CBC · California Building Code

What does the code require for accessible routes and circulation?

The CBC requires at least one accessible route connecting arrival points, buildings, and stories; routes must be in the same area as general circulation (not through kitchens/storage), must meet Division 4 requirements for width and slope, and pedestrian crossings with sidewalks must be connected with curb ramps or blended transitions contained within the crossing (§ 11B‑206; § 11B‑206.3; § 11B‑206.2.19).

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The CBC requires that accessible routes be provided wherever required by § 11B-206, and that those routes follow the same general circulation patterns as other pedestrian paths (they must not be routed through kitchens, storage rooms, restrooms, closets, or similar spaces). Pedestrian street crossings where sidewalks or walks are provided must be connected by curb ramps or blended transitions that are contained wholly within the width of the crossing, per § 11B-206.2.19 and the location rule in § 11B-206.3. § 11B-206 contains the scoping and where‑required rules for accessible routes (site arrival points, within a site, between stories, and to specific elements).

Requirements in detail

1) Where an accessible route is required (scoping)

  • At least one accessible route must connect site arrival points (accessible parking, passenger drop‑off, public sidewalks, and transit stops) to the accessible building entrance they serve; if multiple routes are provided, all must be accessible (§ 11B-206.2.1).
  • At least one accessible route must connect accessible buildings, facilities, elements and spaces on the same site (§ 11B-206.2.2).
  • At least one accessible route must connect each story and mezzanine of multistory buildings, subject to the specific exceptions in § 11B-206.2.3 (§ 11B-206.2.3).

2) Location and routing of accessible routes

  • Accessible routes must coincide with or be located in the same area as general circulation paths; where circulation is interior, accessible routes must also be interior. An accessible route shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms, restrooms, closets or other similar spaces except as permitted by Chapter 10 (§ 11B-206.3).

3) Pedestrian street crossings

  • Where walks or sidewalks are provided, a curb ramp, blended transition, or a combination complying with § 11B-406 shall connect the walks or sidewalks at each pedestrian street crossing. The curb ramp (excluding flared sides) or blended transition must be contained wholly within the width of the pedestrian street crossing served (§ 11B-206.2.19). Exception: where pedestrian crossing is prohibited by the administrative authority, the requirement does not apply.

4) Walking surfaces, widths, slopes, and clearances (applicable components)

The accessible route is made up of walking surfaces, doors, ramps, curb ramps, elevators, platform lifts, etc., and must meet the Division 4 requirements for those components (for example, walking surface slope and clear width rules).

Decision‑relevant dimensions and limits (quick reference)

Requirement Value (typical) Code Reference
Minimum clear width of walking surface 36 in (914 mm) continuous; limited 32 in allowed for max 24 in length with conditions § 11B-403.5.1
Corridor clear width when serving occupant load ≥ 10 44 in (1118 mm) minimum § 11B-403.5.1
Sidewalk / walk clear width 48 in (1219 mm) minimum (reduction to 36 in allowed only in hardship) § 11B-403.5.1
Running slope limit for walking surfaces Not steeper than 1:20 § 11B-403.3
Cross slope limit for walking surfaces Not steeper than 1:48 § 11B-403.3
Curb ramp / blended transition at pedestrian crossing Must connect walks and be contained wholly within crossing width; must comply with § 11B-406 § 11B-206.2.19 (requires compliance with § 11B-406)
Accessible route routing Must coincide with general circulation paths; not routed through kitchens, storage rooms, restrooms, closets § 11B-206.3

(Notes: Division 4 contains the component specifics for doors, ramps, curb ramps, walking surfaces and changes in level; see §§ 11B-402 and 11B-403 for component requirements.)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Pedestrian crossing rule exception: If pedestrian crossing is expressly prohibited by the appropriate administrative authority, the curb ramp/blended transition requirement in § 11B-206.2.19 does not apply.
  • Location exception: In specific limited situations (see the exceptions under § 11B-206.2.3) some privately funded small multistory buildings are not required to provide a ramp or elevator between all stories; these exceptions are listed in § 11B-206.2.3.
  • Component exceptions: Accessible‑route components (ramps, curb ramps, doors, elevators) must comply with their Division 4 requirements, but Division 4 contains its own permitted exceptions for certain features and settings (for example some employee work‑area circulation paths). Consult the specific Division 4 sections referenced from § 11B-206.

