1991 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges.

4.2.1* Wheelchair Passage Width.

The minimum clear width for single wheelchair passage shall be 32 in (815 mm) at a point and 36 in (915 mm) continuously (see Fig. 1 and 24(e)).

Fig. 1 Minimum Clear Width for Single Wheelchair

Fig. 24 Clear Doorway Width and Depth

4.2.2 Width for Wheelchair Passing.

The minimum width for two wheelchairs to pass is 60 in (1525 mm) (see Fig. 2).

Fig. 2 Minimum Clear Width for Two Wheelchairs

4.2.3* Wheelchair Turning Space.

The space required for a wheelchair to make a 180-degree turn is a clear space of 60 in (1525 mm) diameter (see Fig. 3(a)) or a T-shaped space (see Fig. 3(b)).

Fig. 3 Wheelchair Turning Space

Fig. 3 Wheelchair Turning Space

4.2.4* Clear Floor or Ground Space for Wheelchairs.

4.2.4.1 Size and Approach.

The minimum clear floor or ground space required to accommodate a single, stationary wheelchair and occupant is 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220 mm) (see Fig. 4(a)). The minimum clear floor or ground space for wheelchairs may be positioned for forward or parallel approach to an object (see Fig. 4(b) and (c)). Clear floor or ground space for wheelchairs may be part of the knee space required under some objects.

Fig. 4 Minimum Clear Floor Space for Wheelchairs

Fig. 4 Minimum Clear Floor Space for Wheelchairs

Fig. 4 Minimum Clear Floor Space for Wheelchairs

4.2.4.2 Relationship of Maneuvering Clearance to Wheelchair Spaces.

One full unobstructed side of the clear floor or ground space for a wheelchair shall adjoin or overlap an accessible route or adjoin another wheelchair clear floor space. If a clear floor space is located in an alcove or otherwise confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering clearances shall be provided as shown in Fig. 4(d) and (e).

Fig. 4 Minimum Clear Floor Space for Wheelchairs

Fig. 4 Minimum Clear Floor Space for Wheelchairs

4.2.4.3 Surfaces for Wheelchair Spaces.

Clear floor or ground spaces for wheelchairs shall comply with 4.5.

4.2.5* Forward Reach.

If the clear floor space only allows forward approach to an object, the maximum high forward reach allowed shall be 48 in (1220 mm) (see Fig. 5(a)). The minimum low forward reach is 15 in (380 mm). If the high forward reach is over an obstruction, reach and clearances shall be as shown in Fig. 5(b).

Fig. 5 Forward Reach

Fig. 5 Forward Reach

4.2.6* Side Reach.

If the clear floor space allows parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair, the maximum high side reach allowed shall be 54 in (1370 mm) and the low side reach shall be no less than 9 in (230 mm) above the floor (Fig. 6(a) and (b)). If the side reach is over an obstruction, the reach and clearances shall be as shown in Fig 6(c).

Fig. 6 Side Reach

Fig. 6 Side Reach

Fig. 6 Side Reach