button that temporarily 

turns off the microphone can also reduce the amount of background noise which the person 

hears in the earpiece. If a volume adjustment is provided that allows the user to set the 

level anywhere from the base volume to the upper requirement of 20 dB, there is no need to 

specify a lower limit. If a stepped volume control is provided, one of the intermediate levels 

must provide 12 dB of gain. Consider compatibility issues when matching an amplified 

handset with a phone or phone system. Amplified handsets that can be switched with pay 

telephone handsets are available. Portable and in-line amplifiers can be used with some 

phones but are not practical at most public phones covered by these requirements.

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704.4 TTYs. TTYs required at a public pay telephone shall be permanently affixed within, or adjacent to, 

the telephone enclosure. Where an acoustic coupler is used, the telephone cord shall be sufficiently 

long to allow connection of the TTY and the telephone receiver. 

704.4.1 Height. When in use, the touch surface of TTY keypads shall be 34 inches (865 mm) 

minimum above the finish floor.

EXCEPTION: Where seats are provided, TTYs shall not be required to comply with 704.4.1. 

704.5 TTY Shelf. Public pay telephones required to accommodate portable TTYs shall be equipped 

with a shelf and an electrical outlet within or adjacent to the telephone enclosure. The telephone 

handset shall be capable of being placed flush on the surface of the shelf. The shelf shall be capable of 

accommodating a TTY and shall have 6 inches (150 mm) minimum vertical clearance above the area 

where the TTY is to be placed.

705 Detectable Warnings

705.1 General. Detectable warnings shall consist of a surface of truncated domes and shall comply with 

705.

705.1.1 Dome Size. Truncated domes in a detectable warning surface shall have a base diameter 

of 0.9 inch (23 mm) minimum and 1.4 inches (36 mm) maximum, a top diameter of 50 percent of the 

base diameter minimum to 65 percent of the base diameter maximum, and a height of 0.2 inch (5.1 

mm).

705.1.2 Dome Spacing. Truncated domes in a detectable warning surface shall have a center-tocenter spacing of 1.6 inches (41 mm) minimum and 2.4 inches (61 mm) maximum, and a base-tobase spacing of 0.65 inch (17 mm) minimum, measured between the most adjacent domes on a 

square grid.

705.1.3 Contrast. Detectable warning surfaces shall contrast visually with adjacent walking 

surfaces either light-on-dark, or dark-on-light. 

Advisory 704.4 TTYs. Ensure that sufficient electrical service is available where TTYs are 

to be installed.

Advisory 704.4.1 Height. A telephone with a TTY installed underneath cannot also be a 

wheelchair accessible telephone because the required 34 inches (865 mm) minimum 

keypad height can causes the highest operable part of the telephone, usually the coin slot, 

to exceed the maximum permitted side and forward reach ranges. (See Section 308). 

Advisory 704.4.1 Height Exception. While seats are not required at TTYs, reading and 

typing at a TTY is more suited to sitting than standing. Facilities that often provide seats at 

TTY’s include, but are not limited to, airports and other passenger terminals or stations, 

courts, art galleries, and convention centers.

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705.2 Platform Edges. Detectable warning surfaces at platform boarding edges shall be 24 inches (610 

mm) wide and shall extend the full length of the public use areas of the platform.

706 Assistive Listening Systems

706.1 General. Assistive listening systems required in assembly areas shall comply with 706. 

706.2 Receiver Jacks. Receivers required for use with an assistive listening system shall include a 1/8 

inch (3.2 mm) standard mono jack.

Figure 705.1

Size and Spacing of Truncated Domes

Advisory 706.1 General. Assistive listening systems are generally categorized by their 

mode of transmission. There are hard-wired systems and three types of wireless systems: 

induction loop, infrared, and FM radio transmission. Each has different advantages and 

disadvantages that can help determine which system is best for a given application. For 

example, an FM system may be better than an infrared system in some open-air assemblies 

since infrared signals are less effective in sunlight. On the other hand, an infrared system is 

typically a better choice than an FM system where confidential transmission is important 

because it will be contained within a given space.

The technical standards for assistive listening systems describe minimum performance 

levels for volume, interference, and distortion. Sound pressure levels (SPL), expressed in 

decibels, measure output sound volume. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR or S/N), also 

expressed in decibels, represents the relationship between the loudness of a desired sound 

(the signal) and the background noise in a space or piece of equipment. The higher the 

SNR, the more intelligible the signal. The peak clipping level limits the distortion in signal 

output produced when high-volume sound waves are manipulated to serve assistive 

listening devices.

Selecting or specifying an effective assistive listening system for a large or complex venue 

requires assistance from a professional sound engineer. The Access Board has published 

technical assistance on assistive listening devices and systems.

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706.3 Receiver Hearing-Aid Compatibility. Receivers required to be hearing-aid compatible shall 

interface with telecoils in hearing aids through the provision of neckloops. 

706.4 Sound Pressure Level. Assistive listening systems shall be capable of providing a sound 

pressure level of 110 dB minimum and 118 dB maximum with a dynamic range on the volume control of 

50 dB.

706.5 Signal-to-Noise Ratio. The signal-to-noise ratio for internally generated noise in assistive 

listening systems shall be 18 dB minimum.

706.6 Peak Clipping Level. Peak clipping shall not exceed 18 dB of clipping relative to the peaks of 

speech.

707 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines 

707.1 General. Automatic teller machines and fare machines shall comply with 707. 

707.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be 

provided.

EXCEPTION: Clear floor or ground space shall not be required at drive-up only automatic teller 

machines and fare machines.

Advisory 706.3 Receiver Hearing-Aid Compatibility. Neckloops and headsets that can 

be worn as neckloops are compatible with hearing aids. Receivers that are not compatible 

include earbuds, which may require removal of hearing aids, earphones, and headsets that 

must be worn over the ear, which can create disruptive interference in the transmission and 

can be uncomfortable for people wearing hearing aids.

Advisory 707 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines. Interactive transaction 

machines (ITMs), other than ATMs, are not covered by Section 707. However, for entities 

covered by the ADA, the Department of Justice regulations that implement the ADA provide 

additional guidance regarding the relationship between these requirements and elements 

that are not directly addressed by these requirements. Federal procurement law requires 

that ITMs purchased by the Federal government comply with standards issued by the 

Access Board under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. This law 

covers a variety of products, including computer hardware and software, websites, phone 

systems, fax machines, copiers, and similar technologies. For more information on Section 

508 consult the Access Board’s website at www.access-board.gov.

Advisory 707.1 General. If farecards have one tactually distinctive corner they can be 

inserted with greater accuracy. Token collection devices that are designed to accommodate 

tokens which are perforated can allow a person to distinguish more readily between tokens 

and common coins. Place accessible gates and fare vending machines in close proximity to 

other accessible elements when feasible so the facility is easier to use.

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707.3 Operable Parts. Operable parts shall comply with 309. Unless a clear or correct key is provided, 

each operable part shall be able to be differentiated by sound or touch, without activation.

EXCEPTION: Drive-up only automatic teller machines and fare machines shall not be required to 

comply with 309.2 and 309.3.

707.4 Privacy. Automatic teller machines shall provide the opportunity for the same degree of privacy of 

input and output available to all individuals. 

707.5 Speech Output. Machines shall be speech enabled. Operating instructions and orientation, 

visible transaction prompts, user input verification, error messages, and all displayed information for full 

use shall be accessible to and independently usable by individuals with vision impairments. Speech shall 

be delivered through a mechanism that is readily available to all users, including but not limited to, an 

industry standard connector or a telephone handset. Speech shall be recorded or digitized human, or 

synthesized.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Audible tones shall be permitted instead of speech for visible output that is not 

displayed for security purposes, including but not limited to, asterisks representing personal 

identification numbers.

2. Advertisements and other similar information shall not be required to be audible unless they 

convey information that can be used in the transaction being conducted.

3. Where speech synthesis cannot be supported, dynamic alphabetic output shall not be required to 

be audible. 

707.5.1 User Control. Speech shall be capable of being repeated or interrupted. Volume control 

shall be provided for the speech function.

EXCEPTION: Speech output for any single function shall be permitted to be automatically 

interrupted when a transaction is selected.

707.5.2 Receipts. Where receipts are provided, speech output devices shall provide audible 

balance inquiry information, error messages, and all other information on the printed receipt 

necessary to complete or verify the transaction.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Machine location, date and time of transaction, customer account number, 

and the machine identifier shall not be required to be audible.

Advisory 707.4 Privacy. In addition to people who are blind or visually impaired, people 

with limited reach who use wheelchairs or have short stature, who cannot effectively block 

the ATM screen with their bodies, may prefer to use speech output. Speech output users 

can benefit from an option to render the visible screen blank, thereby affording them greater 

personal security and privacy.

Advisory 707.5 Speech Output. If an ATM provides additional functions such as 

dispensing coupons, selling theater tickets, or providing copies of monthly statements, all 

such functions must be available to customers using speech output. To avoid confusion at 

the ATM, the method of initiating the speech mode should be easily discoverable and should 

not require specialized training. For example, if a telephone handset is provided, lifting the 

handset can initiate the speech mode.

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2. Information on printed receipts that duplicates information available on-screen shall not be 

required to be presented in the form of an audible receipt.

3. Printed copies of bank statements and checks shall not be required to be audible.

707.6 Input. Input devices shall comply with 707.6.

707.6.1 Input Controls. At least one tactilely discernible input control shall be provided for each 

function. Where provided, key surfaces not on active areas of display screens, shall be raised above 

surrounding surfaces. Where membrane keys are the only method of input, each shall be tactilely

discernable from surrounding surfaces and adjacent keys.

707.6.2 Numeric Keys. Numeric keys shall be arranged in a 12-key ascending or descending 

telephone keypad layout. The number five key shall be tactilely distinct from the other keys. 

707.6.3 Function Keys. Function keys shall comply with 707.6.3.

707.6.3.1 Contrast. Function keys shall contrast visually from background surfaces. Characters

and symbols on key surfaces shall contrast visually from key surfaces. Visual contrast shall be 

either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

EXCEPTION: Tactile symbols required by 707.6.3.2 shall not be required to comply with 

707.6.3.1.

707.6.3.2 Tactile Symbols. Function key surfaces shall have tactile symbols as follows: Enter 

or Proceed key: raised circle; Clear or Correct key: raised left arrow; Cancel key: raised letter ex; 

Add Value key: raised plus sign; Decrease Value key: raised minus sign.

Advisory 707.6.2 Numeric Keys. Telephone keypads and computer keyboards differ in 

one significant feature, ascending versus descending numerical order. Both types of 

keypads are acceptable, provided the computer-style keypad is organized similarly to the 

number pad located at the right on most computer keyboards, and does not resemble the 

line of numbers located above the computer keys.

Figure 707.6.2

Numeric Key Layout

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707.7 Display Screen. The display screen shall comply with 707.7.

EXCEPTION: Drive-up only automatic teller machines and fare machines shall not be required to 

comply with 707.7.1.

707.7.1 Visibility. The display screen shall be visible from a point located 40 inches (1015 mm) 

above the center of the clear floor space in front of the machine.

707.7.2 Characters. Characters displayed on the screen shall be in a sans serif font. Characters

shall be 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) high minimum based on the uppercase letter "I". Characters shall 

contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters

on a light background.

707.8 Braille Instructions. Braille instructions for initiating the speech mode shall be provided. Braille 

shall comply with 703.3.

708 Two-Way Communication Systems

708.1 General. Two-way communication systems shall comply with 708. 

708.2 Audible and Visual Indicators. The system shall provide both audible and visual signals. 

708.3 Handsets. Handset cords, if provided, shall be 29 inches (735 mm) long minimum.

708.4 Residential Dwelling Unit Communication Systems. Communications systems between a

residential dwelling unit and a site, building, or floor entrance shall comply with 708.4.

708.4.1 Common Use or Public Use System Interface. The common use or public use system 

interface shall include the capability of supporting voice and TTY communication with the residential 

dwelling unit interface.

708.4.2 Residential Dwelling Unit Interface. The residential dwelling unit system interface shall 

include a telephone jack capable of supporting voice and TTY communication with the common use

or public use system interface.

Advisory 708.1 General. Devices that do not require handsets are easier to use by people 

who have a limited reach.

Advisory 708.2 Audible and Visual Indicators. A light can be used to indicate visually 

that assistance is on the way. Signs indicating the meaning of visual signals should be 

provided.

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CHAPTER 8: SPECIAL ROOMS, SPACES, AND ELEMENTS

801 General

801.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 8 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document. 

802 Wheelchair Spaces, Companion Seats, and Designated Aisle Seats

802.1 Wheelchair Spaces. Wheelchair spaces shall comply with 802.1.

802.1.1 Floor or Ground Surface. The floor or ground surface of wheelchair spaces shall comply 

with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

802.1.2 Width. A single wheelchair space shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum Where two 

adjacent wheelchair spaces are provided, each wheelchair space shall be 33 inches (840 mm) wide 

minimum. 

802.1.3 Depth. Where a wheelchair space can be entered from the front or rear, the wheelchair 

space shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) deep minimum. Where a wheelchair space can be entered only 

from the side, the wheelchair space shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) deep minimum. 

Advisory 801.1 Scope. Facilities covered by these requirements are also subject to the 

requirements of the other chapters. For example, 806 addresses guest rooms in transient 

lodging facilities while 902 contains the technical specifications for dining surfaces. If a 

transient lodging facility contains a restaurant, the restaurant must comply with requirements 

in other chapters such as those applicable to certain dining surfaces. 

Figure 802.1.2

Width of Wheelchair Spaces

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802.1.4 Approach. Wheelchair spaces shall adjoin accessible routes. Accessible routes shall not 

overlap wheelchair spaces. 

802.1.5 Overlap. Wheelchair spaces shall not overlap circulation paths. 

802.2 Lines of Sight. Lines of sight to the screen, performance area, or playing field for spectators in 

wheelchair spaces shall comply with 802.2.

802.2.1 Lines of Sight Over Seated Spectators. Where spectators are expected to remain seated 

during events, spectators in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight complying with 

802.2.1.

802.2.1.1 Lines of Sight Over Heads. Where spectators are provided lines of sight over the 

heads of spectators seated in the first row in front of their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair 

spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the heads of seated spectators in the first row in front 

of wheelchair spaces. 

Figure 802.1.3

Depth of Wheelchair Spaces

Advisory 802.1.4 Approach. Because accessible routes serving wheelchair spaces are 

not permitted to overlap the clear floor space at wheelchair spaces, access to any 

wheelchair space cannot be through another wheelchair space.

Advisory 802.1.5 Overlap. The term “circulation paths” used in Section 802.1.5 means 

aisle width required by applicable building or life safety codes for the specific assembly 

occupancy. Where the circulation path provided is wider than the required aisle width, the 

wheelchair space may intrude into that portion of the circulation path that is provided in 

excess of the required aisle width.

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802.2.1.2 Lines of Sight Between Heads. Where spectators are provided lines of sight over the 

shoulders and between the heads of spectators seated in the first row in front of their seats, 

spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the shoulders and 

between the heads of seated spectators in the first row in front of wheelchair spaces. 

802.2.2 Lines of Sight Over Standing Spectators. Where spectators are expected to stand during 

events, spectators in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight complying with 802.2.2.

