2013 California Standards for Accessible Design Pocket Guide

INTRODUCTION

Intent

This Pocket Guide is intended as a resource for understanding accessibility requirements in California that are essentially architectural, including related communication elements.  Its primary focus is 2013 California Building Code (2013 CBC) Chapter 11B - Accessibility to Public Accommodations, Commercial Buildings and Public Housing, but it includes and compares requirements of Americans with Disabilities Act Title II (Standards for State and Local Government Facilities), Title III (Standards for Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities) and the 2004 Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines, collectively known as the "2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design" (2010 ADAS).

This Pocket Guide includes Advisories from the State of California Division of the State Architect - Access Compliance (DSA-AC), U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), and U.S. Access Board.  Extensive use has been made by Evan Terry Associates (ETA) of "Editor's Notes" for clarification, and of hyperlinks for internal cross-referencing and access to external materials and information.  Lastly, it includes references to 2010 California Building Code (2010 CBC) and 1991 Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (1991 ADAAG) requirements that may represent "Safe Harbors" for existing elements -- see subsequent discussion.

This Pocket Guide does not attempt to cover housing accessibility requirements comprehensively.  It includes 2013 CBC Chapter 11A - Housing Accessibility requirements only to the extent that these have been adopted by DSA-AC for applicability to Public Housing.  Requirements of the Fair Housing Act are not included.

This Pocket Guide does not include requirements from ADA Title I (Employment), Title IV (Telecommunications), or Title V (Miscellaneous Provisions), or requirements that differ from 2010 ADAS incorporated into the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS).  It also does not address accessibility provisions that are non-architectural, such as policies and procedures, employee training, public transportation vehicles, auxiliary aids and services, publications or websites.

Background

A new edition of the California Building Code is issued every three years, based on the International Building Code (IBC) dated the previous year, liberally modified.  When the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (2010 ADAS) were adopted by DOJ on September 15, 2010, these became the initial basis for the accessibility requirements of 2013 CBC Chapter 11B, including the organization and numbering of the requirements.  Generally speaking, the 2010 ADAS counterpart to a 2013 CBC requirement for public accommodations and commercial facilities can be found by deleting the "11B-" prefix to obtain the ADAS reference number, although there are numerous exceptions.

In converting the Federal Standards for application in California, DSA-AC was operating under a legislative mandate not to sacrifice any of the provisions of earlier editions of CBC that afford a higher level of accessibility for individuals with disabilities than those of the ADAS.  Therefore, with very few exceptions, where the 2013 CBC accessibility requirements differ from 2010 ADAS, they are either more inclusive (i.e., scoping that applies more broadly), or more stringent.

While the accessibility scoping and technical requirements of 2013 CBC and 2010 ADAS appear very similar, the former is a Building Code, and the latter is a Civil Rights Law.  Significant implications of this fundamental difference include:

a)         Enforcement.  A Building Code is enforced by governmental authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), who are empowered to interpret and/or modify its requirements.  Their enforcement is exercised through a permitting and certification process that usually includes reviews of the documents needed for construction, and inspections of the work performed during construction and at completion.  This process is imperfect.  Building Officials, regardless of how conscientious, knowledgeable and hard-working, cannot be expected to find and correct every Building Code shortcoming any more than traffic enforcement can be expected to issue a citation to every driver who exceeds the speed limit.  Making the job more difficult, Building Code requirements must be written to cover every conceivable situation, and often are not as definitive as a speed limit.  Interpretation and judgment are inescapable, and these may differ from one AHJ to another.

There is no comparable mechanism for enforcing ADA requirements.  They are enforced solely through the legal system.  Risk management is the responsibility of the architects, engineers, interior designers, landscape architects, contractors, subcontractors, vendors, product manufacturers, building owners and managers, service personnel, and others who are involved in the creation and maintenance of the built environment.  There is no governmental review or enforcement unless and until a lawsuit is filed.

b)         Applicability.  In theory, a Building Code remains applicable throughout the life and operation of a building or other element of the built environment -- see also subsequent discussions about changes and Safe Harbors.  In practice, the Building Code requirements become applicable only when an addition or alteration is executed that requires a permit, because that is when the enforcement mechanisms described above are activated.  There are exceptions, mostly health- and safety-related, such as Fire Marshal inspections, OSHA inspections for workplace safety, Department of Public Health inspections of food service operations, and JCAHO inspections of healthcare facilities.  As a rule, the Building Code requirements that are applicable are the ones that were in effect when the project was permitted.  A building owner is expected to maintain compliance with that edition, but is not expected to perform alterations to become compliant with later editions when issued.  S/he is also not compelled to discover and correct conditions that were noncompliant at the time of construction, but were undetected.  These existing nonconforming conditions are entitled to remain until a permitted alteration or addition, or an occupancy change, causes the current Building Code to take effect.

As a Civil Rights Law, the ADA is applicable perpetually.  It imposes the ongoing responsibility for owners of public accommodations to remove existing barriers for individuals with disabilities to the extent that it is readily achievable to do so, and it imposes the constant responsibility for governmental entities to make their programs and services available to, and usable by, individuals with disabilities.  The implied responsibility to discover and correct noncompliant conditions, whether or not an alteration, addition, or change of occupancy is planned, exceeds the responsibility imposed by the Building Code.  See also discussion of Safe Harbors.

c)         Changes.  As stated above, the Building Code is republished every three years.  In the interim, errata and/or supplements are issued at least once per year.  In other words, change is constant.  Since many building projects require more than one year to complete, it is not unusual for the pertinent Building Code requirements to change during construction.  In some cases, the permitting process can also require multiple years.  The requirements applicable to a specific project are those that were in effect when the permit application was made (except for errata, which can be applicable retroactively), but it can be extremely difficult to identify those after completion.  If a Drawing Cover Sheet lists 2013 California Building Code as one of the Applicable Codes, one still must ask, "Which version?".  This Pocket Guide is based on the initial publication of 2013 CBC, with Errata issued retroactive to January 1, 2014, and the Supplement dated July 1, 2015.

The ADA undergoes significant formal changes infrequently.  The Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) issued in 1991 were supplemented in 1994, but were not rewritten by the U.S. Access Board until 2004.  The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) adopted by reference the revised ADAAG as regulatory standards effective November 29, 2006, and added or modified four sections. These sections are included in this Pocket Guide within ETA Editor’s Notes.  DOJ adopted the revised ADAAG on September 15, 2010 -- see also the discussion of Safe Harbors.  Evan Terry Associates has developed a detailed (line-by-line) reverse sortable analysis to show how the 2010 ADA Standards compare to the 1991 ADA Standards. It is available at http://www.adastandardscomparison.com/ as a free download for all interested parties, in MS Excel spreadsheet format. The Access Board has less detailed comparisons of its 2004 Guidelines with the 2010 ADA Standards and with the IBC 2003 and 2006 Standards and the NFPA 5000 Standard at http://www.Access-Board.gov/Guidelines-and-Standards/Buildings-and-Sites/About-the-ADA-Standards/Background/IBC-Comparison.  It bears mentioning that the application and interpretations of the ADA are also affected by technical assistance, advisories and opinions issued by DOJ, DOT, and the Access Board, as well as precedent-setting legal cases.  See also the list of upcoming revisions to the ADA Standards at the end of this Introduction.

These implications of the fundamental difference between a Building Code and a Civil Rights Law are enumerated to emphasize that an element of the built environment that is subject to accessibility requirements must comply with both.  If a Building Official or other AHJ does not enforce a particular accessibility requirement of the Building Code, or enforces it to a lesser degree than required by the ADA, the ADA requirement remains in effect, and must be met, despite the fact that no one is reviewing or approving the condition for ADA compliance.  ETA has incorporated Editor's Notes at certain locations in this Pocket Guide to reemphasize this point, including the Special Conditions Appeals, Equivalent Facilitation and Path of Travel Requirements.

Safe Harbors

When DOJ adopted the 2004 ADAAG in 2010, it recognized that many business owners and governmental entities had already invested considerable time, effort and money to achieve compliance with 1991 ADAAG, and saw fit to include a Safe Harbor provision in the 2010 ADAS, as follows (yellow highlights added by ETA):

[ADA Title III] Appendix to §36.304(d) _|for Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities;  similar for Title II, State and Local Government Facilities|_

Compliance Dates and Applicable Standards for Barrier Removal and Safe Harbor

As indicated in the title of this table, the Safe Harbor provision applies only to barrier removals, not to new construction.  New construction must comply with 2010 ADAS, as of March 15, 2012.

The term "Safe Harbor" does not appear in 2013 CBC, but a similar provision is included in Exception 2 at Section 11B-202.4, excerpted here:

11B-202.4 Path of travel requirements in alterations, additions and structural repairs.  When alterations or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, an accessible path of travel to the specific area of alteration or addition shall be provided. The primary accessible path of travel shall include:

1.      A primary entrance to the building or facility,

2.      Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area,

3.      Drinking fountains serving the area,

4.      Public telephones serving the area, and

5.      Signs.

Exceptions:

1.      …

2.      If the following elements of a path of travel have been constructed or altered in compliance with the accessibility requirements of the immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code, it shall not be required to retrofit such elements to reflect the incremental changes in this code solely because of an alteration to an area served by those elements of the path of travel:

1.      A primary entrance to the building or facility,

2.      Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area,

3.      Drinking fountains serving the area,

4.      Public telephones serving the area, and

5.      Signs.

3-10.         …

The scope of this "Safe Harbor" provision is far more limited than that of 2010 ADAS, and it is important to note that, if the wording is unchanged when the 2016 CBC becomes applicable, "the immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code" will refer to 2013 CBC, updated from 2010 CBC.  This could have an extremely significant impact at accessible water closets, because the side clearance requirement from an adjacent lavatory was increased by approximately 7 inches from the 2010 CBC to the 2013 CBC, and Item 2 of 11B-202.4 above specifies that toilet and bathing facilities are included in the path of travel requirements to remove existing barriers (also included under ADA, but this condition is Safe Harbored, if compliant with 1991 ADAAG).

For consistency and clarity, ETA has chosen to use the term "Safe Harbor" in this Pocket Guide to refer to items that may qualify for 2013 CBC Section 11B-202.4, Exception 2.  We have identified more than three dozen of these, included the relevant requirements from 2010 CBC at the end of the book, and provided hyperlinks from the 2013 CBC requirement to the applicable "Safe Harbor" prescription, as well as a hyperlink to return easily to the original requirement.  These are identifiable in the text as follows:  [S.H. Section or Subsection Number;  additional comment or qualification, as deemed beneficial].

As there are currently still some uncertainties about how to interpret and apply the Safe Harbor provisions, ETA has set up a dedicated website at http://www.adasafeharbor.com/ to provide additional information on the topic.  You may also register online at http://www.etapocketguides.com/ to be notified when you can purchase updated versions of this Pocket Guide at a discount that will include additional clarifications of the Safe Harbor provisions as they become available.

Conventions used in this Pocket Guide

Updates and Other Pocket Guides

Evan Terry Associates will continue to revise and update this Pocket Guide as new technical assistance is released and interpretations are provided by governmental agencies.

We are currently finishing Pocket Guides for the ABA Standards as adopted by GSA, and other versions covering selected state access standards.  You may visit our website at http://www.etapocketguides.com/ where additional information is available about these publications.

If you would like to be notified when new Pocket Guides become available, when changes are made to this Pocket Guide or when new Standards are adopted by DOJ and other federal agencies as ADA, ABA, and/or Rehab Act design standards, you can register to receive email notices of those by visiting us at http://www.accessupdates.com/, emailing us at ETA@EvanTerry.com, or contacting us at (205) 972-9101 (voice), (205) 972-9112 (TTY) or (205) 972-9110 (fax).

For additional current information on ADA and other access compliance requirements, please visit our website at http://www.NewADAAG.com.

For ADA survey and compliance tools that will simplify your field measurement process and plan reviews, http://www.adasurveytools.com/ has a growing collection of templates and tools you can download for free or buy on plastic stock.

Upcoming Revisions to ADA Standards

Although these topics are out of the scope of this Pocket Guide, the following additions and updates to the ADA standards are worth watching for. More information on each of these can be found on the Access Board’s website and on Corada.

1. Public Rights-of-Way

Public Rights-of-Way Guidelines are still under study by the Access Board, DOJ and DOT. From the Board’s website:

“Sidewalks, street crossings, and other elements in the public right-of-way can pose challenges to accessibility. The Board’s ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines focus mainly on facilities on sites. While they address certain features common to public sidewalks, such as curb ramps, further guidance is necessary to address conditions and constraints unique to public rights-of-way.

“The Board is developing new guidelines for public rights-of-way that will address various issues, including access for blind pedestrians at street crossings, wheelchair access to on-street parking, and various constraints posed by space limitations, roadway design practices, slope, and terrain. The new guidelines will cover pedestrian access to sidewalks and streets, including crosswalks, curb ramps, street furnishings, pedestrian signals, parking, and other components of public rights-of-way. The Board’s aim in developing these guidelines is to ensure that access for persons with disabilities is provided wherever a pedestrian way is newly built or altered, and that the same degree of convenience, connection, and safety afforded the public generally is available to pedestrians with disabilities. Once these guidelines are adopted by the Department of Justice, they will become enforceable standards under title II of the ADA.”

Until they are adopted, an excellent publication, Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access Part II of II: Best Practices Design Guide, has been published by the Board and the Federal Highway Administration and can be downloaded for free at http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bicycle_pedestrian/publications/sidewalk2/index.cfm.   

2. Shared Use Paths

From the Board’s website:

“Shared use paths provide a means of off-road transportation and recreation for various users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, skaters, and others, including people with disabilities. In its rulemaking on public rights-of-way and on trails and other outdoor developed areas, comments from the public urged the Board to address access to shared use paths since they are distinct from sidewalks and trails. Shared use paths, unlike most sidewalks, are physically separated from streets by an open space or barrier. They also differ from trails because they are designed not just for recreation purposes but for transportation as well.

“In response, the Board is supplementing its rulemaking on public rights-of-way to also cover shared use paths.  The proposed rights-of-way guidelines, which address access to sidewalks, streets, and other pedestrian facilities, provide requirements for pedestrian access routes, including specifications for route width, grade, cross slope, surfaces, and other features. The Board proposes to apply these and other relevant requirements to shared use paths as well. This supplementary rulemaking also would add provisions tailored to shared use paths into the rights-of-way guidelines.”

In February 2013 The Board released for public comment proposed requirements for accessible shared use paths used by pedestrians, bicyclists, and others for transportation or recreation. More information can be found on the Access Board’s website at http://www.Access-Board.gov/Guidelines-and-Standards/Streets-Sidewalks. 

3. Emergency Transportable Housing

From the Board’s website:

“The Board has issued guidelines for temporary housing provided by the government in emergencies and natural disasters. Emergency transportable housing units, which are designed and manufactured for transport over roadways, have a smaller footprint than other types of housing and pose unique accessibility challenges. Access to such housing was found to be problematic in the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. The new guidelines supplement the Board's ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines by adding provisions and exceptions that specifically address emergency transportable housing. The Board developed these guidelines according to recommendations from an advisory panel it organized, the Emergency Transportable Housing Advisory Committee, which included representation from disability groups, industry and code groups, and government agencies...  The final rule was effective June 6, 2014. Compliance is not required by entities subject to the ADA until DOJ updates its accessibility standards to be consistent with the final rule.  Compliance is not required by entities subject to the ABA until HUD updates its accessibility standards to be consistent with the final rule.”

More information can be found on the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/buildings-and-sites/emergency-transportable-housing.

4. Passenger Vessels

In June of 2013, the Board released for public comment guidelines for access to ferries, cruise ships, excursion boats, and other passenger vessels under the ADA. Once finalized, these guidelines will supplement the Board’s ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Transportation Vehicles and the ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities.  The Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation will use the guidelines to set mandatory standards. More information can be found on the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/transportation/passenger-vessels/about.

5. Medical Diagnostic Equipment

On January 9, 2017, new accessibility standards were published in the Federal Register for medical diagnostic equipment. From the Board’s website:

“The Board has issued accessibility standards for medical diagnostic equipment under section 510 of the Rehabilitation Act. These standards provide design criteria for examination tables and chairs, including those used for dental or optical exams and procedures, weight scales, radiological equipment, mammography equipment and other equipment used for diagnostic purposes by health professionals. The standards address equipment that requires transfer from wheelchairs and other mobility aids and include requirements for transfer surfaces, support rails, armrests, compatibility with lift devices, and other features. Equipment that accommodates mobility devices without transfer is also covered.

As issued by the Board, the standards are not mandatory on health care providers or equipment manufacturers. The U.S. Department of Justice may adopt them as mandatory requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Other federal agencies may implement them as well under the Rehabilitation Act which requires access to federally funded programs and services.”

AFor the most up-to-date information regarding effective date, visit the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/health-care/about-this-rulemaking/final-standards/text-of-the-proposed-standards-9

6. Classroom Acoustics

The Board is undertaking rulemaking to address acoustics in classrooms by referencing a voluntary consensus standard developed by the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) with support from the Board. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the “ANSI/ASA S12.60-2010 American National Standard Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools (Parts 1 and 2)” sets specific criteria for maximum background noise and reverberation time in classrooms. Consistent with long-standing recommendations for good practice in educational settings, the standard set specific criteria for maximum background noise (35 decibels) and reverberation time (0.6 to 0.7 seconds) for unoccupied classrooms. Once these guidelines are adopted by the Department of Justice, they will become enforceable standards under the ADA.  More information may be found on the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/buildings-and-sites/classroom-acoustics.

7. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Standards and Guidelines

From the Board’s website:

“On January 18, 2017, the Access Board published a final rule that jointly updates requirements for information and communication technology covered by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and Section 255 of the Communication Act. The Section 508 Standards apply to electronic and information technology procured by the federal government, including computer hardware and software, websites, multimedia such as video, phone systems, and copiers. The Section 255 Guidelines address access to telecommunications products and services, and apply to manufacturers of telecommunication equipment.

The final rule jointly updates and reorganizes the Section 508 standards and Section 255 guidelines in response to market trends and innovations, such as the convergence of technologies. The refresh also harmonizes these requirements with other guidelines and standards both in the U.S. and abroad, including standards issued by the European Commission and with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), a globally recognized voluntary consensus standard for web content and ICT.”

For more information on communications topics and up-to-date information on the effective dates, visit the Board’s web site at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/communications-and-it/about-the-ict-refresh/final-rule

Although these standards and guidelines do not apply directly under the ADA, when followed, they provide strong evidence that private and public entities are meeting applicable portions of their effective communication requirements under the ADA.

8. Transportation Vehicles

On December 14, 2016, the ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buses and Vans was published in the Federal Register. The final rule became effective on January 13, 2017. From the Board’s website:

“The Access Board has issued a final rule updating sections of its accessibility guidelines for transportation vehicles covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The rule revises provisions in the guidelines that apply to buses and vans to enhance accessibility and to address industry trends and improvements in design and technology. The guidelines, which the Board originally published in 1991, apply to new or remanufactured vehicles (they also include provisions for rail vehicles that the Board will update separately)… The Board’s vehicle guidelines serve as the basis for mandatory standards issued by the Department of Transportation (DOT) under the ADA. Compliance with the updated requirements for buses and vans will become mandatory once specified by DOT in a future update of its ADA standards.”

More information can be found on the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/transportation/vehicles/about-adaag-for-transportation-vehicles.

9. Outdoor Developed Areas

From the Board’s website:

“Achieving accessibility in outdoor environments has long been a source of inquiry due to challenges and constraints posed by terrain, the degree of development, construction practices and materials, and other factors.

The Board has issued requirements that are now part of the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) Accessibility Standards and apply to national parks and other outdoor areas developed by the federal government. They do not apply to outdoor areas developed with federal grants or loans. A guide that explains these requirements also is available.

The new provisions address access to trails, picnic and camping areas, viewing areas, beach access routes and other components of outdoor developed areas on federal sites when newly built or altered. They also provide exceptions for situations where terrain and other factors make compliance impracticable. The new requirements are located in sections F201.4, F216.3, F244 to F248, and 1011 to 1019 of the ABA Standards.

The Board intends to develop guidelines for non-federal outdoor sites covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and areas developed with federal grants and loans covered by the ABA through a subsequent rulemaking.” 

Until the final ADA guidelines are published, following these guidelines should provide strong evidence that public entities are meeting their program access requirements under the ADA.

More information can be found on the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/recreation-facilities/outdoor-developed-areas

10. Prescription Drug Container Labels

From the Board’s website:

“The Board has led the development of advisory guidance on making prescription drug container labels accessible to people who are blind or visually impaired or who are elderly. This initiative was authorized by the “Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act" which President Obama signed into law in July 2012.  A provision of the act (section 904) directs the Board to convene a working group to develop best practices for making information on prescription drug container labels accessible to people who are blind or visually impaired.

