Heads up: There are no amended sections in this chapter.

Chapter 11B Accessibility to Public Buildings, Public Accommodations, Commercial Buildings and Public Housing

CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE — MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 11B — ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS,
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user.
See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting agency	BSC	BSC-CG	SFM	HCD			DSA			OSHPD						BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting agency	BSC	BSC-CG	SFM	1	2	1/AC	AC	SS	SS/CC	1	1R	2	3	4	5	BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopt entire chapter							X
Adopt entire chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections that are listed below
Chapter / Section

Division 1 : Application and Administration

This chapter contains scoping and technical requirements for accessibility to sites, facilities, buildings, and elements by individuals with disabilities. The requirements are to be applied during the design, construction, additions to, and alteration of sites, facilities, buildings, and elements to the extent required by Chapter 1, Section 1.9.

11B-101.2 Reserved

11B-102 Dimensions for Adults and Children

The technical requirements are based on adult dimensions and anthropometrics. In addition, this chapter includes technical requirements based on children's dimensions and anthropometrics for drinking fountains, water closets, toilet compartments, lavatories and sinks, dining surfaces, and work surfaces.

11B-103 Equivalent Facilitation

Nothing in these requirements prevents the use of designs, products, or technologies as alternatives to those prescribed, provided they result in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.

11B-104 Conventions

FIGURE 11B-104
GRAPHIC CONVENTION FOR FIGURES

11B-104.1 Dimensions

Dimensions that are not stated as "maximum" or "minimum" are absolute.

11B-104.1.1 Construction and Manufacturing Tolerances

All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific minimum and maximum end points.

11B-104.2 Calculation of Percentages

Where the required number of elements or facilities to be provided is determined by calculations of ratios or percentages and remainders or fractions result, the next greater whole number of such elements or facilities shall be provided. Where the determination of the required size or dimension of an element or facility involves ratios or percentages, rounding down for values less than one half shall be permitted.

11B-104.3 Figures

Unless specifically stated otherwise, figures are provided for informational purposes only.

11B-105 Referenced Standards

11B-105.1 General

See Chapter 35.

11B-106 Definitions

11B-106.1 General

For the purpose of this chapter, the terms listed in Section 11B-106.5 and defined in Chapter 2 have the indicated meaning.

11B-106.2 Terms Defined in Referenced Standards

Terms not listed in Section 11B-106.5 and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, but specifically defined in a referenced standard, shall have the specified meaning from the referenced standard unless otherwise stated.

11B-106.3 Undefined Terms

The meaning of terms not specifically listed in Section 11B-106.5, and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.

11B-106.4 Interchangeability

See Chapter 2, Section 201.2.

11B-106.5 Defined Terms

The following terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.

ACCESS AISLE
ACCESSIBILITY
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
ADAPTABLE
ADDITION
ADJUSTED CONSTRUCTION COST
ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY
AISLE
ALTERATION
AMUSEMENT ATTRACTION
AMUSEMENT RIDE
AMUSEMENT RIDE SEAT
ANSI
APPROVED
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY
AREA OF REFUGE
AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY
ASSEMBLY AREA
ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS)
AUTOMATIC DOOR
AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINE (ATM)
BATHROOM
BLENDED TRANSITION
BOARDING PIER
BOAT LAUNCH RAMP
BOAT SLIP
BUILDING
BUILDING OFFICIAL
CATCH POOL
CCR
CHARACTERS
CHILDREN'S USE
CIRCULATION PATH
CLEAR
CLEAR FLOOR SPACE
CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEPHONE
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
COMMON USE
COMPLY WITH
CROSS SLOPE
CURB CUT
CURB RAMP
DETECTABLE WARNING
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
DISABILITY
DORMITORY
DRIVE-UP ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGER
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SPACE (EV SPACE)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EVCS)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CONNECTOR
ELEMENT
ELEVATED PLAY COMPONENT
ELEVATOR, PASSENGER
EMPLOYEE WORK AREA
ENFORCING AGENCY
ENTRANCE
EQUIVALENT FACILITATION
EXISTING BUILDING OR FACILITY
EXIT
FACILITY
FUNCTIONAL AREA
GANGWAY
GOLF CAR PASSAGE
GRAB BAR
GRADE (ADJACENT GROUND ELEVATION)
GRADE BREAK
GROUND FLOOR
GROUND LEVEL PLAY COMPONENT
GUARD
HANDRAIL
HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
HISTORICAL BUILDINGS
HOUSING AT A PLACE OF EDUCATION
IF, IF . . . THEN
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOL OF ACCESSIBILITY
KEY STATION
KICK PLATE
KITCHEN OR KITCHENETTE
LAVATORY
MAIL BOXES
MARKED CROSSING
MAY
MEZZANINE
MULTIBEDROOM HOUSING UNIT
NFPA
NOSING
OCCUPANT LOAD
OCCUPIABLE SPACE
OPEN RISER
OPERABLE PART
PASSENGER ELEVATOR
PATH OF TRAVEL
PEDESTRIAN
PEDESTRIAN WAY
PERMANENT
PERMIT
PICTOGRAM
PLACE OF PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION
PLATFORM
PLATFORM (WHEELCHAIR) LIFT
PLAY AREA
PLAY COMPONENT
POINT-OF-SALE DEVICE
POWDER ROOM
POWER-ASSISTED DOOR
PRIVATE BUILDING OR FACILITY
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE OF A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
PUBLIC BUILDING OR FACILITY
PUBLIC ENTITY
PUBLIC ENTRANCE
PUBLIC HOUSING
PUBLIC USE
PUBLIC-USE AREAS
PUBLIC WAY
QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDING OR FACILITY
RAMP
REASONABLE PORTION
RECOMMEND
REMODELING
REPAIR
RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNIT
RESTRICTED ENTRANCE
RISER
RUNNING SLOPE
SELF-SERVICE STORAGE
SERVICE ENTRANCE
SHALL
SHOPPING CENTER (OR SHOPPING MALL) SHOULD
SIDEWALK
SIGN
SINK
SITE
SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS
SOFT CONTAINED PLAY STRUCTURE
SPACE
SPECIFIED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
STAGE
STAIR
STAIRWAY
STORY
STRUCTURAL FRAME
STRUCTURE
TACTILE
TACTILE SIGN
TECHNICALLY INFEASIBLE
TEEING GROUND
TEMPORARY
TEXT TELEPHONE
TRANSFER DEVICE
TRANSIENT LODGING
TRANSIT BOARDING PLATFORM
TRANSITION PLATE
TTY
UNREASONABLE HARDSHIP
USE ZONE
VALUATION THRESHOLD
VEHICULAR WAY
WALK
WET BAR
WHEELCHAIR
WHEELCHAIR SPACE
WORKSTATION
WORK AREA EQUIPMENT