802.2.2.1 Lines of Sight Over Heads. Where standing spectators are provided lines of sight 

over the heads of spectators standing in the first row in front of their seats, spectators seated in 

Figure 802.2.1.1

Lines of Sight Over the Heads of Seated Spectators

Figure 802.2.1.2

Lines of Sight Between the Heads of Seated Spectators

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wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the heads of standing spectators in the 

first row in front of wheelchair spaces. 

802.2.2.2 Lines of Sight Between Heads. Where standing spectators are provided lines of 

sight over the shoulders and between the heads of spectators standing in the first row in front of 

their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the 

shoulders and between the heads of standing spectators in the first row in front of wheelchair

spaces. 

Figure 802.2.2.1

Lines of Sight Over the Heads of Standing Spectators

Figure 802.2.2.2

Lines of Sight Between the Heads of Standing Spectators

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802.3 Companion Seats. Companion seats shall comply with 802.3.

802.3.1 Alignment. In row seating, companion seats shall be located to provide shoulder alignment 

with adjacent wheelchair spaces. The shoulder alignment point of the wheelchair space shall be 

measured 36 inches (915 mm) from the front of the wheelchair space. The floor surface of the 

companion seat shall be at the same elevation as the floor surface of the wheelchair space.

802.3.2 Type. Companion seats shall be equivalent in size, quality, comfort, and amenities to the 

seating in the immediate area. Companion seats shall be permitted to be movable.

802.4 Designated Aisle Seats. Designated aisle seats shall comply with 802.4.

802.4.1 Armrests. Where armrests are provided on the seating in the immediate area, folding or 

retractable armrests shall be provided on the aisle side of the seat.

802.4.2 Identification. Each designated aisle seat shall be identified by a sign or marker. 

803 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

803.1 General. Dressing, fitting, and locker rooms shall comply with 803. 

803.2 Turning Space. Turning space complying with 304 shall be provided within the room.

803.3 Door Swing. Doors shall not swing into the room unless a clear floor or ground space complying 

with 305.3 is provided beyond the arc of the door swing.

803.4 Benches. A bench complying with 903 shall be provided within the room.

803.5 Coat Hooks and Shelves. Coat hooks provided within the room shall be located within one of the 

reach ranges specified in 308. Shelves shall be 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 

mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

804 Kitchens and Kitchenettes

804.1 General. Kitchens and kitchenettes shall comply with 804.

Advisory 802.4.2 Identification. Seats with folding or retractable armrests are intended for 

use by individuals who have difficulty walking. Consider identifying such seats with signs 

that contrast (light-on-dark or dark-on-light) and that are also photo luminescent.

Advisory 803.1 General. Partitions and doors should be designed to ensure people using 

accessible dressing and fitting rooms privacy equivalent to that afforded other users of the 

facility. Section 903.5 requires dressing room bench seats to be installed so that they are at 

the same height as a typical wheelchair seat, 17 inches (430 mm) to 19 inches (485 mm). 

However, wheelchair seats can be lower than dressing room benches for people of short 

stature or children using wheelchairs.

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804.2 Clearance. Where a pass through kitchen is provided, clearances shall comply with 804.2.1. 

Where a U-shaped kitchen is provided, clearances shall comply with 804.2.2.

EXCEPTION: Spaces that do not provide a cooktop or conventional range shall not be required to 

comply with 804.2. 

804.2.1 Pass Through Kitchen. In pass through kitchens where counters, appliances or cabinets 

are on two opposing sides, or where counters, appliances or cabinets are opposite a parallel wall, 

clearance between all opposing base cabinets, counter tops, appliances, or walls within kitchen work 

areas shall be 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum. Pass through kitchens shall have two entries. 

804.2.2 U-Shaped. In U-shaped kitchens enclosed on three contiguous sides, clearance between 

all opposing base cabinets, counter tops, appliances, or walls within kitchen work areas shall be 60 

inches (1525 mm) minimum. 

Advisory 804.2 Clearance. Clearances are measured from the furthest projecting face of 

all opposing base cabinets, counter tops, appliances, or walls, excluding hardware.

Figure 804.2.1

Pass Through Kitchens

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804.3 Kitchen Work Surface. In residential dwelling units required to comply with 809, at least one 30 

inches (760 mm) wide minimum section of counter shall provide a kitchen work surface that complies 

with 804.3.

804.3.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor space complying with 305 positioned for a 

forward approach shall be provided. The clear floor or ground space shall be centered on the 

kitchen work surface and shall provide knee and toe clearance complying with 306.

EXCEPTION: Cabinetry shall be permitted under the kitchen work surface provided that all of 

the following conditions are met:

(a) the cabinetry can be removed without removal or replacement of the kitchen work surface;

(b) the finish floor extends under the cabinetry; and

(c) the walls behind and surrounding the cabinetry are finished.

804.3.2 Height. The kitchen work surface shall be 34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the finish 

floor or ground.

EXCEPTION: A counter that is adjustable to provide a kitchen work surface at variable heights, 

29 inches (735 mm) minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum, shall be permitted.

804.3.3 Exposed Surfaces. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under the work surface 

counters.

Figure 804.2.2

U-Shaped Kitchens

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804.4 Sinks. Sinks shall comply with 606.

804.5 Storage. At least 50 percent of shelf space in storage facilities shall comply with 811.

804.6 Appliances. Where provided, kitchen appliances shall comply with 804.6.

804.6.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be 

provided at each kitchen appliance. Clear floor or ground spaces shall be permitted to overlap.

804.6.2 Operable Parts. All appliance controls shall comply with 309.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Appliance doors and door latching devices shall not be required to comply 

with 309.4.

2. Bottom-hinged appliance doors, when in the open position, shall not be required to comply 

with 309.3.

804.6.3 Dishwasher. Clear floor or ground space shall be positioned adjacent to the dishwasher 

door. The dishwasher door, in the open position, shall not obstruct the clear floor or ground space for 

the dishwasher or the sink.

804.6.4 Range or Cooktop. Where a forward approach is provided, the clear floor or ground space

shall provide knee and toe clearance complying with 306. Where knee and toe space is provided, 

the underside of the range or cooktop shall be insulated or otherwise configured to prevent burns, 

abrasions, or electrical shock. The location of controls shall not require reaching across burners.

804.6.5 Oven. Ovens shall comply with 804.6.5.

804.6.5.1 Side-Hinged Door Ovens. Side-hinged door ovens shall have the work surface

required by 804.3 positioned adjacent to the latch side of the oven door.

804.6.5.2 Bottom-Hinged Door Ovens. Bottom-hinged door ovens shall have the work surface 

required by 804.3 positioned adjacent to one side of the door.

804.6.5.3 Controls. Ovens shall have controls on front panels.

804.6.6 Refrigerator/Freezer. Combination refrigerators and freezers shall have at least 50 percent 

of the freezer space 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. The clear floor 

or ground space shall be positioned for a parallel approach to the space dedicated to a refrigerator/

freezer with the centerline of the clear floor or ground space offset 24 inches (610 mm) maximum 

from the centerline of the dedicated space.

805 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities

805.1 General. Medical care facility and long-term care facility patient or resident sleeping rooms 

required to provide mobility features shall comply with 805.

805.2 Turning Space. Turning space complying with 304 shall be provided within the room.

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805.3 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor space complying with 305 shall be provided on each 

side of the bed. The clear floor space shall be positioned for parallel approach to the side of the bed.

805.4 Toilet and Bathing Rooms. Toilet and bathing rooms that are provided as part of a patient or 

resident sleeping room shall comply with 603. Where provided, no fewer than one water closet, one 

lavatory, and one bathtub or shower shall comply with the applicable requirements of 603 through 610.

806 Transient Lodging Guest Rooms

806.1 General. Transient lodging guest rooms shall comply with 806. Guest rooms required to provide 

mobility features shall comply with 806.2. Guest rooms required to provide communication features 

shall comply with 806.3.

806.2 Guest Rooms with Mobility Features. Guest rooms required to provide mobility features shall 

comply with 806.2. 

806.2.1 Living and Dining Areas. Living and dining areas shall be accessible.

806.2.2 Exterior Spaces. Exterior spaces, including patios, terraces and balconies, that serve the 

guest room shall be accessible.

806.2.3 Sleeping Areas. At least one sleeping area shall provide a clear floor space complying with 

305 on both sides of a bed. The clear floor space shall be positioned for parallel approach to the side 

of the bed.

EXCEPTION: Where a single clear floor space complying with 305 positioned for parallel 

approach is provided between two beds, a clear floor or ground space shall not be required on 

both sides of a bed.

806.2.4 Toilet and Bathing Facilities. At least one bathroom that is provided as part of a guest 

room shall comply with 603. No fewer than one water closet, one lavatory, and one bathtub or 

shower shall comply with applicable requirements of 603 through 610. In addition, required roll-in 

shower compartments shall comply with 608.2.2 or 608.2.3. Toilet and bathing fixtures required to 

comply with 603 through 610 shall be permitted to be located in more than one toilet or bathing area, 

provided that travel between fixtures does not require travel between other parts of the guest room. 

806.2.4.1 Vanity Counter Top Space. If vanity counter top space is provided in non-accessible

guest toilet or bathing rooms, comparable vanity counter top space, in terms of size and proximity 

to the lavatory, shall also be provided in accessible guest toilet or bathing rooms. 

Advisory 806.2 Guest Rooms. The requirements in Section 806.2 do not include 

requirements that are common to all accessible spaces. For example, closets in guest 

rooms must comply with the applicable provisions for storage specified in scoping. 

Advisory 806.2.4.1 Vanity Counter Top Space. This provision is intended to ensure that 

accessible guest rooms are provided with comparable vanity counter top space.

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806.2.5 Kitchens and Kitchenettes. Kitchens and kitchenettes shall comply with 804.

806.2.6 Turning Space. Turning space complying with 304 shall be provided within the guest room.

806.3 Guest Rooms with Communication Features. Guest rooms required to provide communication 

features shall comply with 806.3. 

806.3.1 Alarms. Where emergency warning systems are provided, alarms complying with 702 shall 

be provided.

806.3.2 Notification Devices. Visible notification devices shall be provided to alert room occupants 

of incoming telephone calls and a door knock or bell. Notification devices shall not be connected to 

visible alarm signal appliances. Telephones shall have volume controls compatible with the 

telephone system and shall comply with 704.3. Telephones shall be served by an electrical outlet 

complying with 309 located within 48 inches (1220 mm) of the telephone to facilitate the use of a 

TTY.

807 Holding Cells and Housing Cells

807.1 General. Holding cells and housing cells shall comply with 807.

807.2 Cells with Mobility Features. Cells required to provide mobility features shall comply with 807.2.

807.2.1 Turning Space. Turning space complying with 304 shall be provided within the cell.

807.2.2 Benches. Where benches are provided, at least one bench shall comply with 903.

807.2.3 Beds. Where beds are provided, clear floor space complying with 305 shall be provided on 

at least one side of the bed. The clear floor space shall be positioned for parallel approach to the 

side of the bed.

807.2.4 Toilet and Bathing Facilities. Toilet facilities or bathing facilities that are provided as part of 

a cell shall comply with 603. Where provided, no fewer than one water closet, one lavatory, and one 

bathtub or shower shall comply with the applicable requirements of 603 through 610. 

Advisory 806.3 Guest Rooms with Communication Features. In guest rooms required 

to have accessible communication features, consider ensuring compatibility with adaptive 

equipment used by people with hearing impairments. To ensure communication within the 

facility, as well as on commercial lines, provide telephone interface jacks that are compatible 

with both digital and analog signal use. If an audio headphone jack is provided on a speaker 

phone, a cutoff switch can be included in the jack so that insertion of the jack cuts off the 

speaker. If a telephone-like handset is used, the external speakers can be turned off when 

the handset is removed from the cradle. For headset or external amplification system 

compatibility, a standard subminiature jack installed in the telephone will provide the most 

flexibility.

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807.3 Cells with Communication Features. Cells required to provide communication features shall 

comply with 807.3.

807.3.1 Alarms. Where audible emergency alarm systems are provided to serve the occupants of 

cells, visible alarms complying with 702 shall be provided.

EXCEPTION: Visible alarms shall not be required where inmates or detainees are not allowed 

independent means of egress.

807.3.2 Telephones. Telephones, where provided within cells, shall have volume controls 

complying with 704.3.

808 Courtrooms

808.1 General. Courtrooms shall comply with 808.

808.2 Turning Space. Where provided, areas that are raised or depressed and accessed by ramps or 

platform lifts with entry ramps shall provide unobstructed turning space complying with 304.

808.3 Clear Floor Space. Each jury box and witness stand shall have, within its defined area, clear floor 

space complying with 305.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, wheelchair spaces are not required to be located within the defined 

area of raised jury boxes or witness stands and shall be permitted to be located outside these spaces

where ramp or platform lift access poses a hazard by restricting or projecting into a means of egress 

required by the appropriate administrative authority.

808.4 Judges' Benches and Courtroom Stations. Judges' benches, clerks' stations, bailiffs' stations, 

deputy clerks' stations, court reporters' stations and litigants' and counsel stations shall comply with 902.

809 Residential Dwelling Units

809.1 General. Residential dwelling units shall comply with 809. Residential dwelling units required to 

provide mobility features shall comply with 809.2 through 809.4. Residential dwelling units required to 

provide communication features shall comply with 809.5.

809.2 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes complying with Chapter 4 shall be provided within 

residential dwelling units in accordance with 809.2.

EXCEPTION: Accessible routes shall not be required to or within unfinished attics or unfinished 

basements.

809.2.1 Location. At least one accessible route shall connect all spaces and elements which are a 

part of the residential dwelling unit. Where only one accessible route is provided, it shall not pass 

through bathrooms, closets, or similar spaces.

Advisory 807.2.4 Toilet and Bathing Facilities. In holding cells, housing cells, or rooms 

required to be accessible, these requirements do not require a separate toilet room.

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809.2.2 Turning Space. All rooms served by an accessible route shall provide a turning space

complying with 304.

EXCEPTION: Turning space shall not be required in exterior spaces 30 inches (760 mm) 

maximum in depth or width. 

809.3 Kitchen. Where a kitchen is provided, it shall comply with 804.

809.4 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities. At least one bathroom shall comply with 603. No fewer 

than one of each type of fixture provided shall comply with applicable requirements of 603 through 610. 

Toilet and bathing fixtures required to comply with 603 through 610 shall be located in the same toilet 

and bathing area, such that travel between fixtures does not require travel between other parts of the

residential dwelling unit. 

809.5 Residential Dwelling Units with Communication Features. Residential dwelling units required 

to provide communication features shall comply with 809.5.

809.5.1 Building Fire Alarm System. Where a building fire alarm system is provided, the system 

wiring shall be extended to a point within the residential dwelling unit in the vicinity of the residential

dwelling unit smoke detection system.

809.5.1.1 Alarm Appliances. Where alarm appliances are provided within a residential dwelling 

unit as part of the building fire alarm system, they shall comply with 702.

809.5.1.2 Activation. All visible alarm appliances provided within the residential dwelling unit for 

building fire alarm notification shall be activated upon activation of the building fire alarm in the 

portion of the building containing the residential dwelling unit.

809.5.2 Residential Dwelling Unit Smoke Detection System. Residential dwelling unit smoke 

detection systems shall comply with NFPA 72 (1999 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see 

“Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).