Shortly after the law was enacted, the Board formed the Working Group on Accessible Prescription Drug Container Labels, an 18-member stakeholder panel comprised of representatives from advocacy organizations and industry. The working group explored various access alternatives, including braille, large print labels, and auditory technologies such as “talking bottles” and radio frequency identification tags. In July 2013, it submitted to the Board its best practice recommendations for pharmacies on providing independent access to prescription drug container labels.  These recommendations are advisory only, not mandatory, and will not have the force of guidelines or standards.

The law directs the National Council on Disability (NCD) to conduct an informational and educational campaign in cooperation with the stakeholder working group to inform the public, including people with disabilities and pharmacists, of the best practices. In June 2016, NCD issued a brochure on the best practices recommended by the Board's working group.  The law also calls upon the Comptroller General to conduct a review to assess the extent to which pharmacies are implementing the best practices and to determine whether barriers to prescription drug labels remain.”

More information can be found on the Access Board’s website at https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/health-care/about-prescription-drug-container-labels

Research Projects

The Board sponsors and coordinates research for use in developing accessibility guidelines and providing technical assistance to the public. The Board’s research program is focused on the study of accessibility relating to architecture and design, communication, and transportation. A number of research projects have been completed by the Access Board, and others are underway or planned. More information about these projects can be found on the Access Board’s website at http://www.Access-Board.gov/Research.

The results of those projects will be incorporated into future editions of the pocket guide only when they are integrated into the guidelines and then published as Final Rules by DOJ and other adopting agencies.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

Intent

Background

Safe Harbors

[ADA Title III] Appendix to §36.304(d) _|for Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities; similar for Title II, State and Local Government Facilities|_

Conventions used in this Pocket Guide

Updates and Other Pocket Guides

Upcoming Revisions to ADA Standards

1. Public Rights-of-Way

2. Outdoor Environments

3. Emergency Transportable Housing

4. Passenger Vessels

5. Diagnostic Medical Equipment

6. Classroom Acoustics

7. Communications Standards and Technologies

8. Transportation Vehicles

Research Projects

2013 CALIFORNIA STANDARDS FOR ACCESSIBLE DESIGN

CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

DIVISION I: CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 1.1 GENERAL

SECTION 1.2 BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION

SECTION 1.9 DIVISION OF THE STATE ARCHITECT

DIVISION II: SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 101 GENERAL

SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF BUILDING OFFICIAL

SECTION 111 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS

SECTION 201 GENERAL

SECTION 202 DEFINITIONS

CHAPTER 3 USE AND OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION

CHAPTER 4 SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON USE AND OCCUPANCY

SECTION 406 MOTOR-VEHICLE-RELATED OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 412 AIRCRAFT-RELATED OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 419 LIVE/WORK UNITS

CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

SECTION 907 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS

SECTION 1002 DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1003 GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS

SECTION 1007 ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS

SECTION 1008 DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

SECTION 1009 STAIRWAYS

SECTION 1010 RAMPS

SECTION 1011 EXIT SIGNS

SECTION 1012 HANDRAILS

SECTION 1013 GUARDS

SECTION 1017 AISLES

SECTION 1022 INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS

CHAPTER 11A HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

DIVISION IV – DWELLING UNIT FEATURES

SECTION 1128A COVERED DWELLING UNITS

SECTION 1129A

SECTION 1130A ACCESSIBLE ROUTE WITHIN COVERED MULTIFAMILY DWELLING UNITS

SECTION 1131A CHANGES IN LEVEL ON ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

SECTION 1132A DOORS

SECTION 1133A KITCHENS

SECTION 1134A BATHING AND TOILET FACILITIES

SECTION 1135A LAUNDRY ROOMS

SECTION 1136A ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE, SWITCH AND CONTROL HEIGHTS

DIVISION VI – SITE IMPRACTICALITY TESTS

SECTION 1150A SITE IMPRACTICALITY TESTS

CHAPTER 11B ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

DIVISION 1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION

11B-101 Purpose

11B-102 Dimensions for adults and children.

11B-103 Equivalent facilitation

11B-104 Conventions

11B-105 Referenced standards.

11B-106 Definitions

11B-107 Special conditions appeals action.

11B-108 Maintenance of accessible features. 

DIVISION 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

11B-201 Application

11B-202 Existing buildings and facilities

11B-203 General exceptions

11B-204 Protruding objects

11B-205 Operable parts

11B-206 Accessible routes

11B-207 Accessible means of egress

11B-208 Parking spaces

11B-209 Passenger loading zones and bus stops

11B-210 Stairways

11B-211 Drinking fountains

11B-212 Kitchens, kitchenettes, wet bars and sinks

11B-213 Toilet facilities and bathing facilities

11B-214 Washing machines and clothes dryers

11B-215 Fire alarm systems and carbon monoxide alarm systems

11B-216 Signs

11B-217 Telephones

11B-218 Transportation facilities

11B-219 Assistive listening systems

11B-220 Automatic teller machines, fare machines and point-of-sale devices.

11B-221 Assembly areas

11B-222 Dressing, fitting, and locker rooms

11B-223 Medical care and long-term care facilities 

11B-224 Transient lodging guest rooms, housing at a place of education and social service center establishments

11B-225 Storage

11B-226 Dining surfaces and work surfaces

11B-227 Sales and service

11B-228 Depositories, vending machines, change machines, mail boxes, and fuel dispensers

11B-229 Windows

11B-230 Two-way communication systems

11B-231 Judicial facilities

11B-232 Detention facilities and correctional facilities

11B-233 Residential facilities

11B-234 Amusement rides

11B-235 Recreational boating facilities

11B-236 Exercise machines and equipment

11B-237 Fishing piers and platforms

11B-238 Golf facilities

11B-239 Miniature golf facilities

11B-240 Play areas

11B-241 Saunas and steam rooms

11B-242 Swimming pools, wading pools, and spas

11B-243 Shooting facilities with firing positions

11B-244 Religious facilities

11B-245 Commercial facilities located in private residences

11B-246 Outdoor developed areas

11B-247 Detectable warnings and detectable directional texture

DIVISION 3: BUILDING BLOCKS

11B-301 General

11B-302 Floor or ground surfaces 

11B-303 Changes in level

11B-304 Turning space

11B-305 Clear floor or ground space

11B-306 Knee and toe clearance

11B-307 Protruding objects

11B-308 Reach ranges

11B-309 Operable parts

DIVISION 4: ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

11B-401 General

11B-402 Accessible routes

11B-403 Walking surfaces

11B-404 Doors, doorways, and gates

11B-405 Ramps

11B-406 Curb ramps, blended transitions and islands

11B-407 Elevators

11B-408 Limited-use/limited-application elevators

11B-409 Private residence elevators

11B-410 Platform lifts

11B-411 Destination-oriented elevators

DIVISION 5: GENERAL SITE AND BUILDING ELEMENTS

11B-501 General

11B-502 Parking spaces

11B-503 Passenger drop-off and loading zones

11B-504 Stairways

11B-505 Handrails

DIVISION 6: PLUMBING ELEMENTS AND FACILITIES

11B-601 General

11B-602 Drinking fountains

11B-603 Toilet and bathing rooms

11B-604 Water closets and toilet compartments

11B-605 Urinals

11B-606 Lavatories and sinks

11B-607 Bathtubs 

11B-608 Shower compartments

11B-609 Grab bars

11B-610 Seats

11B-611 Washing machines and clothes dryers

11B-612 Saunas and steam rooms

DIVISION 7: COMMUNICATION ELEMENTS AND FEATURES

11B-701 General

11B-702 Fire alarm systems

11B-703 Signs

11B-704 Telephones

11B-705 Detectable warnings and detectable directional texture

11B-706 Assistive listening systems

11B-707 Automatic teller machines, fare machines and point-of-sale devices

11B-708 Two-way communication systems

DIVISION 8: SPECIAL ROOMS, SPACES, AND ELEMENTS

11B-801 General

11B-802 Wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated aisle seats and semi-ambulant seats

11B-803 Dressing, fitting, and locker rooms

11B-804 Kitchens, kitchenettes, and wet bars

11B-805 Medical care and long-term care facilities

11B-806 Transient lodging guest rooms

11B-807 Holding cells and housing cells

11B-808 Courtrooms

11B-809 Residential dwelling units

11B-810 Transportation facilities

11B-811 Storage

DIVISION 9: BUILT-IN ELEMENTS

11B-901 General

11B-902 Dining surfaces and work surfaces

11B-903 Benches

11B-904 Check-out aisles and sales and service counters

DIVISION 10: RECREATION FACILITIES

11B-1001 General

11B-1002 Amusement rides

11B-1003 Recreational boating facilities

11B-1004 Exercise machines and equipment

11B-1005 Fishing piers and platforms

11B-1006 Golf facilities

11B-1007 Miniature golf facilities

11B-1008 Play areas 

11B-1009 Swimming pools, wading pools, and spas

11B-1010 Shooting facilities with firing positions

CHAPTER 16 STRUCTURAL DESIGN

SECTION 1607 LIVE LOADS

CHAPTER 16A STRUCTURAL DESIGN

SECTION 1607A LIVE LOADS

CHAPTER 30 ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

SECTION 3001 GENERAL

CHAPTER 31 SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION

SECTION 3104 PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS AND TUNNELS

CHAPTER 31B [DPH] PUBLIC POOLS

SECTION 3101B SCOPE

CHAPTER 33 SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION

SECTION 3306 PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS

CHAPTER 34 EXISTING STRUCTURES

SECTION 3401 GENERAL

SECTION 3409 HISTORIC BUILDINGS

CHAPTER 35 REFERENCED STANDARDS

SAFE HARBORS APPENDIX

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-206.2.1

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-206.4.10

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-208.2.4

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-209.2.1

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-213.3.1

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-217.3

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-217.4

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-217.4.7

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-304.2

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-305.2

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-308.3.1

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-308.3.2

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-403.5.3

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-404.2.4

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-404.2.7

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-404.2.8.1

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-404.3

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-405.7.4

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-406.5.3

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-503.1

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-602.5

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-602.6

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-602.7

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-603.4

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-604.2

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-604.3.1

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-604.7

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-604.8.2.2

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-607.6

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-608.6

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-610.2

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-610.3.1

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-610.3.2

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-703.2.5

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-703.2.6

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-703.3.1

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-703.3.2

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-703.4.1

Safe Harbor for Subsection 11B-703.4.2

Safe Harbor for Section 11B-704.3

CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

DIVISION I: CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 1.1 GENERAL

1.1.1 Title.  These regulations shall be known as the California Building Code, may be cited as such and will be referred to herein as “this code.” The California Building Code is Part 2 of twelve parts of the official compilation and publication of the adoption, amendment and repeal of building regulations to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards Code. This part incorporates by adoption the 2012 International Building Code of the International Code Council with necessary California amendments.

Advisory 1.1.1 Title.  The 2013 triennial edition of California Code of Regulations, Title 24 consists of 12 parts:

•   Part 1    – California Building Standards Administrative Code

•   Part 2    – California Building Code

•   Part 2.5 – California Residential Code

•   Part 3    – California Electrical Code

•   Part 4    – California Mechanical Code

•   Part 5    – California Plumbing Code

•   Part 6    – California Energy Code

•   Part 8    – California Historical Building Code

•   Part 9    – California Fire Code

•   Part 10  – California Existing Building Code

•   Part 11  – California Green Building Standards Code

•   Part 12  – California Referenced Standards Code

1.1.2 Purpose.  The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

Advisory 1.1.2 Purpose.  CA H&S Code §19955 et al. requires public accommodations and facilities constructed in this state with private funds to adhere to the accessibility provisions of Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 4450) of Division 5 of Title 1 of the Government Code.  Under CA H&S Code §19958, city and county building departments have the responsibility to enforce the statutory requirements of CA H&S Code §19955 et al. and CA Gov. Code §4450 et al.

CA Gov. Code §4450(a) requires buildings and facilities constructed in this state by the use of state, county, or municipal funds, or the funds of any political subdivision of the state shall conform to the building standards published in the California Building Standards Code relating to access for persons with disabilities and the other regulations adopted pursuant to Section 4450.  CA Gov. Code §4453 vests enforcement authority to the Director of the Department of General Services (generally delegated to the Division of the State Architect) where state funds are utilized for any project or where funds of counties, municipalities, or other political subdivisions are utilized for the construction of elementary, secondary, or community college projects.  Additionally, CA Gov. Code §4453 vests enforcement authority to the governing bodies thereof where funds of counties, municipalities, or other political subdivisions are utilized except as otherwise provided above.

1.1.3 Scope.  The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the State of California.

Advisory 1.1.3 Scope.  The California Building Code (CBC) accessibility provisions are applicable to new construction projects as well as alterations (as defined) of existing buildings and facilities.  In alteration projects, these provisions apply to the area of new work, and include the path of travel requirements found in Section 11B-202.4.

1.1.3.1 Nonstate-regulated buildings, structures, and applications.  Except as modified by local ordinance pursuant to Section 1.1.8, the following standards in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Parts 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10 and 11 shall apply to all occupancies and applications not regulated by a state agency.

1.1.3.2 State-regulated buildings, structures, and applications.  The model code, state amendments to the model code, and/or state amendments where there are no relevant model code provisions shall apply to the following buildings, structures, and applications regulated by state agencies as specified in Sections 1.2 through 1.14, except where modified by local ordinance pursuant to Section 1.1.8. When adopted by a state agency, the provisions of this code shall be enforced by the appropriate enforcing agency, but only to the extent of authority granted to such agency by the state legislature.

Note:  See Preface to distinguish the model code provisions from the California provisions.

1. State-owned buildings, including buildings constructed by the Trustees of the California State University, and to the extent permitted by California laws, buildings designed and constructed by the Regents of the University of California, and regulated by the Building Standards Commission. See Section 1.2 for additional scope provisions.

2. Local detention facilities regulated by the Corrections Standards Authority. See Section 1.3 for additional scope provisions.

3. Barbering, cosmetology or electrolysis establishments, acupuncture offices, pharmacies, veterinary facilities, and structural pest control locations regulated by the Department of Consumer Affairs. See Section 1.4 for additional scope provisions.

4. Energy efficiency standards regulated by the California Energy Commission. See Section 1.5 for additional scope provisions.

5. Dairies and places of meat inspection regulated by the Department of Food and Agriculture. See Section 1.6 for additional scope provisions.

6. Organized camps, laboratory animal quarters, public swimming pools, radiation protection, commissaries serving mobile food preparation vehicles and wild animal quarantine facilities regulated by the Department of Public Health. See Section 1.7 for additional scope provisions.

7. Hotels, motels, lodging houses, apartment houses, dwellings, dormitories, condominiums, shelters for homeless persons, congregate residences, employee housing, factory-built housing and other types of dwellings containing sleeping accommodations with or without common toilets or cooking facilities. See Section 1.8.2.1.1 for additional scope provisions.

8. Accommodations for persons with disabilities in buildings containing newly constructed covered multifamily dwellings, new common use spaces serving existing covered multifamily dwellings, additions to existing buildings where the addition alone meets the definition of "COVERED MULTIFAMILY DWELLING," and common-use spaces serving covered multifamily dwellings, which are regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. See Section 1.8.2.1.2 for additional scope provisions.

9. Permanent buildings and permanent accessory buildings or structures constructed within mobile-home parks and special occupancy parks regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. See Section 1.8.2.1.3 for additional scope provisions.

10. Accommodations for persons with disabilities regulated by the Division of the State Architect. See Section 1.9.1 for additional scope provisions.

11. Public elementary and secondary schools, community college buildings and state-owned or state-leased essential service buildings regulated by the Division of the State Architect. See Section 1.9.2 for additional scope provisions.

12. Qualified historical buildings and structures and their associated sites regulated by the State Historical Building Safety Board with the Division of the State Architect. See Section 1.9.3 for additional scope provisions.

13. General acute care hospitals, acute psychiatric hospitals, skilled nursing and/or intermediate care facilities, clinics licensed by the Department of Public Health and correctional treatment centers regulated by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development. See Section 1.10 for additional scope provisions.

14. Applications regulated by the Office of State Fire Marshal include but are not limited to the following in accordance with Section 1.11.

14.1. Buildings or structures used or intended for use as an:

1. Asylum, jail.

2. Mental hospital, hospital, home for the elderly, children’s nursery, children’s home or institution, school or any similar occupancy of any capacity.

3. Theater, dancehall, skating rink, auditorium, assembly hall, meeting hall, nightclub, fair building or similar place of assemblage where 50 or more persons may gather together in a building, room or structure for the purpose of amusement, entertainment, instruction, deliberation, worship, drinking or dining, awaiting transportation, or education.

4. Small family day-care homes, large family day-care homes, residential facilities and residential facilities for the elderly, residential care facilities.

5. State institutions or other state-owned or state-occupied buildings

6. High rise structures.

7. Motion picture production studios.

8. Organized camps.

9. Residential structures

14.2. Tents, awnings or other fabric enclosures used in connection with any occupancy.

14.3. Fire alarm devices, equipment and systems in connection with any occupancy.

14.4. Hazardous materials, flammable and combustible liquids

14.5. Public school automatic fire detection, alarm, and sprinkler systems.

14.6. Wildland-urban interface fire areas.

15. Public libraries constructed and renovated using funds from the California Library Construction and Renovation Bond Act of 1988 and regulated by the State Librarian. See Section 1.12 for additional scope provisions.

16. Graywater systems regulated by the Department of Water Resources. See Section 1.13 for additional scope provisions.

17. For applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect – Access Compliance, outdoor environments and uses shall be classified according to accessibility uses described in Chapter 11B.

18. Marine Oil Terminals regulated by the California State Lands Commission. See Section 1.14 for additional scope provisions.

1.1.4 Appendices.  Provisions contained in the appendices of this code shall not apply unless specifically adopted by a state agency or adopted by a local enforcing agency in compliance with Health and Safety Code Section 18901 et. seq. for Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17950 for State Housing Law and Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7 for Fire Protection Districts. See Section 1.1.8 of this code.

1.1.5 Referenced codes.  The codes, standards and publications adopted and set forth in this code, including other codes, standards and publications referred to therein are, by title and date of publication, hereby adopted as standard reference documents of this code. When this code does not specifically cover any subject related to building design and construction, recognized architectural or engineering practices shall be employed. The National Fire Codes, standards, and the Fire Protection Handbook of the National Fire Protection Association are permitted to be used as authoritative guides in determining recognized fire prevention engineering practices

1.1.6 Nonbuilding standards, orders and regulations.  Requirements contained in the California Building Code, or in any other referenced standard, code or document, which are not building standards as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18909, shall not be construed as part of the provisions of this code. For nonbuilding standards, orders, and regulations, see other titles of the California Code of Regulations

1.1.7 Order of precedence and use.

1.1.7.1 Differences.  In the event of any differences between these building standards and the standard reference documents, the text of these building standards shall govern.

1.1.7.2 Specific provisions.  Where a specific provision varies from a general provision, the specific provision shall apply.

1.1.7.3 Conflicts.  When the requirements of this code conflict with the requirements of any other part of the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, the most restrictive requirements shall prevail.

1.1.8 City, county or city and county amendments, additions or deletions.  The provisions of this code do not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county governments to establish more restrictive and reasonably necessary differences to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to complying with Section 1.1.8.1. The effective date of amendments, additions or deletions to this code by a city, county, or city and county filed pursuant to Section 1.1.8.1 shall be the date filed. However, in no case shall the amendments, additions or deletions to this code be effective any sooner than the effective date of this code.

Local modifications shall comply with Health and Safety Code Section 18941.5 for Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17958 for State Housing Law or Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7 for Fire Protection Districts

1.1.8.1 Findings and filings.

1. The city, county, or city and county shall make express findings for each amendment, addition or deletion based upon climatic, topographical or geological conditions.

Exception:  Hazardous building ordinances and programs mitigating unreinforced masonry buildings.

2. The city, county, or city and county shall file the amendments, additions or deletions expressly marked and identified as to the applicable findings. Cities, counties, cities and counties, and fire departments shall file the amendments, additions or deletions, and the findings with the California Building Standards Commission at 2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95833.

3. Findings prepared by fire protection districts shall be ratified by the local city, county, or city and county and filed with the California Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of Codes and Standards, 2020 West El Camino Ave., Suite 250, Sacramento, CA. 95833.

1.1.9 Effective date of this code.  Only those standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission that are effective at the time an application for building permit is submitted shall apply to the plans and specifications for, and to the construction performed under, that permit. For the effective dates of the provisions contained in this code, see the History Note page of this code

1.1.10 Availability of codes.  At least one complete copy each of Titles 8, 19, 20, 24, and 25 with all revisions shall be maintained in the office of the building official responsible for the administration and enforcement of this code. Each state department concerned and each city, county or city and county shall have an up-to-date copy of the code available for public inspection, See Health and Safety Code Section 18942(d)(1) and (2).

