These guidelines address many building elements and facilities, but do not presently address recreation facilities and outdoor developed areas. The Board has committed to publishing an NPRM on those areas where the committee reaches consensus. This will include trails, beaches, picnic areas, and camping facilities. Other facilities that will be covered in this section include amusement rides, swimming pools, boating facilities, golf courses, and fishing facilities. Exceptions are also included for some provisions, allowing departure from those provisions under certain circumstances.
Many issues are important when considering access for persons with disabilities in the outdoor area.
Making existing trails accessible is not within the purview of the Access Board or this committee. Other agencies are responsible for providing guidance on existing facilities. Accessibility guidelines are much like a building code or standard containing specific technical and scoping provisions. These provisions provide designers and operators with guidance for providing accessibility for persons with disabilities when designing facilities. Neither the ADA or the ABA require buildings or facilities to be constructed.