Advisory 809.2.2 Turning Space. It is generally acceptable to use required clearances to 

provide wheelchair turning space. For example, in kitchens, 804.3.1 requires at least one 

work surface with clear floor space complying with 306 to be centered beneath. If designers 

elect to provide clear floor space that is at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide, as opposed to the 

required 30 inches (760 mm) wide, that clearance can be part of a T-turn, thereby 

maximizing efficient use of the kitchen area. However, the overlap of turning space must be 

limited to one segment of the T-turn so that back-up maneuvering is not restricted. It would, 

therefore, be unacceptable to use both the clearances under the work surface and the sink 

as part of a T-turn. See Section 304.3.2 regarding T-turns.

Advisory 809.4 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities. In an effort to promote space 

efficiency, vanity counter top space in accessible residential dwelling units is often omitted. 

This omission does not promote equal access or equal enjoyment of the unit. Where 

comparable units have vanity counter tops, accessible units should also have vanity counter 

tops located as close as possible to the lavatory for convenient access to toiletries.

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809.5.2.1 Activation. All visible alarm appliances provided within the residential dwelling unit for 

smoke detection notification shall be activated upon smoke detection.

809.5.3 Interconnection. The same visible alarm appliances shall be permitted to provide 

notification of residential dwelling unit smoke detection and building fire alarm activation.

809.5.4 Prohibited Use. Visible alarm appliances used to indicate residential dwelling unit smoke 

detection or building fire alarm activation shall not be used for any other purpose within the 

residential dwelling unit.

809.5.5 Residential Dwelling Unit Primary Entrance. Communication features shall be provided 

at the residential dwelling unit primary entrance complying with 809.5.5.

809.5.5.1 Notification. A hard-wired electric doorbell shall be provided. A button or switch shall 

be provided outside the residential dwelling unit primary entrance. Activation of the button or 

switch shall initiate an audible tone and visible signal within the residential dwelling unit. Where 

visible doorbell signals are located in sleeping areas, they shall have controls to deactivate the 

signal.

809.5.5.2 Identification. A means for visually identifying a visitor without opening the residential

dwelling unit entry door shall be provided and shall allow for a minimum 180 degree range of 

view. 

809.5.6 Site, Building, or Floor Entrance. Where a system, including a closed-circuit system, 

permitting voice communication between a visitor and the occupant of the residential dwelling unit is 

provided, the system shall comply with 708.4.

810 Transportation Facilities

810.1 General. Transportation facilities shall comply with 810.

810.2 Bus Boarding and Alighting Areas. Bus boarding and alighting areas shall comply with 810.2. 

810.2.1 Surface. Bus stop boarding and alighting areas shall have a firm, stable surface.

Advisory 809.5.5.2 Identification. In doors, peepholes that include prisms clarify the 

image and should offer a wide-angle view of the hallway or exterior for both standing 

persons and wheelchair users. Such peepholes can be placed at a standard height and 

permit a view from several feet from the door.

Advisory 810.2 Bus Boarding and Alighting Areas. At bus stops where a shelter is 

provided, the bus stop pad can be located either within or outside of the shelter.

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810.2.2 Dimensions. Bus stop boarding and alighting areas shall provide a clear length of 96 

inches (2440 mm) minimum, measured perpendicular to the curb or vehicle roadway edge, and a 

clear width of 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum, measured parallel to the vehicle roadway. 

810.2.3 Connection. Bus stop boarding and alighting areas shall be connected to streets, 

sidewalks, or pedestrian paths by an accessible route complying with 402.

810.2.4 Slope. Parallel to the roadway, the slope of the bus stop boarding and alighting area shall 

be the same as the roadway, to the maximum extent practicable. Perpendicular to the roadway, the 

slope of the bus stop boarding and alighting area shall not be steeper than1:48.

810.3 Bus Shelters. Bus shelters shall provide a minimum clear floor or ground space complying with 

305 entirely within the shelter. Bus shelters shall be connected by an accessible route complying with 

402 to a boarding and alighting area complying with 810.2. 

Figure 810.2.2

Dimensions of Bus Boarding and Alighting Areas

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810.4 Bus Signs. Bus route identification signs shall comply with 703.5.1 through 703.5.4, and 703.5.7 

and 703.5.8. In addition, to the maximum extent practicable, bus route identification signs shall comply 

with 703.5.5.

EXCEPTION: Bus schedules, timetables and maps that are posted at the bus stop or bus bay shall 

not be required to comply.

810.5 Rail Platforms. Rail platforms shall comply with 810.5.

810.5.1 Slope. Rail platforms shall not exceed a slope of 1:48 in all directions.

EXCEPTION: Where platforms serve vehicles operating on existing track or track laid in existing 

roadway, the slope of the platform parallel to the track shall be permitted to be equal to the slope 

(grade) of the roadway or existing track.

810.5.2 Detectable Warnings. Platform boarding edges not protected by platform screens or 

guards shall have detectable warnings complying with 705 along the full length of the public use area 

of the platform.

810.5.3 Platform and Vehicle Floor Coordination. Station platforms shall be positioned to 

coordinate with vehicles in accordance with the applicable requirements of 36 CFR Part 1192. Lowlevel platforms shall be 8 inches (205 mm) minimum above top of rail.

Figure 810.3

Bus Shelters

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EXCEPTION: Where vehicles are boarded from sidewalks or street-level, low-level platforms 

shall be permitted to be less than 8 inches (205 mm). 

810.6 Rail Station Signs. Rail station signs shall comply with 810.6.

EXCEPTION. Signs shall not be required to comply with 810.6.1 and 810.6.2 where audible signs 

are remotely transmitted to hand-held receivers, or are user- or proximity-actuated. 

810.6.1 Entrances. Where signs identify a station or its entrance, at least one sign at each entrance

shall comply with 703.2 and shall be placed in uniform locations to the maximum extent practicable. 

Where signs identify a station that has no defined entrance, at least one sign shall comply with 703.2 

and shall be placed in a central location.

810.6.2 Routes and Destinations. Lists of stations, routes and destinations served by the station 

which are located on boarding areas, platforms, or mezzanines shall comply with 703.5. At least one 

tactile sign identifying the specific station and complying with 703.2 shall be provided on each 

platform or boarding area. Signs covered by this requirement shall, to the maximum extent 

practicable, be placed in uniform locations within the system.

EXCEPTION: Where sign space is limited, characters shall not be required to exceed 3 inches 

(75 mm). 

Advisory 810.5.3 Platform and Vehicle Floor Coordination. The height and position of a 

platform must be coordinated with the floor of the vehicles it serves to minimize the vertical 

and horizontal gaps, in accordance with the ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Transportation 

Vehicles (36 CFR Part 1192). The vehicle guidelines, divided by bus, van, light rail, rapid 

rail, commuter rail, intercity rail, are available at www.access-board.gov. The preferred 

alignment is a high platform, level with the vehicle floor. In some cases, the vehicle 

guidelines permit use of a low platform in conjunction with a lift or ramp. Most such low 

platforms must have a minimum height of eight inches above the top of the rail. Some 

vehicles are designed to be boarded from a street or the sidewalk along the street and the 

exception permits such boarding areas to be less than eight inches high.

Advisory 810.6 Rail Station Signs Exception. Emerging technologies such as an audible 

sign systems using infrared transmitters and receivers may provide greater accessibility in 

the transit environment than traditional Braille and raised letter signs. The transmitters are 

placed on or next to print signs and transmit their information to an infrared receiver that is 

held by a person. By scanning an area, the person will hear the sign. This means that signs 

can be placed well out of reach of Braille readers, even on parapet walls and on walls 

beyond barriers. Additionally, such signs can be used to provide wayfinding information that 

cannot be efficiently conveyed on Braille signs.

Advisory 810.6.2 Routes and Destinations. Route maps are not required to comply with 

the informational sign requirements in this document.

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810.6.3 Station Names. Stations covered by this section shall have identification signs complying 

with 703.5. Signs shall be clearly visible and within the sight lines of standing and sitting passengers 

from within the vehicle on both sides when not obstructed by another vehicle. 

810.7 Public Address Systems. Where public address systems convey audible information to the 

public, the same or equivalent information shall be provided in a visual format.

810.8 Clocks. Where clocks are provided for use by the public, the clock face shall be uncluttered so 

that its elements are clearly visible. Hands, numerals and digits shall contrast with the background either 

light-on-dark or dark-on-light. Where clocks are installed overhead, numerals and digits shall comply 

with 703.5.

810.9 Escalators. Where provided, escalators shall comply with the sections 6.1.3.5.6 and 6.1.3.6.5 of 

ASME A17.1 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1) and shall have a 

clear width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION: Existing escalators in key stations shall not be required to comply with 810.9.

810.10 Track Crossings. Where a circulation path serving boarding platforms crosses tracks, it shall 

comply with 402.

EXCEPTION: Openings for wheel flanges shall be permitted to be 21⁄2 inches (64 mm) maximum. 

811 Storage

811.1 General. Storage shall comply with 811.

811.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be 

provided.

811.3 Height. Storage elements shall comply with at least one of the reach ranges specified in 308.

811.4 Operable Parts. Operable parts shall comply with 309.

Advisory 810.6.3 Station Names. It is also important to place signs at intervals in the 

station where passengers in the vehicle will be able to see a sign when the vehicle is either 

stopped at the station or about to come to a stop in the station. The number of signs 

necessary may be directly related to the size of the lettering displayed on the sign.

Figure 810.10 (Exception)

Track Crossings

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CHAPTER 9: BUILT-IN ELEMENTS

901 General

901.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 9 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced 

by a requirement in this document.

902 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces

902.1 General. Dining surfaces and work surfaces shall comply with 902.2 and 902.3.

EXCEPTION: Dining surfaces and work surfaces for children’s use shall be permitted to comply with 

902.4. 

902.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor space complying with 305 positioned for a forward 

approach shall be provided. Knee and toe clearance complying with 306 shall be provided.

902.3 Height. The tops of dining surfaces and work surfaces shall be 28 inches (710 mm) minimum and 

34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

902.4 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces for Children’s Use. Accessible dining surfaces and work 

surfaces for children’s use shall comply with 902.4.

EXCEPTION: Dining surfaces and work surfaces that are used primarily by children 5 years and 

younger shall not be required to comply with 902.4 where a clear floor or ground space complying 

with 305 positioned for a parallel approach is provided.

902.4.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor space complying with 305 positioned for 

forward approach shall be provided. Knee and toe clearance complying with 306 shall be provided, 

except that knee clearance 24 inches (610 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground shall be 

permitted.

902.4.2 Height. The tops of tables and counters shall be 26 inches (660 mm) minimum and 30 

inches (760 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

903 Benches

903.1 General. Benches shall comply with 903.

903.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. Clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be provided 

and shall be positioned at the end of the bench seat and parallel to the short axis of the bench.

Advisory 902.1 General. Dining surfaces include, but are not limited to, bars, tables, lunch 

counters, and booths. Examples of work surfaces include writing surfaces, study carrels, 

student laboratory stations, baby changing and other tables or fixtures for personal 

grooming, coupon counters, and where covered by the ABA scoping provisions, employee 

work stations.

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903.3 Size. Benches shall have seats that are 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum and 20 inches (510 

mm) deep minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) deep maximum.

903.4 Back Support. The bench shall provide for back support or shall be affixed to a wall. Back 

support shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum and shall extend from a point 2 inches (51 mm) 

maximum above the seat surface to a point 18 inches (455 mm) minimum above the seat surface. Back 

support shall be 21⁄2 inches (64 mm) maximum from the rear edge of the seat measured horizontally. 

903.5 Height. The top of the bench seat surface shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches 

(485 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

903.6 Structural Strength. Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical 

or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the seat, fastener, mounting device, 

or supporting structure.

903.7 Wet Locations. Where installed in wet locations, the surface of the seat shall be slip resistant and 

shall not accumulate water.

904 Check-Out Aisles and Sales and Service Counters

904.1 General. Check-out aisles and sales and service counters shall comply with the applicable 

requirements of 904.

904.2 Approach. All portions of counters required to comply with 904 shall be located adjacent to a 

walking surface complying with 403. 

Advisory 903.4 Back Support. To assist in transferring to the bench, consider providing 

grab bars on a wall adjacent to the bench, but not on the seat back. If provided, grab bars 

cannot obstruct transfer to the bench.

Figure 903.4

Bench Back Support

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904.3 Check-Out Aisles. Check-out aisles shall comply with 904.3.

904.3.1 Aisle. Aisles shall comply with 403.

904.3.2 Counter. The counter surface height shall be 38 inches (965 mm) maximum above the 

finish floor or ground. The top of the counter edge protection shall be 2 inches (51 mm) maximum 

above the top of the counter surface on the aisle side of the check-out counter. 

904.3.3 Check Writing Surfaces. Where provided, check writing surfaces shall comply with 902.3.

904.4 Sales and Service Counters. Sales counters and service counters shall comply with 904.4.1 or 

904.4.2. The accessible portion of the counter top shall extend the same depth as the sales or service 

counter top.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, when the provision of a counter complying with 904.4 would result in a 

reduction of the number of existing counters at work stations or a reduction of the number of existing 

mail boxes, the counter shall be permitted to have a portion which is 24 inches (610 mm) long 

minimum complying with 904.4.1 provided that the required clear floor or ground space is centered 

on the accessible length of the counter. 

Advisory 904.2 Approach. If a cash register is provided at the sales or service counter, 

locate the accessible counter close to the cash register so that a person using a wheelchair 

is visible to sales or service personnel and to minimize the reach for a person with a 

disability.

Figure 904.3.2

Check-Out Aisle Counters

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904.4.1 Parallel Approach. A portion of the counter surface that is 36 inches (915 mm) long 

minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) high maximum above the finish floor shall be provided. A clear 

floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be positioned for a parallel approach adjacent to the 

36 inch (915 mm) minimum length of counter.

EXCEPTION: Where the provided counter surface is less than 36 inches (915 mm) long, the 

entire counter surface shall be 36 inches (915 mm) high maximum above the finish floor.

904.4.2 Forward Approach. A portion of the counter surface that is 30 inches (760 mm) long 

minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) high maximum shall be provided. Knee and toe space complying 

with 306 shall be provided under the counter. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall 

be positioned for a forward approach to the counter.

904.5 Food Service Lines. Counters in food service lines shall comply with 904.5.

904.5.1 Self-Service Shelves and Dispensing Devices. Self-service shelves and dispensing 

devices for tableware, dishware, condiments, food and beverages shall comply with 308.

904.5.2 Tray Slides. The tops of tray slides shall be 28 inches (710 mm) minimum and 34 inches 

(865 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

904.6 Security Glazing. Where counters or teller windows have security glazing to separate personnel 

from the public, a method to facilitate voice communication shall be provided. Telephone handset 

devices, if provided, shall comply with 704.3. 

Figure 904.4 (Exception)

Alteration of Sales and Service Counters

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Advisory 904.6 Security Glazing. Assistive listening devices complying with 706 can 

facilitate voice communication at counters or teller windows where there is security glazing 

which promotes distortion in audible information. Where assistive listening devices are 

installed, place signs complying with 703.7.2.4 to identify those facilities which are so 

equipped. Other voice communication methods include, but are not limited to, grilles, slats, 

talk-through baffles, intercoms, or telephone handset devices.

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CHAPTER 10: RECREATION FACILITIES

1001 General

1001.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 10 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where 

referenced by a requirement in this document. 

1002 Amusement Rides

1002.1 General. Amusement rides shall comply with 1002.

1002.2 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes serving amusement rides shall comply with Chapter 4.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In load or unload areas and on amusement rides, where compliance with 405.2 is 

not structurally or operationally feasible, ramp slope shall be permitted to be 1:8 maximum.