1.1.11 Format.  This part fundamentally adopts the International Building Code by reference on a chapter-by-chapter basis. When a specific chapter of the International Building Code is not printed in the code and is marked “Reserved”, such chapter of the International Building Code is not adopted as a portion of this code. When a specific chapter of the International Building Code is marked “Not adopted by the State of California” but appears in the code, it may be available for adoption by local ordinance.

Note:  Matrix Adoption Tables at the front of each chapter may aid the code user in determining which chapter or sections within a chapter are applicable to buildings under the authority of a specific state agency, but they are not to be considered regulatory.

1.1.12 Validity.  If any chapter, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, contrary to statute, exceeding the authority of the state as stipulated by statutes or otherwise inoperative, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this code.

SECTION 1.2 BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION

1.2.2 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment.  The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.

Advisory 1.9.1 General.  Temporary facilities and emergency construction are both required to comply with the CBC regulations for accessibility. See CA Gov. Code §4451(e).

In addition, to incorporate standards at least as restrictive as those required by the federal government for barrier-free design under (1) Title III (Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities), Subpart D (New Construction and Alteration)  (see 28 C.F.R., Part 36), and (2) Title II (Public Entities), Section 35.151 (New Construction and Alterations) (see 28 C.F.R., Part 35) both from the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 2004 Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines, as adopted by the US Department of Justice (see 36 C.F.R. Part 1191, Appendices B and D), and  (3) under the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988. Some of these regulations may be more stringent than state law in order to meet the federal requirement.

1.9.1.1 Application.  See Government Code commencing with Section 4450.

Publicly funded buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities shall be accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities as follows:

Advisory 1.9.1.1 Application.  Not only does publicly funded mean state funds, but it also means county funds, municipal funds or the funds of any political subdivision of the state.  When public funds are provided by other sources and transferred to a state, county, municipality or other political subdivision of the state, the entity that collects and controls the distribution of the public funds becomes the funding source, and subject to the requirements of this section.

1.9.1.1.1  All buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities constructed in the state by the use of state, county or municipal funds, or the funds of any political subdivision of the state

1.9.1.1.2  All buildings, structures and facilities that are leased, rented, contracted, sublet or hired by any municipal, county, or state division of government, or by a special district.

Advisory 1.9.1.1.2.  Leases per se, unless alterations occur, do not directly “trigger” construction code requirements. The lessee of public accommodations should be aware that readily achievable barrier removal is an ongoing obligation under the ADA and may require physical alterations to the building or facility in compliance with the accessibility provisions in the building code. For public entities, leasing should be focused on selecting accessible sites, buildings and facilities. The Department of General Services requires newly leased facilities, and lease renewals, to be accessible by first surveying the facility for code compliance and then making necessary corrections where public programs are provided and in employee common-use areas, restrooms, break rooms, parking, etc.

1.9.1.1.3  All publicly funded buildings used for congregate residences or for one- or two-family dwelling unit purposes shall conform to the provisions applicable to living accommodations.

1.9.1.1.4  All existing publicly funded buildings and facilities when alterations, structural repairs or additions are made to such buildings or facilities. For detailed requirements on existing buildings, see Chapter 11B, Division 2, Section 11B-202.

1.9.1.1.5  With respect to buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities not requiring a building permit, building standards published in the California Building Standards Code relating to access for persons with disabilities and other regulations adopted pursuant to Government Code Section 4450, and in effect at the time construction is commenced, shall be applicable.

Advisory 1.9.1.1.5.  Some construction such as parking lot resurfacing, re-striping parking stalls, sidewalk repair and cabinet installations do not always require building permits. In such cases, the code in place on the date of any construction would be the effective code for such work.

1.9.1.2  Application. See Health and Safety Code commencing with Section 19952.

All privately funded public accommodations, as defined and commercial facilities, as defined, shall be accessible to persons with disabilities as follows:

Exception:  Certain types of privately funded multistory buildings do not require installation of an elevator to provide access above and below the first floor. See Chapter 11B

1.9.1.2.1  Any building, structure, facility, complex or improved area, or portions thereof, which are used by the general public.

Advisory 1.9.1.2.1.  The term "used by the general public" is frequently misinterpreted to mean only facilities which are publicly owned. However, the term actually means facilities made available to the public, and often includes privately owned buildings and facilities.

1.9.1.2.2  Any sanitary facilities which are made available for the public, clients or employees in such accommodations or facilities.

1.9.1.2.3  Any curb or sidewalk intended for public use that is constructed in this state with private funds.

1.9.1.2.4  All existing privately funded public accommodations when alterations, structural repairs or additions are made to such public accommodations as set forth under Chapter 11B.

1.9.1.3 Application ─ Public housing and private housing available for public use. See Government Code Sections 4450 and 12955.1(c).

1.9.1.4 Enforcing agency.

Advisory 1.9.1.4 Enforcing agency.  State and local enforcement levels of government could have overlapping jurisdiction under Title 24. For accessibility, in State-funded tenant improvements to State-leased facilities, the local jurisdiction must be aware of DGS’ jurisdictional authority and DSA’s jurisdictional approvals necessary for State-funded construction. See commentary, Section 1.9.1.4.1.◼

1.9.1.4.1  The director of the Department of General Services where state funds are utilized for any project or where funds of counties, municipalities or other political subdivisions are utilized for the construction of elementary, secondary or community college projects.

Advisory 1.9.1.4.1.  CA Gov. Code §4453(a) vests enforcement authority to the Director of the Department of General Services (generally delegated to the Division of the State Architect) where state funds are utilized for any project or where funds of counties, municipalities, or other political subdivisions are utilized for the construction of elementary, secondary, or community college projects.◼

1.9.1.4.2  The governing bodies where funds of counties, municipalities or other political subdivisions are utilized except as otherwise provided above.

Advisory 1.9.1.4.2.  CA Gov. Code §4453(b) vests enforcement authority to the governing bodies thereof when funds of counties, municipalities or other political subdivisions are utilized. ◼

1.9.1.4.3  The building department of every city, county, or city and county within the territorial area of its city, county, or city and county, where private funds are utilized. “Building department” means the department, bureau or officer charged with the enforcement of laws or ordinances regulating the erection or construction, or both the erection and construction, of buildings

1.9.1.5  Special conditions for persons with disabilities requiring appeals action ratification. Whenever reference is made in these regulations to this section, the findings and determinations required to be rendered by the local enforcing agency shall be subject to ratification through an appeals process.

Advisory 1.9.1.5 Special conditions for persons with disabilities requiring appeals action ratification. California statutes and the California Building Standards Commission regulations allow Equivalent Facilitation for public accommodations or facilities built with private funds whenever a determination of Unreasonable Hardship is granted by the local enforcing agency or building department.  (Reference CA H&S C. §19957)

When buildings and facilities are constructed with state, county or municipal funds, or the funds of any political subdivision of the state, administrative authorities may grant exceptions from the literal requirements of the building standards only when it is clearly evident that equivalent facilitation and protection that meets or exceeds the requirements under federal law are secured.  (Reference CA Gov. C. §4451(f))

California Health and Safety Code §19957.5 provides that every city, county, or city and county may appoint a local appeals board to hear written appeals regarding the action taken by the building department.◼

1.9.1.6 Authority cited.  Government Code Section 4450.

1.9.1.7 Reference cited.  Government Code Sections 4450 through 4461 and 12955.1(c) and Health and Safety Code Sections 18949.1, 19952 through 19959.

1.9.1.8 Adopting agency identification.  The provision of this code applicable to buildings identified in this Subsection 1.9.1 will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym DSA-AC.

DIVISION II: SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

Note:  Sections adopted or amended by state agencies are specifically indicated by an agency banner or indicated in the Matrix Adoption Table.

PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION

SECTION 101 GENERAL

[A] 101.1 Title.  These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of [NAME OF JURISDICTION], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”

[A] 101.2 Scope.  The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

Exception:  Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply with the California Residential Code.

[A] 101.2.1 Appendices.  Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.

[A] 101.3 Intent.  The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

[A] 101.4 Referenced codes.  The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.6 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.

[A] 101.4.1 Gas.  The provisions of the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories.

[A] 101.4.2 Mechanical.  The provisions of the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation, alterations, repairs and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and/or appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and other energy-related systems.

[A] 101.4.3 Plumbing.  The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage system and all aspects of a medical gas system. The provisions of the International Private Sewage Disposal Code shall apply to private sewage disposal systems.

[A] 101.4.4 Property maintenance.  The provisions of the International Property Maintenance Code shall apply to existing structures and premises; equipment and facilities; light, ventilation, space heating, sanitation, life and fire safety hazards; responsibilities of owners, operators and occupants; and occupancy of existing premises and structures.

[A] 101.4.5 Fire prevention.  The provisions of the California Fire Code shall apply to matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises from the hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices; from conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; and from the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression, automatic sprinkler systems and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.

SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF BUILDING OFFICIAL

[A] 104.11 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment.  The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.

SECTION 111 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

[A] 111.2 Certificate issued.  After the building official inspects the building or structure and finds no violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department of building safety, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy that contains the following:

1. The building permit number.

2. The address of the structure.

3. The name and address of the owner.

4. A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.

5. A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code for the occupancy and division of occupancy and the use for which the proposed occupancy is classified.

6. The name of the building official.

7. The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.

8. The use and occupancy, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 3.

9. The type of construction as defined in Chapter 6.

10. The design occupant load.

11. If an automatic sprinkler system is provided, whether the sprinkler system is required.

12. Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS

SECTION 201 GENERAL

201.1 Scope.  Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.

201.2 Interchangeability.  Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.

SECTION 202 DEFINITIONS

[ADA Titles II & III] 1991 Standards.  [§35.104 & §36.104] Requirements set forth in the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, originally published on July 26, 1991, and republished as Appendix D to this part.

[ADA Titles II & III]  2004 ADAAG.  [§35.104 & §36.104] The requirements set forth in appendices B and D to 36 CFR part 1191 (2009).

[ADA Title II] 2010 Standards.

[ADA Title II]  2010 Standards.  [§35.104] The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, which consist of the 2004 ADAAG and the requirements contained in §35.151.

[ADA Title III] 2010 Standards.  [§36.104] The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, which consist of the 2004 ADAAG and the requirements contained in subpart D of this part.

ACCESS AISLE. [DSA-AC]  An accessible pedestrian space adjacent to or between parking spaces that provides clearances in compliance with this code.

ACCESSIBILITY. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC]  Accessibility is the combination of various elements in a building, facility, site, or area, or portion thereof which allows access, circulation and the full use of the building and facilities by persons with disabilities in compliance with this code. 

ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON. [DSA-AC] A button on an elevator  hall call console  in a  destination-oriented elevator  system that when pressed will activate a series of visual and verbal prompts and announcements providing instruction regarding hall call console operation and direction to an assigned elevator.

ACCESSIBLE. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC]  A site, building, facility, or portion thereof that is approachable and usable by persons with disabilities in compliance with this code.

ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT. [DSA-AC]  An element specified by the regulations adopted by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance.

Advisory Definition of ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT.  An ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT can include a room, area, route, feature or device which provides accessibility for persons with disabilities.◼

ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS.  A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to a public way.

[2010 ADAS] 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.

ACCESSIBLE ROUTE. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC]  A continuous unobstructed path connecting accessible elements and spaces of an accessible site, building or facility that can be negotiated by a person with a disability using a wheelchair, and that is also safe for and usable by persons with other disabilities. Interior accessible routes may include corridors, hallways, floors, ramps, elevators and lifts. Exterior accessible routes may include parking access aisles, curb ramps, crosswalks at vehicular ways, walks, ramps and lifts.

ACCESSIBLE SPACE. [DSA-AC]  A space that complies with the accessibility provisions of this code.

ADAPTABLE. [DSA-AC]  Capable of being readily modified and made accessible.

Advisory Definition of ADAPTABLE.  This term means that elements can be modified or adjusted to accommodate the needs of a specific user.  As part of the initial design and construction, for example, structural backing would be provided for the later installation of grab bars, base cabinets under kitchen sinks would be removable without the use of specialized tools or specialized knowledge, or countertops would be repositionable.◼

[A] ADDITION. [DSA-AC]  An expansion, extension, or increase in the gross floor area or height of a building or facility.

ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY. [DSA-AC]  A governmental agency that adopts or enforces regulations and guidelines for the design, construction, or alteration of buildings and facilities.

AISLE. [DSA-AC]  A circulation path between objects such as seats, tables, merchandise, equipment, displays, shelves, desks, etc., that provides clearances in in compliance with this code.

[A] ALTERATION. [DSA-AC]  A change, addition or modification in construction, change in occupancy or use, or structural repair to an existing building or facility. 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. [DSA-AC]  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.

AMUSEMENT RIDE. [DSA-AC]  A system that moves persons through a fixed course within a defined area for the purpose of amusement.

AMUSEMENT RIDE SEAT. [DSA-AC]  A seat that is built-in or mechanically fastened to an amusement ride intended to be occupied by one or more passengers.

ANSI. [DSA-AC]  The American National Standards Institute.

[A] APPROVED. [DSA-AC]  “Approved” means meeting the approval of the enforcing agency, except as otherwise provided by law, when used in connection with any system, material, type of construction, fixture or appliance as the result of investigations and tests conducted by the agency, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by national authorities or technical, health, or scientific organizations or agencies.

APPROVED TESTING AGENCY. [HCD 1 & HCD 2 & DSA-AC]  Any agency, which is determined by the enforcing agency, except as otherwise provided by law, to have adequate personnel and expertise to carry out the testing of systems, materials, type of construction, fixtures or appliances.

AREA OF REFUGE.  An area where persons unable to use stairways can remain temporarily to await instructions or assistance during emergency evacuation.

AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY. [DSA-AC]  That portion of a room or space where the play or practice of a sport occurs.

ASSEMBLY AREA. [DSA-AC]  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.

Advisory Definition of ASSEMBLY AREA.  The application of the accessibility provisions of this code is based upon the use of the space rather than the occupancy classification. For example, an assembly area may or may not be a Group A Occupancy. A large conference room in a Group B Occupancy or a multi-purpose area in a Group E Occupancy may be an assembly area.◼

ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS). [DSA-AC]  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.

AUTOMATIC DOOR.  A door equipped with a power operated mechanism and controls that open and close the door automatically upon receipt of a momentary actuating signal. The switch that begins the automatic cycle may be a photoelectric device, floor mat or manual switch.

AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINE (ATM). [DSA-AC]  Any electronic information processing device which accepts or dispenses cash in connection with a credit, deposit, or convenience account. The term does not include devices used solely to facilitate check guarantees or check authorizations, or which are used in connection with the acceptance or dispensing of cash on a person-to-person basis, such as by a store cashier.

BATHROOM.  For the purposes of Chapter 11A and 11B, a room which includes a water closet (toilet), a lavatory, and a bathtub and/or a shower. It does not include single-fixture facilities or those with only a water closet and lavatory. It does include a compartmented bathroom. A compartmented bathroom is one in which the fixtures are distributed among interconnected rooms. A compartmented bathroom is considered a single unit and is subject to the requirements of Chapters 11A and 11B.

BLENDED TRANSITION. [DSA-AC]  A raised pedestrian street crossing, depressed corner, or similar connection between the pedestrian access route at the level of the sidewalk and the level of the pedestrian street crossing that has a grade of 5 percent or less.

BOARDING PIER. [DSA-AC]  A portion of a pier where a boat is temporarily secured for the purpose of embarking or disembarking.

BOAT LAUNCH RAMP. [DSA-AC]  A sloped surface designed for launching and retrieving trailered boats and other water craft to and from a body of water.

BOAT SLIP. [DSA-AC]  That portion of a pier, main pier, finger pier, or float where a boat is moored for the purpose of berthing, embarking, or disembarking.

[A] BUILDING.  Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.

Advisory Definition of BUILDING.  The accessibility standards generally apply to buildings and facilities. Parking lots, play areas, patios, constructed trails, man-made outdoor areas are often not considered to be buildings.  Rather, these elements are generally considered to be facilities. See the definition of FACILITY.

[A] BUILDING OFFICIAL.  The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative

CARRIAGE UNIT. [HCD 1-AC]  A dwelling unit with living space on one or more floors immediately above a Group U, private garage or garages. The footprint of the garage or garages is used as the footprint for the remaining floor or floors of the units above and the garage level contains no habitable space.

Note:  Dwelling units located over a common garage shall not be considered carriage units.

CATCH POOL. [DSA-AC]  A pool or designated section of a pool used as a terminus for water slide flumes.

CCR. [DSA-AC]  The California Code of Regulations.

CHARACTERS.  Letters, numbers, punctuation marks and typographic symbols.

CHILDREN’S USE. [DSA-AC]  Describes spaces and elements specifically designed for use primarily by people 12 years old and younger.

CIRCULATION PATH. [DSA-AC]  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.

Advisory Definition of CIRCULATION PATH.  A CIRCULATION PATH is a pedestrian route provided within a building, facility or site and may or may not (in the case of stairs) include an accessible route of travel. Whenever the accessible route diverges from the regular circulation path signage may be required to identify the departure from the regular route if not obvious.◼

CLEAR. [DSA-AC]  Unobstructed.

CLEAR FLOOR SPACE. [DSA-AC]  The minimum unobstructed floor or ground space required to accommodate a single, stationary wheelchair and occupant.

CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEPHONE. [DSA-AC]  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.

[ADA Title III] Commerce.  [§36.104] Travel, trade, traffic, commerce, transportation, or communication –

(1)    Among the several States;

(2)    Between any foreign country or any territory or possession and any State; or

(3)    Between points in the same State but through another State or foreign country.

COMMERCIAL FACILITIES. [DSA-AC]  Facilities whose operations will affect commerce and are intended for non-residential use by a private entity.  Commercial facilities shall not include (1) facilities that are covered or expressly exempted from coverage under the Fair Housing Act of 1968, as amended (42 U.S.C. 3601 - 3631); (2) aircraft; or (3) railroad locomotives, railroad freight cars, railroad cabooses, commuter or intercity passenger rail cars (including coaches, dining cars, sleeping cars, lounge cars and food service cars), any other railroad cars described in Section 242 of the Americans With Disabilities Act or covered under Title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act, or railroad rights-of-way. For purposes of this definition, "rail" and "railroad" have the meaning given the term "railroad" in Section 202(e) of the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 (45 U.S.C. 431(e)).

[ADA Title III] Commercial Facilities.  [§36.104] Facilities –

(1)    Whose operations will affect commerce;

(2)    That are intended for nonresidential use by a private entity; and

(3)    That are not –

(i)      Facilities that are covered or expressly exempted from coverage under the Fair Housing Act of 1968, as amended (42 U.S.C. 3601 - 3631);

(ii)     Aircraft; or

(iii)    Railroad locomotives, railroad freight cars, railroad cabooses, commuter or intercity passenger rail cars (including coaches, dining cars, sleeping cars, lounge cars, and food service cars), any other railroad cars described in section 242 of the Act or covered under title II of the Act, or railroad rights-of-way. For purposes of this definition, "rail" and "railroad" have the meaning given the term "railroad" in section 202(e) of the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 (45 U.S.C. 431(e)).

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.

Advisory Definition of COMMON USE.  Employees, tenants or staff and their guests may jointly utilize common use areas where the public is not permitted general access. An example of a common use area would be a  laundry room or community room within a homeless shelter. Examples of common use areas within an office building may include a break room, employee lounge, employee exercise facility or employee locker room.◼

COMPLY WITH. [DSA-AC]  Comply with means to meet one or more provisions of this code.

CROSS SLOPE.  The slope that is perpendicular to the direction of travel.

CURB CUT.  An interruption of a curb at a pedestrian way, which separates surfaces that are substantially at the same elevation.

CURB RAMP.  A sloping pedestrian way, intended for pedestrian traffic, which provides access between a walk or sidewalk and a surface located above or below an adjacent curb face.

[2010 ADAS] Curb Ramp.  A short ramp cutting through a curb or built up to it.

DESIGNATED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. [DSA-AC] Transportation provided by a  public entity  (other than public school transportation) by bus, rail, or other conveyance (other than transportation by aircraft or intercity or commuter rail transportation) that provides the general public with general or special service, including charter service, on a regular and continuing basis.

DESTINATION-ORIENTED ELEVATOR. [DSA-AC] Destination-oriented elevators are operated by the user selecting a destination floor at a  hall call console  located at or near an elevator landing. The destination-oriented elevator system then assigns an elevator car which transports the user to the selected destination floor.  Destination-oriented elevators do not provide floor selection within elevator cars.

