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

11B-804.3 Kitchen work surface.

In residential dwelling units required to comply with Section 11B-809, at least one 30 inches (762 mm) wide minimum section of counter shall provide a kitchen work surface that complies with Section 11B-804.3. In kitchens within multi-bedroom housing units and on floors containing accessible sleeping rooms with adaptable features in undergraduate student housing, at least one 30 inches (762 mm) wide minimum section of counter shall provide a kitchen work surface that complies with Section 11B-804.3.

11B-804.3.1 Clear floor or ground space.

A clear floor space complying with Section 11B-305 positioned for a forward approach shall be provided. The clear floor or ground space shall be centered on the kitchen work surface and shall provide knee and toe clearance complying with Section 11B-306.

Exception: Cabinetry shall be permitted under the kitchen work surface provided that all of the following conditions are met:

     (a) the cabinetry can be removed without removal or replacement of the kitchen work surface;

     (b) the finish floor extends under the cabinetry; and

     (c) the walls behind and surrounding the cabinetry are finished.

11B-804.3.2 Height.

The kitchen work surface shall be 34 inches (864 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

Exception: A counter that is adjustable to provide a kitchen work surface at variable heights, 29 inches (737 mm) minimum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum, shall be permitted.

11B-804.3.3 Exposed surfaces.

There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under the work surface counters.