2. In load or unload areas and on amusement rides, handrails provided along walking surfaces 

complying with 403 and required on ramps complying with 405 shall not be required to comply with 

505 where compliance is not structurally or operationally feasible. 

1002.3 Load and Unload Areas. A turning space complying with 304.2 and 304.3 shall be provided in 

load and unload areas.

1002.4 Wheelchair Spaces in Amusement Rides. Wheelchair spaces in amusement rides shall 

comply with 1002.4.

1002.4.1 Floor or Ground Surface. The floor or ground surface of wheelchair spaces shall be 

stable and firm.

1002.4.2 Slope. The floor or ground surface of wheelchair spaces shall have a slope not steeper 

than 1:48 when in the load and unload position.

1002.4.3 Gaps. Floors of amusement rides with wheelchair spaces and floors of load and unload 

areas shall be coordinated so that, when amusement rides are at rest in the load and unload 

Advisory 1001.1 Scope. Unless otherwise modified or specifically addressed in Chapter 

10, all other ADAAG provisions apply to the design and construction of recreation facilities 

and elements. The provisions in Section 1001.1 apply wherever these elements are 

provided. For example, office buildings may contain a room with exercise equipment to 

which these sections would apply.

Advisory 1002.2 Accessible Routes Exception 1. Steeper slopes are permitted on 

accessible routes connecting the amusement ride in the load and unload position where it is 

“structurally or operationally infeasible.” In most cases, this will be limited to areas where 

the accessible route leads directly to the amusement ride and where there are space 

limitations on the ride, not the queue line. Where possible, the least possible slope should 

be used on the accessible route that serves the amusement ride.

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position, the vertical difference between the floors shall be within plus or minus 5/8 inches (16 mm) 

and the horizontal gap shall be 3 inches (75 mm) maximum under normal passenger load conditions.

EXCEPTION: Where compliance is not operationally or structurally feasible, ramps, bridge 

plates, or similar devices complying with the applicable requirements of 36 CFR 1192.83(c) shall 

be provided. 

1002.4.4 Clearances. Clearances for wheelchair spaces shall comply with 1002.4.4.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where provided, securement devices shall be permitted to overlap required 

clearances.

2. Wheelchair spaces shall be permitted to be mechanically or manually repositioned.

3. Wheelchair spaces shall not be required to comply with 307.4. 

1002.4.4.1 Width and Length. Wheelchair spaces shall provide a clear width of 30 inches (760 

mm) minimum and a clear length of 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum measured to 9 inches (230 

mm) minimum above the floor surface.

1002.4.4.2 Side Entry. Where wheelchair spaces are entered only from the side, amusement 

rides shall be designed to permit sufficient maneuvering clearance for individuals using a 

wheelchair or mobility aid to enter and exit the ride. 

1002.4.4.3 Permitted Protrusions in Wheelchair Spaces. Objects are permitted to protrude a 

distance of 6 inches (150 mm) maximum along the front of the wheelchair space, where located 

9 inches (230 mm) minimum and 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the floor or ground 

surface of the wheelchair space. Objects are permitted to protrude a distance of 25 inches (635 

mm) maximum along the front of the wheelchair space, where located more than 27 inches (685 

mm) above the floor or ground surface of the wheelchair space. 

Advisory 1002.4.3 Gaps Exception. 36 CFR 1192.83(c) ADA Accessibility Guidelines for 

Transportation Vehicles - Light Rail Vehicles and Systems - Mobility Aid Accessibility is 

available at www.access-board.gov. It includes provisions for bridge plates and ramps that 

can be used at gaps between wheelchair spaces and floors of load and unload areas.

Advisory 1002.4.4 Clearances Exception 3. This exception for protruding objects applies 

to the ride devices, not to circulation areas or accessible routes in the queue lines or the 

load and unload areas.

Advisory 1002.4.4.2 Side Entry. The amount of clear space needed within the ride, and 

the size and position of the opening are interrelated. A 32 inch (815 mm) clear opening will 

not provide sufficient width when entered through a turn into an amusement ride. Additional 

space for maneuvering and a wider door will be needed where a side opening is centered on 

the ride. For example, where a 42 inch (1065 mm) opening is provided, a minimum clear 

space of 60 inches (1525 mm) in length and 36 inches (915mm) in depth is needed to 

ensure adequate space for maneuvering.

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1002.4.5 Ride Entry. Openings providing entry to wheelchair spaces on amusement rides shall be 

32 inches (815 mm) minimum clear.

1002.4.6 Approach. One side of the wheelchair space shall adjoin an accessible route when in the 

load and unload position.

1002.4.7 Companion Seats. Where the interior width of the amusement ride is greater than 53 

inches (1345 mm), seating is provided for more than one rider, and the wheelchair is not required to 

be centered within the amusement ride, a companion seat shall be provided for each wheelchair 

space.

1002.4.7.1 Shoulder-to-Shoulder Seating. Where an amusement ride provides shoulder-toshoulder seating, companion seats shall be shoulder-to-shoulder with the adjacent wheelchair 

space.

EXCEPTION: Where shoulder-to-shoulder companion seating is not operationally or 

structurally feasible, compliance with this requirement shall be required to the maximum 

extent practicable.

1002.5 Amusement Ride Seats Designed for Transfer. Amusement ride seats designed for transfer 

shall comply with 1002.5 when positioned for loading and unloading. 

Figure 1002.4.4.3

Protrusions in Wheelchair Spaces in Amusement Rides

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1002.5.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be 

provided in the load and unload area adjacent to the amusement ride seats designed for transfer.

1002.5.2 Transfer Height. The height of amusement ride seats designed for transfer shall be 14 

inches (355 mm) minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) maximum measured from the surface of the load 

and unload area.

1002.5.3 Transfer Entry. Where openings are provided for transfer to amusement ride seats, the 

openings shall provide clearance for transfer from a wheelchair or mobility aid to the amusement ride 

seat.

1002.5.4 Wheelchair Storage Space. Wheelchair storage spaces complying with 305 shall be 

provided in or adjacent to unload areas for each required amusement ride seat designed for transfer 

and shall not overlap any required means of egress or accessible route.

1002.6 Transfer Devices for Use with Amusement Rides. Transfer devices for use with amusement

rides shall comply with 1002.6 when positioned for loading and unloading. 

Advisory 1002.5 Amusement Ride Seats Designed for Transfer. The proximity of the 

clear floor or ground space next to an element and the height of the element one is 

transferring to are both critical for a safe and independent transfer. Providing additional 

clear floor or ground space both in front of and diagonal to the element will provide flexibility 

and will increase usability for a more diverse population of individuals with disabilities. Ride 

seats designed for transfer should involve only one transfer. Where possible, designers are 

encouraged to locate the ride seat no higher than 17 to 19 inches (430 to 485 mm) above 

the load and unload surface. Where greater distances are required for transfers, providing 

gripping surfaces, seat padding, and avoiding sharp objects in the path of transfer will 

facilitate the transfer.

Advisory 1002.6 Transfer Devices for Use with Amusement Rides. Transfer devices for 

use with amusement rides should permit individuals to make independent transfers to and 

from their wheelchairs or mobility devices. There are a variety of transfer devices available 

that could be adapted to provide access onto an amusement ride. Examples of devices that 

may provide for transfers include, but are not limited to, transfer systems, lifts, mechanized 

seats, and custom designed systems. Operators and designers have flexibility in 

developing designs that will facilitate individuals to transfer onto amusement rides. These 

systems or devices should be designed to be reliable and sturdy.

Designs that limit the number of transfers required from a wheelchair or mobility device to 

the ride seat are encouraged. When using a transfer device to access an amusement ride, 

the least number of transfers and the shortest distance is most usable. Where possible, 

designers are encouraged to locate the transfer device seat no higher than 17 to 19 inches 

(430 to 485 mm) above the load and unload surface. Where greater distances are required 

for transfers, providing gripping surfaces, seat padding, and avoiding sharp objects in the 

path of transfer will facilitate the transfer. Where a series of transfers are required to reach 

the amusement ride seat, each vertical transfer should not exceed 8 inches (205 mm). 

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1002.6.1 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be 

provided in the load and unload area adjacent to the transfer device.

1002.6.2 Transfer Height. The height of transfer device seats shall be 14 inches (355 mm) 

minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) maximum measured from the load and unload surface.

1002.6.3 Wheelchair Storage Space. Wheelchair storage spaces complying with 305 shall be 

provided in or adjacent to unload areas for each required transfer device and shall not overlap any 

required means of egress or accessible route.

1003 Recreational Boating Facilities

1003.1 General. Recreational boating facilities shall comply with 1003.

1003.2 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes serving recreational boating facilities, including 

gangways and floating piers, shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified by the exceptions in 

1003.2.

1003.2.1 Boat Slips. Accessible routes serving boat slips shall be permitted to use the exceptions in 

1003.2.1.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where an existing gangway or series of gangways is replaced or altered, an 

increase in the length of the gangway shall not be required to comply with 1003.2 unless required 

by 202.4.

2. Gangways shall not be required to comply with the maximum rise specified in 405.6.

3. Where the total length of a gangway or series of gangways serving as part of a required 

accessible route is 80 feet (24 m) minimum, gangways shall not be required to comply with 

405.2.

4. Where facilities contain fewer than 25 boat slips and the total length of the gangway or series 

of gangways serving as part of a required accessible route is 30 feet (9145 mm) minimum, 

gangways shall not be required to comply with 405.2.

5. Where gangways connect to transition plates, landings specified by 405.7 shall not be 

required.

6. Where gangways and transition plates connect and are required to have handrails, handrail 

extensions shall not be required. Where handrail extensions are provided on gangways or 

transition plates, the handrail extensions shall not be required to be parallel with the ground or 

floor surface.

7. The cross slope specified in 403.3 and 405.3 for gangways, transition plates, and floating 

piers that are part of accessible routes shall be measured in the static position.

8. Changes in level complying with 303.3 and 303.4 shall be permitted on the surfaces of 

gangways and boat launch ramps. 

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1003.2.2 Boarding Piers at Boat Launch Ramps. Accessible routes serving boarding piers at boat

launch ramps shall be permitted to use the exceptions in 1003.2.2.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Accessible routes serving floating boarding piers shall be permitted to use 

Exceptions 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in 1003.2.1.

2. Where the total length of the gangway or series of gangways serving as part of a required 

accessible route is 30 feet (9145 mm) minimum, gangways shall not be required to comply with 

405.2.

3. Where the accessible route serving a floating boarding pier or skid pier is located within a boat 

launch ramp, the portion of the accessible route located within the boat launch ramp shall not be 

required to comply with 405.

1003.3 Clearances. Clearances at boat slips and on boarding piers at boat launch ramps shall comply 

with 1003.3. 

1003.3.1 Boat Slip Clearance. Boat slips shall provide clear pier space 60 inches (1525 mm) wide 

minimum and at least as long as the boat slips. Each 10 feet (3050 mm) maximum of linear pier 

edge serving boat slips shall contain at least one continuous clear opening 60 inches (1525 mm) 

wide minimum.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Clear pier space shall be permitted to be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum 

for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum, provided that multiple 36 inch (915 mm) wide 

segments are separated by segments that are 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum and 60 

inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

2. Edge protection shall be permitted at the continuous clear openings, provided that it is 4 

inches (100 mm) high maximum and 2 inches (51 mm) wide maximum.

3. In existing piers, clear pier space shall be permitted to be located perpendicular to the boat 

slip and shall extend the width of the boat slip, where the facility has at least one boat slip

complying with 1003.3, and further compliance with 1003.3 would result in a reduction in the 

number of boat slips available or result in a reduction of the widths of existing slips. 

Advisory 1003.2.1 Boat Slips Exception 3. The following example shows how exception 

3 would be applied: A gangway is provided to a floating pier which is required to be on an 

accessible route. The vertical distance is 10 feet (3050 mm) between the elevation where 

the gangway departs the landside connection and the elevation of the pier surface at the 

lowest water level. Exception 3 permits the gangway to be 80 feet (24 m) long. Another 

design solution would be to have two 40 foot (12 m) plus continuous gangways joined 

together at a float, where the float (as the water level falls) will stop dropping at an elevation 

five feet below the landside connection. The length of transition plates would not be 

included in determining if the gangway(s) meet the requirements of the exception.

Advisory 1003.3 Clearances. Although the minimum width of the clear pier space is 60 

inches (1525 mm), it is recommended that piers be wider than 60 inches (1525 mm) to 

improve the safety for persons with disabilities, particularly on floating piers.

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Advisory 1003.3.1 Boat Slip Clearance Exception 3. Where the conditions in exception 3 

are satisfied, existing facilities are only required to have one accessible boat slip with a pier 

clearance which runs the length of the slip. All other accessible slips are allowed to have 

the required pier clearance at the head of the slip. Under this exception, at piers with 

perpendicular boat slips, the width of most “finger piers” will remain unchanged. However, 

where mooring systems for floating piers are replaced as part of pier alteration projects, an 

opportunity may exist for increasing accessibility. Piers may be reconfigured to allow an 

increase in the number of wider finger piers, and serve as accessible boat slips.

Figure 1003.3.1

Boat Slip Clearance

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1003.3.2 Boarding Pier Clearances. Boarding piers at boat launch ramps shall provide clear pier

space 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum and shall extend the full length of the boarding pier. 

Every 10 feet (3050 mm) maximum of linear pier edge shall contain at least one continuous clear 

opening 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. The clear pier space shall be permitted to be 36 inches (915 mm) wide 

minimum for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that multiple 36 inch (915 mm) 

wide segments are separated by segments that are 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum and 60 

inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

2. Edge protection shall be permitted at the continuous clear openings provided that it is 4 

inches (100 mm) high maximum and 2 inches (51 mm) wide maximum. 

Figure 1003.3.1 (Exception 1)

Clear Pier Space Reduction at Boat Slips

Figure 1003.3.1 (Exception 2)

Edge Protection at Boat Slips

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Advisory 1003.3.2 Boarding Pier Clearances. These requirements do not establish a 

minimum length for accessible boarding piers at boat launch ramps. The accessible 

boarding pier should have a length at least equal to that of other boarding piers provided at 

the facility. If no other boarding pier is provided, the pier would have a length equal to what 

would have been provided if no access requirements applied. The entire length of 

accessible boarding piers would be required to comply with the same technical provisions 

that apply to accessible boat slips. For example, at a launch ramp, if a 20 foot (6100 mm) 

long accessible boarding pier is provided, the entire 20 feet (6100 mm) must comply with the 

pier clearance requirements in 1003.3. Likewise, if a 60 foot (18 m) long accessible 

boarding pier is provided, the pier clearance requirements in 1003.3 would apply to the 

entire 60 feet (18 m).

The following example applies to a boat launch ramp boarding pier: A chain of floats is 

provided on a launch ramp to be used as a boarding pier which is required to be accessible 

by 1003.3.2. At high water, the entire chain is floating and a transition plate connects the 

first float to the surface of the launch ramp. As the water level decreases, segments of the 

chain end up resting on the launch ramp surface, matching the slope of the launch ramp.

Figure 1003.3.2

Boarding Pier Clearance

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1004 Exercise Machines and Equipment

1004.1 Clear Floor Space. Exercise machines and equipment shall have a clear floor space complying 

with 305 positioned for transfer or for use by an individual seated in a wheelchair. Clear floor or ground 

spaces required at exercise machines and equipment shall be permitted to overlap. 