DETECTABLE WARNING.  A standardized surface feature built in or applied to walking surfaces or other elements to warn of hazards on a circulation path.

Advisory Definition of DETECTABLE WARNING.  Curbs can be used by pedestrians with vision impairments to detect the boundary between a sidewalk and a vehicular way. Curb ramps remove the needed cues for persons with visual impairments; detectable warnings have been developed as a replacement cue and warning to indicate the presence of a vehicular way.◼

DIRECTIONAL SIGN. [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2].  A publicly displayed notice which indicates by use of words or symbols a recommended direction or route of travel.

DISABILITY. [DSA-AC]  Disability is (1) a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual, (2) a record of such an impairment, or (3) being regarded as having such an impairment.

Advisory Definition of DISABILITY.  This is the definition of disability used and defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.◼

[ADA Titles II & III] Disability.  [§35.104 & §36.104] With respect to an individual, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual; a record of such an impairment; or being regarded as having such an Impairment.

(1)    The phrase physical or mental impairment means—

(i)      Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following body systems: neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs; respiratory, including speech organs; cardiovascular; reproductive; digestive; genitourinary; hemic and lymphatic; skin; and endocrine;

(ii)     Any mental or psychological disorder such as mental retardation, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, and specific learning disabilities.

(iii)    The phrase physical or mental impairment includes, but is not limited to, such contagious and noncontagious diseases and conditions as orthopedic, visual, speech and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental retardation, emotional illness, specific learning disabilities, HIV disease (whether symptomatic or asymptomatic), tuberculosis, drug addiction, and alcoholism;

(iv) The phrase physical or mental impairment does not include homosexuality or bisexuality.

(2)    The phrase major life activities means functions such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.

(3)    The phrase has a record of such an impairment means has a history of, or has been misclassified as having, a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

(4)    The phrase is regarded as having an impairment means—

(i)      Has a physical or mental impairment that does not substantially limit major life activities but that is treated by a _|Title II: public/ Title III: private|_ entity as constituting such a limitation;

(ii)     Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities only as a result of the attitudes of others toward such impairment; or

(iii)    Has none of the impairments defined in paragraph (1) of this definition but is treated by a _|Title II: public/ Title III: private|_ entity as having such an impairment.

(5)    The term disability does not include—

(i)      Transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments, or other sexual behavior disorders;

(ii)     Compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or

(iii)     Psychoactive substance use disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs.

DORMITORY.  A space in a building where group sleeping accommodations are provided in one room, or in a series of closely associated rooms, for persons not members of the same family group, under joint occupancy and single management, as in college dormitories or fraternity houses.

ELEMENT. [DSA-AC]  An architectural or mechanical component of a building, facility, space or site.

ELEVATED PLAY COMPONENT. [DSA-AC]  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.

ELEVATOR, PASSENGER. [DSA-AC]  An elevator used primarily to carry passengers.

EMPLOYEE WORK AREA.  All or any portion of a space used only by employees and only for work. Corridors, toilet rooms, kitchenettes and break rooms are not employee work areas.

ENFORCING AGENCY. [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2]  Enforcing Agency is the designated department or agency as specified by statute or regulation.

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.

EQUIVALENT FACILITATION.  The use of designs, products, or technologies as alternatives to those prescribed, resulting in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.

Note: In determining equivalent facilitation, consideration shall be given to means that provide for the maximum independence of persons with disabilities while presenting the least risk of harm, injury or other hazard to such persons or others.

EXISTING BUILDING OR FACILITY. [DSA-AC]  A facility in existence on any given date, without regard to whether the facility may also be considered newly constructed or altered under this code.

EXIT.  That portion of a means of egress system between the exit access and the exit discharge or public way. Exit components include exterior exit doors at the level of exit discharge, interior exit stairways, interior exit ramps, exit passageways, exterior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps and horizontal exits.

FACILITY. [DSA-AC]  All or any portion of buildings, structures, site improvements, elements, and pedestrian routes or vehicular ways located on a site.

FUNCTIONAL AREA. [DSA-AC]  A room, space or area intended or designated for a group of related activities or processes.

GANGWAY. [DSA-AC]  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 code.

GOLF CAR PASSAGE. [DSA-AC]  A continuous passage on which a motorized golf car can operate.

GRAB BAR. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC]  A bar for the purpose of being grasped by the hand for support.

Advisory Definition of GRAB BAR.  A grab bar may also provide support for a user transferring from a wheelchair onto a bench, seat or plumbing fixture. ◼

GRADE (Adjacent Ground Elevation). [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground, paving or sidewalk within the area between the building and the property line or, when the property line is more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the building, between the building and a line 5 feet (1524 mm) from the building. See Health and Safety Code Section 19955.3(d).

GRADE BREAK.  [DSA-AC]  The line where two surface planes with different slopes meet.

GROUND FLOOR.  The floor of a building with a building entrance on an accessible route. A building may have one or more ground floors.

GROUND LEVEL PLAY COMPONENT. [DSA-AC]  A play component that is approached and exited at the ground level.

GUARD [DSA-AC , HCD 1 & HCD 2] OR GUARDRAIL.  A building component or a system of building components located at or near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to a lower level.

HALL CALL CONSOLE. [DSA-AC] An elevator call user interface exclusive to a  destination-oriented elevator  system that requires the user to select a destination floor prior to entering the elevator car.

HANDRAIL.  A horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasping by the hand for guidance or support.

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. [DSA-AC]  See “Professional Office of a Health Care Provider.”

HISTORIC BUILDINGS. [DSA-AC]  See “Qualified historical building or property,” C.C.R., Title 24, Part 8.

HOUSING AT A PLACE OF EDUCATION.  Housing operated by or on behalf of an elementary, secondary, undergraduate, or postgraduate school, or other place of education, including dormitories, suites, apartments, or other places of residence.

IF, IF . . . THEN. [DSA-AC]  The terms “if” and “if … then” denotes a specification that applies only when the conditions described are present.

INTERNATIONAL SYMBOL OF ACCESSIBILITY.  The symbol adopted by Rehabilitation International’s 11th World Congress for the purpose of indicating that buildings and facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities.

Advisory Definition of INTERNATIONAL SYMBOL OF ACCESSIBILITY.  This is also known as the “ISA.” It is a graphic representation of the profile view of a wheelchair with occupant. See Chapter 11B, Figure 11B-703.7.2.1. ◼

KEY STATION. [DSA-AC]  Certain 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.

KICK PLATE.  An abrasion-resistant plate affixed to the bottom portion of a door to prevent a trap condition and protect its surface.

Advisory Definition of KICK PLATE.  Although kick plates are not necessarily required by the code, they are often applied to areas of doors required to have a smooth surface and be free of abrupt surface changes. This provides a person in a wheelchair the option of opening a door by pushing with their feet or allows the front foot plates of a wheelchair to glide smoothly along the lower face of the door as a wheelchair user proceeds through a door. ◼

KITCHEN OR KITCHENETTE. [DSA-AC]  A room, space or area with equipment for the preparation and cooking of food.

LAVATORY.  A fixed bowl or basin with running water and drainpipe, as in a toilet or bathing facility, for washing or bathing purposes. (As differentiated from the definition of “Sink”.)

MAIL BOXES. [DSA-AC]  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 mail-receiving agencies, apartment facilities or schools.

MARKED CROSSING.  A crosswalk or other identified path intended for pedestrian use in crossing a vehicular way.

MAY. [DSA-AC]  May denotes an option or alternative.

[ADA Title III] Maximum Extent Feasible. [§36.402(c)] 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).

MEANS OF EGRESS.  A continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from any occupied portion of a building or structure to a public way. A means of egress consists of three separate and distinct parts: the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge.

MEZZANINE.  [DSA-AC]  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.

MULTI-BEDROOM HOUSING UNIT. [DSA-AC]  A housing unit, intended for use by students at a place of education, with a kitchen and/or toilet and bathing rooms within the unit, such as an apartment, or dormitory. Multi-bedroom housing units are separate from one another and from common use spaces within a building.

NFPA.  [DSA-AC]  The National Fire Protection Association.

NOSING.  The leading edge of treads of stairs and of landings at the top of stairway flights.

OCCUPANT LOAD.  The number of persons for which the means of egress of a building or portion thereof is designed.

OCCUPIABLE SPACE.  A room or enclosed space designed for human occupancy in which individuals congregate for amusement, educational or similar purposes or in which occupants are engaged at labor, and which is equipped with means of egress and light and ventilation facilities meeting the requirements of this code.

OPEN RISER.  The space between two adjacent stair treads not closed by a riser.

OPERABLE PART.  A component of an element used to insert or withdraw objects, or to activate, deactivate, or adjust the element.

PASSENGER ELEVATOR. [DSA-AC]  See “Elevator, passenger”.

PATH OF TRAVEL. [DSA-AC]  An identifiable accessible route within an existing site, building or facility by means of which a particular area may be approached, entered and exited, and which connects a particular area with an exterior approach (including sidewalks, streets, and parking areas), an entrance to the facility, and other parts of the facility. When alterations, structural repairs or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, the term “path of travel” also includes the toilet and bathing facilities, telephones, drinking fountains and signs serving the area of work.

Advisory Definition of PATH OF TRAVEL.  The term PATH OF TRAVEL applies only to alterations, structural repairs or additions to existing buildings or facilities. Path of travel elements may be subject to upgrade as part of the alteration to an existing building if they do not conform to current accessibility requirements. ◼

[ADA Titles II & III] Path of Travel.  [§35.151(b)(4)(ii) & §36.403(e)]

(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.

PEDESTRIAN.  An individual who moves in walking areas with or without the use of walking assistive devices such as crutches, leg braces, wheelchairs, white cane, service animal, etc.

PEDESTRIAN WAY.  A route by which a pedestrian may pass.

PERMANENT. [DSA-AC]  Facilities which, are intended to be used for periods longer than those designated in this code under the definition of “Temporary.”

[A] PERMIT. An official document or certificate issued by the authority having jurisdiction which authorizes performance of a specified activity.

Advisory Definition of PERMIT.  In State-funded construction, a letter following plan review which approves the plans and allows the release of funds is equivalent to a "permit.” ◼

PICTOGRAM. [DSA-AC]  A pictorial symbol that represents activities, facilities, or concepts.

PLACE OF PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION.  A facility operated by a private entity whose operations affect commerce and fall within at least one of the following categories:

(1)    Place of lodging, except for an establishment located within a facility that contains not more than five rooms for rent or hire and that actually is occupied by the proprietor of the establishment as the residence of the proprietor. For purposes of this code, a facility is a "place of lodging" if it is

(i)     An inn, hotel, or motel; or

(ii)    A facility that

(A)   Provides guest rooms for sleeping for stays that primarily are short-term in nature (generally 30 days or less) where the occupant does not have the right to return to a specific room or unit after the conclusion of his or her stay; and

(B)   Provides guest rooms under conditions and with amenities similar to a hotel, motel, or inn, including the following:

(1)    On- or off-site management and reservations service;

(2)    Rooms available on a walk-up or call-in basis;

(3)    Availability of housekeeping or linen service; and

(4)    Acceptance of reservations for a guest room type without guaranteeing a particular unit or room until check-in, and without a prior lease or security deposit.

(2)    A restaurant, bar, or other establishment serving food or drink;

(3)    A motion picture house, theater, concert hall, stadium, or other place of exhibition or entertainment;

(4)    An auditorium, convention center, lecture hall, or other place of public gathering;

(5)    A bakery, grocery store, clothing store, hardware store, shopping center, or other sales or rental establishment;

(6)    A laundromat, dry-cleaner, bank, barber shop, beauty shop, travel service, shoe repair service, funeral parlor, gas station, office of an accountant or lawyer, pharmacy, insurance office, professional office of a health care provider, hospital, or other service establishment;

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

(8)    A museum, library, gallery, or other place of public display or collection;

(9)    A park, zoo, amusement park, or other place of recreation;

(10) A nursery, elementary, secondary, undergraduate, or postgraduate private school, or other place of education;

(11)  A day care center, senior citizen center, homeless shelter, food bank, adoption agency, or other social service center establishment;

(12)  A gymnasium, health spa, bowling alley, golf course, or other place of exercise or recreation;

(13)  A religious facility;

(14)  An office building; and

(15)  A public curb or sidewalk.

PLATFORM.  A raised area within a building used for worship, the presentation of music, plays or other entertainment; the head table for special guests; the raised area for lecturers and speakers; boxing and wrestling rings; theater-in-the-round stages; and similar purposes wherein there are no overhead hanging curtains, drops, scenery or stage effects other than lighting and sound. A temporary platform is one installed for not more than 30 days.

PLATFORM (WHEELCHAIR) LIFT.  A hoisting and lowering mechanism equipped with a car or platform or support that serves two landings of a building or structure and is designed to carry a passenger or passengers and (or) luggage or other material a vertical distance as may be allowed

PLAY AREA. [DSA-AC]  A portion of a site containing play components designed and constructed for children.

PLAY COMPONENT. [DSA-AC]  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.

POINT-OF-SALE DEVICE.  [DSA-AC]  A device used for the purchase of a good or service where a personal identification number (PIN), zip code or signature is required.

POWDER ROOM.  A room containing a water closet (toilet) and a lavatory, and which is not defined as a bathroom.

POWER-ASSISTED DOOR. [DSA-AC]  A door used for human passage with a mechanism that helps to open the door, or relieves the opening resistance of a door, upon the activation of a switch or a continued force applied to the door itself.

[ADA Titles II & III] Primary Function.  [§35.151(b)(4)(i) & §36.403(b)]

A major activity for which the facility is intended. Areas that contain a primary function include, but are not limited to, _|ADA Title III: 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 _|ADA Title II: public entity/ ADA Title III: 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, _|ADA Title III: and restrooms|_ are not areas containing a primary function. _|ADA Title II: 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. |_

PRIVATE BUILDING OR FACILITY. [DSA-AC]  A place of public accommodation or a commercial building or facility subject to Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1.2.

[2010 ADAS] 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.

[ADA Title III] Private Entity.  [§36.104] A person or entity other than a public entity.

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE OF A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. [DSA-AC]  See Chapter 11B. A location where a person or entity, regulated by the 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.

Advisory Definition of PROFESSIONAL OFFICE OF A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.  The term PROFESSIONAL OFFICE OF A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER applies to the offices of doctors, psychologists, dentists, radiologists, and others certified or licensed by the State to provide physical or mental health care. ◼

PUBLIC BUILDING OR FACILITY. [DSA-AC]  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 Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1.1.

[2010 ADAS] 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 ENTITY.  Any State or local government; any department, agency, special-purpose district, or other instrumentality of a State or local government.

[ADA Title III] Public Entity.  [§36.104]

(1)    Any State or local government;

(2)    Any department, agency, special purpose district, or other instrumentality of a State or States or local government; and

(3)    The National Railroad Passenger Corporation, and any commuter authority (as defined in section 103(8) of the Rail Passenger Service Act). (45 U.S.C. 541)

PUBLIC ENTRANCE.  An entrance that is not a service entrance or a restricted entrance.

PUBLIC HOUSING. [DSA-AC] Housing facilities owned, operated or constructed by, for or on behalf of a public entity including but not limited to the following:

1. Publically owned and/or operated one- or two- family dwelling units or congregate residences;
2. Publically owned and/or operated buildings or complexes with three or more residential dwellings units;
3. Reserved.
4. Publically owned and/or operated homeless shelters, group homes and similar social service establishments;
5. Publically owned and/or operated transient lodging, such as hotels, motels, hostels and other facilities providing accommodations of a short term nature of not more than 30 days duration;
6. Housing at a place of education owned or operated by a public entity, such as housing on or serving a public school, public college or public university campus;
7. Privately owned housing made available for public use as housing.

PUBLIC USE. [DSA-AC]  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. Private interior or exterior rooms, spaces, or elements associated with a residential dwelling unit provided by a public housing program or in a public housing facility are not public use areas and shall not be required to be made available to the public. In the context of public housing, public use is the provision of housing programs by, for or on behalf of a public entity.

PUBLIC-USE AREAS.  Interior or exterior rooms or spaces of a building that are made available to the general public and does not include common use areas. Public use areas may be provided at a building that is privately or publicly owned.

Advisory Definition of PUBLIC-USE AREAS.  Examples of public use areas may include a hotel lobby, movie theater, concert hall, public restroom, sales floor of a retail store, or dining room within a restaurant. ◼

[A] PUBLIC WAY.  A street, alley or other parcel of land open to the outside air leading to a street, that 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 (3048 mm).

QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDING OR FACILITY. [DSA-AC]  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. See C.C.R. Title 24, Part 8.

RAMP. A walking surface that has a running slope steeper than one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope).

[ADA Title III] Readily achievable. [§36.104] Easily accomplishable and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense. In determining whether an action is readily achievable factors to be considered include --

(1)    The nature and cost of the action needed under this part;

(2)    The overall financial resources of the site or sites involved in the action; the number of persons employed at the site; the effect on expenses and resources; legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation, including crime prevention measures; or the impact otherwise of the action upon the operation of the site;

(3)    The geographic separateness, and the administrative or fiscal relationship of the site or sites in question to any parent corporation or entity;

(4)    If applicable, the overall financial resources of any parent corporation or entity; the overall size of the parent corporation or entity with respect to the number of its employees; the number, type, and location of its facilities; and

(5)    If applicable, the type of operation or operations of any parent corporation or entity, including the composition, structure, and functions of the workforce of the parent corporation or entity.

REASONABLE PORTION. [DSA-AC]  That segment of a building, facility, area, space or condition, which would normally be necessary if the activity therein is to be accessible by persons with disabilities.

Advisory Definition of REASONABLE PORTION.  The term is intended to mean that the building or facility provides equitable opportunities, advantages, and ease of use for people with disabilities as is otherwise being made available to the general public. It is not intended to mean reasonable from a cost point of view. ◼

RECOMMEND. [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2]  Does not require mandatory acceptance, but identifies a suggested action that shall be considered for the purpose of providing a greater degree of accessibility to persons with disabilities.

REMODELING. [DSA-AC]  See “Alteration.”

[A] REPAIR.  The reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance.

RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNIT. [DSA-AC]  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.

RISER. The upright part between two adjacent stairs treads.

RUNNING SLOPE. The slope that is parallel to the direction of travel. (As differentiated from the definition of “Cross Slope”.)

SELF-SERVICE STORAGE. [DSA-AC]  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.

SHALL. [DSA-AC]  Denotes a mandatory specification or requirement.

SHOPPING CENTER (OR SHOPPING MALL). [DSA-AC]  One or more sales or rental establishments or stores. A shopping center may include a series of buildings on a common site, connected by a common pedestrian access route on, 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. For the purposes of this section, “shopping center” or “shopping mall” includes a covered mall building.

Advisory Definition of SHOPPING CENTER (or SHOPPING MALL).  The California definition for SHOPPING CENTER is quite different from the federal definition.  Federal ADA Regulations defines a shopping center or shopping mall as a building housing five or more sales or rental establishments.  However, California accessibility provisions define a shopping center as only one or more sales or rental establishments or stores. ◼

[ADA Title III] Shopping center or shopping mall.  [§36.401(d)(1)(ii)]

(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.

SHOULD. [DSA-AC]  Denotes an advisory specification or recommendation.

SIDEWALK. [DSA-AC]  A surfaced pedestrian way contiguous to a street used by the public. (As differentiated from the definition of “Walk”.)

Advisory Definition of SIDEWALK.  There is an important distinction between SIDEWALK and WALK and they are treated differently under the CBC.  As noted in this definition, a sidewalk is contiguous to a street while a walk is not. ◼

SIGNAGE. [DSA-AC]  Displayed verbal, symbolic, tactile, and/or pictorial information.

SINK.  A fixed bowl or basin with running water and drainpipe, as in a kitchen or laundry, for washing dishes, clothing, etc. (As differentiated from the definition of “Lavatory”.)

SITE.  A parcel of land bounded by a lot line or a designated portion of a public right-of-way.

SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS.  Rooms intended and designed for sleeping.

SOFT CONTAINED PLAY STRUCTURE. [DSA-AC]  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.

SPECIFIED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. [DSA-AC]  Transportation by bus, rail or any other conveyance (other than by aircraft) provided by a private entity to the general public with general or special service (including charter service) on a regular and continuing basis.

STAGE.  A space within a building utilized for entertainment or presentations, which includes overhead hanging curtains, drops, scenery or stage effects other than lighting and sound.

STAIR. A change in elevation, consisting of one or more risers.

STAIRWAY.  One or more flights of stairs, either exterior or interior, with the necessary landings and platforms connecting them, to form a continuous and uninterrupted passage from one level to another.

