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

Share
Comment
Bookmark
- You must login to see and create bookmarks.
View Conventions Legend

DIVISION 5: GENERAL SITE AND BUILDING ELEMENTS

11B-501 General

11B-501.1 Scope.

The provisions of Division 5 shall apply where required by Division 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this chapter.

Car and van parking spaces shall comply with Section 11B-502. Where parking spaces are marked with lines, width measurements of parking spaces and access aisles shall be made from the centerline of the markings.

Exception: Where parking spaces or access aisles are not adjacent to another parking space or access aisle, measurements shall be permitted to include the full width of the line defining the parking space or access aisle.

11B-502.2 Vehicle spaces.

Car and van parking spaces shall be 216 inches (5486 mm) long minimum. Car parking spaces shall be 108 inches (2743 mm) wide minimum and van parking spaces shall be 144 inches (3658 mm) wide minimum, shall be marked to define the width, and shall have an adjacent access aisle complying with Section 11B-502.3.

[2010 ADA Standards] 502.2 Vehicle Spaces. Car parking spaces shall be 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum and van parking spaces shall be 132 inches wide minimum, shall be marked to define the width, and shall have an adjacent access aisle complying with 502.3.

Exception: Van parking spaces shall be permitted to be 108 inches (2743 mm) wide minimum where the access aisle is 96 inches (2438 mm) wide minimum.

[2010 ADA Standards] EXCEPTION: Van parking spaces shall be permitted to be 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum where the access aisle is 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum.

ETA Editor's Note

The CBC dimensional requirements for accessible parking spaces and van accessible parking spaces are larger than those in 2010 ADA Standards.

Plan drawing of a perpendicular van and car accessible space with a shared access aisle in between the two spaces. The van accessible space is shown at least 144" minimum wide and the car accessible space is shown as 108" minimum wide and both spaces are 216" minimum long. The access aisle is shown with cross hatching and "NO PARKING".

FIGURE 11B-502.2 VEHICLE PARKING SPACES ‡‡

11B-502.3 Access aisle.

Access aisles serving parking spaces shall comply with Section 11B-502.3. Access aisles shall adjoin an accessible route. Two parking spaces or one parking space and one electric vehicle charging space shall be permitted to share a common access aisle.

Advisory 11B-502.3 Access aisle. Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. In parking facilities where the accessible route must cross vehicular traffic lanes, marked crossings enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for people using wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Where possible, it is preferable that the accessible route not pass behind parked vehicles. ◼

A van and a car parking space are shown in plan view sharing an access aisle. The access aisle is shown to be 60 inches wide minimum and as long as the parking space. The entire length of the aisle area is to be marked.

A diagonal van and car parking space are shown in plan view sharing an access aisle. The access aisle is shown to be 60 inches wide and as long as the parking spaces it serves.

FIGURE 11B-502.3 PARKING SPACE ACCESS AISLE ‡‡

11B-502.3.1 Width.

Access aisles serving car and van parking spaces shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) wide minimum.

11B-502.3.2 Length.

Access aisles shall extend the full required length of the parking spaces they serve.

11B-502.3.3 Marking.

Access aisles shall be marked with a blue painted borderline around their perimeter. The area within the blue borderlines shall be marked with hatched lines a maximum of 36 inches (914 mm) on center in a color contrasting with that of the aisle surface, preferably blue or white. The words "NO PARKING" shall be painted on the surface within each access aisle in white letters a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) in height and located to be visible from the adjacent vehicular way. Access aisle markings may extend beyond the minimum required length.

[2010 ADA Standards] 502.3.3 Marking. Access aisles shall be marked so as to discourage parking in them.

Advisory 11B-502.3.3 Marking. The requirement that the hatching at the loading and unloading access aisle be a suitable contrasting color to the parking space is intended to ensure that the hatching is visually distinct from the background to which it is applied, and thus can be more easily seen. As hatching is generally recognized as a no-parking area, this difference in contrast assists drivers by providing a conspicuous visual deterrent to parking in the loading and unloading access aisle.

Asphalt is often the parking surface material used at accessible parking spaces. Asphalt is generally considered to be fairly dark in appearance. In order to provide a suitable contrasting color at the hatched area of the loading and unloading access aisle, a light color hatching should be used at locations where asphalt is the parking surface material. Although white paint is preferred (and traditionally the color most often used), its use is not mandatory under the California Building Code (CBC).

