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

11B-609.3 Spacing.

The space between the wall and the grab bar shall be 1½ inches (38 mm). The space between the grab bar and projecting objects below and at the ends shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum. The space between the grab bar and projecting objects above shall be 12 inches (305 mm) minimum.

Exceptions:

1. The space between the grab bars and shower controls, shower fittings, and other grab bars above shall be permitted to be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum.
2. For L-shaped or U-shaped grab bars complying with Section 11B-609.9 the space between the walls and the grab bar shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum for a distance of 6 inches on either side of the inside corner between two adjacent wall surfaces.

Advisory 11B-609.3 Spacing. The distance between the grab bar and wall is an exact dimension. Many disabled people rely heavily upon grab bars to maintain balance and prevent serious falls. Many people brace their forearms between supports and walls to give them more leverage and stability in maintaining balance or for lifting. The grab bar clearance of 1½ inches required in this section is a safety clearance to prevent injuries resulting from arms slipping through the openings. It also provides adequate gripping room. ◼

(a) projecting objects

(b) recessed objects

FIGURE 11B-609.3 SPACING OF GRAB BARS