[ADA Titles II & III] State.  [§35.104 & §36.104] Each of the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

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. If the finished floor level directly above a basement or unused under-floor space is more than six feet (1829 mm) above grade for more than 50 percent of the total perimeter or is more than 12 feet (3658 mm) above grade at any point, the basement or unused under-floor space shall be considered as a story.

[2010 ADAS] 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. [DSA-AC]  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.

[A] STRUCTURE.  That which is built or constructed.

TACTILE.  An object that can be perceived using the sense of touch.

TACTILE SIGN.  A sign containing raised characters and/or symbols and accompanying Braille.

TECHNICALLY INFEASIBLE.  An alteration of a building or a facility that has little likelihood of being accomplished because the existing structural conditions require the removal or alteration of 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 which are in full and strict compliance with the minimum requirements for new construction and which are necessary to provide accessibility.

TEEING GROUND. [DSA-AC]  In golf, the starting place for the hole to be played.

TEMPORARY. [DSA-AC]  Buildings and facilities intended for use at one location for not more than one year and seats intended for use at one location for not more than 90 days.

Advisory Definition of TEMPORARY.  Temporary buildings and facilities must be accessible to the same degree as permanent facilities per CA Gov. Code §4451(e). ◼

TEXT TELEPHONE.  Machinery or equipment that employs interactive text-based communications through the transmission of coded signals across the standard telephone network. Text telephones can include, for example, devices known as TTYs (teletypewriters) or computers.

TRANSFER DEVICE. [DSA-AC]  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 (generally 30 days or less). 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 no more than five rooms for rent or hire and that are actually occupied by the proprietor as the residence of such proprietor.

[DSA-AC]  See also the definition of Place of Public Accommodation.

TRANSIT BOARDING PLATFORM. [DSA-AC]  A horizontal, generally level surface, whether raised above, recessed below or level with a transit rail, from which persons embark/disembark a fixed rail vehicle.

TRANSITION PLATE. [DSA-AC]  A sloping pedestrian walking surface located at the end(s) of a gangway.

TREAD. The horizontal part of a step.

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.

UNREASONABLE HARDSHIP.  When the enforcing agency finds that compliance with the building standard would make the specific work of the project affected by the building standard infeasible, based on an overall evaluation of the following factors:

1. The cost of providing access.

2. The cost of all construction contemplated.

3. The impact of proposed improvements on financial feasibility of the project.

4. The nature of the accessibility which would be gained or lost.

5. The nature of the use of the facility under construction and its availability to persons with disabilities.

   The details of any finding of unreasonable hardship shall be recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.

USE ZONE. [DSA-AC]  The ground level area beneath and immediately adjacent to a play structure or play equipment that is designated by ASTM F 1487 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.

VALUATION THRESHOLD. [DSA-AC]  An annually adjusted, dollar-amount figure used in part to determine the extent of required path of travel upgrades. The baseline valuation threshold of $50,000 is based on the January 1981, “ENR US20 Cities” Average Construction Cost Index (CCI) of 3372.02 as published in Engineering News Record, McGraw Hill Publishing Company. The current valuation threshold is determined by multiplying the baseline valuation threshold by a ratio of the current year’s January CCI to the baseline January 1981 CCI.

Advisory Definition of VALUATION THRESHOLD.  The valuation threshold is adjusted each year in January using the Engineering News Record 20 Cities Construction Cost Index.  Valuation thresholds for the current year and recent years dating back to 2000 are available on the Division of the State Architect web site at: http://www.dgs.ca.gov/dsa/Programs/progAccess/threshold.aspx. ◼

2016 Valuation Threshold for Alterations, Structural Repairs or Additions to Existing Buildings

In accordance with the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 2 definition of valuation threshold, the 2016 valuation threshold is $150,244.00 and will be updated again in January 2017.

The annual valuation threshold is based on the January 1981 threshold of $50,000.00 as adjusted using the ENR 20 Cities Construction Cost Index, and as published by Engineering News-Record, McGraw-Hill Publishing Company, for January of each year.

Valuation threshold for recent years:

Year	ENR Construction Cost Index (Jan.):	Valuation Threshold
2016	10132.55	$ 150,244.00
2015	9971.96	$ 147,863.00
2014	9664.45	$ 143,303.00
2013	9437.27	$ 139,934.00
2012	9175.94	$ 136,060.00
2011	8938.30	$ 132,536.28
2010	8660.08	$ 128,410.86
2009	8549.06	$ 126,764.66
2008	8090.06	$ 119,958.65
2007	7879.58	$ 116,837.68
2006	7660.29	$ 113,586.07
2005	7297.24	$ 108,202.79
2004	6824.90	$ 101,198.98
2003	6580.54	$ 97,575.63
2002	6461.81	$ 95,815.11
2001	6280.85	$ 93,131.86
2000	6130.36	$ 90,900.40

For more information: http://www.dgs.ca.gov/dsa/Programs/progAccess/threshold.aspx ◼

VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS (VMS). [DSA-AC] Electronic signs that have a message with the capacity to change by means of scrolling, streaming, or paging across a background.

VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGN (VMS) CHARACTERS. [DSA-AC] Characters of an electronic sign are composed of pixels in an array. High resolution VMS characters have vertical pixel counts of 16 rows or greater. Low resolution VMS characters have vertical pixel counts of 7 to 15 rows.

VEHICULAR WAY.  A route provided for vehicular traffic, such as in a street, driveway, or parking facility.

WALK. [DSA-AC]  An exterior prepared surface for pedestrian use, including pedestrian areas such as plazas and courts. (As differentiated from the definition of “Sidewalk”.)

Advisory Definition of WALK.  There is an important distinction between SIDEWALK and WALK and they are treated differently under the CBC.  A sidewalk is contiguous to a street while a walk is not. ◼

WET BAR. [DSA-AC]  An area or space with a counter equipped with a sink and running water but without cooking facilities.

WHEELCHAIR.  A chair mounted on wheels to be propelled by its occupant manually or with the aid of electric power, of a size and configuration conforming to the recognized standard models of the trade.]

[ADA Titles II & III] Wheelchair.  [§35.104 & §36.104] A manually-operated or power-driven device designed primarily for use by an individual with a mobility disability for the main purpose of indoor or of both indoor and outdoor locomotion. This definition does not apply to Federal wilderness areas; wheelchairs in such areas are defined in section 508(c)(2) of the ADA, 42 U.S.C. 12207(c)(2).

WHEELCHAIR SPACE.  A space for a single wheelchair and its occupant.

[F] WORKSTATION. [DSA-AC]  An area defined by equipment and/or work surfaces intended for use by employees only, and generally for one or a small number of employees at a time. Examples include ticket booths; the employee side of grocery store check stands; the bartender area behind a bar; the employee side of snack bars, sales counters and public counters; guardhouses; toll booths; kiosk vending stands; lifeguard stations; maintenance equipment closets; counter and equipment areas in restaurant kitchens; file rooms; storage areas; etc.

WORK AREA EQUIPMENT. [DSA-AC]  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.

 CHAPTER 3 USE AND OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION

CHAPTER 4 SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON USE AND OCCUPANCY

SECTION 406 MOTOR-VEHICLE-RELATED OCCUPANCIES

406.4 Public parking garages.  …

406.4.1 Clear height.  The clear height of each floor level in vehicle and pedestrian traffic areas shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).

Advisory 406.4.1 Clear height.  While the minimum height is required to be 7'-0" by this section, greater vertical clearance is required at van-accessible parking spaces, standard accessible parking spaces, the vehicular routes to these spaces, and passenger drop-off and loading zones.  Refer to Chapters 11A and 11B for requirements in these areas. ◼

SECTION 412 AIRCRAFT-RELATED OCCUPANCIES

412.3 Airport traffic control towers.  …

412.3.5 Accessibility. [DSA-AC]  In air traffic control towers, an accessible route shall not be required to serve the cab and the equipment areas on the floor immediately below the cab.

SECTION 419 LIVE/WORK UNITS

419.7 Accessibility.  Accessibility shall be designed in accordance with Chapter 11A and/or 11B, when applicable for the function served.

CHAPTERS 5 THROUGH 8 

CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

SECTION 907 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

[F] 907.4 Initiating devices.  ...

[F] 907.4.2 Manual fire alarm boxes.  ...

[F] 907.4.2.2 Height.  The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm) measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box. Manual fire alarm boxes shall also comply with Section 11B-309.4.

Exception: [DSA-AC]  In existing buildings there is no requirement to retroactively relocate existing manual fire alarm boxes to a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm) from the floor level to the highest point of the activated handle or lever of the box. Manual fire alarm boxes shall also comply with 11B-309.4.

Advisory 907.4.2.2 Height.  CBC Section 11B-309.4 requires controls and operating mechanisms to be operable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist (must be operable by persons with limited manual dexterity). The maximum effort to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds-force. ◼

[F] 907.5 Occupant notification systems.  ...

[F] 907.5.2 Alarm notification appliances.  ...

[F] 907.5.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.5.

Exceptions:

1.     In other than Group I-2 and I-2.1, visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.

2.     Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in enclosed exit stairways, exterior exit stairs and exterior exit ramps.

3.     Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.

[F] 907.5.2.3.1 Public and common use areas. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public use areas and common use areas, including but not limited to:

1. Sanitary facilities including restrooms, bathrooms and shower rooms

2. Music practice rooms

3. Band rooms

4. Multipurpose rooms

5. Occupational shops

6. Occupied rooms where ambient noise impairs hearing of the fire alarm

7. Meeting rooms

8. Occupied rooms where ambient noise impairs hearing of the fire alarm

9. Lobbies

10. Meeting rooms

11. Classrooms

Advisory 907.5.2.3.1 Public and common use areas.  This list is not exhaustive. In new construction, all public- and common-use areas shall have visible alarms if audible alarms are provided. ◼

[F] 907.5.2.3.2 Employee work areas.  Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with a minimum of 20-percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing impaired employee(s).

[F] 907.5.2.3.3 Groups R-1 and R-2.1.  Group R-1 and R-2.1 dwelling units or sleeping units in accordance with Table 907.5.2.3.3 shall be provided with a visible alarm notification appliance, activated by both the in-room smoke alarm and the building fire alarm system.

[F] TABLE 907.5.2.3.3 VISIBLE ALARMS

[F] 907.5.2.3.4 Group R-2.  In Group R-2 occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, all dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with the capability to support visible alarm notification appliances in accordance with NFPA 72.  Such capability shall be permitted to include the potential for future interconnection of the building fire alarm system with the unit smoke alarms, replacement of audible appliances with combination audible/visible appliances, or future extension of the existing wiring from the unit smoke alarm locations to required locations for visible appliances.

907.5.2.3.5 Groups R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4.  Protective social care facilities which house persons who are hearing impaired, shall be provided with notification appliances for the hearing impaired installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and which shall activated upon initiation of the fire alarm system or the smoke alarms.

CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS

SECTION 1002  DEFINITIONS

1002.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS.

AREA OF REFUGE.

EXIT.

GUARD ([DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] or GUARDRAIL).

HANDRAIL.

MEANS OF EGRESS

PUBLIC WAY.

STAIR.

STAIRWAY.

WINDER

SECTION 1003  GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS

1003.1 Applicability. The general requirements specified in Sections 1003 through 1013 shall apply to all three elements of the means of egress system, in addition to those specific requirements for the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge detailed elsewhere in this chapter.

(DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC)  In addition to the requirement of this chapter, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.8.2.1.2 regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development, or Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, as applicable.

SECTION 1007 ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS

1007.1 Accessible means of egress required. Accessible means of egress shall comply with this section. Accessible spaces shall be provided with not less than one accessible means of egress. Where more than one means of egress are required by Section 1015.1 or 1021.1 from any accessible space, each accessible portion of the space shall be served by accessible means of egress in at least the same number as required by Section 1015.1 or 1021.1. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings for persons with disabilities, shall also comply with the requirements of Chapter 11A or 11B as applicable.

Exceptions:

1.     Accessible means of egress are not required in alterations to existing buildings.

2.     One accessible means of egress is required from an accessible mezzanine level in accordance with Section 1007.3, 1007.4 or 1007.5, and Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable.

3.     In assembly areas with sloped or stepped aisles, one accessible means of egress is permitted where the common path of travel is accessible and meets the requirements in Section 1028.8, and Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable.

1007.2 Continuity and components. Each required accessible means of egress shall be continuous to a public way and shall consist of one or more of the following components:

1. Accessible routes complying with Chapter 11A, Section 1110A.1 and 1120A, or Chapter 11B,  Sections 11B-206 and 11B-402, as applicable.

2. Interior exit stairways complying with Sections 1007.3 and 1022, and Chapter 11A, Section 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.

3. Interior exit access stairways complying with Sections 1007.3 and 1009.3, Chapter 11A, Section 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.

4. Exterior exit stairways complying with Sections 1007.3 and 1026 and serving levels other than the level of exit discharge, and Chapter 11A, Section 1115A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.

5. Elevators complying with Section 1007.4, and Chapter 11A, Section 1124A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.6 and 11B-407, as applicable.

6. Platform lifts complying with Section 1007.5 and Chapter 11A, Section 1124A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.7, 11B-207.2 and 11B-410 as applicable.

7. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1025.

8. Ramps complying with Section 1010, and Chapter 11A, Sections 1114A and 1122A, or Chapter 11B, 11B-405, as applicable.

9. Areas of refuge complying with Section 1007.6.

10. Exterior area for assisted rescue complying with Section 1007.7.

1007.2.1 Elevators required. In buildings where a required accessible floor is four or more stories above or below a level of exit discharge, at least one required accessible means of egress shall be an elevator complying with Section 1007.4.

Exceptions:

1.     In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the elevator shall not be required on floors provided with a horizontal exit and located at or above the levels of exit discharge.

2.     In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the elevator shall not be required on floors provided with a ramp conforming to the provisions or Section 1010.

1007.3 Stairways. In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, a stairway between stories shall have a clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum between handrails and shall either incorporate an area of refuge within an enlarged floor-level landing or shall be accessed from either an area of refuge complying with Section 1007.6 or a horizontal exit. Exit access stairways that connect levels in the same story are not permitted as part an accessible means of egress. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] In addition, exit stairways shall comply with Chapter 11A, Sections 1115A and 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.

Exceptions:

1. The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between is not required in buildings equipped throughout with an installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

2. Areas of refuge are not required at stairways in buildings equipped throughout by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

3. The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails is not required for stairways accessed from a horizontal exit.

4. Areas of refuge are not required at stairways serving open parking garages.

5. Areas of refuge are not required for smoke protected seating areas complying with Section 1028.6.2.

6. The areas of refuge are not required in Group R-2 occupancies.

1007.4 Elevators. In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, an elevator shall comply with the emergency operation and signaling device requirements of California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders. Standby power shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 27 and Section 3003. The elevator shall be accessed from either an area of refuge complying with Section 1007.6 or a horizontal exit.

Exceptions:

1. Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit in open parking garages.

2. Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit in buildings and facilities equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

3. Elevators not required to be located in a shaft in accordance with Section 712 are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit.

4. Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit for smoke protected seating areas complying with Section 1028.6.2.

1007.5 Platform lifts. Platform (wheelchair) lifts shall not serve as part of an accessible means of egress, except where allowed as part of a required accessible route in Chapter 11A, Sections 1121A and 1124A.11, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.7.1 through 11B-206.7.10, as applicable. Standby power shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 27 for platform lifts permitted to serve as part of a means of egress.

[DSA-AC]  See Chapter 11B, Section 11B-207.2 for additional accessible means of egress requirements at platform lifts.

1007.5.1 Openness. Platform lifts on an accessible means of egress shall not be installed in a fully enclosed hoistway.

1007.6 Areas of refuge. Every required area of refuge shall be accessible from the space it serves by an accessible means of egress. The maximum travel distance from any accessible space to an area of refuge shall not exceed the travel distance permitted for the occupancy in accordance with Section 1016.1. Every required area of refuge shall have direct access to a stairway complying with Sections 1007.3 or an elevator complying with Section 1007.4. Where an elevator lobby is used as an area of refuge, the shaft and lobby shall comply with Section 1022.10 for smokeproof enclosures except where the elevators are in an area of refuge formed by a horizontal exit or smoke barrier. [DSA-AC]  Areas of refuge shall comply with the requirements of this code and shall adjoin an accessible route complying with Sections 11B-206 and 11B-402.

1007.6.1 Size. Each area of refuge shall be sized to accommodate two wheelchair spaces that are not less than 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm). The total number of such 30-inch by 48-inch (762 mm by 1219 mm) spaces per story shall be not less than one for every 200 persons of calculated occupant load served by the area of refuge. Such wheelchair spaces shall not reduce the required means of egress width. Access to any of the required wheelchair spaces in an area of refuge shall not be obstructed by more than one adjoining wheelchair space.

Exception:  The enforcing agency may reduce the size of each required area of refuge to accommodate one wheelchair space that is not less than 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) on floors where the occupant load is less than 200.

1007.6.2 Separation. Each area of refuge shall be separated from the remainder of the story by a smoke barrier complying with Section 709 or a horizontal exit complying with Section 1025. Each area of refuge shall be designed to minimize the intrusion of smoke.

Exception:  Areas of refuge located within an enclosure for exit access stairways or interior exit stairways.

1007.6.3 Two-way communication.  Areas of refuge shall be provided with a two-way communication system complying with Sections 1007.8.1 and 1007.8.2.

1007.7 Exterior area for assisted rescue.  Exterior areas for assisted rescue shall be accessed by an accessible route from the area served. Exterior areas for assisted rescue shall be permitted in accordance with Section 1007.7.1 or 1007.7.2.

1007.7.1 Level of exit discharge. Where the exit discharge does not include an accessible route from an exit located on a level of exit discharge to a public way, an exterior area of assisted rescue shall be provided on the exterior landing in accordance with Sections 1007.7.3 through 1007.7.6.

1007.7.2 Outdoor facilities.  Where exit access from the area serving outdoor facilities is essentially open to the outside, an exterior area of assisted rescue is permitted as an alternative to an area of refuge. Every required exterior area of assisted rescue shall have direct access to an interior exit stairway, exterior stairway, or elevator serving as an accessible means of egress component. The exterior area of assisted rescue shall comply with Sections 1007.7.3 through 1007.7.6 and shall be provided with a two-way communication system complying with Sections 1007.8.1 and 1007.8.2.

1007.7.3 Size. Each exterior area for assisted rescue shall be sized to accommodate wheelchair spaces in accordance with Section 1007.6.1.

1007.7.4 Separation.  Exterior walls separating the exterior area of assisted rescue from the interior of the building shall have a minimum fire-resistance rating of 1 hour, rated for exposure to fire from the inside. The fire-resistance-rated exterior wall construction shall extend horizontally 10 feet (3048 mm) beyond the landing on either side of the landing or equivalent fire-resistance-rated construction is permitted to extend out perpendicular to the exterior wall 4 feet (1219 mm) minimum on the side of the landing. The fire-resistance-rated construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor level of the area for assisted rescue or to the roof line, whichever is lower. Openings within such fire-resistance-rated exterior walls shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

1007.7.5 Openness.  The exterior area for assisted rescue shall be open to the outside air. The sides other than the separation walls shall be at least 50 percent open, and the open area shall be distributed so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.

1007.7.6 Stairway. Stairways that are part of the means of egress for the exterior area for assisted rescue shall provide a clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails.

Exception:  The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails is not required at stairways serving buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

1007.8 Two-way communication. A two-way communication system shall be provided at the elevator landing on each accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the story of exit discharge complying with Sections 1007.8.1 and 1007.8.2.

Exceptions:

1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the elevator landing where the two-way communication system is provided within areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1007.6.3.

2. Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with ramps conforming to the provisions of Section 1010.

1007.8.1 System requirements. Two-way communication systems shall provide communication between each required location and a central control point location approved by the fire department. Where the central control point is not constantly attended, a two-way communication system shall have a timed automatic telephone dial-out capability to an approved monitoring location. The two-way communication system shall include both audible and visible signals.

1007.8.1.1 Visible communication method. [DSA-AC and HCD 1-AC]  A button complying with Section 1138A.4 or Sections 11B-205 and 11B-309 _|Operable Parts|_ in the area of refuge shall activate both a light in the area of refuge indicating that rescue has been requested and a light at the central control point indicating that rescue is being requested. A button at the central control point shall activate both a light at the central control point and a light in the area of refuge indicating that the request has been received.

1007.8.2 Directions. Directions for the use of the two-way communication system, instructions for summoning assistance via the two-way communication system and written identification of the specific story, floor location and building address or other building identifier shall be posted adjacent to the two-way communication system.