Figure 1003.3.2 (Exception 1)

Clear Pier Space Reduction at Boarding Piers

Figure 1003.3.2 (Exception 2)

Edge Protection at Boarding Piers

Advisory 1004.1 Clear Floor Space. One clear floor or ground space is permitted to be 

shared between two pieces of exercise equipment. To optimize space use, designers 

should carefully consider layout options such as connecting ends of the row and center aisle 

spaces. The position of the clear floor space may vary greatly depending on the use of the 

equipment or machine. For example, to provide access to a shoulder press machine, clear 

floor space next to the seat would be appropriate to allow for transfer. Clear floor space for 

a bench press machine designed for use by an individual seated in a wheelchair, however, 

will most likely be centered on the operating mechanisms.

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1005 Fishing Piers and Platforms

1005.1 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes serving fishing piers and platforms, including gangways

and floating piers, shall comply with Chapter 4.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Accessible routes serving floating fishing piers and platforms shall be permitted 

to use Exceptions 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in 1003.2.1.

2. Where the total length of the gangway or series of gangways serving as part of a required 

accessible route is 30 feet (9145 mm) minimum, gangways shall not be required to comply with 

405.2.

1005.2 Railings. Where provided, railings, guards, or handrails shall comply with 1005.2.

1005.2.1 Height. At least 25 percent of the railings, guards, or handrails shall be 34 inches (865 

mm) maximum above the ground or deck surface.

EXCEPTION: Where a guard complying with sections 1003.2.12.1 and 1003.2.12.2 of the 

International Building Code (2000 edition) or sections 1012.2 and 1012.3 of the International 

Building Code (2003 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 

1) is provided, the guard shall not be required to comply with 1005.2.1.

1005.2.1.1 Dispersion. Railings, guards, or handrails required to comply with 1005.2.1 shall be 

dispersed throughout the fishing pier or platform. 

1005.3 Edge Protection. Where railings, guards, or handrails complying with 1005.2 are provided, 

edge protection complying with 1005.3.1 or 1005.3.2 shall be provided. 

1005.3.1 Curb or Barrier. Curbs or barriers shall extend 2 inches (51 mm) minimum above the 

surface of the fishing pier or platform.

1005.3.2 Extended Ground or Deck Surface. The ground or deck surface shall extend 12 inches 

(305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of the railing. Toe clearance shall be provided and shall 

Advisory 1005.2.1.1 Dispersion. Portions of the railings that are lowered to provide fishing 

opportunities for persons with disabilities must be located in a variety of locations on the 

fishing pier or platform to give people a variety of locations to fish. Different fishing locations 

may provide varying water depths, shade (at certain times of the day), vegetation, and 

proximity to the shoreline or bank.

Advisory 1005.3 Edge Protection. Edge protection is required only where railings, 

guards, or handrails are provided on a fishing pier or platform. Edge protection will prevent 

wheelchairs or other mobility devices from slipping off the fishing pier or platform. Extending 

the deck of the fishing pier or platform 12 inches (305 mm) where the 34 inch (865 mm) high 

railing is provided is an alternative design, permitting individuals using wheelchairs or other 

mobility devices to pull into a clear space and move beyond the face of the railing. In such a 

design, curbs or barriers are not required.

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be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum and 9 inches (230 mm) minimum above the ground or deck 

surface beyond the railing. 

1005.4 Clear Floor or Ground Space. At each location where there are railings, guards, or handrails 

complying with 1005.2.1, a clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be provided. Where 

there are no railings, guards, or handrails, at least one clear floor or ground space complying with 305 

shall be provided on the fishing pier or platform.

1005.5 Turning Space. At least one turning space complying with 304.3 shall be provided on fishing 

piers and platforms.

1006 Golf Facilities

1006.1 General. Golf facilities shall comply with 1006.

1006.2 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes serving teeing grounds, practice teeing grounds, putting 

greens, practice putting greens, teeing stations at driving ranges, course weather shelters, golf car rental 

areas, bag drop areas, and course toilet rooms shall comply with Chapter 4 and shall be 48 inches (1220 

mm) wide minimum. Where handrails are provided, accessible routes shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) 

wide minimum.

EXCEPTION: Handrails shall not be required on golf courses. Where handrails are provided on golf 

courses, the handrails shall not be required to comply with 505. 

Figure 1005.3.2

Extended Ground or Deck Surface at Fishing Piers and Platforms

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1006.3 Golf Car Passages. Golf car passages shall comply with 1006.3.

1006.3.1 Clear Width. The clear width of golf car passages shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum.

1006.3.2 Barriers. Where curbs or other constructed barriers prevent golf cars from entering a 

fairway, openings 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum shall be provided at intervals not to exceed 75 

yards (69 m).

1006.4 Weather Shelters. A clear floor or ground space 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 96 inches 

(2440 mm) minimum shall be provided within weather shelters.

1007 Miniature Golf Facilities

1007.1 General. Miniature golf facilities shall comply with 1007.

1007.2 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes serving holes on miniature golf courses shall comply 

with Chapter 4. Accessible routes located on playing surfaces of miniature golf holes shall be permitted 

to use the exceptions in 1007.2. 

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Playing surfaces shall not be required to comply with 302.2.

2. Where accessible routes intersect playing surfaces of holes, a 1 inch (25 mm) maximum curb 

shall be permitted for a width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.

3. A slope not steeper than 1:4 for a 4 inch (100 mm) maximum rise shall be permitted.

4. Ramp landing slopes specified by 405.7.1 shall be permitted to be 1:20 maximum.

5. Ramp landing length specified by 405.7.3 shall be permitted to be 48 inches (1220 mm) long 

minimum.

6. Ramp landing size specified by 405.7.4 shall be permitted to be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum 

by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

7. Handrails shall not be required on holes. Where handrails are provided on holes, the handrails 

shall not be required to comply with 505.

1007.3 Miniature Golf Holes. Miniature golf holes shall comply with 1007.3.

Advisory 1006.2 Accessible Routes. The 48 inch (1220 mm) minimum width for the 

accessible route is necessary to ensure passage of a golf car on either the accessible route 

or the golf car passage. This is important where the accessible route is used to connect the 

golf car rental area, bag drop areas, practice putting greens, practice teeing grounds, course 

toilet rooms, and course weather shelters. These are areas outside the boundary of the golf 

course, but are areas where an individual using an adapted golf car may travel. A golf car 

passage may not be substituted for other accessible routes to be located outside the 

boundary of the course. For example, an accessible route connecting an accessible parking 

space to the entrance of a golf course clubhouse is not covered by this provision.

Providing a golf car passage will permit a person that uses a golf car to practice driving a 

golf ball from the same position and stance used when playing the game. Additionally, the 

space required for a person using a golf car to enter and maneuver within the teeing stations 

required to be accessible should be considered.

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1007.3.1 Start of Play. A clear floor or ground space 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum by 60 inches 

(1525 mm) minimum with slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at the start of play.

1007.3.2 Golf Club Reach Range Area. All areas within holes where golf balls rest shall be within 

36 inches (915 mm) maximum of a clear floor or ground space 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum 

and 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum having a running slope not steeper than 1:20. The clear 

floor or ground space shall be served by an accessible route. 

1008 Play Areas

1008.1 General. Play areas shall comply with 1008.

1008.2 Accessible Routes. Accessible routes serving play areas shall comply with Chapter 4 and 

1008.2 and shall be permitted to use the exceptions in 1008.2.1 through 1008.2.3. Where accessible

routes serve ground level play components, the vertical clearance shall be 80 inches high (2030 mm) 

minimum.

1008.2.1 Ground Level and Elevated Play Components. Accessible routes serving ground level 

play components and elevated play components shall be permitted to use the exceptions in 

1008.2.1.

Advisory 1007.3.2 Golf Club Reach Range Area. The golf club reach range applies to all 

holes required to be accessible. This includes accessible routes provided adjacent to or, 

where provided, on the playing surface of the hole.

Figure 1007.3.2

Golf Club Reach Range Area

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EXCEPTIONS: 1. Transfer systems complying with 1008.3 shall be permitted to connect 

elevated play components except where 20 or more elevated play components are provided no 

more than 25 percent of the elevated play components shall be permitted to be connected by 

transfer systems.

2. Where transfer systems are provided, an elevated play component shall be permitted to 

connect to another elevated play component as part of an accessible route.

1008.2.2 Soft Contained Play Structures. Accessible routes serving soft contained play structures

shall be permitted to use the exception in 1008.2.2.

EXCEPTION: Transfer systems complying with 1008.3 shall be permitted to be used as part of 

an accessible route.

1008.2.3 Water Play Components. Accessible routes serving water play components shall be

permitted to use the exceptions in 1008.2.3.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where the surface of the accessible route, clear floor or ground spaces, or 

turning spaces serving water play components is submerged, compliance with 302, 403.3, 405.2, 

405.3, and 1008.2.6 shall not be required.

2. Transfer systems complying with 1008.3 shall be permitted to connect elevated play 

components in water. 

1008.2.4 Clear Width. Accessible routes connecting play components shall provide a clear width 

complying with 1008.2.4.

1008.2.4.1 Ground Level. At ground level, the clear width of accessible routes shall be 60 

inches (1525 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. In play areas less than 1000 square feet (93 m2), the clear width of 

accessible routes shall be permitted to be 44 inches (1120 mm) minimum, if at least one 

turning space complying with 304.3 is provided where the restricted accessible route exceeds 

30 feet (9145 mm) in length.

2. The clear width of accessible routes shall be permitted to be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum 

for a distance of 60 inches (1525 mm) maximum provided that multiple reduced width 

segments are separated by segments that are 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum and 60 

inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

1008.2.4.2 Elevated. The clear width of accessible routes connecting elevated play components

shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

Advisory 1008.2.3 Water Play Components. Personal wheelchairs and mobility devices 

may not be appropriate for submerging in water when using play components in water. 

Some may have batteries, motors, and electrical systems that when submerged in water 

may cause damage to the personal mobility device or wheelchair or may contaminate the 

water. Providing an aquatic wheelchair made of non-corrosive materials and designed for 

access into the water will protect the water from contamination and avoid damage to 

personal wheelchairs.

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EXCEPTIONS: 1. The clear width of accessible routes connecting elevated play 

components shall be permitted to be reduced to 32 inches (815 mm) minimum for a distance 

of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that reduced width segments are separated by 

segments that are 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) wide 

minimum.

2. The clear width of transfer systems connecting elevated play components shall be 

permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.

1008.2.5 Ramps. Within play areas, ramps connecting ground level play components and ramps

connecting elevated play components shall comply with 1008.2.5.

1008.2.5.1 Ground Level. Ramp runs connecting ground level play components shall have a 

running slope not steeper than 1:16.

1008.2.5.2 Elevated. The rise for any ramp run connecting elevated play components shall be 

12 inches (305 mm) maximum.

1008.2.5.3 Handrails. Where required on ramps serving play components, the handrails shall 

comply with 505 except as modified by 1008.2.5.3.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Handrails shall not be required on ramps located within ground level use 

zones.

2. Handrail extensions shall not be required.

1008.2.5.3.1 Handrail Gripping Surfaces. Handrail gripping surfaces with a circular cross 

section shall have an outside diameter of 0.95 inch (24 mm) minimum and 1.55 inches (39 

mm) maximum. Where the shape of the gripping surface is non-circular, the handrail shall 

provide an equivalent gripping surface.

1008.2.5.3.2 Handrail Height. The top of handrail gripping surfaces shall be 20 inches (510 

mm) minimum and 28 inches (710 mm) maximum above the ramp surface.

1008.2.6 Ground Surfaces. Ground surfaces on accessible routes, clear floor or ground spaces, 

and turning spaces shall comply with 1008.2.6. 

1008.2.6.1 Accessibility. Ground surfaces shall comply with ASTM F 1951 (incorporated by 

reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). Ground surfaces shall be inspected and 

maintained regularly and frequently to ensure continued compliance with ASTM F 1951.

1008.2.6.2 Use Zones. Ground surfaces located within use zones shall comply with ASTM F 

1292 (1999 edition or 2004 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in 

Chapter 1).

Advisory 1008.2.6 Ground Surfaces. Ground surfaces must be inspected and maintained 

regularly to ensure continued compliance with the ASTM F 1951 standard. The type of 

surface material selected and play area use levels will determine the frequency of inspection 

and maintenance activities.

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1008.3 Transfer Systems. Where transfer systems are provided to connect to elevated play 

components, transfer systems shall comply with 1008.3. 

1008.3.1 Transfer Platforms. Transfer platforms shall be provided where transfer is intended from 

wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Transfer platforms shall comply with 1008.3.1.

1008.3.1.1 Size. Transfer platforms shall have level surfaces 14 inches (355 mm) deep 

minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) wide minimum.

1008.3.1.2 Height. The height of transfer platforms shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 

18 inches (455 mm) maximum measured to the top of the surface from the ground or floor 

surface.

1008.3.1.3 Transfer Space. A transfer space complying with 305.2 and 305.3 shall be provided 

adjacent to the transfer platform. The 48 inch (1220 mm) long minimum dimension of the 

transfer space shall be centered on and parallel to the 24 inch (610 mm) long minimum side of 

the transfer platform. The side of the transfer platform serving the transfer space shall be 

unobstructed.

1008.3.1.4 Transfer Supports. At least one means of support for transferring shall be provided. 

Advisory 1008.3 Transfer Systems. Where transfer systems are provided, consideration 

should be given to the distance between the transfer system and the elevated play 

components. Moving between a transfer platform and a series of transfer steps requires 

extensive exertion for some children. Designers should minimize the distance between the 

points where a child transfers from a wheelchair or mobility device and where the elevated 

play components are located. Where elevated play components are used to connect to 

another elevated play component instead of an accessible route, careful consideration 

should be used in the selection of the play components used for this purpose.

Figure 1008.3.1

Transfer Platforms

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1008.3.2 Transfer Steps. Transfer steps shall be provided where movement is intended from 

transfer platforms to levels with elevated play components required to be on accessible routes. 

Transfer steps shall comply with 1008.3.2.

1008.3.2.1 Size. Transfer steps shall have level surfaces 14 inches (355 mm) deep minimum 

and 24 inches (610 mm) wide minimum.

1008.3.2.2 Height. Each transfer step shall be 8 inches (205 mm) high maximum.

1008.3.2.3 Transfer Supports. At least one means of support for transferring shall be provided. 

1008.4 Play Components. Ground level play components on accessible routes and elevated play 

components connected by ramps shall comply with 1008.4. 

1008.4.1 Turning Space. At least one turning space complying with 304 shall be provided on the 

same level as play components. Where swings are provided, the turning space shall be located 

immediately adjacent to the swing.

1008.4.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. Clear floor or ground space complying with 305.2 and 

305.3 shall be provided at play components. 

Advisory 1008.3.2.3 Transfer Supports. Transfer supports are required on transfer 

platforms and transfer steps to assist children when transferring. Some examples of 

supports include a rope loop, a loop type handle, a slot in the edge of a flat horizontal or 

vertical member, poles or bars, or D rings on the corner posts.

Figure 1008.3.2

Transfer Steps

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1008.4.3 Play Tables. Where play tables are provided, knee clearance 24 inches (610 mm) high 

minimum, 17 inches deep (430 mm) minimum, and 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum shall be 

provided. The tops of rims, curbs, or other obstructions shall be 31 inches (785 mm) high maximum.

EXCEPTION: Play tables designed and constructed primarily for children 5 years and younger 

shall not be required to provide knee clearance where the clear floor or ground space required by 

1008.4.2 is arranged for a parallel approach.