11B-107 Special Conditions Appeals Action

See Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1.5.

11B-108 Maintenance of Accessible Features

A public accommodation shall maintain in operable working condition those features of facilities and equipment that are required to be accessible to and useable by persons with disabilities. Isolated or temporary interruptions in service or accessibility due to maintenance or repairs shall be permitted.

Division 2 : Scoping Requirements

11B-201 Application

11B-201.1 Scope

ILLUSTRATION

All areas of newly designed and newly constructed buildings and facilities and altered portions of existing buildings and facilities shall comply with these requirements.

11B-201.2 Application Based on Building or Facility Use

Where a site, building, facility, room, or space contains more than one use, each portion shall comply with the applicable requirements for that use.

11B-201.3 Temporary and Permanent Structures

These requirements shall apply to temporary and permanent buildings and facilities.

11B-201.4 Construction Support Facilities

These requirements shall apply to temporary or permanent construction support facilities for uses and activities not directly associated with the actual processes of construction, including but not limited to offices, meeting rooms, plan rooms, other administrative or support functions. When provided, toilet and bathing facilities serving construction support facilities shall comply with Section 11B-213. When toilet and bathing facilities serving construction support facilities are provided by portable units, at least one of each type shall be accessible and connected to the construction support facilities it serves by an accessible route.

Exception: During construction an accessible route shall not be required between site arrival points or the boundary of the area of construction and the entrance to the construction support facilities if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access.

11B-202 Existing Buildings and Facilities

11B-202.1 General

Additions and alterations to existing buildings or facilities shall comply with Section 11B-202.

11B-202.2 Additions

Each addition to an existing building or facility shall comply with the requirements for new construction and shall comply with Section 11B-202.4.

11B-202.3 Alterations

Where existing elements or spaces are altered, each altered element or space shall comply with the applicable requirements of Division 2, including Section 11B-202.4.

Reserved.
Technically infeasible. In alterations, where the enforcing authority determines compliance with applicable requirements is technically infeasible, the alteration shall provide equivalent facilitation or comply with the requirements to the maximum extent feasible. The details of the finding that full compliance with the requirements is technically infeasible shall be recorded and entered into the files of the enforcing agency.
Residential dwelling units not required to be accessible in compliance with this code shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.3.

11B-202.3.1 Prohibited Reduction in Access

An alteration that decreases or has the effect of decreasing the accessibility of a building or facility below the requirements for new construction at the time of the alteration is prohibited.

11B-202.3.2 Extent of Application

An alteration of an existing element, space, or area of a building or facility shall not impose a requirement for accessibility greater than required for new construction.

11B-202.3.3 Alteration of Single Elements

If alterations of single elements, when considered together, amount to an alteration of a room or space in a building or facility, the entire room or space shall be made accessible.

11B-202.4 Path of Travel Requirements in Alterations, Additions and Structural Repairs

When alterations or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, an accessible path of travel to the specific area of alteration or addition shall be provided. The primary accessible path of travel shall include:

A primary entrance to the building or facility,
Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area,
Drinking fountains serving the area,
Public telephones serving the area, and
Signs.

Exceptions:

Residential dwelling units shall comply with Section 11B-233.3.4.2.
If the following elements of a path of travel have been constructed or altered in compliance with the accessibility requirements of the immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code, it shall not be required to retrofit such elements to reflect the incremental changes in this code solely because of an alteration to an area served by those elements of the path of travel:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility,
2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area,
3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
5. Signs.
  