In order to provide a suitable contrast at the hatched area of the loading and unloading access aisle in locations where light concrete is used as the parking surface material (such as at concrete parking garages), a dark color hatching should be used. Although blue paint is preferred, its use is not mandatory under the California Building Code (CBC). ◼

[2010 ADA Standards] Advisory 502.3.3 Marking. The method and color of marking are not specified by these requirements but may be addressed by State or local laws or regulations. Because these requirements permit the van access aisle to be as wide as a parking space, it is important that the aisle be clearly marked.

The CBC marking requirements for accessible parking spaces and van accessible parking spaces are more extensive than those in 2010 ADA Standards.

Plan drawing of a perpendicular van and car accessible space with a shared access aisle in between the two spaces. The access aisle is shown with cross hatching and "NO PARKING". Each space is identified by a sign at the head end of the space and ISA on the surface of the space, near the entry end of the space.

(a) perpendicular parking

Plan drawing of a diagonal/angled van and car accessible space with a shared access aisle in between the two spaces. The access aisle is shown with cross hatching and "NO PARKING". Each space is identified by a sign at the head end of the space and ISA on the surface of the space, near the entry end of the space.

(b) angled parking

FIGURE 11B-502.3.3 ANGLED AND PERPENDICULAR PARKING IDENTIFICATION ‡‡

11B-502.3.4 Location.

Access aisles shall not overlap the vehicular way. Access aisles shall be permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space except for van parking spaces which shall have access aisles located on the passenger side of the parking spaces.

[2010 ADA Standards] 502.3.4 Location. Access aisles shall not overlap the vehicular way. Access aisles shall be permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space except for angled van parking spaces which shall have access aisles located on the passenger side of the parking spaces.

Advisory 11B-502.3.4 Location. Wheelchair lifts typically are installed on the passenger side of vans. Many drivers, especially those who operate vans, find it more difficult to back into parking spaces than to back out into comparatively unrestricted vehicular lanes. Where a van and car share an access aisle, the van space must be located with the access aisle on the passenger side of the van space. ◼

11B-502.4 Floor or ground surfaces.

Parking spaces and access aisles serving them shall comply with Section 11B-302. Access aisles shall be at the same level as the parking spaces they serve. Changes in level, slopes exceeding 1:48, and detectable warnings shall not be permitted.

Exception: Reserved.

Advisory 11B-502.4 Floor or ground surfaces. Access aisles are required to be nearly level in all directions to provide a surface for wheelchair transfer to and from vehicles. The exception allows sufficient slope for drainage. Built-up curb ramps are not permitted to project into access aisles and parking spaces because they would create slopes greater than 1:48. ◼

Advisory 11B-502.4 Floor or ground surfaces. Accessible parking spaces and access aisles are required to be level (maximum 1:48 slope) in all directions to provide a surface for wheelchair transfer to and from vehicles. The access aisle needs to be adjacent to, and the same required length as the accessible space it serves. Where two parking stalls share the same access aisle, a full depth aisle is required; in diagonal parking, the geometric layout will require additional access aisle depth to satisfy the loading area for both of the adjacent parking stalls as indicated in Figure 11B-502.3.3. ◼

11B-502.5 Vertical clearance.

Parking spaces, access aisles and vehicular routes serving them shall provide a vertical clearance of 98 inches (2489 mm) minimum.

[2010 ADA Standards] 502.5 Vertical Clearance. Parking spaces for vans and access aisles and vehicular routes serving them shall provide a vertical clearance of 98 inches (2490 mm) minimum.

Exception: In existing multistory parking facilities, car parking spaces, access aisles and vehicular routes serving them shall provide a vertical clearance of 80 inches (2032 mm) minimum. Existing vertical clearance in excess of 80 inches (2032 mm) and less than 98 inches (2489 mm) shall be maintained. This exception shall not apply to van parking spaces, access aisles, or vehicular routes serving them.

Advisory 11B-502.5 Vertical clearance. Signs provided at entrances to parking facilities informing drivers of clearances and the location of van accessible parking spaces can provide useful customer assistance. ◼

ETA Editor's Note

CBC requires 98 inches minimum vertical clearance at all accessible parking spaces, not solely van accessible parking spaces. This is more stringent than 2010 ADA Standards.

11B-502.6 Identification.

Parking space identification signs shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1 in white on a blue background. Signs identifying van parking spaces shall contain additional language or an additional sign with the designation “van accessible.” Signs shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground surface measured to the bottom of the sign.

