Outdoor Developed Areas: A Summary of Accessibility Standards for Federal Outdoor Developed Areas

Trash and Recycling Receptacles [1011.2 and 1011.3]

At trash and recycling containers, a minimum of 36 by 48 inches of clear ground space positioned for a forward approach to the receptacle opening, or a minimum of 30 by 60 inches of clear ground space positioned for a parallel approach to the receptacle opening must be provided.

The operable parts of trash and recycling containers, such as handles or latches, must be between 15 and 48 inches above the ground. The operable parts must also be operable using one hand without tightly grasping, pinching, or twisting the wrist, and with no more than 5 pounds of force.

Currently, trash and recycling receptacles with hinged lids and latches to keep out large animals require a person to operate the latch or handle by tightly grasping, pinching, or twisting the wrist, and by applying more than 5 pounds of force. Until products with compliant operable parts become commercially available, compliance is required to the extent practicable.

Dumpster-type trash and recycling receptacles are not required to comply with the technical requirements for operable parts because the receptacle openings are typically more than 48 inches above the ground.