If a particular situation is not fully addressed in § 11B-206 (for example, precise curb ramp geometry), the § explicitly points you to the component provisions (e.g., § 11B-406 for curb ramps). § 11B-206.2.19 requires compliance with § 11B-406 for curb ramps at crossings.

Common mistakes

  • Providing an “accessible” path that does not follow the same area as general circulation (violates § 11B-206.3). Designers sometimes put an accessible path around the back that is not the same logical route as public circulation.
  • Omitting curb ramps or locating ramps so their bases extend outside the crosswalk width — § 11B-206.2.19 requires the curb ramp (excluding flared sides) to be contained wholly within the crossing.
  • Assuming any narrow gap is acceptable: continuous clear width must meet § 11B-403.5.1 (36 in min) and corridor rules (44 in if serving ≥10 occupants). Reduced‑width exceptions are limited and conditional.
  • Routing the accessible route through kitchens, storage, restrooms, or closets — prohibited by § 11B-206.3 except as allowed by Chapter 10.

Worked example

Scenario: A new retail store has a public interior corridor that serves an occupant load of 12 and a public sidewalk that connects to a crosswalk.

  1. Corridor width: Because the corridor serves an occupant load of 12 (≥10), the clear width of the walking surface must be 44 in (1118 mm) minimum. A 42 in corridor would be noncompliant; widen to 44 in or provide design changes so the corridor serves fewer than 10 people. (§ 11B-403.5.1)

  2. Sidewalk and crossing: The site sidewalk is 48 in (1219 mm) wide at the frontage — this meets the sidewalk clear width requirement. At the pedestrian street crossing, the crosswalk is 8 ft (96 in) wide. Any curb ramp (excluding flared sides) that connects the sidewalk to the street must be contained wholly within that 96 in crosswalk width and must comply with the curb‑ramp rules in § 11B-406 as required by § 11B-206.2.19. So a ramp tread that is 72 in wide and centered within the 96 in crosswalk would comply with the containment requirement; the ramp geometry otherwise must follow § 11B-406.

  3. Running slope and cross slope: Any walking surface on the route must not have a running slope steeper than 1:20 and not have a cross slope steeper than 1:48; if an exterior sidewalk follows the existing street grade that exceeds 1:20, the sidewalk slope exception may apply (see § 11B-403.3). (§ 11B-403.3)

Related provisions

  • § 11B-402 — Accessible route components and general component compliance (ramps, doors, curb ramps, elevators).
  • § 11B-403 — Walking surfaces: slopes, changes in level, and clearances (clear widths, slopes).
  • § 11B-406 — Curb ramps and blended transitions (required by § 11B-206.2.19 at pedestrian crossings; see § 11B-206.2.19).
  • § 11B-404 — Doors, doorways and gates; entrances must be on an accessible route (referenced in § 11B-206.4).
  • § 11B-206.2.3.2 — Distance to elevators: where elevators are required and building floor area thresholds apply, an accessible means of vertical access must be provided within 200 ft of travel of new stairs or escalators (see § 11B-206.2.3.2).

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CBC § 402.1 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 402.1 General. Accessible routes shall comply with 11B- 402 .

    11B- 402.2 Components. Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components: walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the flared sides, elevators and platform lifts. All components of an accessible route shall comply with the applicable requirements of Division 4 .

    SECTION 11B- 403 —W ALKING SURFACES

    11B- 403.1 General. Walking surfaces that are a part of an accessible route shall comply with Section 11B- 403 .

    11B- 403.2 Floor or ground surface. Floor or ground surfaces shall comply with Section 11B- 302 .

    11B- 403.3 Slope. The running slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:20. The cross slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:48.

    Exception: The running slope of sidewalks shall not exceed the general grade established for the adjacent street or highway.

    11B- 403.4 Changes in level. Changes in level shall comply with Section 11B- 303 .