[2010 ADA Standards] 502.6 Identification. Parking space identification signs shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Signs identifying van parking spaces shall contain the designation "van accessible." Signs shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground surface measured to the bottom of the sign.

Advisory 11B-502.6 Identification. The required "van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. Enforcement of motor vehicle laws, including parking privileges, is a local matter. ◼

Advisory 11B-502.6 Identification. This section requires that an additional “van accessible” sign or additional language be posted below the International Symbol of Accessibility when designating an accessible parking space that will accommodate a van. A single parking sign incorporating both the International Symbol of Accessibility and the language “van accessible” may be used. ◼

Exception: Signs located within a circulation path shall be a minimum of 80 inches (2032 mm) above the finish floor or ground surface measured to the bottom of the sign.

11B-502.6.1 Finish and size.

Parking identification signs shall be reflectorized with a minimum area of 70 square inches (45,161 mm²).

11B-502.6.2 Minimum fine.

Additional language or an additional sign below the International Symbol of Accessibility shall state “Minimum Fine $250.”

11B-502.6.3 Location.

A parking space identification sign shall be visible from each parking space. Signs shall be permanently posted either immediately adjacent to the parking space or within the projected parking space width at the head end of the parking space. Signs may also be permanently posted on a wall at the interior end of the parking space.

11B-502.6.4 Marking.

Each accessible car and van space shall have surface identification complying with either Section 11B-502.6.4.1 or 11B-502.6.4.2.

11B-502.6.4.1.

The parking space shall be marked with an International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1 in white on a blue background a minimum 36 inches wide by 36 inches high (914 mm by 914 mm). The centerline of the International Symbol of Accessibility shall be a maximum of 6 inches (152 mm) from the centerline of the parking space, its sides parallel to the length of the parking space and its lower corner at, or lower side aligned with, the end of the parking space length.

11B-502.6.4.2.

The parking space shall be outlined in blue or painted blue and shall be marked with an International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1 a minimum 36 inches wide by 36 inches high (914 mm by 914 mm) in white or a suitable contrasting color. The centerline of the International Symbol of Accessibility shall be a maximum of 6 inches (152 mm) from the centerline of the parking space, its sides parallel to the length of the parking space and its lower corner at, or lower side aligned with, the end of the parking space.

ETA Editor's Note

The CBC identification requirements for accessible parking spaces and van accessible parking spaces are more extensive than those in 2010 ADA Standards.

11B-502.7 Relationship to accessible routes.

Parking spaces and access aisles shall be designed so that cars and vans, when parked, cannot obstruct the required clear width of adjacent accessible routes.

Advisory 11B-502.7 Relationship to accessible routes. Wheel stops are an effective way to prevent vehicle overhangs from reducing the clear width of accessible routes. ◼

11B-502.7.1 Arrangement.

Parking spaces and access aisles shall be designed so that persons using them are not required to travel behind parking spaces other than to pass behind the parking space in which they parked.

Advisory 11B-502.7.1 Arrangement. Accessible parking spaces located so that the accessible route passes behind parked vehicles create a safety hazard, especially for wheelchair users. Wheelchair users traveling behind parked vehicles may be obscured from the view of drivers backing out of parking spaces, especially when passing behind high-profile vehicles. This section requires that persons with disabilities not be required to travel behind parking spaces other than the one in which they have parked. ◼

ETA Editor's Note

While 2010 ADA Standards Advisory 502.3 discourages configuring access aisles to require travel behind other parked vehicles, CBC 11B-502.7.1 prohibits this.

11B-502.7.2 Wheel stops.

A curb or wheel stop shall be provided if required to prevent encroachment of vehicles over the required clear width of adjacent accessible routes.

11B-502.8 Additional signs.

An additional sign shall be posted either; 1) in a conspicuous place at each entrance to an off-street parking facility or 2) immediately adjacent to on-site accessible parking and visible from each parking space.

11B-502.8.1 Size.

The additional sign shall not be less than 17 inches (432 mm) wide by 22 inches (559 mm) high.

11B-502.8.2 Lettering.

The additional sign shall clearly state in letters with a minimum height of 1 inch (25 mm) the following:

"Unauthorized vehicles parked in designated accessible spaces not displaying distinguishing placards or special license plates issued for persons with disabilities will be towed away at the owner’s expense. Towed vehicles may be reclaimed at _________________________ or by telephoning _______________________."