1007.9 Signage. Signage indicating special accessibility provisions shall be provided as shown:

1. Each door providing access to an area of refuge from an adjacent floor area shall be identified by a sign stating: AREA OF REFUGE.

2. Each door providing access to an exterior area for assisted rescue shall be identified by a sign stating: EXTERIOR AREA FOR ASSISTED RESCUE.

Signage shall comply with Chapter 11A, Section 1143A and Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.5 _|Signs; Visual Characters|_ as applicable, requirements for visual characters and include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.7.2.1. Where exit sign illumination is required by Section 1011.3, the signs shall be illuminated. Additionally, raised character and Braille signage complying with Chapter 11A, Section 1143A and Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-703.1, 11B-703.2, 11B-703.3 and 11B-703.5, and the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.7.2.1, shall be located at each door to an area of refuge and exterior area for assisted rescue in accordance with Section 1011.4 _|Raised Character and Braille Exit Signs|_.

1007.10 Directional signage.  Direction signage complying with Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.5 _|Signs; Visual Characters|_ indicating the location of the other means of egress and which are accessible means of egress shall be provided at the following:

1. At serving a required space but not providing an approved accessible means of egress.

2. At elevator landings.

3. Within areas of refuge.

1007.11 Instructions. In areas of refuge and exterior areas for assisted rescue, instructions on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be posted. The instructions shall include all of the following and shall comply with Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.5 _|Signs; Visual Characters|_:

1. Persons able to use the stairway do so as soon as possible, unless they are assisting others.

2. Information on planned availability of assistance in the use of or supervised operation of elevators and how to summon such assistance.

3. Directions for use of the two-way communications system where provided.

1007.12 Alarms/emergency warning systems/accessibility.  If emergency warning systems are required, they shall activate a means of warning the hearing impaired. Emergency warning systems as part of the fire alarm system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 as amended in Chapter 35.

SECTION 1008 DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

[DSA-AC]  In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.5 and 11B-404, as applicable.

1008.1.9 Door operations.  ...

1008.1.9.7  Delayed egress locks.  ...

5.     A sign shall be provided on the door located above and within 12 inches (305 mm) of the release device reading:  “KEEP PUSHING. THIS DOOR WILL OPEN IN 15 [30] SECONDS ALARM WILL SOUND” Sign lettering shall be at least 1 inch (25 mm) in height and shall have a stroke of not less than ¹/₈ inch (3.2 mm).

5.1   A tactile sign shall also be provided in Braille and raised characters, which complies with Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-703.1, 11B-703.2, 11B-703.3 and 11B-703.5.

SECTION 1009 STAIRWAYS

[DSA-AC]  In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.

1009.7  Stair treads and risers.  ...

1009.7.2  Riser height and tread depth.  ...

Exceptions:

6.     See Section 3404.1 for the replacement of existing stairways.  [DSA-AC] For applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, see Chapter 11B, Section 11B-202 _|Existing Buildings and Facilities|_.

1009.15  Handrails.  ...

[DSA-AC]  For applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, see Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-504.6 and 11B-505.

SECTION 1010 RAMPS

[DSA-AC]  In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Section 11B-405, as applicable.

SECTION 1011 EXIT SIGNS

1011.4  Raised character and Braille exit signs. Tactile exit signs shall be required at the following locations:

1. Each grade-level exterior exit door that is required to comply with Section 1011.1 shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the word, “EXIT.”

2. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1011.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of a stairway or ramp shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the following words as appropriate:

2.1 “EXIT STAIR DOWN”

2.2 “EXIT RAMP DOWN”

2.3 “EXIT STAIR UP”

2.4 “EXIT RAMP UP”

3. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1011.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of an exit enclosure or an exit passageway shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words, “EXIT ROUTE.”

4. Each exit access door from an interior room or area to a corridor or hallway that is required to comply with Section 1011.1, shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words “EXIT ROUTE.”

5. Each exit door through a horizontal exit that is required to comply with Section 1011.1 shall be identified by a sign with the words, “TO EXIT.”

Raised character and Braille exit signs shall comply with Chapter 11A, Section 1143A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-703.1, 11B-703.2, 11B-703.3 and 11B-703.5.

SECTION 1012 HANDRAILS

[DSA-AC]  In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Section 11B-505 _|Handrails|_, as applicable.

SECTION 1013 GUARDS

1013.2 Where required. Guards shall be located along open-sided walking surfaces, including mezzanines, equipment platforms, stairs, ramps and landings that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Guards shall be adequate in strength and attachment in accordance with Section 1607.8.

Exception:  Guards are not required for the following locations:

1.     On the loading side of loading docks or piers.

2.     On the audience side of stages and raised platforms, including steps leading up to the stage and raised platforms.

3.     On raised stage and platform floor areas, such as runways, ramps and side stages used for entertainment or presentations.

4.     At vertical openings in the performance area of stages and platforms.

5.     At elevated walking surfaces appurtenant to stages and platforms for access to and utilization of special lighting or equipment.

6.     Along vehicle service pits not accessible to the public.

7.     In assembly seating where guards in accordance with Section 1028.14 are permitted and provided.

1013.2.1 Glazing.  Where glass is used to provide a guard or as a portion of the guard system, the guard shall also comply with Section 2407. Where the glazing provided does not meet the strength and attachment requirements of Section 1607.8, complying guards shall also be located along glazed sides of open-sided walking surfaces.

1013.3 Height.  Required guards shall not be less than 42 inches (1067 mm) high, measured vertically as follows:

1.     From the adjacent walking surfaces;

2.     On stairs, from the line connecting the leading edges of the tread nosings; and

3.     On ramps, from the ramp surface at the guard.

Exceptions:

1.     For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads.

2.     For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, where the top of the guard also serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall not be less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads.

3.     The guard height in assembly seating areas shall comply with Section 1028.14.

4.     Along alternating tread devices and ship ladders, guards whose top rail also serves as a handrail, shall have height not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm), measured vertically from the leading edge of the device tread nosing.

SECTION 1017 AISLES

[DSA-AC]  In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Section 11B-403 _|Walking Surfaces|_, as applicable.

1017.2 Aisles in assembly spaces.  Aisles and aisle accessways serving a room or space used for assembly purposes shall comply with Section 1028.

1017.3 Aisles in Groups B and M.  In Group B and M occupancies, the minimum clear aisle width shall be determined by Section 1005.1 for the occupant load served, but shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm).

Exception:  Nonpublic aisles serving less than 50 people and not required to be accessible by Chapter 11B (see Section 11B-403) need not exceed 28 inches (711 mm) in width.

SECTION 1022 INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS

1022.9 Stairway identification signs.  ...

In addition to the stairway identification sign, raised characters and braille floor identification signs that comply with Chapter 11A, Section 1143A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-703.1, 11B-703.2, 11B-703.3 and 11B-703.5 shall be located at the landing of each floor level, placed adjacent to the door on the latch side, in all enclosed stairways in buildings two or more stories in height to identify the floor level. At the exit discharge level, the sign shall include a raised five pointed star located to the left of the identifying floor level. The outside diameter of the star shall be the same as the height of the raised characters.

CHAPTER 11A HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

DIVISION IV – DWELLING UNIT FEATURES

SECTION 1128A COVERED DWELLING UNITS

1128A.1 General. Covered multifamily dwelling units shall be adaptable and accessible into and throughout the dwelling unit as provided in this division.

Note:  See Sections 1101A “Application” and 1102A “Building Accessibility” for dwelling units required to comply with this division.

SECTION 1129
Reserved

SECTION 1130A ACCESSIBLE ROUTE WITHIN COVERED MULTIFAMILY DWELLING UNITS

1130A.1 General. An accessible route shall be provided through all rooms and spaces of the dwelling unit. The accessible route shall pass through the primary entry door, and shall connect with all additional exterior doors, required clear floor spaces at kitchen appliances and bathroom fixtures. For the purpose of this section, “accessible routes” may include hallways, corridors and ramps.

Exception:  An accessible route is not required from the interior of the unit into a basement or garage, except as provided in Section 1105A.1.

1130A.2 Width. The accessible route into and throughout covered multifamily dwelling units shall be at least 36 inches (914 mm) wide.

SECTION 1131A CHANGES IN LEVEL ON ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

1131A.1 Changes in level not exceeding ½ inch. Abrupt changes in level along any accessible route shall not exceed ½ inch (12.7 mm). When changes in level do occur, they shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal (50-percent slope). Changes in level not exceeding ¼ inch (6.35 mm) may be vertical.

1131A.2 Changes greater than ½ inch.  Changes in level greater than ½ inch (12.7 mm) shall be made by means of a sloped surface not greater than 1 unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope), or a ramp, elevator or platform (wheelchair) lift. See Section 1122A for ramps and Section 1124A.11 for platform (wheelchair) lifts.

SECTION 1132A DOORS

1132A.1 Primary entry doors and required exit doors. The width and height of primary entry doors and all required exit doors shall comply with Section 1126A.1. The requirements of Sections 1126A.3 shall apply to maneuvering clearances at the side of the door exposed to common or public use spaces (e.g., entry or exit doors which open from the covered multifamily dwelling unit into a corridor, hallway or lobby, or directly to the outside).

1132A.2 Interior doors and secondary exterior doors. Except as allowed by Section 1109A.2, interior doors intended for user passage and secondary exterior doors shall comply with this section. The provisions of this section shall apply to the dwelling unit side of doors leading from the interior of the dwelling unit to an unfinished basement or an attached garage.

1132A.3 Width and height of interior doors and secondary exterior doors. Doors shall comply with the following:

1.      Doors shall not be less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) in height.

2.      Swinging doors shall provide a net clear opening width of not less than 32 inches (813 mm), measured with the door or doors positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from the closed position.

3.      Swinging doors shall be capable of opening at least 90 degrees.

4.      A nominal 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening provided by a standard 6-foot wide (1829 mm) sliding patio door assembly is acceptable.

5.      A pair of doors, manual or automatic, must have at least one leaf which provides a clear width of not less than 32 inches (813 mm), measured with the door positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position.

6.      The width of any component in the means of egress system shall not be less than the minimum width required by Section 1005.

1132A.4 Level floor or landing. See also Chapter 10. The floor or landing on each side of a door shall be level. Primary entry doors, required exit doors or secondary exterior doors with changes in height between the interior surface or floor level and the exterior surface or floor level shall comply with the following:

1.      Exterior landings of impervious construction (e.g., concrete, brick, flagstone) serving primary entry doors and required exit doors are limited to not more than ½ inch (12.7 mm) of change in height between floor surfaces. Changes in level shall comply with Section 1131A.

2.      Exterior landings of pervious construction (e.g., wood decking with spaces) shall be the same level as the interior landing, except that secondary exterior doors may have no more than ½ inch (12.7 mm) of change in height between floor surfaces. Changes in level shall comply with Section 1131A.

3.      Secondary exterior doors onto decks, patios, or balcony surfaces constructed of impervious materials (e.g., concrete, brick, flagstone) may have a maximum change in height from the interior landing of 4 inches (101.6 mm). Changes in height greater than ½ inch (12.7 mm) shall be accomplished by means of a ramp complying with Section 1114A or by means of a platform constructed to the level of the floor as illustrated in Figure 11A-8J.

FIGURE 11A-8J
PLATFORM AT SECONDARY EXTERIOR DOOR

4.      Secondary exterior doors onto decks, patios or balcony surfaces constructed of impervious materials (e.g., concrete, brick, flagstone) may have a maximum change in height from the interior landing of 1 inch (25.4 mm), provided a ramp with a maximum slope of 1:8 is permanently installed. (See Figure 11A-8K).

FIGURE 11A-8K
RAMP AT SECONDARY EXTERIOR DOOR

5.      In buildings containing covered multifamily dwelling units, the floor or landing immediately outside the entry may be sloped up to ¼ inch (6.35 mm) per foot (12 inches) (305 mm), in a direction away from the primary entrance of the dwelling unit for drainage.

1132A.4.1 Thresholds. Thresholds at the primary entry and required exit doors shall be no higher than ½ inch (12.7 mm). Thresholds at secondary exterior doors, including sliding door tracks, shall be no higher than ³/₄ inch (19.05 mm). Changes in height at interior door thresholds (e.g., floor material changes at door thresholds) shall not exceed ½ inch (12.7 mm). Thresholds shall comply with the following:

1.      Thresholds with a change in height of not more than ¼ inch (6.35 mm) may be vertical.

2.      Thresholds with a change in height between ¼ inch (6.35 mm) and ³/₄ inch (19.05 mm) shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal (50-percent slope).

1132A.5 Maneuvering clearances at doors.

1132A.5.1 General.  The floor or landing on the dwelling unit side of the primary entry door and any required exit door shall have a minimum length of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm). Section 1126A.3 shall apply to maneuvering clearances at the side of the door exposed to common or public use spaces.

                  Maneuvering clearances at interior doors shall provide a minimum length on both sides of the door of at least 42 inches (1067 mm) measured at a right angle to the plane of the door in its closed position.

                  Exception:  A 39-inch (991 mm) length is acceptable at interior doors when a minimum clear opening width of 34 inches (864 mm) is provided.

            _|Exception 2 deleted|_

1132A.5.2 Strike edge maneuvering space at doors. The width of the level area on the side to which the door swings shall extend 18 inches (457 mm) past the strike edge for all doors. The width of the level area at the exterior side of the primary entry door and any required exit doors shall comply with Section 1126A.

Notes:

1.      See Section 1134A for bathrooms that are required to be accessible.

2.      Twenty-four inches (610 mm) is preferred for strike edge clearance.

1132A.6 Closer-effort to operate doors. Maximum effort to operate doors shall not exceed 8½ pounds (38 N) for exterior doors and 5 pounds (22 N) for interior doors, such pull or push effort being applied at right angles to hinged doors and at the center plane of sliding or folding doors. Compensating devices or automatic door operators may be utilized to meet these standards. When fire doors are required, the maximum effort to operate the door may be increased to the minimum allowable by the appropriate enforcement agency, not to exceed 15 pounds (66.7 N).

1132A.7 Type of lock or latch. The type of latch and lock required for all doors shall be in accordance with Section 1132A.8 and Chapter 10, Section 1008.

1132A.8 Hand-activated door hardware. Hand-activated door latching, locking and opening hardware shall be centered between 30 inches (762 mm) and 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. Latching and locking doors that are hand-activated and on an accessible route shall be operable with a single effort by lever-type hardware, panic bars, push-pull activating bars or other hardware designed to provide passage without requiring the ability to grasp the opening hardware. Locked exit doors shall operate consistent with Section 1132A.6, in the direction of egress.

1132A.8.1 Lever-type hardware. The lever or lever of actuated latches or locks shall be curved with a return to within ½ inch (12.7 mm) of the door to prevent catching on the clothing of persons during egress in Group R and U Occupancies with an occupant load greater than 10.

1132A.9 Smooth surface.  Swinging door or gate surfaces within 10 inches (254 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 and be free of sharp or abrasive edges. Cavities created by added kick plates shall be capped.

         Exceptions:

1. Automatic doors.
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.
3. Doors or gates that do not extend to within 10 inches (254 mm) of the finish floor.

1132A.10 Door signal devices. Every primary entrance to a covered multifamily dwelling unit shall be provided with a door buzzer, bell, chime or equivalent. The activating mechanism shall be mounted a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the floor and connected to permanent wiring.

SECTION 1133A

KITCHENS

1133A.1 General.  Kitchens shall be on an accessible route and shall comply with this section. (See Figure 11A-10A.)

1133A.2 Clear floor space. Clear floor space at kitchens shall comply with the following:​

1.      A clear floor space at least 30 inches (762 mm) by 48 inches (1219 mm) that allows a parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair shall be provided at the range or cooktop.

2.      A clear floor space at least 30 inches (762 mm) by 48 inches (1219 mm) that allows either a parallel or forward approach shall be provided at the kitchen sink and all other fixtures or appliances including the oven, dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer and trash compactor.

3.         A clear floor space at least 30 inches (762 mm) by 48 inches (1219 mm) that allows either a parallel or a forward approach shall be provided at the work surface required by Section 1133A.4.

4.         The centerline of the 30-inch (762 mm) by 48-inch (1219 mm) clear floor space provided for parallel or forward approach shall be aligned with the centerline of the work space, appliance or fixture. (See Figure 11A-10A).

 

(1) 30" minimum countertop space for sink installation with removable base cabinet and finish flooring beneath the sink; 30" x 48" minimum clear floor space to allow parallel or forward approach.

(2) 30" minimum countertop for work surface with removable base cabinet and finish flooring beneath; 30" x 48" minimum clear floor space to allow parallel or forward approach.

(3) 30" x 48" minimum clear floor space adjacent to range to allow parallel approach.

(4) 30" x 48" clear floor space at refrigerator, dishwasher, trash compactor or other appliances to allow parallel or forward approach.

FIGURE 11A-10A

KITCHEN SPECIFICATIONS

1133A.2.1 Clear width.

Kitchens shall have a minimum clear width measured between any cabinet, countertop or the face of any appliance (excluding handles and controls) that projects into the kitchen and the opposing cabinet, countertop, appliance or wall as follows:

1.      U-shaped kitchens, designed with parallel approach at a range or cooktop located at the base of the U, shall have a minimum clear width of at least 60 inches (1524 mm). (See Figure 11A-10A).

2.      U-shaped kitchens, designed with a cooktop or sink located at the base of the U, which provides a knee and toe space in accordance with Section 1133A.7 to allow for a forward approach, shall have a clear width of at least 48 inches (1219 mm). (See Figure 11A-10A).

3.      All other kitchen designs shall provide a minimum clear width of at least 48 inches (1219 mm). (See Figure 11A-10A).

1133A.3 Removable base cabinets. Sinks and work surfaces required by Section 1133A.4 (see Item 1 and Item 2) shall be provided with a knee and toe space complying with Section 1133A.7. Base cabinets (including toeboard and shelving) directly under kitchen sinks and work surfaces shall be removable without the use of specialized tools or specialized knowledge in order to provide knee and toe space. The finish floor beneath kitchen sinks and work surfaces shall be extended to the wall.

1133A.4 Countertops. Kitchen countertops shall comply with this section and shall be provided with the following:

1.      A minimum linear length of 30 inches (762 mm) of countertop shall be provided for the kitchen sink installation.

2.      A minimum linear length of 30 inches (762 mm) of countertop shall be provided for a work surface.

3.      Sinks and work surfaces may be a single integral unit a minimum of 60 inches (1524 mm) in length, or be separate components.

Exception:  Two 15-inch (381 mm) wide minimum breadboards may be provided in lieu of the required 30 inches (762 mm) of countertop work surface.

1133A.4.1 Repositionable countertops.

Repositionable countertops shall be provided in a minimum of 5 percent of the covered multifamily dwelling units. Repositionable countertops shall comply with the following:

1. Sinks and work surfaces required by Section 1133A.4 shall be designed to enable repositioning to a minimum height of 28 inches (711 mm).

2. Base cabinets directly under the kitchen sink counter area and work surface shall be removable as required in Section 1133A.3.

3. The sides of adjacent cabinets and the back wall, which may become exposed to moisture or food handling when a countertop is lowered, shall be constructed of durable, nonabsorbent materials appropriate for such uses.

4. Finished flooring shall be extended to the wall beneath the sink and work surface.

Exceptions:

1. Stone, cultured stone and tiled countertops may be used without meeting the repositioning requirements.

2. Two 15-inch (381 mm) wide minimum breadboards may be provided in lieu of the required 30 inches (762 mm) of countertop work surface, and used without meeting the repositioning requirements.

1133A.5 Lower shelving. Lower shelving and/or drawer space shall be provided in the kitchen at a height of no more than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the floor.

1133A.6 Kitchen sink faucet controls. Faucet controls and operating mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist.

The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2N). Lever-operated, push-type and electronically controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs. Self-closing valves are allowed if the faucet remains open for at least 10 seconds.

1133A.7 Knee and toe space. Knee and toe space, when required by Section 1133A, shall comply with the following:

1.      The knee and toe space shall be clear and unobstructed, or removable base cabinets in compliance with Section 1133A.3 shall be provided.

2.      The knee and toe space shall be 30 inches (762 mm) wide minimum, centered on the sink, countertop or appliance.

3.      A clear floor space shall not extend into the knee and toe space more than 19 inches (483 mm).

1133A.7.1 Plumbing protection.  Water supply and drain pipes under kitchen sinks shall be insulated or otherwise covered to protect against contact. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under kitchen sinks.

SECTION 1134A

BATHING AND TOILET FACILITIES

1134A.1 General. All bathrooms, bathing and toilet facilities within covered multifamily dwelling units shall comply with this section.