    11B- 403.5 Clearances. Walking surfaces shall provide clearances complying with Section 11B- 403.5.

    Exception: Within employee work areas, clearances on common use circulation paths shall be permitted to be decreased by work area equipment provided that the decrease is essential to the function of the work being performed.

    11B- 403.5.1 Clear width. Except as provided in Sections 11B- 403.5.2 and 11B- 403.5.3, the clear width of walking surfaces shall be 36 inches ( 914 mm) minimum.

    Exceptions:

    1. The clear width shall be permitted to be reduced to 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 48 inches ( 1219 mm) long minimum and 36 inches ( 914 mm) wide minimum.

    2. The clear width for walking surfaces in corridors serving an occupant load of 10 or more shall be 44 inches (1118 mm) minimum.

    3. The clear width for sidewalks and walks shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum. When, because of right-of-way restric- tions, natural barriers or other existing conditions, the enforcing agency determines that compliance with the 48-inch (1219 mm) clear sidewalk width would create an unreasonable hardship, the clear width may be reduced to 36 inches (914 mm).

    4. The clear width for aisles shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum if serving elements on only one side, and 44 inches (1118 mm) minimum if serving elements on both sides.

    5. The clear width for accessible routes to accessible toilet compartments shall be 44 inches (1118 mm) except for door- opening widths and door swings.

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  • CBC § 11B-206.2.3.2 High relevance — show source text

    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 m [2] ) 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 m [2] ) 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. 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:

    1. Reserved.

    2. 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.

    3. 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:

    1. 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.

    2. Reserved.

    3. 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:

    1. 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 m [2] ) maximum.
  • CBC § 11B-206.2.18 High relevance — show source text

    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 combina- tion 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:

    1. Reserved.

    2. Reserved.

    11B- 206.4.1 Entrances. All entrances shall comply with Section 11B- 404 .

    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.

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    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.

  • CBC § 309.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 11B- 309 — OPERABLE PARTS

    11B- 309.1 General. Operable parts shall comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    11B- 309.2 Clear floor space. A clear floor or ground space complying with Section 11B- 305 shall be provided.

    11B- 309.3 Height. Operable parts shall be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in Section 11B- 308 .

    11B- 309.4 Operation. Operable parts shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts shall be 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

    Exception: Gas pump nozzles and electric vehicle connectors shall not be required to provide operable parts that have an activating force of 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

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    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    DIVISION 4: ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

    SECTION 11B- 401 — GENERAL

    11B- 401.1 Scope. The provisions of Division 4 shall apply where required by Division 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this chapter.

    SECTION 11B- 402 — ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

    11B- 402.1 General. Accessible routes shall comply with 11B- 402 .

    11B- 402.2 Components. Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components: walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the flared sides, elevators and platform lifts. All components of an accessible route shall comply with the applicable requirements of Division 4 .

    SECTION 11B- 403 —W ALKING SURFACES

    11B- 403.1 General. Walking surfaces that are a part of an accessible route shall comply with Section 11B- 403 .

    11B- 403.2 Floor or ground surface. Floor or ground surfaces shall comply with Section 11B- 302 .

    11B- 403.3 Slope. The running slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:20. The cross slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:48.

    Exception: The running slope of sidewalks shall not exceed the general grade established for the adjacent street or highway.

    11B- 403.4 Changes in level. Changes in level shall comply with Section 11B- 303 .

    11B- 403.5 Clearances. Walking surfaces shall provide clearances complying with Section 11B- 403.5.

    Exception: Within employee work areas, clearances on common use circulation paths shall be permitted to be decreased by work area equipment provided that the decrease is essential to the function of the work being performed.

  • CBC § 11B-11 High relevance — show source text

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    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

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

    SECTION 11B- 206—ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

    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:

    1. Reserved.

    2. 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.

    3. General circulation paths shall be permitted when located in close proximity to an accessible route.

    11B- 206.2.2 Within a site. 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. At least one accessible route shall connect each story and mezzanine in multistory buildings and facilities.

    Exceptions:

    1. The following types of privately funded multi-story buildings do not require a ramp or elevator above and below the first floor:

    1.1. 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 m [2] ) per story. 1.2. Any other privately funded multistoried building that is not a shopping center, shopping mall or the profes- sional 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 m [2] ) 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.