Blank spaces shall be filled in with appropriate information as a permanent part of the sign.

11B-503 Passenger drop-off and loading zones

[2010 ADA Standards] 503 Passenger Loading Zones

11B-503.1 General.

Passenger drop-off and loading zones shall comply with Section 11B-503.

11B-503.2 Vehicle pull-up space.

Passenger drop-off and loading zones shall provide a vehicular pull-up space 96 inches (2438 mm) wide minimum and 20 feet (6096 mm) long minimum.

11B-503.3 Access aisle.

Passenger drop-off and loading zones shall provide access aisles complying with Section 11B-503 adjacent and parallel to the vehicle pull-up space. Access aisles shall adjoin an accessible route and shall not overlap the vehicular way.

11B-503.3.1 Width.

Access aisles serving vehicle pull-up spaces shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) wide minimum.

11B-503.3.2 Length.

Access aisles shall extend the full length of the vehicle pull-up spaces they serve.

11B-503.3.3 Marking.

Access aisles shall be marked with a painted borderline around their perimeter. The area within the borderlines shall be marked with hatched lines a maximum of 36 inches (914 mm) on center in a color contrasting with that of the aisle surface.

[2010 ADA Standards] 503.3.3 Marking. Access aisles shall be marked so as to discourage parking in them.

An access aisle at a passenger loading zone is shown to be the full length of the vehicle pull-up space and 60 inches wide minimum. The access aisle is marked with a borderline and hatched lines within the border.

FIGURE 11B-503.3 PASSENGER DROP-OFF AND LOADING ZONE ACCESS AISLE ‡‡

11B-503.4 Floor and ground surfaces.

Vehicle pull-up spaces and access aisles serving them shall comply with Section 11B-302. Access aisles shall be at the same level as the vehicle pull-up space they serve. Changes in level, slopes exceeding 1:48, and detectable warnings shall not be permitted.

Exception: Reserved.

11B-503.5 Vertical clearance.

Vehicle pull-up spaces, access aisles serving them, and a vehicular route from an entrance to the passenger loading zone and from the passenger loading zone to a vehicular exit shall provide a vertical clearance of 114 inches (2896 mm) minimum.

Advisory 11B-503.5 Vertical clearance. The minimum vertical clearance at designated passenger drop-off and loading zones, and along at least one vehicle access route to the area from site entrances and exits, is 114 inches. This differs from the 98 inch vertical clearance requirement for accessible parking spaces. Commercial vans used for accessible transit may be taller than passenger vans. ◼

11B-504 Stairways

11B-504.1 General.

Stairs shall comply with Section 11B-504.

11B-504.2 Treads and risers.

All steps on a flight of stairs shall have uniform riser heights and uniform tread depths. Risers shall be 4 inches (102 mm) high minimum and 7 inches (178 mm) high maximum. Treads shall be 11 inches (279 mm) deep minimum.

Exception: Curved stairways with winder treads are permitted at stairs which are not part of a required means of egress.

11B-504.3 Open risers.

Open risers are not permitted.

Exceptions:

On exterior stairways, an opening of not more than ½ inch (12.7 mm) may be permitted between the base of the riser and the tread.
On exterior stairways, risers constructed of grating containing openings of not more than ½ inch (12.7 mm) may be permitted.

11B-504.4 Tread surface.

Stair treads shall comply with Section 11B-302. Changes in level, slopes exceeding 1:48, and detectable warnings shall not be permitted.

Exception: Reserved.

11B-504.4.1 Contrasting stripe.

Interior stairs shall have the upper approach and lower tread marked by a stripe providing clear visual contrast. Exterior stairs shall have the upper approach and all treads marked by a stripe providing clear visual contrast.

The stripe shall be a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm) wide to a maximum of 4 inches (102 mm) wide placed parallel to, and not more than 1 inch (25 mm) from, the nose of the step or upper approach. The stripe shall extend the full width of the step or upper approach and shall be of material that is at least as slip resistant as the other treads of the stair. A painted stripe shall be acceptable. Grooves shall not be used to satisfy this requirement.

