2019 California Standards for Accessible Design Guide (effective January 1, 2020 with July 1, 2021 amendments)
11B-221.1 General.
Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, designated aisle seats and semi-ambulant seats complying with Sections 11B-221 and 11B-802. In addition, lawn seating shall comply with Section 11B-221.5.
[2010 ADA Standards] 221.1 General. Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated aisle seats complying with 221 and 802. In addition, lawn seating shall comply with 221.5.
Wheelchair seating areas, integrated into the general seating plan, are required so that people using wheelchairs are not isolated from other spectators or their friends and family. These seating areas must comply with Section 11B-221.2.
Companion seats are required next to each wheelchair seating location. The companion seat is a conventional seat that accommodates a friend or companion. These seats must comply with Section 11B-221.3.
Aisle seating is required to be provided in addition to the wheelchair seating areas. At least five percent of aisle seats (but not less than one) are required to either have no armrest on the aisle side or to have a removable or folding armrest on the aisle side. These seats accommodate people who have a mobility disability but who wish to use a seat that is not in a wheelchair seating location. These seats must comply with Section 11B-221.4.
Semi-ambulant seating is required in addition to the spaces provided for wheelchair users. At least one percent of all seats (but no fewer than two) are required to provide 24 inches clear leg room from the front edge of the seat to the nearest obstruction or to the back of the seat immediately in front. These seats accommodate people who have a mobility disability but who wish to use a seat that is not in a wheelchair seating location. These seats must comply with Section 11B-221.6. ◼
ETA Editor's Note
For seating at assembly areas, the ADA scoping requirements are included for information. The CBC scoping requirements are more inclusive.
For ADA scoping requirements of Title II §35.151(g) and Title III §36.406(f) Standards for New Construction and Alterations; Assembly Areas, see U.S. Access Board's Note to Reader after Section 11B-221.6.
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