1008.4.4 Entry Points and Seats. Where play components require transfer to entry points or seats, 

the entry points or seats shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) maximum 

from the clear floor or ground space.

EXCEPTION: Entry points of slides shall not be required to comply with 1008.4.4.

1008.4.5 Transfer Supports. Where play components require transfer to entry points or seats, at 

least one means of support for transferring shall be provided.

1009 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas

1009.1 General. Where provided, pool lifts, sloped entries, transfer walls, transfer systems, and pool 

stairs shall comply with 1009.

1009.2 Pool Lifts. Pool lifts shall comply with 1009.2. 

Advisory 1008.4.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. Clear floor or ground spaces, turning 

spaces, and accessible routes are permitted to overlap within play areas. A specific location 

has not been designated for the clear floor or ground spaces or turning spaces, except 

swings, because each play component may require that the spaces be placed in a unique 

location. Where play components include a seat or entry point, designs that provide for an 

unobstructed transfer from a wheelchair or other mobility device are recommended. This 

will enhance the ability of children with disabilities to independently use the play component.

When designing play components with manipulative or interactive features, consider 

appropriate reach ranges for children seated in wheelchairs. The following table provides 

guidance on reach ranges for children seated in wheelchairs. These dimensions apply to 

either forward or side reaches. The reach ranges are appropriate for use with those play 

components that children seated in wheelchairs may access and reach. Where transfer 

systems provide access to elevated play components, the reach ranges are not appropriate.

Children's Reach Ranges

Forward or Side 

Reach Ages 3 and 4 Ages 5 through 8 Ages 9 through 12

High (maximum) 36 in (915 mm) 40 in (1015 mm) 44 in (1120 mm)

Low (minimum) 20 in (510 mm) 18 in (455 mm) 16 in (405 mm)

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1009.2.1 Pool Lift Location. Pool lifts shall be located where the water level does not exceed 48 

inches (1220 mm).

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Where the entire pool depth is greater than 48 inches (1220 mm), compliance 

with 1009.2.1 shall not be required.

2. Where multiple pool lift locations are provided, no more than one pool lift shall be required to 

be located in an area where the water level is 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum.

1009.2.2 Seat Location. In the raised position, the centerline of the seat shall be located over the 

deck and 16 inches (405 mm) minimum from the edge of the pool. The deck surface between the 

centerline of the seat and the pool edge shall have a slope not steeper than 1:48. 

1009.2.3 Clear Deck Space. On the side of the seat opposite the water, a clear deck space shall be 

provided parallel with the seat. The space shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum and shall 

extend forward 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum from a line located 12 inches (305 mm) behind the 

rear edge of the seat. The clear deck space shall have a slope not steeper than 1:48. 

Advisory 1009.2 Pool Lifts. There are a variety of seats available on pool lifts ranging from 

sling seats to those that are preformed or molded. Pool lift seats with backs will enable a 

larger population of persons with disabilities to use the lift. Pool lift seats that consist of 

materials that resist corrosion and provide a firm base to transfer will be usable by a wider 

range of people with disabilities. Additional options such as armrests, head rests, seat belts, 

and leg support will enhance accessibility and better accommodate people with a wide 

range of disabilities.

Figure 1009.2.2

Pool Lift Seat Location

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1009.2.4 Seat Height. The height of the lift seat shall be designed to allow a stop at 16 inches (405 

mm) minimum to 19 inches (485 mm) maximum measured from the deck to the top of the seat 

surface when in the raised (load) position. 

1009.2.5 Seat Width. The seat shall be 16 inches (405 mm) wide minimum.

1009.2.6 Footrests and Armrests. Footrests shall be provided and shall move with the seat. If 

provided, the armrest positioned opposite the water shall be removable or shall fold clear of the seat 

when the seat is in the raised (load) position.

EXCEPTION: Footrests shall not be required on pool lifts provided in spas.

Figure 1009.2.3

Clear Deck Space at Pool Lifts

Figure 1009.2.4

Pool Lift Seat Height

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1009.2.7 Operation. The lift shall be capable of unassisted operation from both the deck and water 

levels. Controls and operating mechanisms shall be unobstructed when the lift is in use and shall 

comply with 309.4. 

1009.2.8 Submerged Depth. The lift shall be designed so that the seat will submerge to a water 

depth of 18 inches (455 mm) minimum below the stationary water level. 

1009.2.9 Lifting Capacity. Single person pool lifts shall have a weight capacity of 300 pounds. (136 

kg) minimum and be capable of sustaining a static load of at least one and a half times the rated 

load. 

Advisory 1009.2.7 Operation. Pool lifts must be capable of unassisted operation from both 

the deck and water levels. This will permit a person to call the pool lift when the pool lift is in 

the opposite position. It is extremely important for a person who is swimming alone to be 

able to call the pool lift when it is in the up position so he or she will not be stranded in the 

water for extended periods of time awaiting assistance. The requirement for a pool lift to be 

independently operable does not preclude assistance from being provided.

Figure 1009.2.8

Pool Lift Submerged Depth

Advisory 1009.2.9 Lifting Capacity. Single person pool lifts must be capable of supporting 

a minimum weight of 300 pounds (136 kg) and sustaining a static load of at least one and a 

half times the rated load. Pool lifts should be provided that meet the needs of the population 

they serve. Providing a pool lift with a weight capacity greater than 300 pounds (136 kg) 

may be advisable.

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1009.3 Sloped Entries. Sloped entries shall comply with 1009.3. 

1009.3.1 Sloped Entries. Sloped entries shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified in 

1109.3.1 through 1109.3.3.

EXCEPTION: Where sloped entries are provided, the surfaces shall not be required to be slip 

resistant.

1009.3.2 Submerged Depth. Sloped entries shall extend to a depth of 24 inches (610 mm) 

minimum and 30 inches (760 mm) maximum below the stationary water level. Where landings are 

required by 405.7, at least one landing shall be located 24 inches (610 mm) minimum and 30 inches 

(760 mm) maximum below the stationary water level.

EXCEPTION: In wading pools, the sloped entry and landings, if provided, shall extend to the 

deepest part of the wading pool. 

1009.3.3 Handrails. At least two handrails complying with 505 shall be provided on the sloped entry. 

The clear width between required handrails shall be 33 inches (840 mm) minimum and 38 inches 

(965 mm) maximum.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Handrail extensions specified by 505.10.1 shall not be required at the bottom 

landing serving a sloped entry.

2. Where a sloped entry is provided for wave action pools, leisure rivers, sand bottom pools, and 

other pools where user access is limited to one area, the handrails shall not be required to 

comply with the clear width requirements of 1009.3.3.

3. Sloped entries in wading pools shall not be required to provide handrails complying with 

1009.3.3. If provided, handrails on sloped entries in wading pools shall not be required to comply 

with 505. 

Advisory 1009.3 Sloped Entries. Personal wheelchairs and mobility devices may not be 

appropriate for submerging in water. Some may have batteries, motors, and electrical 

systems that when submerged in water may cause damage to the personal mobility device 

or wheelchair or may contaminate the pool water. Providing an aquatic wheelchair made of 

non-corrosive materials and designed for access into the water will protect the water from 

contamination and avoid damage to personal wheelchairs or other mobility aids.

Figure 1009.3.2

Sloped Entry Submerged Depth

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1009.4 Transfer Walls. Transfer walls shall comply with 1009.4.

1009.4.1 Clear Deck Space. A clear deck space of 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches 

(1525 mm) minimum with a slope not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at the base of the transfer 

wall. Where one grab bar is provided, the clear deck space shall be centered on the grab bar. Where 

two grab bars are provided, the clear deck space shall be centered on the clearance between the 

grab bars. 

Figure 1009.3.3

Handrails for Sloped Entry

Figure 1009.4.1

Clear Deck Space at Transfer Walls

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1009.4.2 Height. The height of the transfer wall shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum and 19 

inches (485 mm) maximum measured from the deck. 

1009.4.3 Wall Depth and Length. The depth of the transfer wall shall be 12 inches (305 mm) 

minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum. The length of the transfer wall shall be 60 inches (1525 

mm) minimum and shall be centered on the clear deck space. 

1009.4.4 Surface. Surfaces of transfer walls shall not be sharp and shall have rounded edges.

1009.4.5 Grab Bars. At least one grab bar complying with 609 shall be provided on the transfer 

wall. Grab bars shall be perpendicular to the pool wall and shall extend the full depth of the transfer 

wall. The top of the gripping surface shall be 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 6 inches (150 mm) 

maximum above transfer walls. Where one grab bar is provided, clearance shall be 24 inches (610 

mm) minimum on both sides of the grab bar. Where two grab bars are provided, clearance between 

grab bars shall be 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION: Grab bars on transfer walls shall not be required to comply with 609.4. 

Figure 1009.4.2

Transfer Wall Height

Figure 1009.4.3

Depth and Length of Transfer Walls

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1009.5 Transfer Systems. Transfer systems shall comply with 1009.5.

1009.5.1 Transfer Platform. A transfer platform shall be provided at the head of each transfer 

system. Transfer platforms shall provide 19 inches (485 mm) minimum clear depth and 24 inches 

(610 mm) minimum clear width. 

Figure 1009.4.5

Grab Bars for Transfer Walls

Figure 1009.5.1

Size of Transfer Platform

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1009.5.2 Transfer Space. A transfer space of 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 

mm) minimum with a slope not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at the base of the transfer 

platform surface and shall be centered along a 24 inch (610 mm) minimum side of the transfer 

platform. The side of the transfer platform serving the transfer space shall be unobstructed. 

1009.5.3 Height. The height of the transfer platform shall comply with 1009.4.2.

1009.5.4 Transfer Steps. Transfer step height shall be 8 inches (205 mm) maximum. The surface of 

the bottom tread shall extend to a water depth of 18 inches (455 mm) minimum below the stationary 

water level. 

Figure 1009.5.2

Clear Deck Space at Transfer Platform

Advisory 1009.5.4 Transfer Steps. Where possible, the height of the transfer step should 

be minimized to decrease the distance an individual is required to lift up or move down to 

reach the next step to gain access.

Figure 1009.5.4

Transfer Steps

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1009.5.5 Surface. The surface of the transfer system shall not be sharp and shall have rounded 

edges.

1009.5.6 Size. Each transfer step shall have a tread clear depth of 14 inches (355 mm) minimum 

and 17 inches (430 mm) maximum and shall have a tread clear width of 24 inches (610 mm) 

minimum. 

1009.5.7 Grab Bars. At least one grab bar on each transfer step and the transfer platform or a 

continuous grab bar serving each transfer step and the transfer platform shall be provided. Where a 

grab bar is provided on each step, the tops of gripping surfaces shall be 4 inches (100 mm) minimum 

and 6 inches (150 mm) maximum above each step and transfer platform. Where a continuous grab 

bar is provided, the top of the gripping surface shall be 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 6 inches 

(150 mm) maximum above the step nosing and transfer platform. Grab bars shall comply with 609 

and be located on at least one side of the transfer system. The grab bar located at the transfer 

platform shall not obstruct transfer.

EXCEPTION: Grab bars on transfer systems shall not be required to comply with 609.4. 

Figure 1009.5.6

Size of Transfer Steps

Figure 1009.5.7

Grab Bars

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289 

1009.6 Pool Stairs. Pool stairs shall comply with 1009.6.

1009.6.1 Pool Stairs. Pool stairs shall comply with 504.

EXCEPTION: Pool step riser heights shall not be required to be 4 inches (100 mm) high 

minimum and 7 inches (180 mm) high maximum provided that riser heights are uniform.

1009.6.2 Handrails. The width between handrails shall be 20 inches (510 mm) minimum and 24 

inches (610 mm) maximum. Handrail extensions required by 505.10.3 shall not be required on pool 

stairs.

1010 Shooting Facilities with Firing Positions

1010.1 Turning Space. A circular turning space 60 inches (1525 mm) diameter minimum with slopes 

not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at shooting facilities with firing positions.

Titles II and III - 2010 Standards - 223

252 - 2010 Standards: Titles II and III Department of Justice
36 CFR part 1191, 

appendices B and D

Application and Scoping

1

1991 Standards

Application and Scoping

8-11, 22, 26-28

2004 ADAAG

Application and Scoping

1, 14, 30

2010 Standards

Application and Scoping

1, 8, 10-14, 22, 26-30

A

Accessibility Standards

Application and Scoping 

9, 22, 26

Accessible

Application and Scoping

44

Accessible Bathing Facility

Application and Scoping

28

Accessible Entrances

(see Entrances)

Accessible Features

Application and Scoping

8, 13, 24, 92

Accessible Rooms

Application and Scoping

28, 55, 88

Accessible Route(s)

Application and Scoping

8, 9, 11, 12, 21, 24, 29, 44, 50, 

52-64, 66-69, 80, 81, 86, 92, 93, 

98, 100-102 

Technical

108, 113, 117, 118, 119, 127,131,

133,150-152, 162, 203, 212, 213, 

215, 224, 226-229, 234-239, 241

Addition(s)

Application and Scoping 

37, 44, 50, 57, 93, 99

Airport Passenger Terminal

Application and Scoping 

21, 25, 56

Air Traffic Control Towers

Application and Scoping

56

Aisle Seats (see Designated

Aisle Seats)

Alteration(s)

Application and Scoping 

6-10, 13, 14, 19, 21-28, 37, 

44, 48, 50- 52, 55, 57, 58, 

61, 68, 69, 81-83, 90, 93, 95

Technical 

19, 131, 156, 212, 221

Amusement Ride(s)

Application and Scoping

45, 48, 59, 60, 64, 74, 94, 95

Technical 

224-227

INDEX TO THE 2010 STANDARDS 

Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 253

Index and List of Figures
Department of Justice

Animal Containment Areas

Application and Scoping 

54

Technical 

104, 105

ANSI/BHMA

Application and Scoping

40

Technical 

126, 127, 143, 145

Apartments

Application and Scoping 

12, 29, 46

Area(s) of Sport Activity

Application and Scoping 

45, 54, 64, 79, 80

Technical 

104, 105

ASME

Application and Scoping 

40, 41

Technical 

133, 143, 145, 147, 218

Assembly Area(s)

Application and Scoping 

12, 29, 45, 48, 57, 58, 68, 71, 

73, 76-80

Technical 

127, 154, 156, 197

Assistive Listening System(s)

Application and Scoping 

45, 73, 76, 77

Technical 

194, 197, 198

ASTM

Application and Scoping

41, 42, 48

Technical 

239

ATMs (see Automatic Teller Machines)

Automatic Fare Machines (see Fare 

Machines)

Automatic Teller Machine(s)

Application and Scoping

77

Technical 

198, 199, 201

B 

Barrier Removal

Application and Scoping

37

Bathing Facilities

Application and Scoping 

11, 29, 69, 70, 73

Technical 

172, 177, 181, 210, 211, 213

Bathing Rooms

Application and Scoping 

69, 70, 73

Technical 

160, 210

Bathtubs

Application and Scoping 

70

Technical 

171-174, 182

Bathtub Seats (see Seats, Bathtub and 

Shower)

254 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III

Index and List of Figures
Department of Justice

Beds

Application and Scoping

11, 28, 29, 84, 85, 90

Technical 

210, 211

Bench(es) (does not include Judges’ 

Benches)

Technical 

185, 206, 211, 219, 220

Boarding Pier(s)