Advisory 11B-504.4.1 Contrasting stripe. Some designers propose to provide a group of tooled grooves in lieu of the contrasting color. While grooves do provide shadow lines in some lighting conditions, these shadows cannot be relied upon under all lighting conditions. In addition, the spaces between the grooves do not provide any contrast. ◼

ETA Editor's Note

The CBC 11B-504.4.1 requirement for contrasting stripes is not included in 2010 ADA Standards. It should be noted that CBC Chapter 10 has a different requirement for contrasting stripes at stepped aisles in Assembly occupancies (not adopted by DSA-AC, as this is a life safety requirement, not an accessibility requirement), as follows:

1029.13.2.3 Tread contrasting marking stripe. A contrasting marking stripe shall be provided on each tread at the nosing or leading edge such that the location of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in descent. Such stripe shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm), and not more than 2 inches (51 mm) wide.

Exception: The contrasting marking stripe is permitted to be omitted where tread surfaces are such that the location of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in descent.

Where differing requirements apply, it is compulsory to comply with both, if possible. Where CBC Subsection 1029.13.2.3 applies, it is possible to comply with it and Subsection 11B-504.4.1 by providing contrasting stripes at each tread that are exactly 2 inches wide, located not more than 1 inch from the nosing. Where the Exception at Subsection 1029.13.2.3 applies, contrasting striping at the upper approach and bottom tread are still required to comply with Subsection 11B-504.4.1 at interior stepped aisles, and at the upper approach and all treads at exterior stepped aisles (see scoping requirement at 11B-210.1, Exception 3.

11B-504.5 Nosings.

The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be ½ inch (12.7 mm) maximum. Nosings that project beyond risers shall have the underside of the leading edge curved or beveled. Risers shall be permitted to slope under the tread at an angle of 30 degrees maximum from vertical. The permitted projection of the nosing shall extend 1¼ inches (32 mm) maximum over the tread below.

Exception: In existing buildings there is no requirement to retroactively alter existing nosing projections of 1½ inches (38 mm) which were constructed in compliance with the building code in effect at the time of original construction.

Advisory 11B-504.5 Nosings. While Chapter 10 may allow larger radius of curvature at the leading edge (nosing) of the tread, this radius must be no larger than ½ inch to comply with both Chapter 10 and Chapter 11B requirements.

Additionally, because it is possible to catch the top of one’s shoe on the underside of stair nosings, access compliance regulations require the underside of nosings to be free of abrupt changes – a beveled slope or non-square underside. ◼

Figure (a) shows vertical risers where the radius of curvature of the leading edge of each tread is 2 inch maximum.

Figure (b) shows angled risers. Risers can slope at an angle of 30 degrees maximum from the vertical.

Figures (c) and (d) show curved and beveled nosings, respectively. The maximum projection of the nosing is 1/2 inches beyond the rear of the tread below.

FIGURE 11B-504.5 STAIR NOSINGS ‡‡

11B-504.6 Handrails.

Stairs shall have handrails complying with Section 11B-505.

11B-504.7 Wet conditions.

Stair treads and landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent the accumulation of water.

11B-504.8 Floor identification.

Floor identification signs required by Chapter 10, Section 1023.9 complying with Sections 11B-703.1, 11B-703.2, 11B-703.3 and 11B-703.5 shall be located at the landing of each floor level, placed adjacent to the door on the latch side, in all enclosed stairways in buildings two or more stories in height to identify the floor level. At the exit discharge level, the sign shall include a raised five pointed star located to the left of the identifying floor level. The outside diameter of the star shall be the same as the height of the raised characters.

ETA Editor's Note

Stairway signage is among the most frequently-observed barriers in California, because of the prevalent misunderstanding of the requirements. The "Floor Identification Signs" referenced in CBC 11B-504.8 and in the second paragraph (only) of 1023.9 should not be confused with the "Stairway Identification Signs" (hereinafter termed the "Fire Department Signs," to assist in clarifying) referenced in the first paragraph of 1023.9, and in 1023.9.1.

"Floor Identification Signs" are for routine wayfinding use by vision-impaired persons and others who use the stairs, and these are required at all enclosed stairways of multi-story buildings. They must be tactile, and located at the latch side of the door inside the stairway as prescribed by CBC Section 11B-703.4.

"Fire Department Signs" are for use by emergency responders, to enable efficient navigation through tall buildings in emergency situations without having to backtrack, losing valuable time. They are required at enclosed stairs in buildings with more than 3 stories above or below the level of exit discharge. They are not required to be, and should not be tactile. They are not required to be, and should not be located adjacent to the latch side of the door. Making them tactile and placing them at the latch side of the door does not benefit emergency responders, and distracts routine vision-impaired stair users by providing information that is of little wayfinding use (e.g., whether the stair connects to the roof level).