1134A.2 Number of complying bathrooms. Bathrooms shall be designed to comply with one of the following options:

Option 1.  All bathrooms within the dwelling unit shall be designed to comply with the following:

1.      Toilet, bathing and shower facilities shall comply with Section 1134A.4.

2.      Bathtubs shall comply with Section 1134A.5.

3.      Showers shall comply with Section 1134A.6.

4.      Water closets shall comply with Section 1134A.7.

5.      Lavatories, vanities, mirrors and towel fixtures shall comply with 1134A.8.

6.      Bathrooms shall be provided with an accessible route into and through the bathroom.

7.      If a door is provided, it shall comply with the requirements of Section 1132A.5.

8.      A minimum 18-inch (457 mm) clear maneuvering space shall be provided on the swing side of the door at the strike edge of the door.

9.      Switches, outlets and controls shall comply with Section 1142A.

Option 2. Only one bathroom within the dwelling unit shall be designed to comply with the following:

1.      Toilet, bathing and shower facilities shall comply with Section 1134A.4.

2.      Bathtubs shall comply with Section 1134A.5.

3       Showers shall comply with Section 1134A.6.

4.      Water closets shall comply with Section 1134A.7.

5.      Lavatories, vanities, mirrors and towel fixtures shall comply with 1134A.8.

6.      Where both a tub and shower are provided in the bathroom, at least one shall be made accessible. Additional requirements apply to dwelling units containing two or more bathrooms when a bathtub is provided as the accessible bathing fixture.

Where two or more bathrooms are provided within the same dwelling unit and a bathtub is installed to comply with Option 2, Item 6 in one bathroom and a shower stall is provided in a subsequent bathroom, both the bathtub selected to comply with Option 2, Item 6 and at least one shower stall within the dwelling unit shall meet all the applicable accessibility requirements provided in Section 1134A.   (See Section 1134A.5 for bathtubs, or Section 1134A.6 for showers.)

7.      When two or more lavatories are provided, at least one shall be made accessible and comply with Section 1134A.8.

8.      Bathrooms shall be provided with an accessible route into and through the bathroom.

9.      If a door is provided, it shall comply with the requirements of Section 1132A.5.

10.    A minimum 18-inch (457 mm) clear maneuvering space shall be provided on the swing side of the door at the strike edge of the door.

11.    Switches, outlets and controls shall comply with Section 1142A.

1134A.3 Powder rooms. All powder rooms shall be designed to comply with Section 1134A.2, Option 2, Items 8 through 12.  When the powder room is the only toilet facility located on an accessible level, it shall comply with the Option 2 Items listed above, plus all additional requirements located in Sections 1134A.4, 1134A.7 and 1134A.8.

1134A.4 Sufficient maneuvering space. Bathing and toilet facilities required to be adaptable shall provide sufficient maneuvering space for a person using a wheelchair or other mobility aid to enter and close the door, use the fixtures, reopen the door and exit.

Where the door swings into the bathroom or powder room, there shall be a clear maneuvering space outside the swing of the door of at least 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) within the room. The clear maneuvering space shall allow the user to position a wheelchair or other mobility aid clear of the path of the door as it is closed and to permit use of fixtures.

Doors may swing into the required clear space at any fixture when a clear maneuvering space is provided outside the swing arc of the door so it can be closed.

Maneuvering spaces may include any knee space or toe space available below bathroom fixtures.

1134A.5 Bathtubs. Bathtubs required to be accessible shall comply with this section.

1.         Floor space.  There shall be a minimum clear floor space 48 inches parallel by 30 inches perpendicular (1219 mm by 762 mm) to the side of a bathtub or bathtub-shower combination to provide for the maneuvering of a wheelchair and transfer to and from the bathing facilities. The controls shall be on the wall at the foot of the bathtub. The edge of the clear floor space shall be flush with the control wall surface. The area under a lavatory, located at the control end of the tub, may be included in the clear floor space provided the lavatory is 19 inches (483 mm) maximum deep, and the knee and toe space comply with Section 1134A.8. Cabinets under lavatories and toilets shall not encroach into the clear floor space.

2.      Reinforced walls for grab bars.  A bathtub installed without surrounding walls shall provide reinforced areas for the installation of floor-mounted grab bars.

Where a bathtub is installed with surrounding walls, grab bar reinforcement shall be located on each end of the bathtub, 32 inches to 38 inches (813 mm to 965 mm) above the floor, extending a minimum of 24 inches (610 mm) from the front edge of the bathtub toward the back wall of the bathtub. The grab bar reinforcement shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) nominal in height. (See Figure 11A-9G).

Grab bar reinforcement shall be installed on the back wall of the bathtub a maximum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) above the bathtub rim extending upward to at least 38 inches (965 mm) above the floor. Grab bar backing shall be installed horizontally to permit the installation of a 48-inch (1219 mm) grab bar with each end a maximum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) from the end walls of the bathtub. The grab bar reinforcement shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) nominal in height.

3.      Bathtub controls.  Faucet controls and operation mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist.

The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2N). Lever operated, push type and electronically controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs.

4.      Shower unit.  A shower spray unit is not required in bathtubs.

5.      Bathtub enclosures.  Doors and panels of bathtub enclosures shall be substantially constructed from approved, shatter-resistant materials. Hinged doors shall open outward. Glazing used in doors and panels of bathtub enclosures shall be fully tempered, laminated safety glass or approved plastic. When glass is used, it shall have minimum thickness of not less than ¹/₈ inch (3.17 mm) when fully tempered, or 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) when laminated, and shall pass the test requirements of this part, Chapter 24 Glass and Glazing. Plastics used in doors and panels of bathtub enclosures shall be of a shatter-resistant type.

1134A.6 Showers. Showers required to be accessible shall comply with this section.

1.      Size.  When one or more shower stalls are provided within the same dwelling unit, at least one shower stall shall comply with one of the following requirements.

1.1    The shower stall shall measure at least 42 inches wide by 48 inches deep (1067 mm by 1219 mm) with an entrance opening of at least 36 inches (914 mm);  or

1.2    The shower stall shall measure at least 30 inches deep by 60 inches wide (762 mm by 1524 mm) with an entrance opening of at least 60 inches (1524 mm). A water closet may project a maximum of 12 inches (305 mm) into the opening provided that a minimum of 36 inches (914 mm) clear space is maintained between the water closet and the shower wall as illustrated in Figure 11A-9L or;

FIGURE 11A-9L
SHOWER WITH WATER CLOSET

1.3    Other shower stall configurations shall measure at least 36 inches deep by 60 inches wide (914 mm by 1524 mm) with an entrance opening of at least 36 inches (914 mm) when a wall is installed on the opening side.

2.      Slope.  The maximum slope of the shower floor shall be ½ inch (12.7 mm) per foot in any direction and shall slope to a drain. The floor surfaces shall be of Carborundum or grit-faced tile or of material providing equivalent slip resistance.

3.      Floor space.  A clear maneuvering space at least 30 inches in width by 48 inches in length (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be located outside the shower, flush and parallel to the control wall.

4.      Reinforced walls for grab bars.   Grab bar reinforcement shall be installed continuous in the walls of showers 32 inches to 38 inches (813 mm to 965 mm) above the floor. The grab bar reinforcement shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) nominal in height.

       Glass-walled shower stalls shall provide reinforcement for installation of floor-mounted or ceiling-mounted grab bars.

5.      Thresholds.  When a threshold is used, it shall be a maximum of 2 inches (50.8 mm) in height and have a beveled or sloped angle not exceeding 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal (26.6 degrees from the horizontal). Thresholds ½ inch (12.7 mm) or less in height may have a beveled or sloped angle not exceeding 1 unit vertical in 1 unit horizontal (45 degrees from the horizontal).

6.      Shower controls.  Faucet controls and operation mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N). Lever operated, push-type and electronically controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs.

7.      Shower enclosures.  Doors and panels of shower enclosures shall be substantially constructed from approved, shatter-resistant materials. Hinged shower doors shall open outward. Glazing used in doors and panels of shower enclosures shall be fully tempered, laminated safety glass or approved plastic. When glass is used, it shall have minimum thickness of not less than ¹/₈ inch (3.17 mm) when fully tempered, or ¼ inch (6.35 mm) when laminated, and shall pass the test requirements of this part, Chapter 24, Glass and Glazing. Plastics used in doors and panels of shower enclosures shall be of a shatter-resistant type.

1134A.7 Water closets. Water closets in bathrooms or powder rooms required to be accessible shall comply with this section.

1.      Floor space and location.  The minimum floor space provided at a water closet shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) in clear width.  The clear floor space shall extend past the front edge of the water closet at least 36 inches (914 mm).  See Figure 11A-9M.

FIGURE 11A-9M
WING WALL OR CABINET AT WATER CLOSET

Exception: The 48-inch (1219 mm) minimum clear width may be reduced to 36 inches (914 mm) for lavatories, cabinets, wing walls, or privacy walls located immediately adjacent to a water closet which extend no more than 24 inches (610 mm) in depth.

Water closets shall be located within bathrooms in a manner that permits a grab bar to be installed on at least one side of the fixture. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum to 18 inches (457 mm) maximum from a grab bar wall or partition. In locations where water closets are adjacent to non-grab bar walls, vanities, lavatories or bathtubs, the centerline of the fixture shall be a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) from the obstacle.

2.      Reinforced walls for grab bars.  Where the water closet is not placed adjacent to a side wall capable of accommodating a grab bar, the bathroom shall have provisions for installation of floor-mounted, foldaway or similar alternative grab bars.

Where the water closet is placed adjacent to a side wall, reinforcement shall be installed on both sides or one side and the back. If reinforcement is installed at the back, it shall be installed between 32 inches (813 mm) and 38 inches (965 mm) above the floor. The grab bar reinforcement shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) nominal in height. The backing shall be a minimum of 40 inches (1016 mm) in length.

Reinforcement installed at the side of the water closet shall be installed 32 inches to 38 inches (813 mm to 965 mm) above the floor. The reinforcement shall be installed a maximum of 12 inches (305 mm) from the rear wall and shall extend a minimum of 26 inches (660 mm) in front of the water closet. The grab bar reinforcement shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152.4 mm) nominal in height.

3.      Seat height.  The minimum height of water closet seats shall be 15 inches (381 mm) above the floor.

4.      Water closet controls.  Water closet controls shall be mounted no more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N).

1134A.8 Lavatories, vanities, mirrors and towel fixtures. Bathrooms or powder rooms required to be accessible shall have at least one accessible lavatory. Where mirrors and towel fixtures are provided, at least one of each shall be accessible.

1.      Location.  Vanities and lavatories shall be installed with the centerline of the fixture a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) horizontally from an adjoining wall or fixture to allow for forward approach. When parallel approach is provided, lavatories shall be installed with the centerline of the fixture a minimum of 24 inches (610 mm) horizontally from an adjoining wall or fixture. The top of the fixture rim shall be a maximum of 34 inches (864 mm) above the finished floor.

2.      Floor space.  A clear maneuvering space at least 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be provided at lavatories and shall be centered on the lavatory.

3.      Cabinets.  Cabinets under lavatories are acceptable provided the bathroom has space to allow a parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair and the lavatory cabinets are designed with adaptable knee and toe space.

4.      Knee and toe space.  Knee and toe space shall be provided by one of the following:

4.1.   The space beneath the lavatory shall be left clear and unobstructed;

4.2.   Any cabinet beneath the lavatory shall be removable without the use of specialized knowledge or specialized tools; or,

4.3.   Doors to the cabinet beneath the lavatory shall be removable or openable to provide the required unobstructed knee and toe space.

The knee and toe space shall be centered on the fixture, and shall comply with Section 1138A.2. The clear floor space required by Item 2 shall not extend into the knee and toe space more than 19 inches (483 mm). (See Figure 11A-9D).

5.      Finished floor.  The finished floor beneath the lavatory shall be extended to the wall.

6.      Plumbing protection. Water supply and drain pipes under lavatories shall be insulated or otherwise covered to protect against contact. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under lavatories.

7.      Lavatory faucet controls.  Faucet controls and operation mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist.

The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N). Lever operated, push-type and electronically controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs. Self-closing valves are allowed if the faucet remains open for at least 10 seconds.

8.      Mirrors and towel fixtures.  Where mirrors or towel fixtures are provided they shall be mounted with the bottom edge no higher than 40 inches (1016 mm) from the floor.

SECTION 1135A

LAUNDRY ROOMS

1135A.1 General. If clothes washing machines and clothes dryers are provided in covered multifamily dwelling units, one of each type of appliance shall be provided. Where front-loading clothes washers are not provided, management shall provide assistive devices, on request of the occupant, to permit the use of top-loading clothes washers.

SECTION 1136A

ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE, SWITCH AND CONTROL HEIGHTS

1136A.1 Receptacle heights. Electrical receptacle outlets on branch circuits of 30 amperes or less and communication system receptacles shall be located no more than 48 inches (1219 mm) measured from the top of the receptacle outlet box nor less than 15 inches (381 mm) measured from the bottom of the receptacle outlet box to the level of the finished floor or working platform. If the reach is over a physical barrier or an obstruction (for example, a kitchen base cabinet), receptacles shall be located within the reach ranges specified in Section 1138A.3. Physical barriers and obstructions shall not extend more than 25 inches (635 mm) from the wall beneath the receptacle.

Receptacle outlets that do not satisfy these specifications are acceptable provided that comparable receptacle outlets, that perform the same functions, are provided within the same area and are accessible.

Exceptions:

1.      Receptacle outlets installed as part of permanently installed baseboard heaters are exempt.

2.      Required receptacle outlets shall be permitted in floors when adjacent to sliding panels or walls.

3.      Baseboard electrical outlets used in relocatable partitions, window walls or other electrical convenience floor outlets are not subject to the minimum height requirements.

4.      This section shall not apply to existing buildings when the enforcing agency determines that compliance with these standards would create an unreasonable hardship.

1136A.2 Switch and control heights. Controls or switches intended to be used by the occupant of the room or area to control lighting and receptacle outlets, appliances, alarms or cooling, heating and ventilating equipment shall be located no more than 48 inches (1219 mm) measured from the top of the outlet box nor less than 15 inches (381 mm) measured from the bottom of the outlet box to the level of the finished floor or working platform. If the reach is over a physical barrier or an obstruction (for example, a kitchen base cabinet) switches and controls shall be located within the reach ranges specified in Section 1138A.3. Physical barriers or obstructions shall not extend more than 25 inches (635 mm) from the wall beneath a control.

Switches and controls that do not satisfy these specifications are acceptable provided that comparable controls or outlets, that perform the same functions, are provided within the same area and are accessible.

Exception:  Appliances (e.g., kitchen stoves, dishwashers, range hoods, microwave ovens and similar appliances) which have controls located on the appliance.

DIVISION VI – SITE IMPRACTICALITY TESTS

SECTION 1150A SITE IMPRACTICALITY TESTS

1150A.1 General.  Covered multifamily dwellings in buildings without an elevator, located on sites with difficult terrain conditions or unusual characteristics, may employ the site impracticality tests in this division for determining the accessibility and adaptability provisions required by this chapter.

Except as provided for in Section 1102A.3.1, the provisions of this section do not apply to multistory dwelling units in nonelevator buildings.

TEST NO. 1 – INDIVIDUAL BUILDING TEST

It is not required by this code to provide an accessible route when the terrain of the site is such that both of the following apply:

1.      The slopes of the undisturbed site measured between the planned entrance and all vehicular or pedestrian arrival points within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the planned entrance exceed 15 percent; and

2.      The slopes of the planned finished grade measured between the entrance and all vehicular or pedestrian arrival points within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the planned entrance also exceed 15 percent.

If there are no vehicular or pedestrian arrival points within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the planned entrance, the slope for the purposes of Test No. 1 will be measured to the closest vehicular or pedestrian arrival point.

For purposes of these requirements, vehicular or pedestrian arrival points include public or resident parking areas, public transportation stops, passenger loading zones and public streets or sidewalks. To determine site impracticality, the slope would be measured at ground level from the point of the planned entrance on a straight line to (1) each vehicular or pedestrian arrival point that is within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the planned entrance, or (2) if there are no vehicular or pedestrian arrival points within the specified area, the vehicular or pedestrian arrival point closest to the planned entrance. In the case of sidewalks, the closest point to the entrance will be where a public sidewalk entering the site intersects with the walk to the entrance. In the case of resident parking areas, the closest point to the planned entrance will be measured from the entry point to the parking area that is located closest to the planned entrance.

TEST NO. 2 – SITE ANALYSIS TEST

For a site having multiple buildings, or a site with a single building with multiple entrances, it is not required to provide an accessible route to all ground floor units under the following conditions:

1.      Calculate the percentage of the total buildable area of the undisturbed site with a natural grade less than 10-percent slope. The analysis of the existing slope (before grading) shall be done on a topographic survey with 2-foot (610 mm) contour intervals with slope determination made between each successive interval. The accuracy of the slope analysis shall be certified by a licensed engineer, landscape architect, architect or surveyor.

2.      Determine the requirement of providing an accessible route to planned multifamily dwellings based on the topography of the existing natural terrain. The minimum percentage of ground floor units required on an accessible route shall equal the percentage of the total buildable area (not restricted-use areas) of the undisturbed site with an existing natural grade of less than 10-percent slope. In no case shall less than 20 percent of the ground floor dwelling units be on an accessible route and comply with the provisions of Division IV.

3.      In addition to the percentage established in paragraph (2), all additional ground floor units in a building, or ground floor units served by a particular entrance, that fall within an 8.33-percent slope between their planned entrances and an arrival point, shall be on an accessible route and comply with the provisions of Division IV.

4.      All additional ground floor units in a building, or ground floor units served by a particular entrance, not on an accessible route shall comply with the features listed in Section 1150A.2.

TEST NO. 3 – UNUSUAL CHARACTERISTICS TEST

Unusual characteristics include sites located in a state or federally designated floodplain or coastal high-hazard areas and sites subject to other similar requirements of law or code that require the lowest floor or the lowest structural member of the lowest floor be designed to a specified level at or above the base flood elevation. An accessible route to a building entrance is impractical due to unusual characteristics of the site when:

1.      The original site characteristics result in a difference in finished grade elevation exceeding 30 inches (762 mm) and 10 percent measured between an entrance and all vehicular or pedestrian arrival points within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the planned entrance; or

2.      If there are no vehicular or pedestrian arrival points within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the planned entrance, the unusual characteristics result in a difference in finished grade elevation exceeding 30 inches (762 mm) and 10 percent measured between an entrance and the closest vehicular or pedestrian arrival point.

CHAPTER 11 ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

DIVISION 1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION

11B-101 Purpose

This chapter 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 Chapter 1, Section 1.9.

[2010 ADAS]  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).

[ADA Title II]  §35.151(a) New construction and alterations;  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.

[ADA Title III]  §36.401(a) New construction;  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.

Advisory 11B-101.1 General (1).  Chapter 11B accessibility regulations are applicable to: 1) publicly funded buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities; 2) privately funded public accommodations and commercial facilities; and 3) public housing and private housing available for public use.  Refer to Chapter 1, Section 1.9 for additional information. ◼

Advisory 11B-101.1 General (2).  Accessible features, accommodations and elements must comply with the requirements of Chapter 11B.  In some cases Chapter 11B requires compliance with requirements in other parts of the building code. When additional scoping or technical requirements are located in other parts of the building code, the features, accommodations and elements must comply with those regulations and Chapter 11B. ◼

11B-101.2 Reserved.

[2010 ADAS]  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.

11B-102 Dimensions for adults and children.

The technical requirements are based on adult dimensions and anthropometrics. In addition, this chapter includes technical requirements based on children's dimensions and anthropometries for drinking fountains, water closets, toilet compartments, lavatories and sinks, dining surfaces, and work surfaces.

11B-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.

11B-104 Conventions

11B-104.1 Dimensions.

Dimensions that are not stated as "maximum" or "minimum" are absolute.

Advisory 11B-104.1 Dimensions.  This section clarifies the dimensioning conventions used in this chapter.  Dimensions stated as a "maximum" or "minimum" provide a dimensional range for design purposes.  Dimensions not stated as ‘maximum’ or ‘minimum’ are absolute values for design purposes. ◼

11B-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.

Advisory 11B-104.1.1 Construction and manufacturing tolerances.  Application of conventional industry tolerances must be on a case-by-case, project-by-project basis.  Predetermined guidelines for construction tolerances could unnecessarily encourage contractors and others to deviate from the access regulations found in the CBC and may wrongfully be viewed by some to have the effect of law.

Conventional building industry tolerances 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.

Where accessibility provisions state a dimensional range, such as Section 11B-505.4 which requires the top of stair handrails to be installed between 34 inches and 38 inches above the nosing, the range already provides an adequate tolerance, therefore, no tolerance outside the range at either end point is permitted.