  Note: The language in this exception, which refers to the "immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code," shall permit a reference back to one CBC edition only and is not accumulative to prior editions.
Additions or alterations to meet accessibility requirements consisting of one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4:
1. Altering one building entrance.
2. Altering one existing toilet facility.
3. Altering existing elevators.
4. Altering existing steps.
5. Altering existing handrails.
Alterations solely for the purpose of barrier removal undertaken pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (Public Law 101- 336, 28 C.F.R., Section 36.304) or the accessibility requirements of this code as those requirements or regulations now exist or are hereafter amended including, but not limited to, one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4:
1. Installing ramps.
2. Making curb cuts in sidewalks and entrance.
3. Repositioning shelves.
4. Rearranging tables, chairs, vending machines, display racks, and other furniture.
5. Repositioning telephones.
6. Adding raised markings on elevator control buttons.
7. Installing flashing alarm lights.
8. Widening doors.
9. Installing offset hinges to widen doorways.
10. Eliminating a turnstile or providing an alternative accessible route.
11. Installing accessible door hardware.
12. Installing grab bars in toilet stalls.
13. Rearranging toilet partitions to increase maneuvering space.
14. Insulating lavatory pipes under sinks to prevent burns.
15. Installing a raised toilet seat.
16. Installing a full-length bathroom mirror.
17. Repositioning the paper towel dispenser in a bathroom.
18. Creating designated accessible parking spaces.
19. Removing high-pile, low-density carpeting.
Alterations of existing parking lots by resurfacing and/or restriping shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4.
The addition or replacement of signs and/or identification devices shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4.
Projects consisting only of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, reroofing, electrical work not involving placement of switches and receptacles, cosmetic work that does not affect items regulated by this code, such as painting, equipment not considered to be a part of the architecture of the building or area, such as computer terminals and office equipment shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4 unless they affect the usability of the building or facility.
When the adjusted construction cost, as defined, is less than or equal to the current valuation threshold, as defined, the cost of compliance with Section 11B- 202.4 shall be limited to 20 percent of the adjusted construction cost of alterations, structural repairs or additions. When the cost of full compliance with Section 11B-202.4 would exceed 20 percent, compliance shall be provided to the greatest extent possible without exceeding 20 percent.

     When the adjusted construction cost, as defined, exceeds the current valuation threshold, as defined, and the enforcing agency determines the cost of compliance with Section 11B-202.4 is an unreasonable hardship, as defined, full compliance with Section 11B-202.4 shall not be required. Compliance shall be provided by equivalent facilitation or to the greatest extent possible without creating an unreasonable hardship; but in no case shall the cost of compliance be less than 20 percent of the adjusted construction cost of alterations, structural repairs or additions. The details of the finding of unreasonable hardship shall be recorded and entered into the files of the enforcing agency and shall be subject to Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1.5, Special Conditions for Persons with Disabilities Requiring Appeals Action Ratification.

     For the purposes of this exception, the adjusted construction cost of alterations, structural repairs or additions shall not include the cost of alterations to path of travel elements required to comply with Section 11B-202.4.

     In choosing which accessible elements to provide, priority should be given to those elements that will provide the greatest access in the following order:
1. An accessible entrance;
2. An accessible route to the altered area;
3. At least one accessible restroom for each sex or one accessible unisex (single-user or family) restroom;
4. Accessible telephones;
5. Accessible drinking fountains; and
6. When possible, additional accessible elements such as parking, signs, storage and alarms.
If an area has been altered without providing an accessible path of travel to that area, and subsequent alterations of that area or a different area on the same path of travel are undertaken within three years of the original alteration, the total cost of alterations to the areas on that path of travel during the preceding three-year period shall be considered in determining whether the cost of making that path of travel accessible is disproportionate.
Certain types of privately funded, multistory buildings and facilities were formerly exempt from accessibility requirements above and below the first floor under this code, but as of April 1, 1994 are no longer exempt due to more restrictive provisions in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. In alteration projects involving buildings and facilities previously approved and built without elevators, areas above and below the ground floor are subject to the 20-percent disproportionality provisions described in Exception 8, above, even if the value of the project exceeds the valuation threshold in Exception 8. The types of buildings and facilities are:
1. Office buildings and passenger vehicle service stations of three stories or more and 3,000 or more square feet (279 m²) per floor.
2. Offices of physicians and surgeons.
3. Shopping centers.
4. Other buildings and facilities three stories or more and 3,000 or more square feet (279 m²) per floor if a reasonable portion of services sought and used by the public is available on the accessible level.
For the general privately funded multistory building exception applicable to new construction and alterations, see Section 11B-206.2.3, Exception 1.

The elevator exception set forth in this section does not obviate or limit in any way the obligation to comply with the other accessibility requirements in this code. For example, floors above or below the accessible ground floor must meet the requirements of this section except for elevator service. If toilet or bathing facilities are provided on a level not served by an elevator, then toilet or bathing facilities must be provided on the accessible ground floor.
Alterations solely for the purpose of installing electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) at facilities where vehicle fueling, recharging, parking or storage is a primary function shall comply with Section 11B-202.4 to the maximum extent feasible without exceeding 20 percent of the cost of the work directly associated with the installation of EVCS. A "primary function" is a major activity for which the facility is intended.

Alterations solely for the purpose of installing EVCS at facilities where vehicle fueling, recharging, parking or storage is not a primary function shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4

11B-202.5 Alterations to Qualified Historic Buildings and Facilities

Alterations to a qualified historic building or facility shall comply with the State Historical Building Code, Part 8, Title 24, of the California Code of Regulations.

Exception: Reserved.

11B-203 General Exceptions

11B-203.1 General

Sites, buildings, facilities, and elements are exempt from these requirements to the extent specified by 11B-203.

