2019 California Standards for Accessible Design Guide (effective January 1, 2020 with July 1, 2021 amendments)

11B-216.6 Entrances.

In existing buildings and facilities where not all entrances comply with Section 11B-404, entrances complying with Section 11B-404 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1. Directional signs complying with Section 11B-703.5 that indicate the location of the nearest entrance complying with Section 11B-404 shall be provided at entrances that do not comply with Section 11B-404. Directional signs complying with Section 11B-703.5, including the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1, indicating the accessible route to the nearest accessible entrance shall be provided at junctions when the accessible route diverges from the regular circulation path.

[2010 ADA Standards] 216.6 Entrances. Where not all entrances comply with 404, entrances complying with 404 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Directional signs complying with 703.5 that indicate the location of the nearest entrance complying with 404 shall be provided at entrances that do not comply with 404.

Advisory 11B-216.6 Entrances. Where a directional sign is required, it should be located to minimize backtracking. In some cases, this could mean locating a sign at the beginning of a route, not just at the inaccessible entrances to a building. ◼

Advisory 11B-216.6 Entrances. Directional signs are needed where the accessible route diverges from the route for the general public and should be located at decision points (for example where the path to the stairs diverges from the path to an elevator or ramp). Directional signs are not needed where paths are equal and/or readily apparent. The signage program should be designed to consider differing uses of a facility which occur at different times of the day. For example, portions of a facility may be closed in the evening; appropriate signs should be provided to give adequate direction during these hours of use in addition to the typical operational hours.  

The signage program should be designed to provide the appropriate level of signs at points necessary for convenient navigation around the site. Too many signs can be confusing to everyone utilizing the site. ◼