Application and Scoping

45, 60, 97

Technical 

229, 231

Boat Launch Ramps

Application and Scoping

45, 60, 97

Technical 

228, 229, 231

Boat Slip(s)

Application and Scoping 

45, 60, 96

Technical 

228, 229

Boating Facilities

Application and Scoping

60, 64, 95

Technical 

228

Bowling Lanes

Application and Scoping 

60, 79

Boxing or Wrestling Rings

Application and Scoping 

54

Bus Shelters 

Application and Scoping

76

Technical

215

Bus Signs

Technical

216

Bus Stop(s) 

Application and Scoping 

67, 68

Technical 

214, 215, 216

C 

Cafeterias (see Restaurants and 

Cafeterias)

Carpet

Technical 

104

Cells

Application and Scoping

13, 14, 53, 56, 68, 89, 90, 91

Technical 

163, 211, 212

Cells with Mobility Features

Application and Scoping 

13, 14, 56, 90, 211

Change Machines

Application and Scoping 

88

Changes in Level

Technical 

105-107, 117, 124, 127-129, 

151-153, 202, 228

2010 Standards: Title II and III- 255

Index and List of Figures
Department of Justice

Check-out Aisles

Application and Scoping 

73, 74, 87, 88

Technical 

220, 221

Children

Application and Scoping 

37, 42, 45, 47, 74, 95, 98-100

Technical 

113, 154, 159, 160, 161, 165, 167- 

169, 171, 182, 206, 219, 240-242

Clear Floor or Ground Space

Application and Scoping

11, 28, 57, 84, 90

Technical 

107-110 114-116, 127, 134, 138, 

145, 147, 159, 160, 162, 170, 

182, 185, 190, 194, 198, 201, 206, 

208-212, 215, 218, 219, 221, 222, 

227, 228, 233, 235-239, 241, 242

Clearances

Technical 

117, 160-162, 174, 207, 225, 

229, 231

Clearances, Maneuvering

Technical 

120, 123, 124, 127,129

Clocks

Application and Scoping 

76

Technical 

218

Clothes Dryers

Application and Scoping

70, 71

Technical 

115, 185

Coat Hooks

Application and Scoping 

70, 81

Technical 

161, 162, 168, 206

Commercial Facility

Application and Scoping 

19, 21, 22

Commercial Facilities Located 

in a Private Residence

Application and Scoping 

19

Common Ownership

Application and Scoping

20, 25

Common Use

Application and Scoping 

11, 12, 29, 45, 47, 53, 56, 59, 71

Technical 

117, 128, 129, 160, 163, 171, 172, 

177, 201 

Common Use Area

Application and Scoping 

12, 29, 53, 56, 71

Common Use Circulation Paths

Application and Scoping

59

Technical

117, 128, 129

Common Site

Application and Scoping

 20, 25, 28, 92, 93

Communication Systems (see 

Two-Way Communication Systems)

Commuter Rail (see also Rail Platforms)

Application and Scoping

46, 76

256 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III

Index and List of Figures
Department of Justice

Commuter Rail (cont’d)

Technical

217

Companion Seats

Application and Scoping

12, 29, 30, 78-80

Technical 

202, 206, 226

Compliance Date

Application and Scoping 

9, 10, 26, 27

Construction Sites

Application and Scoping 

53

Conventions

Application and Scoping

37

Correctional Facilities (see Detention 

and Correctional Facilities)

Counters (see also Dining Surfaces and 

Work Surfaces)

Application and Scoping 

59, 89, 91

Technical

207, 208, 219, 222

Counters, Sales and Service

Application and Scoping

86-88

Technical

220, 221

Court Sports

Application and Scoping

60

Courtroom

Application and Scoping

45, 54, 57, 63, 76, 89

Courtoom (con’td)

Technical 

217

Cross Slope

Application and Scoping

45, 47

Technical

117, 128, 228

Curb Ramps

Application and Scoping

7, 13, 23, 45

Technical

117, 131-133

D

Definitions

Application and Scoping

44

Depot

Application and Scoping

21, 25, 56

Depositories

Application and Scoping

88

Designated Aisle Seats

Application and Scoping 

78, 80

Technical 

202, 206

Detectable Warnings

Application and Scoping

46

Technical 

196, 197, 216

2010 Standards: Title II and III- 257

Index and List of Figures
258 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms 

(cont’d)

Technical

206

Drinking Fountains

Application and Scoping 

7-9, 22-24, 37, 51, 68, 69

Technical

159, 160

Dryers (see Washing Machines and 

Clothes Dryers)

E

Edge Protection

Technical 

129, 130, 221, 229, 231, 234

Elevators

Application and Scoping 

8, 23, 40, 45, 49, 63, 73

Technical

117, 133-138, 140-146, 189, 191

Elevator Exemption

Application and Scoping

9, 10, 20, 21, 25

Existing Elevator

Application and Scoping

63, 73

Technical

134, 135, 137, 138, 140, 141, 143

Employee Work Area

Application and Scoping

23, 46, 49, 54, 59, 71

Technical

117, 128, 129

Detention and Correctional Facilities

Application and Scoping

13, 14, 47, 48, 53, 56, 62, 64, 

68, 71, 76, 89

Technical

163

Dimensions (General)

Application and Scoping 

37, 38

Dining Surfaces

Application and Scoping

37, 86, 87

Technical 

219

Disperse, Dispersion

Application and Scoping

12, 13, 29, 30, 63, 66, 67, 79, 

80, 85-88, 94, 96, 99

Technical 

234

Disproportionate, Disproportionality

Application and Scoping

7-9, 22-25, 51

Diving Boards and Diving Platforms

Application and Scoping

54

Door Swing

Technical 

107, 127, 160, 190, 206

Doors, Doorways, and Gates (General)

Application and Scoping

8, 19, 24, 40, 46, 61-63, 70, 72, 83

Technical 

117, 119, 120, 123-127, 129

Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

Application and Scoping

81
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 259

Index and List of Figures

Entrances

Application and Scoping 

7-9, 21-24, 46, 47, 48, 52, 55, 

57, 61, 62, 66-69, 73, 76, 83, 98

Technical 

152, 201, 214, 217

Public Entrance 

Application and Scoping

47, 61

Restricted Entrance

Application and Scoping

47, 62

Service Entrance

Application and Scoping

47, 62

Equivalent Access

Application and Scoping

9, 10, 67, 79, 80, 94

Equivalent Facilitation

Application and Scoping

37 

Exercise Machine

Application and Scoping

55, 60, 97

Technical

233

Existing Elevator (see Elevators)

Existing Buildings and Facilities

Application and Scoping

22, 37, 50, 57, 63, 71, 93

Technical

180

Exits (see Means of Egress)

F

Facilities with Residential Units 

and Transient Lodging Units

Application and Scoping 

28

Fare Machines

Application and Scoping 

77

Technical 

198, 199, 201

Figures

Application and Scoping 

11, 28, 38 

Fire Alarm Systems

Application and Scoping

43, 71

Technical

186, 213

Fishing Piers and Platforms

Application and Scoping

60, 64, 97

Technical

234, 235

Fixed Guideway Stations

Application and Scoping

76

Floor or Ground Surfaces

Scoping

98, 99

Technical

104-107, 117, 124,128, 130, 151, 

152, 202, 224, 225, 239

Food Service Lines

Application and Scoping 

87, 88
260 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Food Service Lines (cont’d)

Technical 

222

Forward Reach (see Reach Ranges)

G

Gates (see Doors, Doorways, and Gates)

General Exceptions

Application and Scoping

53

Golf Car Passage

Application and Scoping 

46, 60

Technical 

236

Golf Facilities

Application and Scoping

60, 97

Technical

235

Grab Bars

Application and Scoping

8, 24

Technical

162-164, 167-169, 172-174, 177, 

178, 180-182, 247, 248, 251

Gratings (see Openings)

Ground Level Play Components (see 

Play Areas)

Ground Surfaces (see Floor or Ground 

Surfaces)

Group Homes

Application and Scoping 

11, 28

Guest Rooms (see Transient Lodging)

H 

Halfway Houses

Application and Scoping 

11, 28

Handrails

Application and Scoping 

68

Technical 

111, 112, 119, 128-130, 153-157, 

224, 228, 234-236, 239, 246, 252

High Speed Rail

Application and Scoping 

76

Historic Buildings and Facilities

Application and Scoping

7, 21, 26, 44, 47, 52, 55, 57, 61, 69

National Historic Preservation Act

Application and Scoping

26

Historic Preservation (see Historic 

Buildings and Facilities)

Historic Properties (see Historic 

Buildings and Facilities)

Qualified Historic Building 

or Facility 

Application and Scoping

47, 52, 55, 57, 61, 69

Holding Cells (see Cells)

Hospitals (see Medical Care Facilities)

Hotels (see Transient Lodging)

Housing at a Place of Education

Application and Scoping

11, 29, 82

Housing Cells (see Cells)
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 261

Index and List of Figures

I 

ICC/IBC

Application and Scoping

42

Intercity Rail

Application and Scoping

61, 62, 76

Intersections

Application and Scoping

13

J

Jails (see Detention and Correctional 

Facilities)

Judges’ Benches

Application and Scoping

57, 63

Technical

212

Judicial Facilities

Application and Scoping

62, 89

K

Kitchens and Kitchenettes

Application and Scoping

11, 29, 46, 55, 69, 93

Technical 

206-209, 211, 213

Knee and Toe Clearance (see also Toe 

Clearance)

Technical 

106-110, 159, 167, 170, 171, 208, 

209, 219, 234

L 

Landlord/Tenant

Application and Scoping

23

Lavatories

Application and Scoping

37, 70

Technical 

160, 170, 171

Light Rail

Application and Scoping 

46, 76

Limited-Use/Limited-Application 

Elevators

Technical 

143

Lines of Sight

Application and Scoping

 79

Technical

203-205

Lockers (see also Storage)

Application and Scoping

85

Locker Rooms (see Dressing, 

Fitting, and Locker Rooms)

Long-Term Care Facilities

Application and Scoping

14, 47, 48, 68, 81, 82

Technical

180, 209

M

Machinery Spaces

Application and Scoping

53

Mail Boxes

Application and Scoping

46, 88

Technical 

 221
262 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

March 15, 2011

Application and Scoping

9

March 15, 2012

Application and Scoping

8, 10, 26, 27

Maximum Extent Feasible

Application and Scoping

6, 7, 14, 21, 22, 26, 50, 51

Means of Egress

Application and Scoping

44, 46, 64, 68, 72

Technical 

127, 212, 227, 228

Medical Care Facilities

Application and Scoping

13, 30, 48, 81, 90

Technical 

180, 186

Mezzanine

Application and Scoping

46, 48, 56-58, 80

Technical

217

Miniature Golf Facilities

Application and Scoping

60, 98

Technical 

236

Mirrors

Application and Scoping 

70

Technical 

160

Motels (see Transient Lodging)

Multi-bedroom Housing Units

Application and Scoping

11, 29

Multi-Story Buildings and Facilities

Application and Scoping 

56, 57

N

NFPA

Application and Scoping

43

Technical

186, 213 

National Historic Preservation Act (see 

Historic Buildings and Facilities)

New Construction

Application and Scoping

6, 9, 10, 13, 19, 26, 27, 50, 

51, 63, 82, 83, 92

Normal Maintenance

Application and Scoping

21, 44

O

Openings 

Application and Scoping

88

Technical 

105, 119, 140, 218, 226, 227, 

229, 231, 236

Operable Parts

Application and Scoping

55

Technical

115, 116, 125, 146, 147, 159, 

185, 195, 199, 209, 218
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 263

Index and List of Figures

P

Parking

Application and Scoping 

7-9, 23, 24, 48, 55, 61, 65-68, 72

Technical 

132, 149-152

Passenger Loading Zones

Application and Scoping

55, 65, 67, 68

Technical

152

Passing Spaces

Technical 

119

Path of Travel

Application and Scoping 

6-9, 22-25, 51

Percentages, Calculation of

Application and Scoping

38

Performance Areas

Application and Scoping

12, 30, 58, 63, 80

Technical

203

Place of Public Accommodation

Application and Scoping

20-22, 25, 26, 47

Places of Lodging

Application and Scoping

28, 82

Platform Lifts

Application and Scoping

40, 41, 45, 63, 64

Technical 

117, 147, 212

Play Areas

Application and Scoping

54, 60, 64, 98, 99

Technical 

237-239

Player Seating (see Team and 

Player Seating)

Plumbing Fixtures

Application and Scoping

70

Technical

165, 171

Pools (see Swimming Pools or 

Wading Pools)

Post-Mounted Objects

Technical

112

Press Boxes

Application and Scoping

58

Primary Function Areas

Application and Scoping

7-9, 22, 23, 25, 50, 51

Prisons (see Detention and Correctional 

Facilities)

Private Residences (see 

Commercial Facilities Located 

in Private Residences)

Private Residence Elevators

Technical

145

Professional Office of a Health 

Care Provider

Application and Scoping

20, 21, 25, 56
264 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Raised Areas

Application and Scoping

53

Ramp(s)

Application and Scoping

8, 23, 24, 45, 47, 63, 67, 100

Technical

106, 112, 117, 127-130, 154, 156, 212, 

224, 225, 236, 239, 241 

Ramp, Pedestrian

Application and Scoping

8, 23

Rapid Rail

Application and Scoping 

76

Reach Ranges

Technical 

113, 116, 134, 140, 161, 168, 206, 218, 

237, 242

Recreation Facilities (see Amusement 

Rides, Boating Facilities, Exercise 

Machines, Fishing Piers and 

Platforms, Golf, Miniature Golf, 

Saunas and Steam Rooms, Shooting 

Facilities, Swimming Pools, Wading 

Pools, or Spas)

Recreational Boating Facilities (see 

Boating Facilities)

Referenced Standards

Application and Scoping 

40-44, 48, 64, 72

Technical

127, 133, 143, 145, 147, 186, 213, 218, 

234, 239

Rehabilitation (of buildings and facilities)

Application and Scoping

21, 44

Protruding Objects

Application and Scoping

54

Technical

111, 113

Psychiatric Facilities (see Medical Care 

Facilities)

Public Address Systems

Application and Scoping

76

Technical 

218

Public Entrance (see Entrances)

Public Use

Application and Scoping 

12, 29, 42, 45, 47, 54, 56, 63, 68, 71, 75

Technical 

160, 163, 171, 172, 177, 197, 201, 216

Public Transportation

Application and Scoping

21, 25, 55, 56, 67

Putting Greens

Application and Scoping

60, 98

Technical

235

Q

Queues (see also Waiting Lines)

Application and Scoping 

74, 87, 88

R

Rail Platforms

Technical 

216
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 265

Index and List of Figures

Rehabilitation Facilities 

(see Medical Care Facilities)

Remodeling

Application and Scoping

21, 23, 44

Renovation

Application and Scoping

21, 44

Rental Establishments (see Sales

or Rental Establishments)

Residential Dwelling Unit

Application and Scoping

11, 13, 28, 29, 47, 48, 51, 53, 56, 

62-64, 66, 67, 71, 72, 88, 91-94

Technical 

145, 162, 163, 171, 172, 177, 

178, 180, 201, 208, 212-214

Residential Facilities

Application and Scoping

11-13, 28, 29, 53, 56, 66, 67, 71, 

72, 88, 91

Restaurants and Cafeterias

Application and Scoping

58

Restricted Entrance (see Entrances)

Roll-in Showers (see Showers)