It is not possible to meet the requirements for both the "Floor Identification Signs" and the "Fire Department Signs" with a single sign at each stair level, although this is frequently observed. Architects, Signage Consultants and Manufacturers having standard details showing one sign for both purposes are encouraged to change them permanently, indicating two separate and distinct signs. The requirements of 11B-504.8 do not apply to the "Fire Department Signs."

Neither the "Floor Identification Signs" nor the "Fire Department Signs" are required by 2010 ADA Standards. Note also that neither of these signs is required at open stairways.

11B-505 Handrails

11B-505.1 General.

Handrails provided along walking surfaces complying with Section 11B-403, required at ramps complying with Section 11B-405, and required at stairs complying with Section 11B-504 shall comply with Section 11B-505.

Advisory 11B-505.1 General. Handrails are not required on walking surfaces with running slopes less than 1:20. However, handrails are required to comply with Section 11B-505 when they are provided on walking surfaces with running slopes less than 1:20 (see Section 11B-403.6). Sections 11B-505.2, 11B-505.3, and 11B-505.10 do not apply to handrails provided on walking surfaces with running slopes less than 1:20 as these sections only reference requirements for ramps and stairs. ◼

11B-505.2 Where required.

Handrails shall be provided on both sides of stairs and ramps.

Exceptions:

In assembly areas, handrails shall not be required on both sides of aisle ramps where a handrail is provided at either side or within the aisle width.
Curb ramps do not require handrails.
At door landings, handrails are not required when the ramp run is less than 6 inches (152 mm) in rise or 72 inches (1829 mm) in length.

11B-505.2.1 Orientation.

The orientation of at least one handrail shall be in the direction of the stair run, perpendicular to the direction of the stair nosing, and shall not reduce the minimum required width of the stair.

11B-505.3 Continuity.

Handrails shall be continuous within the full length of each stair flight or ramp run. Inside handrails on switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps shall be continuous between flights or runs.

Exception: In assembly areas, ramp handrails adjacent to seating or within the aisle width shall not be required to be continuous in aisles serving seating.

[2010 ADA Standards] EXCEPTION: In assembly areas, handrails on ramps shall not be required to be continuous in aisles serving seating.

11B-505.4 Height.

Top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 38 inches (965 mm) maximum vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces. Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosings, and ramp surfaces.

Advisory 11B-505.4 Height. The requirements for stair and ramp handrails in this chapter are for adults. When children are the principal users in a building or facility (e.g., elementary schools), a second set of handrails at an appropriate height can assist them and aid in preventing accidents. A maximum height of 28 inches (710 mm) measured to the top of the gripping surface from the ramp surface or stair nosing is recommended for handrails designed for children. Sufficient vertical clearance between upper and lower handrails, 9 inches (230 mm) minimum, should be provided to help prevent entrapment. ◼

Figure (a) shows stairs with the top gripping surface of a handrail 34 to 38 inches above stair nosings.

Figures (b) and (c) show ramps and walking surfaces, respectively. The top gripping surface of a handrail is 34 to 38 inches above the surface.

FIGURE 11B-505.4 HANDRAIL HEIGHT

11B-505.5 Clearance.

Clearance between handrail gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum. Handrails may be located in a recess if the recess is 3 inches (76 mm) maximum deep and 18 inches (457 mm) minimum clear above the top of the handrail.

[2010 ADA Standards] 505.5 Clearance. Clearance between handrail gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum.

11B-505.6 Gripping surface.

Handrail gripping surfaces shall be continuous along their length and shall not be obstructed along their tops or sides. The bottoms of handrail gripping surfaces shall not be obstructed for more than 20 percent of their length. Where provided, horizontal projections shall occur 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum below the bottom of the handrail gripping surface.

Exceptions:

Where handrails are provided along walking surfaces with slopes not steeper than 1:20, the bottoms of handrail gripping surfaces shall be permitted to be obstructed along their entire length where they are integral to crash rails or bumper guards.
The distance between horizontal projections and the bottom of the gripping surface shall be permitted to be reduced by ¹/₈ inch (3.2 mm) for each ½ inch (12.7 mm) of additional handrail perimeter dimension that exceeds 4 inches (102 mm).