11B-203.2 Construction Sites

Structures and sites directly associated with the actual processes of construction, including but not limited to, scaffolding, bridging, materials hoists, materials storage and construction trailers shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. Portable toilet units provided for use exclusively by construction personnel on a construction site shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-213 or to be on an accessible route.

11B-203.3 Raised Areas

Areas raised primarily for purposes of security, life safety, or fire safety, including but not limited to, observation or lookout galleries, prison guard towers, fire towers or life guard stands shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

11B-203.4 Limited Access Spaces

Spaces not customarily occupied and accessed only by ladders, catwalks, crawl spaces or very narrow passageways shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

11B-203.5 Machinery Spaces

Spaces frequented only by service personnel for maintenance, repair or occasional monitoring of equipment shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. Machinery spaces include, but are not limited to, elevator pits or elevator penthouses; mechanical, electrical or communications equipment rooms; piping or equipment catwalks; water or sewage treatment pump rooms and stations; electric substations and transformer vaults; and highway and tunnel utility facilities.

11B-203.6 Single Occupant Structures

Single occupant structures accessed only by passageways below grade or elevated above standard curb height, including but not limited to, toll booths that are accessed only by underground tunnels, shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

11B-203.7 Detention and Correctional Facilities

In detention and correctional facilities, common use areas that are used only by inmates or detainees and security personnel and that do not serve holding cells or housing cells required to comply with Section 11B-232, shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

11B-203.8 Residential Facilities

In residential facilities, common use areas that do not serve residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4 or adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12 shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route.

11B-203.9 Employee Workstations

ILLUSTRATION

Employee workstations shall be on an accessible route complying with Division 4. Spaces and elements within employee workstations shall only be required to comply with Sections 11B-207.1, 11B-215.3, 11B-302, 11B-303, 11B-308.1.1, 11B-308.1.2, and 11B- 404.2.3 unless exempted by other parts of this code. Common use circulation paths within employee workstations shall comply with Section 11B-206.2.8.

Exception: Receptacles, controls, and switches that are an integral part of workstation furnishings, fixtures, and equipment shall not be required to comply with Sections 11B-308.1.1 and 11B-308.1.2.

11B-203.10 Raised Refereeing, Judging and Scoring Areas

Raised structures used solely for refereeing, judging or scoring a sport shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders, or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas.

11B-203.11 Water Slides

Water slides shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas.

11B-203.12 Animal Containment Areas

Animal containment areas that are not for public use shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. Animal containment areas for public use shall be on an accessible route.

11B-203.13 Raised Boxing or Wrestling Rings

Raised boxing or wrestling rings shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas.

11B-203.14 Raised Diving Boards and Diving Platforms

Raised diving boards and diving platforms shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an accessible route. An accessible route complying with Division 4 shall be provided to the ground- or floor-level entry points, where provided, of stairs, ladders or other means of reaching the raised elements or areas.

11B-204 Protruding Objects

11B-204.1 General

Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with Section 11B-307.

Exceptions:

Within areas of sport activity, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-307.
Within play areas, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-307 provided that ground level accessible routes provide vertical clearance in compliance with Section 11B-1008.2.

11B-205 Operable Parts

11B-205.1 General

Operable parts on accessible elements, accessible routes, and in accessible rooms and spaces shall comply with Section 11B-309.

Exceptions:

Operable parts that are intended for use only by service or maintenance personnel shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.
Electrical or communication receptacles serving a dedicated use shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.
Reserved.
Floor electrical receptacles shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.
HVAC diffusers shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.
Except for light switches, where redundant controls are provided for a single element, one control in each space shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.
Cleats and other boat securement devices shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.3.
Exercise machines and exercise equipment shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-309.
In residential dwelling units with mobility features where receptacles are provided in a kitchen at a corner work surface, one receptacle shall be located 36 inches (915 mm) from either wall at the inside corner.

FIGURE 11B-205.1 Ex. 9
ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLES AT CORNER WORKSURFACES

11B-206 Accessible Routes

ILLUSTRATION

11B-206.1 General

Accessible routes shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-206 and shall comply with Division 4.

11B-206.2 Where Required

Accessible routes shall be provided where required by Section 11B-206.2.

11B-206.2.1 Site Arrival Points

At least one accessible route shall be provided within the site from accessible parking spaces and accessible passenger drop-off and loading zones; public streets and sidewalks; and public transportation stops to the accessible building or facility entrance they serve. Where more than one route is provided, all routes must be accessible.

Exceptions:

Reserved.
An accessible route shall not be required between site arrival points and the building or facility entrance if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access.
General circulation paths shall be permitted when located in close proximity to an accessible route.

11B-206.2.2 Within a Site

ILLUSTRATION

At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, accessible facilities, accessible elements, and accessible spaces that are on the same site.

Exception: An accessible route shall not be required between accessible buildings, accessible facilities, accessible elements, and accessible spaces if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access.

11B-206.2.3 Multistory Buildings and Facilities

ILLUSTRATION

At least one accessible route shall connect each story and mezzanine in multistory buildings and facilities.