    2. Reserved.

    1. 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.
  • CBC § 206.2.8 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 206.2.8 Employee work areas. Common use circulation paths within employee work areas shall comply with Section 11B- 402 .

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

    2. 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 .

    3. 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.

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    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 Section 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.

  • CBC § 1008.2. High relevance — show source text
    1. 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.

    SECTION 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:

    1. Operable parts that are intended for use only by service or maintenance personnel shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    2. Electrical or communication receptacles serving a dedicated use shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    3. Reserved.

    4. Floor electrical receptacles shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    5. HVAC diffusers shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    6. 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 .

    7. Cleats and other boat securement devices shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309.3.

    8. Exercise machines and exercise equipment shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 . 9. 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.

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

    SECTION 11B- 206—ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

    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:

    1. Reserved.

    2. 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.

    3. General circulation paths shall be permitted when located in close proximity to an accessible route.

    11B- 206.2.2 Within a site. At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, accessible facilities, accessible elements and accessible spaces that are on the same site.

  • CBC § 206.2.6 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. 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.

    2. Reserved.

    3. 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:

    1. 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 m [2] ) maximum.

    2. 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 m [2] ) maximum.

    11B- 206.2.8 Employee work areas. Common use circulation paths within employee work areas shall comply with Section 11B- 402 .

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

    2. 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 .

    3. 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.

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  • CBC § 1006.3 High relevance — show source text

    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 combina- tion 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:

    1. Reserved.

    2. Reserved.

    11B- 206.4.1 Entrances. All entrances shall comply with Section 11B- 404 .

  • CBC § 1009.3 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. One accessible means of egress is required from an accessible mezzanine level in accordance with Section 1009.3, 1009.4 or 1009.5, and Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable.
    2. In assembly areas with ramped aisles or stepped aisles, one accessible means of egress is permitted where the common path of egress travel is accessible and meets the requirements in Section 1030.8 and Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-15

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1009.2 Continuity and components. Each required accessible means of egress shall be continuous to a public way and shall consist of one or more of the following components:

    1. Accessible routes complying with Chapter 11A, Sections 1110A.1 and 1119A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206 and 11B-402, as applicable.
    2. Interior exit stairways complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1023, and Chapter 11A, Section 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.
    3. Exit access stairways complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1019.3 or 1019.4, and Chapter 11A, Section 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.
    4. Exterior exit stairways complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1027, Chapter 11A, Section 1115A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B- 210 and 11B-504, as applicable, and serving levels other than the level of exit discharge.
    5. Elevators complying with Section 1009.4, and Chapter 11A, Section 1124A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.6 and 11B-407, as applicable.
    6. Platform lifts complying with Section 1009.5, and Chapter 11A, Section 1124A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.7, 11B-207.2 and 11B-410, as applicable.
    7. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1026.
    8. Ramps complying with Section 1012, and Chapter 11A, Sections 1114A and 1122A, or Chapter 11B, 11B-405, as applicable.
    9. Areas of refuge complying with Section 1009.6.
    10. Exterior areas for assisted rescue complying with Section 1009.7 serving exits at the level of exit discharge. 11. Safe dispersal areas where they are allowed under Section 1028.5.

    1009.2.1 Elevators required. In buildings where a required accessible floor is four or more stories above or below a level of exit discharge or where an accessible occupiable roof is above a story that is three or more stories above the level of exit discharge, not less than one required accessible means of egress shall include an elevator complying with Section 1009.4.

