CBC · California Building Code

Drinking fountains and bottle-filling station requirements

If you install drinking fountains in a public building in California you must provide at least two fountains (unless one single unit meets all accessibility requirements). One fountain must provide wheelchair-accessible approach and spout heights, the other must meet standing-person heights; bottle-filling stations must meet the accessibility reach and control rules in §§ 11B‑307 and 11B‑309 (with limited exceptions).

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The CBC requires at least two drinking fountains where drinking fountains are provided; when two are provided they must be arranged so one meets the accessible (wheelchair) clearances and spout/approach requirements and one meets the standing-person heights, or a single fountain that meets all accessible requirements may substitute for both (§ 11B-211.2). Bottle-filling stations, when provided, must meet the accessibility reach and operable-part rules referenced in § 11B-602.10 (which requires compliance with §§ 11B-307 and 11B-309). See § 11B-211 and § 11B-602 for the detailed technical requirements.

Requirements in detail

1) How many and distribution

  • Minimum: No fewer than two drinking fountains where drinking fountains are provided. One must comply with the accessible (wheelchair) provisions (forward approach, knee/toe clearance, spout height/location, etc.) and one must comply with the standing-person spout-height range (§ 11B-211.2). A single unit that complies with § 11B-602.1 through § 11B-602.9 may be substituted for the two separate units.

  • If more than the minimum number are provided, 50% of drinking fountains must comply with the accessible requirements and 50% with the standing-person requirements (§ 11B-211.3).

2) Accessibility and approach

  • Clear floor or ground space for forward approach centered on the unit is required and knee & toe clearance must be provided consistent with the accessible clearances (§ 11B-602.2 referencing § 11B-305 and § 11B-306). An exception allows a parallel approach for children's units under specific dimension limits.

  • Operable parts (controls) must comply with the operable-parts rules (§ 11B-309); water activation must be by a front- or side-mounted manual control located within 6 inches of the front edge of the fountain or by an automatic electronic device (§ 11B-602.3).

3) Heights, locations and stream

  • Spout outlet maximum for accessible/standard fountains: 36 inches maximum above finish floor or ground (§ 11B-602.4).
  • Standing-person fountains: spout outlet shall be 38 inches minimum and 43 inches maximum (§ 11B-602.7).
  • Spout location: spout shall be ≥15 inches from vertical support and ≤5 inches from the front edge (including bumpers) (§ 11B-602.5).
  • Water flow: stream must provide a 4-inch high minimum outlet and be positioned per the front-edge limits; the allowed stream angle is limited depending on how far the spout is from the front edge (§ 11B-602.6).

4) Size, pedestrian protection and mounting

  • Wall/post-mounted cantilevered fountains depth: 18 in. minimum to 19 in. maximum (§ 11B-602.8).
  • Drinking fountains must not encroach into pedestrian ways; they must be located within alcoves, between wing walls, or otherwise positioned so as not to obstruct pedestrian circulation. The protected area must be at least 32 in. wide by 18 in. deep and comply with § 11B-305.7 (§ 11B-602.9).

5) Bottle-filling stations

  • Bottle-filling stations are required to comply with the reach and operable-part provisions identified in §§ 11B-307 and 11B-309 (that is, reach ranges and operable control requirements). In other words, a bottle filler must meet the same accessibility reach/controls rules as other plumbing fixtures under those sections (§ 11B-602.10). There is an exception where a bottle filler located at a standing-person drinking fountain is not required to comply with § 11B-602.10 provided the associated drinking fountain complies with §§ 11B-602.2 through 11B-602.6.

Quick reference table (decision‑relevant dimensions/values)

Item Required value / range Code Reference
Minimum number of drinking fountains 2 (unless substituted by one compliant unit) § 11B-211.2
Distribution when 2 provided One accessible (forward approach, knee clearance), one for standing persons; 50% split if >2 § 11B-211.2–.3
Clear floor space / approach Forward approach centered; knee/toe clearance required (see § 11B-305 / 11B-306) § 11B-602.2; §§ 11B-305, 11B-306
Operable control location Front- or side-mounted within 6 in. of front edge (or automatic) § 11B-602.3; § 11B-309
Accessible spout height Maximum 36 in. above finish floor § 11B-602.4
Standing-person spout height 38 in. min — 43 in. max above finish floor § 11B-602.7
Spout distance from front edge Maximum 5 in. from front edge (including bumpers) § 11B-602.5 § 11B-602.6
Minimum water stream height 4 in. minimum § 11B-602.6
Cantilever depth (wall/post) 18 in. min — 19 in. max § 11B-602.8
Pedestrian protection / protected area 32 in. wide × 18 in. deep minimum; comply with § 11B-305.7 § 11B-602.9; § 11B-305.7
Bottle-filling accessibility Must comply with §§ 11B-307 and 11B-309 (reach & operable parts) § 11B-602.10