Exceptions:

The following types of privately funded multistory buildings do not require a ramp or elevator above and below the first floor:
1. Multistoried office buildings (other than the professional office of a health care provider) and passenger vehicle service stations less than three stories high or less than 3,000 square feet (279 m²) per story.
2. Any other privately funded multistoried building that is not a shopping center, shopping mall or the professional office of a health care provider, or a terminal, depot or other station used for specified public transportation, or an airport passenger terminal and that is less than three stories high or less than 3,000 square feet (279 m²) per story if a reasonable portion of all facilities and accommodations normally sought and used by the public in such a building are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities.
Reserved.
In detention and correctional facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories where cells with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B-807.2, all common use areas serving cells with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B-807.2, and all public use areas are on an accessible route.
In residential facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories where residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4, residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12, and public use areas serving residential dwelling units are on an accessible route.
Within multistory transient lodging guest rooms with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B-806.2, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories provided that spaces complying with Section 11B-806.2 are on an accessible route and sleeping accommodations for two persons minimum are provided on a story served by an accessible route.
In air traffic control towers, an accessible route shall not be required to serve the cab and the equipment areas on the floor immediately below the cab.
Reserved.

11B-206.2.3.1 Stairs and Escalators in Existing Buildings

In alterations and additions, where an escalator or stair is provided where none existed previously and major structural modifications are necessary for the installation, an accessible route shall be provided between the levels served by the escalator or stair unless exempted by Section 11B-206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

11B-206.2.3.2 Distance to Elevators

In new construction of buildings where elevators are required by Section 11B-206.2.3, and which exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m²) on any floor, an accessible means of vertical access via ramp, elevator or lift shall be provided within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of travel of each stair and each escalator. In existing buildings that exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m²) on any floor and in which elevators are required by Section 11B-206.2.3, whenever a newly constructed means of vertical access is provided via stairs or an escalator, an accessible means of vertical access via ramp, elevator or lift shall be provided within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of travel of each new stair or escalator.

Exception: Stairs used solely for emergency egress.

11B-206.2.4 Spaces and Elements

ILLUSTRATION

At least one accessible route shall connect accessible building or facility entrances with all accessible spaces and elements within the building or facility, including mezzanines, which are otherwise connected by a circulation path unless exempted by Section 11B-206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

Exceptions:

Reserved.
In assembly areas with fixed seating required to comply with Section 11B-221, an accessible route shall not be required to serve fixed seating where wheelchair spaces required to be on an accessible route are not provided.
Reserved.

11B-206.2.5 Restaurants, Cafeterias, Banquet Facilities and Bars

In restaurants, cafeterias, banquet facilities, bars, and similar facilities, an accessible route shall be provided to all functional areas, including raised or sunken areas, and outdoor areas.

Exceptions:

In alterations of buildings or facilities not required to provide an accessible route between stories, an accessible route shall not be required to a mezzanine dining area where the mezzanine contains less than 25 percent of the total combined area for seating and dining and where the same decor and services are provided in the accessible area.
Reserved.
In sports facilities, tiered dining areas providing seating required to comply with Section 11B-221 shall be required to have accessible routes serving at least 25 percent of the dining area provided that accessible routes serve seating complying with Section 11B-221 and each tier is provided with the same services.

11B-206.2.6 Performance Areas

Where a circulation path directly connects a performance area to an assembly seating area, an accessible route shall directly connect the assembly seating area with the performance area. An accessible route shall be provided from performance areas to ancillary areas or facilities used by performers unless exempted by Section 11B-206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

11B-206.2.7 Press Boxes

Press boxes in assembly areas shall be on an accessible route.

Exceptions:

An accessible route shall not be required to press boxes in bleachers that have points of entry at only one level provided that the aggregate area of all press boxes is 500 square feet (46 m²) maximum.
An accessible route shall not be required to free-standing press boxes that are elevated above grade 12 feet (3660 mm) minimum provided that the aggregate area of all press boxes is 500 square feet (46 m²) maximum.

11B-206.2.8 Employee Work Areas

Common use circulation paths within employee work areas shall comply with Section 11B-402.

Exceptions:

Reserved.
Common use circulation paths located within employee work areas that are an integral component of work area equipment shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-402.
Common use circulation paths located within exterior employee work areas that are fully exposed to the weather shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-402.

11B-206.2.9 Amusement Rides

Amusement rides required to comply with Section 11B-234 shall provide accessible routes in accordance with Section 11B- 206.2.9. Accessible routes serving amusement rides shall comply with Division 4 except as modified by Section 11B-1002.2.

11B-206.2.9.1 Load and Unload Areas

Load and unload areas shall be on an accessible route. Where load and unload areas have more than one loading or unloading position, at least one loading and unloading position shall be on an accessible route.

11B-206.2.9.2 Wheelchair Spaces, Ride Seats Designed for Transfer, and Transfer Devices

When amusement rides are in the load and unload position, wheelchair spaces complying with Section 11B-1002.4, amusement ride seats designed for transfer complying with Section 11B-1002.5, and transfer devices complying with Section 11B-1002.6 shall be on an accessible route.

11B-206.2.10 Recreational Boating Facilities

Boat slips required to comply with Section 11B-235.2 and boarding piers at boat launch ramps required to comply with Section 11B-235.3 shall be on an accessible route. Accessible routes serving recreational boating facilities shall comply with Division 4, except as modified by Section 11B-1003.2.

11B-206.2.11 Bowling Lanes

Where bowling lanes are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one of each type of bowling lane, shall be on an accessible route.

11B-206.2.12 Court Sports

In court sports, at least one accessible route shall directly connect both sides of the court.

11B-206.2.13 Exercise Machines and Equipment

Exercise machines and equipment required to comply with 11B-236 shall be on an accessible route.