    Exceptions:

  • CBC § 11A-13 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11A-13

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    HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

    DIVISION III – BUILDING FEATURES

    DIVISION III Table of Contents

    Section 1117A General Requirements for Accessible Entrances, Exits, Interior Routes of Travel and Facility Accessibility

    Section 1118A Egress and Areas of Refuge

    Section 1119A Interior Accessible Routes

    Section 1120A Reserved

    Section 1121A Changes in Level on Accessible Routes

    Section 1122A Interior Ramps and Landings on Accessible Routes

    Section 1123A Interior Stairways

    Section 1124A Elevators and Platform (Wheelchair) Lifts

    Section 1125A Hazards on Accessible Routes

    Section 1126A Doors, Gates and Windows

    Section 1127A Common Use Facilities

    SECTION 1117A—GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCES, EXITS, INTERIOR ROUTES OF TRAVEL AND FACILITY ACCESSIBILITY

    Note: In addition to provisions of this division, interior routes of travel that provide access to, or egress from, buildings for persons with disabilities shall also comply with Chapter 10.

    1117A.1 General. When buildings are required to be accessible, building facilities shall be accessible as provided in this division. Where specific floors of a building are required to be accessible, the requirements of this division shall apply only to the facilities located on accessible floors.

    1117A.2 Primary entrances and exterior exit doors. All primary entrances and exterior ground floor exit doors to buildings and facili- ties on accessible routes shall be accessible to persons with disabilities.

    1117A.3 Separate dwelling unit entrances. When a ground-floor dwelling unit of a building has a separate entrance, each such ground-floor dwelling unit shall be served by an accessible route, except where the terrain or unusual characteristics of the site prohibit an accessible route (see Section 1150A for site impracticality tests).

    1117A.4 Multiple entrances. Only one entrance to covered multifamily buildings is required to be accessible to any one ground floor of a building, except in cases where an individual dwelling unit has a separate exterior entrance. Where the building contains clusters of dwelling units with each cluster sharing a different exterior entrance, more than one entrance may be required to be accessible, as determined by analysis of the site. In every case, the accessible entrance shall be on an accessible route to the covered dwelling units it

    serves.

    1117A.5 Entrances from parking structures, tunnels or elevated walkways. Where direct access for pedestrians is provided from a parking structure to a building or facility, each direct access to the building or facility entrance shall be accessible.

    Where direct access for pedestrians is provided 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 be accessible.

    SECTION 1118A—EGRESS AND AREAS OF REFUGE

  • CBC § 203.11 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    SECTION 11B- 204—PROTRUDING OBJECTS

    11B- 204.1 General. Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with Section 11B- 307 .

    Exceptions:

    1. Within areas of sport activity, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 307 .

    2. 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.

    SECTION 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:

    1. Operable parts that are intended for use only by service or maintenance personnel shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    2. Electrical or communication receptacles serving a dedicated use shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    3. Reserved.

    4. Floor electrical receptacles shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    5. HVAC diffusers shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    6. 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 .

    7. Cleats and other boat securement devices shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309.3.

    8. Exercise machines and exercise equipment shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 309 . 9. 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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11B-11

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need a curb ramp at every corner where there is a crosswalk?

Yes — where walks or sidewalks are provided, § 11B-206.2.19 requires a curb ramp, blended transition, or combination that complies with § 11B-406; the ramp (excluding flared sides) must be contained wholly within the crossing width unless pedestrian crossing is prohibited by the administrative authority.

Can an accessible route deviate to avoid a kitchen or storage room?

No — § 11B-206.3 requires accessible routes to coincide with or be in the same area as general circulation paths and specifically prohibits routing accessible routes through kitchens, storage rooms, restrooms, closets, or similar spaces except as allowed by Chapter 10.

What minimum widths should I design for corridors and sidewalks?

Design walking surfaces 36 in minimum clear width as the baseline (§ 11B-403.5.1). Corridors serving an occupant load of 10 or more must be 44 in minimum; sidewalks are typically 48 in minimum (special hardship reductions are limited and conditional).

Are there slope limits for exterior accessible routes?

Yes — running slope of walking surfaces in accessible routes must not be steeper than 1:20 and cross slope not steeper than 1:48; there is a limited exception for sidewalks that must follow the established street grade (§ 11B-403.3).

If I add an escalator in a large new building, do I need an elevator nearby?

If elevators are required by § 11B-206.2.3 and the building floor exceeds 10,000 sq ft on any floor (in new construction where elevators are required), an accessible means of vertical access (ramp, elevator or lift) must be provided within 200 ft of travel of each stair and escalator (§ 11B-206.2.3.2).

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