Advisory 11B-505.6 Gripping surface. People with disabilities, older people, and others benefit from continuous gripping surfaces that permit users to reach the fingers outward or downward to grasp the handrail, particularly as the user senses a loss of equilibrium or begins to fall. ◼

A handrail with brackets attached to the bottom surface is shown in cross section. The horizontal projection of the bracket from the wall is 1-1/2 inches below the bottom of the handrail.

FIGURE 11B-505.6 HORIZONTAL PROJECTIONS BELOW GRIPPING SURFACE

11B-505.7 Cross section.

Handrail gripping surfaces shall have a cross section complying with Section 11B-505.7.1 or 11B-505.7.2.

11B-505.7.1 Circular cross section.

Handrail gripping surfaces with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of 1¼ inches (32 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum.

11B-505.7.2 Non-circular cross sections.

Handrail gripping surfaces with a non-circular cross section shall have a perimeter dimension of 4 inches (102 mm) minimum and 6¼ inches (159 mm) maximum, and a cross-section dimension of 2¼ inches (57 mm) maximum.

Figure (a) shows a handrail with an approximately square cross section and figure (b) shows an elliptical cross section. The largest cross section dimension is 2 1/4 inches maximum. The perimeter dimension must be 4 to 6 1/4 inches.

FIGURE 11B-505.7.2 HANDRAIL NON-CIRCULAR CROSS SECTION

11B-505.8 Surfaces.

Handrail gripping surfaces and any surfaces adjacent to them shall be free of sharp or abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

11B-505.9 Fittings.

Handrails shall not rotate within their fittings.

11B-505.10 Handrail extensions.

Handrail gripping surfaces shall extend beyond and in the same direction of stair flights and ramp runs in accordance with Section 11B-505.10.

Exceptions:

Extensions shall not be required for continuous handrails at the inside turn of switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps.
In assembly areas, extensions shall not be required for ramp handrails in aisles serving seating where the handrails are discontinuous to provide access to seating and to permit crossovers within aisles.
In alterations, where the extension of the handrail in the direction of stair flight or ramp run would create a hazard, the extension of the handrail may be turned 90 degrees from the direction of stair flight or ramp run.

[2010 ADA Standards] 3. In alterations, full extensions of handrails shall not be required where such extensions would be hazardous due to plan configuration.

ETA Editor's Note

CBC 11B-505.10 Exception 3 is more stringent than 2010 ADA Standards, which allows the handrail extensions to be eliminated in alterations where they would be hazardous. Handrail extensions are never permitted to turn 90 degrees at new stairs or new ramps, either by CBC or ADA Standards, except at continuous inside handrails (per Exception 1).

11B-505.10.1 Top and bottom extension at ramps.

Ramp handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramp runs. Extensions shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent ramp run.

Ramp handrails at the top and bottom are shown to extend horizontally above the landing 12 inches minimum from the ramp run. The extensions return to posts.

FIGURE 11B-505.10.1 TOP AND BOTTOM HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT RAMPS

11B-505.10.2 Top extension at stairs.

At the top of a stair flight, handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beginning directly above the first riser nosing. Extensions shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.

The handrail extends horizontally above the landing for 12 inches minimum beginning directly above the first riser nosing.

FIGURE 11B-505.10.2 TOP HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT STAIRS

11B-505.10.3 Bottom extension at stairs.

At the bottom of a stair flight, handrails shall extend at the slope of the stair flight for a horizontal distance equal to one tread depth beyond the last riser nosing. The horizontal extension of a handrail shall be 12 inches (305 mm) long minimum and a height equal to that of the sloping portion of the handrail as measured above the stair nosings. Extension shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.

[2010 ADA Standards] 505.10.3 Bottom Extension at Stairs. At the bottom of a stair flight, handrails shall extend at the slope of the stair flight for a horizontal distance at least equal to one tread depth beyond the last riser nosing. Extension shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.

A handrail is shown to extend at the slope of the stair flight for a horizontal distance equal to 12 inches plus one tread depth beyond the last riser nosing.

FIGURE 11B-505.10.3 BOTTOM HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT STAIRS ‡‡

ETA Editor's Note

The CBC 11B-505.10.3 requirement for bottom handrail extension at stairs is more stringent than 2010 ADA Standards, which was revised from 1991 ADAAG.

[MORE INFO...]

*You must sign in to view [MORE INFO...]

Solutions

Documents

Resources

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

DIVISION 5: GENERAL SITE AND BUILDING ELEMENTS

Related Section Numbers

User Comments/Questions

[MORE INFO...]