11B-206.2.14 Fishing Piers and Platforms

Fishing piers and platforms shall be on an accessible route. Accessible routes serving fishing piers and platforms shall comply with Division 4 except as modified by Section 11B-1005.1.

11B-206.2.15 Golf Facilities

At least one accessible route shall connect accessible elements and spaces within the boundary of the golf course. In addition, accessible routes serving golf car rental areas; bag drop areas; course weather shelters complying with Section 11B-238.2.3; course toilet rooms; and practice putting greens, practice teeing grounds, and teeing stations at driving ranges complying with Section 11B-238.3 shall comply with Division 4 except as modified by Section 11B-1006.2.

Exception: Golf car passages complying with Section 11B-1006.3 shall be permitted to be used for all or part of accessible routes required by Section 11B- 206.2.15.

11B-206.2.16 Miniature Golf Facilities

Holes required to comply with Section 11B-239.2, including the start of play, shall be on an accessible route. Accessible routes serving miniature golf facilities shall comply with Division 4 except as modified by Section 11B-1007.2.

11B-206.2.17 Play Areas

Play areas shall provide accessible routes in accordance with Section 11B-206.2.17. Accessible routes serving play areas shall comply with Division 4 except as modified by Section 11B-1008.2.

11B-206.2.17.1 Ground Level and Elevated Play Components

At least one accessible route shall be provided within the play area. The accessible route shall connect ground level play components required to comply with Section 11B-240.2.1 and elevated play components required to comply with Section 11B-240.2.2, including entry and exit points of the play components.

11B-206.2.17.2 Soft Contained Play Structures

Where three or fewer entry points are provided for soft contained play structures, at least one entry point shall be on an accessible route. Where four or more entry points are provided for soft contained play structures, at least two entry points shall be on an accessible route.

11B-206.2.18 Area of Sport Activity

An accessible route shall be provided to the boundary of each area of sport activity.

11B-206.2.19 Pedestrian Street Crossings

Where walks or sidewalks are provided, a curb ramp, blended transition, or a combination of curb ramps and blended transitions complying with Section 11B-406 shall connect the walks or sidewalks at each pedestrian street crossing. The curb ramp (excluding any flared sides) or blended transition shall be contained wholly within the width of the pedestrian street crossing served.

Exception: Compliance with Section 11B-206.2.19 shall not be required where pedestrian crossing is prohibited by the appropriate administrative authority.

11B-206.3 Location

Accessible routes shall coincide with or be located in the same area as general circulation paths. Where circulation paths are interior, required accessible routes shall also be interior. An accessible route shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms, restrooms, closets or other spaces used for similar purposes, except as permitted by Chapter 10.

11B-206.4 Entrances

Entrances shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-206.4. Entrance doors, doorways, and gates shall comply with Section 11B-404 and shall be on an accessible route complying with Section 11B-402.

Exceptions:

Reserved.
Reserved.

11B-206.4.1 Entrances and Exterior Ground Floor Exits

All entrances and exterior ground-floor exits to buildings and facilities shall comply with Section 11B-404.

Exceptions:

Exterior ground floor exits serving smoke-proof enclosures, stairwells, and exit doors serving stairs only shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-404.
Exits in excess of those required by Chapter 10, and which are more than 24 inches (610 mm) above grade shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-404. Directional signs shall comply with Chapter 10, Section 1009.10.

11B-206.4.2 Parking Structure Entrances

Where direct access is provided for pedestrians from a parking structure to a building or facility entrance, each direct access to the building or facility entrance shall comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.4.3 Entrances From Tunnels or Elevated Walkways

Where direct access is provided for pedestrians from a pedestrian tunnel or elevated walkway to a building or facility, all entrances to the building or facility from each tunnel or walkway shall comply with Section 11B- 404.

11B-206.4.4 Transportation Facilities

In addition to the requirements of Sections 11B-206.4.2, 11B-206.4.3, and 11B-206.4.5 through 11B-206.4.9, transportation facilities shall provide entrances in accordance with Section 11B- 206.4.4.

11B-206.4.4.1 Location

In transportation facilities, where different entrances serve different transportation fixed routes or groups of fixed routes, entrances serving each fixed route or group of fixed routes shall comply with Section 11B-404.

Exception: Entrances to key stations and existing intercity rail stations retrofitted in accordance with 49 CFR 37.49 or 49 CFR 37.51 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-206.4.4.1.

11B-206.4.4.2 Direct Connections

Direct connections to other facilities shall provide an accessible route complying with Section 11B-404 from the point of connection to boarding platforms and all transportation system elements required to be accessible. Any elements provided to facilitate future direct connections shall be on an accessible route connecting boarding platforms and all transportation system elements required to be accessible.

Exception: In key stations and existing intercity rail stations, existing direct connections shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.4.4.3 Key Stations and Intercity Rail Stations

Key stations and existing intercity rail stations required by Subpart C of 49 CFR part 37 to be altered, shall have entrances complying with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.4.5 Tenant Spaces

All entrances to each tenancy in a facility shall comply with Section 11B-404.

Exception: Self-service storage facilities not required to comply with Section 11B-225.3 shall not be required to be on an accessible route.

11B-206.4.6 Residential Dwelling Unit Primary Entrance

ILLUSTRATION

In residential dwelling units, at least one primary entrance shall comply with Section 11B-404. The primary entrance to a residential dwelling unit shall not be to a bedroom.