Running Slope

Application and Scoping

45, 47

Technical 

117, 119, 127, 128, 133, 237, 239

S

Safe Harbor

Application and Scoping

8

Sales and Service

Application and Scoping

87

Technical 

220, 221

Sales or Rental Establishments

Application and Scoping

20, 21, 25, 26

Saunas and Steam Rooms

Application and Scoping

102

Technical 

185

Scope of Coverage

Application and Scoping

11, 27

Seats, Bathub and Shower

Technical

172, 174, 175, 181-183

Section 35.151 of 28 CFR part 35

Application and Scoping 

6

Security Barriers

Application and Scoping

64

Self-Service Storage (Facilities)

Application and Scoping

47, 62, 86

September 15, 2010

Application and Scoping

9, 10, 26, 27

Series of Smaller Alterations

Application and Scoping 

9, 24

Service Entrance (see Entrances)
266 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Signs (cont’d)

Technical

136, 143, 151, 186, 189, 190, 

216, 217, 218

Sinks

Application and Scoping

37, 55, 69

Technical

170, 171, 209

Site Arrival Points

Application and Scoping

55

Sleeping Rooms

Application and Scoping

11, 28, 29, 81, 82

Technical

 209, 210

Slope (see Running Slope or 

Cross Slope)

Soft Contained Play Structures 

(see Play Areas)

Social Service Center Establishments 

Application and Scoping

11, 28

Spas

Application and Scoping

102, 103

Technical

125, 242, 244

Stadiums, Arenas, Grandstands

Application and Scoping

12, 29, 45, 78

Stadium-Style Movie Theaters

Application and Scoping

12, 30

Shelters

Application and Scoping

11, 28

Shelves

Application and Scoping 

70, 76, 81, 86, 88

Technical 

161, 162, 168, 206, 222

Shooting Facilities

Application and Scoping 

103

Technical

252

Shopping Center or Shopping Mall

Application and Scoping 

20, 21, 25, 26, 56

Showers

Application and Scoping

11, 29, 62, 70, 83, 84

Technical

174, 175-182, 210, 211

Roll-in Showers

Application and Scoping

11, 29, 84

Technical

175-180, 183, 210

Shower Compartments

Technical

174-182, 210

Transfer-type Showers

Application and Scoping 

11, 29

Technical 

174, 177, 178, 180,183

Signs

Application and Scoping

71-74
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 267

Index and List of Figures

Stairs and Escalators in Existing 

Buildings

Application and Scoping

57

Stairways

Application and Scoping

45, 68, 72

Technical

139, 153

Start of Physical Construction or 

Alterations

Application and Scoping 

26, 27

Storage (see also Self-Storage)

Application and Scoping

7, 9, 22, 24, 47, 48, 53, 62, 85, 86

Technical 

209, 218, 227, 228

Streets, Roads, Highways

Application and Scoping

7, 13, 23, 55

Technical

131, 215

Structural Impracticability

Application and Scoping

6, 19

Structural Parts or Elements

Application and Scoping 

21, 44

Swimming Pools

Application and Scoping

102

Technical 

242

T

Team or Player Seating

Application and Scoping

64, 79, 80

Technically Infeasible

Application and Scoping 

14, 48, 50, 69, 81, 93

Teeing Ground(s)

Application and Scoping

48, 60, 97, 98

Technical 

235

Telephones

Application and Scoping 

7-9, 22-24, 45, 48, 51, 73-76, 90

Technical

146, 193-196, 199, 201, 211,

212, 222

Temporary Facilities

Application and Scoping

11, 28, 50

Tenant Spaces

Application and Scoping

23, 62

Terminal

Application and Scoping

21, 25, 56, 76

Thresholds

Technical 

124, 127, 140, 180

Toe Clearance (see also Knee 

and Toe Clearance)

Technical

106-110, 159, 167, 170, 171,

208, 209, 219, 234
268 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Toilet Compartments

Application and Scoping

37, 70

Technical 

161, 165, 166, 168, 169

Toilet Facilities

Application and Scoping

52, 69

Technical

181, 211, 213

Tolerances, Construction and 

Manufacturing

Application and Scoping

38 

Townhouses

Application and Scoping

12, 29

Transient Lodging

Application and Scoping

11, 12, 28, 29, 47, 48, 56, 62,

64, 71, 82-84

Technical

178, 180, 210

Transportation Facilities

Application and Scoping

51, 61, 76

Technical

214

TTY

Application and Scoping 

8, 24, 48, 73-76

Technical 

193, 196, 201, 211

Turning Space

Application and Scoping

11, 29

Technical 

106, 107, 109, 138, 160, 162, 

185, 206, 209, 211-213, 224, 

235, 238, 239, 241, 252

Two-Way Communication Systems

Application and Scoping 

88

Technical 

142, 146, 201

U

Uniform Federal Accessibility 

Standards (UFAS)

Application and Scoping

8, 9, 10

Unisex Toilet Room

Application and Scoping

69, 70

Urinals

Application and Scoping

70

Technical

170

V

Van Parking Spaces

Application and Scoping

66, 67

Technical

149-151

Vending Machines

Application and Scoping

88
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 269

Index and List of Figures

Vertical Clearance

Application and Scoping

54

Technical 

113, 151, 152, 196, 237

Vertical Viewing Angle

Application and Scoping

12, 30

Visiting Areas

Application and Scoping

89-91

W

Wading Pools

Application and Scoping 

102

Technical 

242, 246

Waiting Lines (see also Queues)

Application and Scoping

74, 87, 88

Walk

Application and Scoping

7, 13, 23, 45, 46, 49, 61

Technical 

131

Walking Surfaces

Application and Scoping

46-48

Technical 

117, 119, 154, 155, 196, 220, 224

Washing Machines

Application and Scoping

70

Technical

115, 185

Water Closets

Application and Scoping

37, 70

Technical 

161-169, 182, 210, 211 202-206, 

212, 224-226

Water Slides

Application and Scoping

45, 54

Weather Shelters

Application and Scoping

60, 98

Technical

235, 236

Wheelchair Space(s)

Application and Scoping

12, 29, 30, 49, 57, 60, 63, 

78, 79, 80, 95

Windows

Application and Scoping

7, 23, 73, 88

Technical

222

Work Surfaces

Application and Scoping

11, 29, 37, 86, 87

Technical 

208, 209, 219
270 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

LIST OF FIGURES FOR THE 2010 STANDARDS

Figure 104 Graphic Convention for Figures 39

Figure 302.2 Carpet Pile Height 104 

Figure 302.3 Elongated Openings in Floor or Ground Surfaces 105 

Figure 303.2 Vertical Change in Level 105

Figure 303.3 Beveled Change in Level 106

Figure 304.3.2 T-Shaped Turning Space 107

Figure 305.3 Clear Floor or Ground Space 108

Figure 305.5 Position of Clear Floor or Ground Space 108

Figure 305.7.1 Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove, Forward Approach 109

Figure 305.7.2 Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove, Parallel Approach 109

Figure 306.2 Toe Clearance 110

Figure 306.3 Knee Clearance 111

Figure 307.2 Limits of Protruding Objects 112

Figure 307.3 Post-Mounted Protruding Objects 112

Figure 307.4 Vertical Clearance 113

Figure 308.2.1 Unobstructed Forward Reach 114

Figure 308.2.2 Obstructed High Forward Reach 114

Figure 308.3.1 Unobstructed Side Reach 115

Figure 308.3.2 Obstructed High Side Reach 116

Figure 403.5.1 Clear Width of an Accessible Route 118

Figure 403.5.2 Clear Width at Turn 118

Figure 404.2.3 Clear Width of Doorways 120

Figure 404.2.4.1 Maneuvering Clearances at Manual Swinging Doors and Gates 121 
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 271

Index and List of Figures

Figure 404.2.4.2 Maneuvering Clearances at Doorways without Doors, 

 Sliding Doors, Gates, and Folding Doors 123 

Figure 404.2.4.3 Maneuvering Clearances at Recessed Doors and Gates 124

Figure 404.2.6 Doors in Series and Gates in Series 125

Figure 405.7 Ramp Landings 129

Figure 405.9.1 Extended Floor or Ground Surface Edge Protection 130

Figure 405.9.2 Curb or Barrier Edge Protection 130

Figure 406.2 Counter Slope of Surfaces Adjacent to Curb Ramps 131

Figure 406.3 Sides of Curb Ramps 131

Figure 406.4 Landings at the Top of Curb Ramps 132

Figure 406.6 Diagonal or Corner Type Curb Ramps 132

Figure 406.7 Islands in Crossings 133

Figure 407.2.2.2 Visible Hall Signals 135

Figure 407.2.3.1 Floor Designations on Jambs of Elevator Hoistway Entrances 136

Figure 407.2.3.2 Car Designations on Jambs of Destination-Oriented Elevator 

 Hoistway Entrances 136

Figure 407.4.1 Elevator Car Dimensions 138

Figure 408.4.1 Limited-Use/Limited-Application (LULA) 

 Elevator Car Dimensions 144

Figure 409.4.6.2 Location of Private Residence Elevator Control Panel 146

Figure 410.6 Platform Lift Doors and Gates 148

Figure 502.2 Vehicle Parking Spaces 149

Figure 502.3 Parking Space Access Aisle 150

Figure 503.3 Passenger Loading Zone Access Aisle 152

Figure 504.5 Stair Nosings 153

Figure 505.4 Handrail Height 154
272 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Figure 505.5 Handrail Clearance 155

Figure 505.6 Horizontal Projections Below Gripping Surface 155

Figure 505.7.2 Handrail Non-Circular Cross Section 156

Figure 505.10.1 Top and Bottom Handrail Extension at Ramps 157

Figure 505.10.2 Top Handrail Extension at Stairs 157

Figure 505.10.3 Bottom Handrail Extension at Stairs 158

Figure 602.5 Drinking Fountain Spout Location 159

Figure 604.2 Water Closet Location 161

Figure 604.3.1 Size of Clearance at Water Closets 162

Figure 604.3.2 (Exception) Overlap of Water Closet Clearance 

 in Residential Dwelling Units 162

Figure 604.5.1 Side Wall Grab Bar at Water Closets 163

Figure 604.5.2 Rear Wall Grab Bar at Water Closets 164

Figure 604.7 Dispenser Outlet Location 165

Figure 604.8.1.1 Size of Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartment 166

Figure 604.8.1.2 Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartment Doors 166

Figure 604.8.1.4 Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartment Toe Clearance 167

Figure 604.8.2 Ambulatory Accessible Toilet Compartment 168

Figure 605.2 Height and Depth of Urinals 170

Figure 607.2 Clearance for Bathtubs 172

Figure 607.4.1 Grab Bars for Bathtubs with Permanent Seats 173

Figure 607.4.2 Grab Bars for Bathtubs with Removable In-Tub Seats 173

Figure 607.5 Bathtub Control Location 174

Figure 608.2.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartment Size and Clearance 175

Figure 608.2.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Size 

 and Clearance 176
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 273

Index and List of Figures

Figure 608.2.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Size 

 and Clearance 176

Figure 608.3.1 Grab Bars for Transfer Type Showers 177

Figure 608.3.2 Grab Bars for Standard Roll-In Type Showers 177

Figure 608.3.3 Grab Bars for Alternate Roll-In Type Showers 178

Figure 608.5.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartment Control Location 178

Figure 608.5.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Control Location 179

Figure 608.5.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartment Control Location 180

Figure 609.2.2 Grab Bar Non-Circular Cross Section 181

Figure 609.3 Spacing of Grab Bars 182

Figure 610.2 Bathtub Seats 183

Figure 610.3 Extent of Seat 183

Figure 610.3.1 Rectangular Shower Seat 184

Figure 610.3.2 L-Shaped Shower Seat 184

Figure 611.4 Height of Laundry Compartment Opening 185

Figure 703.2.5 Height of Raised Characters 187

Figure 703.3.1 Braille Measurement 188

Figure 703.3.2 Position of Braille 189

Figure 703.4.1 Height of Tactile Characters Above Finish Floor or Ground 189

Figure 703.4.2 Location of Tactile Signs at Doors 190

Figure 703.6.1 Pictogram Field 192

Figure 703.7.2.1 International Symbol of Accessibility 193

Figure 703.7.2.2 International Symbol of TTY 193

Figure 703.7.2.3 Volume Control Telephone 193

Figure 703.7.2.4 International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss 194
274 - 2010 Standards: Title II and III Department of Justice

Index and List of Figures

Figure 704.2.1.1 Parallel Approach to Telephone 194

Figure 704.2.1.2 Forward Approach to Telephone 195

Figure 705.1 Size and Spacing of Truncated Domes 197

Figure 707.6.2 Numeric Key Layout 200

Figure 802.1.2 Width of Wheelchair Spaces 202

Figure 802.1.3 Depth of Wheelchair Spaces 203

Figure 802.2.1.1 Lines of Sight Over the Heads of Seated Spectators 204

Figure 802.2.1.2 Lines of Sight Between the Heads of Seated Spectators 204

Figure 802.2.2.1 Lines of Sight Over the Heads of Standing Spectators 205

Figure 802.2.2.2 Lines of Sight Between the Heads of Standing Spectators 205

Figure 804.2.1 Pass-Through Kitchens 207

Figure 804.2.2 U-Shaped Kitchens 208

Figure 810.2.2 Dimensions of Bus Boarding and Alighting Areas 215

Figure 810.3 Bus Shelters 216

Figure 810.10 (Exception) Track Crossings 218

Figure 903.4 Bench Back Support 220

Figure 904.3.2 Check-Out Aisle Counters 221

Figure 904.4 (Exception) Alteration of Sales and Service Counters 222

Figure 1002.4.4.3 Protrusions in Wheelchair Spaces in Amusement Rides 226

Figure 1003.3.1 Boat Slip Clearance 230

Figure 1003.3.1 (Exception 1) Clear Pier Space Reduction at Boat Slips 231

Figure 1003.3.1 (Exception 2) Edge Protection at Boat Slips 231

Figure 1003.3.2 Boarding Pier Clearance 232

Figure 1003.3.2 (Exception 1) Clear Pier Space Reduction at Boarding Piers 233

Figure 1003.3.2 (Exception 2) Edge Protection at Boarding Piers 233
Department of Justice 2010 Standards: Title II and III- 275

Index and List of Figures

Figure 1005.3.2 Extended Ground or Deck Surface at Fishing 

 Piers and Platforms 235

Figure 1007.3.2 Golf Club Reach Range Area 237

Figure 1008.3.1 Transfer Platforms 240

Figure 1008.3.2 Transfer Steps 241

Figure 1009.2.2 Pool Lift Seat Location 243

Figure 1009.2.3 Clear Deck Space at Pool Lifts 244

Figure 1009.2.4 Pool Lift Seat Height 244

Figure 1009.2.8 Pool Lift Submerged Depth 245

Figure 1009.3.2 Sloped Entry Submerged Depth 246

Figure 1009.3.3 Handrails for Sloped Entry 247

Figure 1009.4.1 Clear Deck Space at Transfer Walls 247

Figure 1009.4.2 Transfer Wall Height 248

Figure 1009.4.3 Depth and Length of Transfer Walls 248

Figure 1009.4.5 Grab Bars for Transfer Walls 249

Figure 1009.5.1 Size of Transfer Platform 249

Figure 1009.5.2 Clear Deck Space at Transfer Platform 250

Figure 1009.5.4 Transfer Steps 250

Figure 1009.5.6 Size of Transfer Steps 251

Figure 1009.5.7 Grab Bars 251