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

11B-809.10.5.2 Reinforcement for grab bars.

Reinforcement for grabs bars shall comply with the following:

1. Where bathtubs are installed without surrounding walls reinforcement shall be provided for floor-mounted grab bars.

2. Where bathtubs are installed with surrounding walls, grab bar reinforcement shall be installed as follows:

a. At the control end wall and head end wall, between 30 inches (762 mm) maximum to 38 inches (965 mm) minimum above the finish floor, extending 28 inches (711 mm) minimum from the front edge of the bathtub to the back wall of the bathtub. The grab bar reinforcement shall be 8 inches (203 mm) minimum in height.

b. At the back wall, from 5 inches (127 mm) maximum above the bathtub rim to 38 inches (965 mm) minimum above the finish floor. Grab bar backing shall be installed horizontally to permit the installation of a 48-inch (1219 mm) grab bar with each end 6 inches (152 mm) maximum from the end walls of the bathtub.

FIGURE 11B-809.10.5.2 REINFORCEMENT FOR GRAB BARS.