11B-206.4.7 Restricted Entrances

Where restricted entrances are provided to a building or facility, all restricted entrances to the building or facility shall comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.4.8 Service Entrances

If a service entrance is the only entrance to a building or to a tenancy in a facility, that entrance shall comply with Section 11B-404. In existing buildings and facilities, a service entrance shall not be the sole accessible entrance unless it is the only entrance to a building or facility.

11B-206.4.9 Entrances for Inmates or Detainees

Where entrances used only by inmates or detainees and security personnel are provided at judicial facilities, detention facilities, or correctional facilities, at least one such entrance shall comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.4.10 Medical Care and Long-Term Care Facilities

Weather protection by a canopy or roof overhang shall be provided at a minimum of one accessible entrance to licensed medical care and licensed long-term care facilities where the period of stay may exceed twenty-four hours. The area of weather protection shall include the passenger drop-off and loading zone complying with Section 11B-209.3 and the accessible route from the passenger loading zone to the accessible entrance it serves.

11B-206.5 Doors, Doorways, and Gates

Doors, doorways and gates providing user passage shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-206.5.

11B-206.5.1 Entrances

Each entrance to a building or facility required to comply with Section 11B-206.4 shall comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.5.2 Rooms and Spaces

Within a building or facility, every door, doorway or gate serving rooms and spaces complying with this chapter shall comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.5.3 Transient Lodging Facilities

In transient lodging facilities, entrances, doors, and doorways providing user passage into and within guest rooms that are not required to provide mobility features complying with Section 11B-806.2 shall comply with Section 11B-404.2.3.

Exception: Shower and sauna doors in guest rooms that are not required to provide mobility features complying with Section 11B-806.2 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-404.2.3.

11B-206.5.4 Residential Dwelling Units

ILLUSTRATION

In residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4, all doors and doorways providing user passage shall comply with Section 11B-404.

11B-206.6 Elevators

Elevators provided for passengers shall comply with Section 11B-407. Where multiple elevators are provided, each elevator shall comply with Section 11B-407.

Exceptions:

In a building or facility permitted to use the exceptions to Section 11B-206.2.3 or permitted by Section 11B-206.7 to use a platform lift, elevators complying with Section 11B-408 shall be permitted.
Elevators complying with Section 11B-408 or 11B- 409 shall be permitted in multistory residential dwelling units. Elevators provided as a means of access within a private residence shall be installed so that they are not accessible to the general public or to other occupants of the building.
Destination-oriented elevators complying with Section 11B-411 shall be permitted.

11B-206.6.1 Existing Elevators

Where elements of existing elevators are altered, the same element shall also be altered in all elevators that are programmed to respond to the same hall call control as the altered elevator and shall comply with the requirements of Section 11B-407 for the altered element.

Exception: Where a group of existing elevators are altered into a destination-oriented elevator system, or where elements of existing destination-oriented elevators are altered, the same elements shall also be altered in all elevators that are programmed to respond to the same call console or group of call consoles and shall comply with the requirements of Section 11B-411 for the altered elements.

11B-206.7 Platform Lifts

Platform lifts shall comply with Section 11B-410. Platform lifts shall be permitted as a component of an accessible route in new construction in accordance with Section 11B-206.7. Platform lifts shall be permitted as a component of an accessible route in an existing building or facility.

11B-206.7.1 Performance Areas and Speakers' Platforms

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to performance areas and speakers' platforms.

11B-206.7.2 Wheelchair Spaces

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an accessible route to comply with the wheelchair space dispersion and line-of-sight requirements of Sections 11B-221 and 11B-802.

11B-206.7.3 Incidental Spaces

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an accessible route to incidental spaces which are not public use spaces and which are occupied by five persons maximum.

11B-206.7.4 Judicial Spaces

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an accessible route to: jury boxes and witness stands; raised courtroom stations including, judges' benches, clerks' stations, bailiffs' stations, deputy clerks' stations, and court reporters' stations; and to depressed areas such as the well of a court.

11B-206.7.5 Existing Site Constraints

Platform lifts shall be permitted where existing exterior site constraints make use of a ramp or elevator infeasible.

11B-206.7.6 Guest Rooms and Residential Dwelling Units

Platform lifts shall be permitted to connect levels within transient lodging guest rooms required to provide mobility features complying with Section 11B-806.2 or residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4 or adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12.

11B-206.7.7 Amusement Rides

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to load and unload areas serving amusement rides.

11B-206.7.8 Play Areas

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to play components or soft contained play structures.

11B-206.7.9 Team or Player Seating

Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide accessible routes to team or player seating areas serving areas of sport activity.

11B-206.7.10 Recreational Boating Facilities and Fishing Piers and Platforms

Platform lifts shall be permitted to be used instead of gangways that are part of accessible routes serving recreational boating facilities and fishing piers and platforms.

11B-206.8 Security Barriers

Security barriers, including but not limited to, security bollards and security check points, shall not obstruct a required accessible route or accessible means of egress.

Exception: Where security barriers incorporate elements that cannot comply with these requirements such as certain metal detectors, fluoroscopes, or other similar devices, the accessible route shall be permitted to be located adjacent to security screening devices. The accessible route shall permit persons with disabilities passing around security barriers to maintain visual contact with their personal items to the same extent provided others passing through the security barrier.

11B-207 Accessible Means of Egress

ILLUSTRATION

11B-207.1 General

ILLUSTRATION

Means of egress shall comply with Chapter 10, Section 1009.

