2022 California Standards for Accessible Design Guide (effective January 1, 2023)

11B-1008.4 Play components.

Ground level play components on accessible routes and elevated play components connected by ramps shall comply with Section 11B-1008.4.

11B-1008.4.1 Turning space.

At least one turning space complying with Section 11B-304 shall be provided on the same level as play components. Where swings are provided, the turning space shall be located immediately adjacent to the swing.

11B-1008.4.2 Clear floor or ground space.

Clear floor or ground space complying with Sections 11B-305.2 and 11B-305.3 shall be provided at play components.

Advisory 11B-1008.4.2 Clear floor or ground space. Clear floor or ground spaces, turning spaces, and accessible routes are permitted to overlap within play areas. A specific location has not been designated for the clear floor or ground spaces or turning spaces, except swings, because each play component may require that the spaces be placed in a unique location. Where play components include a seat or entry point, designs that provide for an unobstructed transfer from a wheelchair or other mobility device are recommended. This will enhance the ability of children with disabilities to independently use the play component.

When designing play components with manipulative or interactive features, consider appropriate reach ranges for children seated in wheelchairs. The following table provides guidance on reach ranges for children seated in wheelchairs. These dimensions apply to either forward or side reaches. The reach ranges are appropriate for use with those play components that children seated in wheelchairs may access and reach. Where transfer systems provide access to elevated play components, the reach ranges are not appropriate. ◼

[2010 ADA Standards] Children's Reach Ranges

Forward or Side Reach	Ages 3 and 4	Ages 5 through 8	Ages 9 through 12
High (maximum)	36 in (915 mm)	40 in (1015 mm)	44 in (1120 mm)
Low (minimum)	20 in (510 mm)	18 in (455 mm)	16 in (405 mm)

11B-1008.4.3 Play tables.

Where play tables are provided, knee clearance 24 inches (610 mm) high minimum, 17 inches deep (432 mm) minimum, and 30 inches (762 mm) wide minimum shall be provided. The tops of rims, curbs, or other obstructions shall be 31 inches (787 mm) high maximum.

Exception: Play tables designed and constructed primarily for children 5 years and younger shall not be required to provide knee clearance where the clear floor or ground space required by Section 11B-1008.4.2 is arranged for a parallel approach.

11B-1008.4.4 Entry points and seats.

Where play components require transfer to entry points or seats, the entry points or seats shall be 11 inches (279 mm) minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) maximum from the clear floor or ground space.

Exception: Entry points of slides shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-1008.4.4.

11B-1008.4.5 Transfer supports.

Where play components require transfer to entry points or seats, at least one means of support for transferring shall be provided.