An element designed to be constructed at either the maximum or minimum permitted dimensions puts the construction at risk if construction errors result in a violation of the standards.  It is 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.

In other words, dimensions noted in accessibility provisions as “maximum” or “minimum” should not be considered dimensions for design, as they represent the limits of a requirement.  To be sure that field tolerances result in usable construction, notes and dimensions in construction documents should anticipate expected tolerances so that a required dimensional range is not exceeded by the addition of a finish or a variation in construction practice.

Specifying dimensions in design in the manner described above will better ensure that facilities and elements accomplish the level of accessibility intended by the provision.  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. ◼

11B-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.

11B-104.3 Figures.

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

FIGURE 11B-104
GRAPHIC CONVENTION FOR FIGURES

11B-105 Referenced standards

11B-105.1 General.

See Chapter 35.

11B-106 Definitions

11B-106.1 General.

For the purpose of this chapter, the terms listed in Section 11B-106.5 and defined in Chapter 2 have the indicated meaning.

11B-106.2 Terms defined in referenced standards.

Terms not listed in Section 11B-106.5 and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, but specifically defined in a referenced standard, shall have the specified meaning from the referenced standard unless otherwise stated.

11B-106.3 Undefined terms.

The meaning of terms not specifically listed in Section 11B-106.5, and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.

11B-106.4 Interchangeability.

See Chapter 2, Section 201.2.

11B-106.5 Defined terms.

The following terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.

Advisory 11B-106.5 Defined terms.  Terms defined in Chapter 2, Section 202 and adopted by DSA-AC for access are listed below. Non-italicized terms indicate 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act Standards model code definitions. Italicized terms indicate definitions carried forward from the 2010 California Building Code. ◼

11B-107 Special conditions appeals action.

See Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1.5.

11B-108 Maintenance of accessible features.

A public accommodation shall maintain in operable working condition those features of facilities and equipment that are required to be accessible to and useable by persons with disabilities. Isolated or temporary interruptions in service or accessibility due to maintenance or repairs shall be permitted.

11B-108 Maintenance of accessible features.  Features for accessibility must be permanently functional, unobstructed and may not be removed.  It is not sufficient to provide features such as accessible routes, parking, elevators, ramps or signage if those features are not maintained in a manner that enables individuals with disabilities to use them.  Inoperable elevators, locked accessible doors, or "accessible" routes that are obstructed by furniture, filing cabinets or potted plants are not accessible to nor usable by persons with disabilities. ◼

DIVISION 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

11B-201 Application

11B-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. 

[ADA Title II] §35.151(d) New Construction and Alterations; Scope of Coverage. [ADA Title III] §36.406(b) Standards for New Construction and Alterations; 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 2010 Standards explain or illustrate the requirements of the rule; they do not establish enforceable requirements. 

11B-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. 

11B-201.3 Temporary and permanent structures.

These requirements shall apply to temporary and permanent buildings and facilities. 

11B-201.4 Construction Support Facilities.

These requirements shall apply to temporary or permanent construction support facilities for uses and activities not directly associated with the actual processes of construction, including but not limited to offices, meeting rooms, plan rooms, other administrative or support functions. When provided, toilet and bathing facilities serving construction support facilities shall comply with 11B-213. When toilet and bathing facilities serving construction support facilities are provided by portable units, at least one of each type shall be accessible and connected to the construction support facilities it serves by an accessible route.

EXCEPTION:  During construction an accessible route shall not be required between site arrival points or the boundary of the area of construction and the entrance to the construction support facilities if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access.

Advisory 11B-201.4 Construction support facilities.  This section clarifies that construction support facilities located on or adjacent to a construction site, but not directly associated with the actual processes of construction must comply with the accessibility provisions of Chapter 11B. Construction support facilities may include but are not limited to, offices, meeting rooms, plan rooms and other administrative and support spaces. Toilet facilities serving these construction support facilities, including portable units, must also comply with the accessibility provisions of this chapter. While an accessible route is required between construction support facilities and the toilet and parking facilities serving them, an accessible route is not required between site arrival points and construction support facilities when the only means of reaching the construction support facilities is a vehicular way.◼

11B-202 Existing buildings and facilities

11B-202.1 General.

Additions and alterations to existing buildings or facilities shall comply with Section 11B-202. 

11B-202.2 Additions.

Each addition to an existing building or facility shall comply with the requirements for new construction and shall comply with 11B-202.4 _|Alterations; Path of Travel Requirements|_.

Advisory 11B-202.2 Additions.  An addition to site improvements, such as a new patio or playground, may require an accessible path of travel from the site arrival point to restrooms, drinking fountains, signs, public telephones (if available) serving the addition.◼

[2010 ADAS] 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.

11B-202.3 Alterations.

Where existing elements or spaces are altered, each altered element or space shall comply with the applicable requirements of Division 2, including Section 11B-202.4 _|Alterations; Path of Travel Requirements|_. 

[2010 ADAS] 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.     Reserved.

[2010 ADAS]  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.     Technically infeasible. In alterations, where the enforcing authority determines compliance with applicable requirements is technically infeasible, the alteration shall provide equivalent facilitation or comply with the requirements to the maximum extent feasible. The details of the finding that full compliance with the requirements is technically infeasible shall be recorded and entered into the files of the enforcing agency.

[2010 ADAS]  2.  In alterations, where compliance with applicable requirements is technically infeasible, the alteration shall comply with the requirements to the maximum extent feasible.

ETA Editor's Note

A key difference between CBC and ADA is that matters of judgment, such as technical infeasibility, equivalent facilitation, and compliance to the maximum extent feasible are subject to the opinions of the Authority Having Jurisdiction with regard to CBC, while there is no such governing authority for ADA.  Instead, these matters are subject to being tested through the legal system.  Risk is minimized when there is clear evidence that proactive measures have been taken to enable individuals with varying types of disabilities to acquire goods and services independently, or to receive the same benefits of participation or employment as anyone else.

3.     Residential dwelling units not required to be accessible in compliance with this code shall not be required to comply with 11B-202.3.

[2010 ADAS]  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. 

[ADA Title II]  §35.151(b) New Construction and Alterations; 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.

[ADA Title III]  §36.402(a) Alterations; 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.

[2010 ADAS]  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 11B-202.3 Alterations (seismic strengthening).  In Legal Opinion No. 94-1109, dated May 10, 1995, the Attorney General for the State of California concluded that seismic strengthening work in an existing building constitutes a “building alteration, structural repair or addition” for purposes of providing access to the building for persons with disabilities.

In existing buildings or facilities, if seismic strengthening or upgrade work does not alter the primary use or function of the building or facility and/or does not alter the design of specific rooms or spaces, then the requirement for an accessible path of travel to the area of specific alteration does not apply. However, an accessible primary entrance, toilet and bathing facilities, drinking fountains, signs and public telephones, as well as an accessible route connecting these elements must be provided. In existing buildings or facilities, when the primary use or function of the building or facility and/or design of specific rooms or spaces are altered, the seismic strengthening or upgrade work must comply with all applicable accessibility regulations for new construction.  In addition, an accessible primary entrance to the building or facility and path of travel to the specific area of alteration, including toilet and bathing facilities, drinking fountains, signs, and public telephones serving the area must be provided.◼

Advisory 11B-202.3 Alterations (fire damage repair).  US Department of Justice technical assistance letter #772, dated August 26, 1998, indicates reconstruction after a fire is considered an alteration. Chapter 2, Section 202 defines alteration as “…a change, addition or modification in construction, change in occupancy or use, or structural repair to an existing building or facility. …” Reroofing, painting or wallpapering, or changes to mechanical and electrical systems are generally not considered to be alterations.

When the damage caused by a fire is minor and can be corrected by cleaning, re-painting or re-wallpapering, accessibility provisions based on alterations are not triggered. The accessibility requirements of Section 11B-202.3 would apply where alterations are made in the fire damaged area, for example, if wall or roof structures are being reconstructed or repaired. These requirements include: (1) reconstruction work in the specific area of fire damage that complies with all applicable accessibility provisions for new construction and (2) the obligation to provide an accessible primary entrance to the building or facility and primary path of travel to the specific area of alteration, including toilet and bathing facilities, drinking fountains, signs, and public telephones that serve the area.◼

Advisory 11B-202.3 Alterations (change in occupancy).  When a building or facility undergoes a change of occupancy, the entire building or facility (or portion thereof) is considered the area of alteration.  The entire building or facility (or portion thereof) must be upgraded to comply with current accessibility requirements for new construction.◼

Advisory 11B-202.3 Alterations (pre-existing conditions).  Code changes to the California Building Code do not generally “trigger” the requirement to comply with the current code in existing buildings unless the building or facility is undergoing alteration.◼

11B-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. 

[ADA Title II]  §35.133 Maintenance of accessible features.  [ADA Title III]  §36.211 Maintenance of accessible features. (c) If the 2010 Standards reduce the technical requirements or the number of required accessible elements below the number required by the 1991 Standards, the technical requirements or the number of accessible elements in a facility subject to this part may be reduced in accordance with the requirements of the 2010 Standards. 

11B-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. 

11B-202.3.3 Alteration of single elements.

If alterations of single elements, when considered together, amount to an alteration of a room or space in a building or facility, the entire room or space shall be made accessible.

11B-202.4 Path of travel requirements in alterations, additions and structural repairs.

When alterations or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, an accessible path of travel to the specific area of alteration or addition shall be provided. The primary accessible path of travel shall include:

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

5.     Accessible drinking fountains; and

6.     When possible, additional accessible elements such as parking, signs, storage and alarms.

If an area 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 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.

9.     Certain types of privately funded, multistory buildings and facilities were formerly exempt from accessibility requirements above and below the first floor under this code, but as of, April 1, 1994, are no longer exempt due to more restrictive provisions in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. In alteration projects involving buildings and facilities previously approved and built without elevators, areas above and below the ground floor are subject to the 20-percent disproportionately _|should be "disproportionality"|_ provisions described in Exception 8, above, even if the value of the project exceeds the valuation threshold in Exception 8. The types of buildings and facilities are:

1.     Office buildings and passenger vehicle service stations of three stories or more and 3,000 or more square feet (279 m²) per floor.

2.     Offices of physicians and surgeons.

3.     Shopping centers.

4.     Other buildings and facilities three stories or more and 3,000 or more square feet (279 m²) per floor if a reasonable portion of services sought and used by the public is available on the accessible level.

For the general privately funded multistory building exception applicable to new construction and alterations, see Section 11B-206.2.3, Exception 1.

The elevator exception set forth in this section does not obviate or limit in any way the obligation to comply with the other accessibility requirements in this code. For example, floors above or below the accessible ground floor must meet the requirements of this section except for elevator service. If toilet or bathing facilities are provided on a level not served by an elevator, then toilet or bathing facilities must be provided on the accessible ground floor. 

Advisory 11B-202.4 Path of travel requirements in alterations, additions and structural repairs.  New access regulations made effective after the date of last construction may require owners to upgrade their facility to comply with the current regulations during alterations, additions or structural repair.◼

[2010 ADAS] 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. 

ETA Editor's Note

Per ADA Title II, §35.151(b)(4)(i)(B), and ADA Title III, §36.403(c)(2), 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.

[ADA Title II] §35.151(b)(4) New Construction and Alterations; Alterations; Path of Travel

(ii)(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. 

[ADA Title III] §36.403 Alterations: Path of travel.

(a) General.

(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.

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

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

(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. 

[ADA Title II] §35.151(b) New Construction and Alterations; Alterations.

(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. 

[ADA Title III] §36.304(d) Removal of Barriers; Relationship to alterations requirements of subpart D of this part.

(1)  . . . The path of travel requirements of §36.403 shall not apply to measures taken solely to comply with the barrier removal requirements of this section. 

[ADA Title II] §35.151(b)(4)(iii) New Construction and Alterations; Alterations;  . . .  Disproportionality. 

[ADA Title III] §36.403(f) Alterations: Path of Travel; Disproportionality. _|subsections below are numbered per §36.403(f)|_

(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.

(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. 

[ADA Title II] §35.151(b)(4)(iv) New Construction and Alterations; Alterations;  . . .  Duty to provide accessible features in the event of disproportionality. 

[ADA Title III] §36.403(g) Alterations: Path of Travel; Duty to provide accessible features in the event of disproportionality _|subsections below are numbered per §36.403(g)|_.

(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. 

[ADA Title II] §35.151(b)(4)(v) New Construction and Alterations; Alterations;  ...  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. 

[ADA Title III] §36.403(h) Alterations: Path of Travel; Series of smaller alterations.

(1)    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.

(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. 

[2010 ADAS] 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. 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.

11B-202.5 Alterations to qualified historic buildings and facilities.

Alterations to a qualified historic building or facility shall comply with the State Historical Building Code, Part 8, Title 24, of the California Code of Regulations.

Exception: Reserved.

Advisory 11B-202.5 Alterations to qualified historic buildings and facilities.  The basic criteria for designating a building or property as a qualified historic building or facility are administered by the National Register program of the National Park Service. In California, those responsibilities are delegated to the Office of Historic Preservation. The Office of Historic Preservation administers the National Register and has created and administers the California Register, a similar listing. The Office of Historic Preservation delegates authority to cities and counties as "certified local governments" to apply National Register criteria for creating local lists of historic buildings and properties. There are also local governments and agencies that designate buildings and properties as historic outside of the Office of Historic Preservation program.

The State Historical Building Code provides a definition of qualified historic building or property, and can be used to determine if a building or facility is qualified. The State Historical Building Code is used in conjunction with the accessibility requirements of Chapter 11B. In general, alteration projects in qualified historic buildings and facilities must comply with the new construction requirements of Chapter 11B, however, the State Historical Building Code provides alternative accessibility provisions when an entity believes that compliance with the Chapter 11B requirements for specific elements would threaten or destroy the historical significance of the building or facility. Alternative provisions are provided for entrances, doors, power-assisted doors, toilet rooms, and exterior and interior ramps and lifts. Equivalent facilitation is permitted in specific cases when the alternative provisions themselves would threaten or destroy the historical significance or character defining features of the historic building or facility. Alternative provisions and equivalent facilitation are applied on a case-by-case basis only.◼

[2010 ADAS] 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 elements shall be permitted to apply.  

[ADA Title II] §35.151(b) New Construction and Alterations; Alterations.

(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. 

[ADA Title III] §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.

11B-203 GENERAL EXCEPTIONS

11B-203.1 General.

Sites, buildings, facilities, and elements are exempt from these requirements to the extent specified by 11B-203.

11B-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 Section 11B-213 or to be on an accessible route.

Advisory 11B-203.2 Construction sites.  This section provides a general exception for structures and sites directly associated with the actual processes of construction from the accessibility provisions of Chapter 11B. Construction associated structures and sites may include, but are not limited to, scaffolding, bridging, materials hoists, materials storage and construction trailers. Portable toilet units provided exclusively for use by construction personnel on a construction site are also exempted from the accessibility provisions of this chapter. ◼

11B-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. 

11B-203.4 Limited access spaces.

Spaces not customarily occupied and 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.

11B-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.

11B-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. 

11B-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 Section 11B-232, shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. 

11B-203.8 Residential facilities.

In public housing residential facilities, common use areas that do not serve residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4 and adaptable features complying with Chapter 11A, Division IV shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. 

[2010 ADAS] 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.

11B-203.9 Employee workstations.

Employee workstations shall be on an accessible route complying with Division 4. Spaces and elements within employee workstations shall only be required to comply with Sections 11B-206.2.8 _|Accessible Routes; Employee Work Areas|_, 11B-207.1 _|Accessible Means of Egress; General|_, 11B-215.3 _|Fire Alarm Systems; Employee Work Areas|_, 11B-302 _|Floor or Ground Surfaces|_, 11B-303 _|Changes in Level|_, and 11B-404.2.3 _|Doors, Doorways and Gates;  Clear Width|_. Common use circulation paths within employee workstations shall comply with Section 11B-206.2.8.

[2010 ADAS] 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. 

11B-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. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders, or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas. 

11B-203.11 Water slides.

Water slides shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders, or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas. 

11B-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. Animal containment areas for public use shall be on an accessible route. 

11B-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. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders, or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas. 

11B-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. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders, or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas.

11B-204 PROTRUDING OBJECTS

11B-204.1 General.

Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with Section 11B-307.

Exceptions:

1.      Within areas of sport activity, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-307.

2.      Within play areas, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-307 provided that ground level accessible routes provide vertical clearance in compliance with Section 11B-1008.2. 

11B-205 OPERABLE PARTS

11B-205.1 General.

Operable parts on accessible elements, accessible routes, and in accessible rooms and spaces shall comply with Section 11B-309.

Exceptions:

1.      Operable parts that are intended for use only by service or maintenance personnel shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.

2.      Electrical or communication receptacles serving a dedicated use shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.

3.      Reserved.   

[2010 ADAS] 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.

11B-206 ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

11B-206.1 General.

Accessible routes shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-206 and shall comply with Division 4. 

11B-206.2 Where required.

Accessible routes shall be provided where required by Section 11B-206.2.

11B-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. Where more than one route is provided, all routes must be accessible. 

Exceptions:

1.      Reserved.

[2010 ADAS] 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.

3.      General circulation paths shall be permitted when located in close proximity to an accessible route. 

[ADA Title II] §35.151(i) New Construction and Alterations; 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

11B-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.

11B-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.      The following types of privately funded multistory buildings do not require a ramp or elevator above and below the first floor:

1.1.   Multi-storied office buildings (other than the professional office of a health care provider) and passenger vehicle service stations less than three stories high or less than 3,000 square feet (279 m²) per story.

Advisory 11B-206.2.3 Multi-story buildings and facilities Exception 1.1.  Elevators are the most common way to provide access in multistory office buildings.  An exception is provided to the access requirement when office buildings are less than three stories in height or have fewer than 3000 square feet (sf) on every floor. For example, a 3-story office building with 4500 sf on the first floor, 2500 sf on the second floor and 1500 sf on the third floor would not qualify for the exception because one of the three floors is not less than 3000 sf.◼

1.2.   Any other privately funded multi-storied building that is not a shopping center, shopping mall or the professional office of a health care provider, or a terminal, depot or other station used for specified public transportation, or an airport passenger terminal and that is less than three stories high or less than 3,000 square feet (279 m²) per story if a reasonable portion of all facilities and accommodations normally sought and used by the public in such a building are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities.

Advisory 11B-206.2.3 Multi-story buildings and facilities Exceptions 1.1 and 1.2.  Exceptions 1.1 and 1.2 are only available to privately-funded buildings and do not include a waiver of all other access features required on upper or lower floors.  In other words the exception is only for the elevator; everything else must comply. Many people with non-mobility (for example sight or hearing impairments) or semi-ambulatory conditions are served by the remaining access features required by this code.  Many wheelchair users can get to upper floors through the use of crutches and other assistance, and can use their wheelchair brought to that floor where access to accessible restrooms, hallways, and accommodations are important.◼

Advisory 11B-206.2.3 Multi-story buildings and facilities Exception 1.2.  What is a reasonable portion? Typically, one of each type of accommodation and functional space that is normally sought or used by the general public which is provided on inaccessible floors must be provided on the ground floor or an accessible floor; for example, equivalent meeting rooms, classrooms, etc.◼

Advisory 11B-206.2.3 Multi-story buildings and facilities Exception 1.2.  In facilities that house a shopping center or shopping mall, or a professional office of a health care provider on an accessible ground floor, the floors that are above or below the ground floor and that do not house sales or rental establishments or a professional office of a health care provider, must still meet the accessibility requirements of this code, except for elevator service.◼

[2010 ADAS] 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.      Reserved.

[2010 ADAS] 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 Section 11B-807.2, all common use areas serving cells with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B-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 Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4, residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Chapter 11A, Division IV, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Chapter 11A, Division IV, 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 Section 11B-806.2, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories provided that spaces complying with Section 11B-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 equipment areas on the floor immediately below the cab.

7.      Reserved.

[2010 ADAS] 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.

11B-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 Section 11B-206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7. 

11B-206.2.3.2 Distance to Elevators.

In new construction of buildings where elevators are required by Section 11B-206.2.3, and which exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m²) on any floor, an accessible means of vertical access via ramp, elevator or lift shall be provided within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of travel of each stair and each escalator. In existing buildings that exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m²) on any floor and in which elevators are required by Section 11B-206.2.3, whenever a newly constructed means of vertical access is provided via stairs or an escalator, an accessible means of vertical access via ramp, elevator or lift shall be provided within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of travel of each new stair or escalator. 

Exception: Stairs used solely for emergency egress.

At least one accessible route shall connect accessible building or facility entrances with all accessible spaces and elements within the building or facility, including mezzanines, which are otherwise connected by a circulation path unless exempted by Section 11B-206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.