Exceptions:

Where means of egress are permitted by local building or life safety codes to share a common path of egress travel, accessible means of egress shall be permitted to share a common path of egress travel.
Areas of refuge shall not be required in detention and correctional facilities.
Accessible means of egress are not required to be provided in existing buildings.

11B-207.2 Platform Lifts

Standby power shall be provided for platform lifts permitted by Chapter 10, Section 1009.5 to serve as a part of an accessible means of egress. To ensure continued operation in case of primary power loss, platform lifts shall be provided with standby power or with self-rechargeable battery power that provides sufficient power to operate all platform lift functions for a minimum of five upward and downward trips.

11B-208 Parking Spaces

ILLUSTRATION

11B-208.1 General

Where parking spaces are provided, parking spaces shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-208. For the purposes of this section, electric vehicle charging stations are not parking spaces; see Section 11B- 228.

Exceptions:

Parking spaces used exclusively for buses, trucks, other delivery vehicles, or vehicular impound shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-208 provided that lots accessed by the public are provided with a passenger drop-off and loading zone complying with Section 11B-503.
In public housing facilities, electric vehicle chargers are permitted to be installed at an accessible parking space assigned to the resident.

11B-208.2 Minimum Number

Parking spaces complying with Section 11B-502 shall be provided in accordance with Table 11B-208.2 except as required by Sections 11B-208.2.1, 11B-208.2.2, and 11B-208.2.3. Where more than one parking facility is provided on a site, the number of accessible spaces provided on the site shall be calculated according to the number of spaces required for each parking facility.

TABLE 11B-208.2
PARKING SPACES
TOTAL NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES PROVIDED IN PARKING FACILITY	MINIMUM NUMBER OF REQUIRED ACCESSIBLE PARKING SPACES
1 to 25	1
26 to 50	2
51 to 75	3
76 to 100	4
101 to 150	5
151 to 200	6
201 to 300	7
301 to 400	8
401 to 500	9
501 to 1000	2 percent of total
1001 and over	20, plus 1 for each 100, or fraction thereof, over 1000

11B-208.2.1 Hospital Outpatient Facilities

ILLUSTRATION

Ten percent of patient and visitor parking spaces provided to serve hospital outpatient facilities, and free-standing buildings providing outpatient clinical services of a hospital, shall comply with Section 11B-502.

11B-208.2.2 Rehabilitation Facilities and Outpatient Physical Therapy Facilities

Twenty percent of patient and visitor parking spaces provided to serve rehabilitation facilities specializing in treating conditions that affect mobility and outpatient physical therapy facilities shall comply with Section 11B-502.

11B-208.2.3 Residential Facilities

Parking spaces provided to serve residential facilities shall comply with Section 11B-208.2.3.

11B-208.2.3.1 Parking for Residents

Where at least one parking space is provided for each residential dwelling unit, at least one parking space complying with Section 11B-502 shall be provided for each residential dwelling unit required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B- 809.4. Where fewer than one parking space is provided for each residential dwelling unit, parking spaces complying with Section 11B-502 shall be provided in accordance with Table 11B-208.2.

11B-208.2.3.2 Additional Parking Spaces for Residents

Where the total number of parking spaces provided for each residential dwelling unit exceeds one parking space per residential dwelling unit, 2 percent, but no fewer than one space, of all the parking spaces not covered by Section 11B-208.2.3.1 shall comply with Section 11B-502.

11B-208.2.3.3 Parking for Guests, Employees, and Other Non-Residents

Where parking spaces are provided for persons other than residents, parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 11B-208.2.

11B-208.2.4 Van Parking Spaces

For every six or fraction of six parking spaces required by Section 11B-208.2 to comply with Section 11B-502, at least one shall be a van parking space complying with Section 11B-502.

11B-208.3 Location

Parking facilities shall comply with Section 11B-208.3.

11B-208.3.1 General

ILLUSTRATION

Parking spaces complying with Section 11B-502 that serve a particular building or facility shall be located on the shortest accessible route from parking to an entrance complying with Section 11B-206.4. Where parking serves more than one accessible entrance, parking spaces complying with Section 11B-502 shall be dispersed and located on the shortest accessible route to the accessible entrances. In parking facilities that do not serve a particular building or facility, parking spaces complying with Section 11B-502 shall be located on the shortest accessible route to an accessible pedestrian entrance of the parking facility.

Exceptions:

All van parking spaces shall be permitted to be grouped on one level within a multistory parking facility.
Parking spaces shall be permitted to be located in different parking facilities if substantially equivalent or greater accessibility is provided in terms of distance from an accessible entrance or entrances, parking fee, and user convenience.

11B-208.3.2 Residential Facilities

In residential facilities containing residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B-809.2 through 11B-809.4, and adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12, parking spaces provided in accordance with Section 11B-208.2.3.1 shall be located on the shortest accessible route to the residential dwelling unit entrance they serve. Spaces provided in accordance with Section 11B-208.2.3.2 shall be dispersed throughout all types of parking provided for the residential dwelling units.

Exception: Parking spaces provided in accordance with Section 11B-208.2.3.2 shall not be required to be dispersed throughout all types of parking if substantially equivalent or greater accessibility is provided in terms of distance from an accessible entrance, parking fee, and user convenience.

Reference.

Research.

Collaboration.

International Building Code 2018 (IBC 2018)