DSA IR 11B-9: Accessibility Requirements for Solar Photovoltaic Systems at School Sites

5. Ground Level PV Systems

Ground level PV systems will have components other than vertical supports installed less than 80 inches above the ground or floor surface. For purposes of accessibility compliance, ground level PV systems fall into one of the two following types:

5A – Restricted Access: The PV system components are located within a secure enclosure with access to the area where the PV system is installed limited to operations and service personnel.:

1. There are no accessibility requirements within the area of work.¹²

2. The project is not an alteration that would trigger path of travel upgrades.¹³

3. An accessible route to the enclosure’s entrance shall not be required.¹⁴

4. To qualify for the machinery space and path of travel exceptions, signage must be posted indicating the area is to be entered only by operations and service personnel.

5B – Unrestricted or Limited Access: There will be use of the area or portion of the area of the ground level PV system by teachers, students, staff, and the general public:

1. The areas available for use shall be made accessible.

2. The project is an alteration that could trigger upgrades of path of travel elements serving that area.

3. The area should be on an accessible route.

4. Special attention should be paid to potential obstructions within accessible areas or on accessible routes.

5. See Section 7 - Path of Travel Requirements and Adjusted Construction Cost for policy guidance on the adjusted construction cost for compliance with path of travel requirements.