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

ETA Editor's Note

The 2019 CBC Exception at 11B-403.3 is not present in the 2010 ADA Standards. Therefore, technically, the 2010 ADA Standards are more stringent with regard to the slope of sidewalks at streets or highways. CBC does not define street or highway but does define sidewalk as " ... contiguous to a street used by the public." It is inferable, whether intended or not, that sidewalks serving as accessible routes alongside private roadways are not excepted from the slope limitation.

In 2011, the U.S. Access Board published in the Federal Register its Proposed Guidelines for Pedestrian Facilities in the Public Right-Of-Way, along with a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The public comment period was concluded in 2012, and the guidelines are in the Final Rulemaking stage now. Until these guidelines become law, the Access Board is offering guidance on its website, where one can also request technical assistance and/or sign up for updates as to the rulemaking status: http://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/streets-sidewalks/public-rights-of-way/.

In 2013, in response to feedback, the U.S. Access Board issued a proposed Supplemental Rule to address accessibility for Shared Use Paths (used by pedestrians, bicyclists, and others for transportation or recreation), distinguished from sidewalks, as well as from trails. More information about this rulemaking process is available on the Access Board’s website: https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/streets-sidewalks/shared-use-paths.