Exceptions & special cases

  • Correctional/detention facilities: drinking fountains located only to serve holding or housing cells that are not required to comply with § 11B-232 may be excepted from § 11B-211; similarly, bottle-filling stations serving only such cells may be excepted from § 11B-211.4 (§ 11B-211.1 and § 11B-211.4).

  • Children's units: a parallel approach (instead of forward approach) is permitted for children’s fountains when the spout is ≤30 in. above the finish floor and the spout is ≤3½ in. from the front edge (§ 11B-602.2 exception).

  • Bottle-filling station at a standing fountain: if a bottle-filler is provided at a drinking fountain for standing persons, the bottle-filler is not required to separately comply with § 11B-602.10 provided the drinking fountain at which it is located complies with §§ 11B-602.2–602.6 (§ 11B-602.10 exception).

Common mistakes

  • Providing only one drinking fountain when fountains are required (or providing two that both are for standing persons) — the CBC requires the accessible distribution described in § 11B-211.2.
  • Installing spouts outside the allowed height ranges (accessible max 36 in.; standing 38–43 in.) or placing spouts too far forward/back from the front edge — verify § 11B-602.4, § 11B-602.5 and § 11B-602.7.
  • Forgetting the required forward clear floor space and knee/toe clearance for accessible units (failure to apply §§ 11B-602.2, 11B-305, 11B-306).
  • Placing fountains where they encroach into pedestrian ways or failing to provide the 32×18 in. protected alcove/area (§ 11B-602.9).
  • Treating bottle-filling stations as exempt from reach and operable-part rules — § 11B-602.10 explicitly points to §§ 11B-307 and 11B-309.

Worked example

Scenario: A municipal library will install drinking fixtures in a public corridor area and wants to provide two fixtures plus one wall-mounted bottle-filling station.

Steps and how CBC applies:

  1. Minimum quantity: Provide at least two drinking fountains (library meets § 11B-211.2). The library will provide one accessible fountain and one standing fountain.
  2. Accessible fountain (fountain A):
    • Provide clear forward approach centered on the unit and knee/toe clearance per § 11B-602.2 and §§ 11B-305/306. Place the spout ≤36 in. above finished floor (§ 11B-602.4). Ensure operable control is front- or side-mounted within 6 in. of front edge (or automatic) (§ 11B-602.3).
  3. Standing fountain (fountain B):
    • Set spout outlet between 38 in. and 43 in. above finished floor (§ 11B-602.7). If the bottle filler is at this fountain and fountain B otherwise complies with §§ 11B-602.2–602.6, the bottle filler may use the § 11B-602.10 exception (i.e., separate § 11B-602.10 compliance is not required). If the bottle filler is separate (wall-mounted), it must meet §§ 11B-307 and 11B-309 (reach and operable parts) per § 11B-602.10.
  4. Pedestrian protection: Provide a protected alcove or wing walls so the fountain does not encroach into a pedestrian way; the protected area should be at least 32 in. wide × 18 in. deep (§ 11B-602.9).

Numeric summary for installation team:

  • Accessible spout ≤36 in.; standing spout 38–43 in. (§§ 11B-602.4, 11B-602.7).
  • Control within 6 in. of front edge or automatic (§ 11B-602.3).
  • Protected alcove 32 in. × 18 in. minimum (§ 11B-602.9).

Related provisions

  • § 11B-305 — Clear floor or ground space (referenced by § 11B-602.2 and § 11B-602.9).
  • § 11B-306 — Knee and toe clearance (referenced by § 11B-602.2).
  • § 11B-307 — Reach ranges (required for bottle-filling stations by § 11B-602.10).
  • § 11B-309 — Operable parts (controls; referenced by §§ 11B-602.3 and 11B-602.10).
  • § 11B-305.7 — Requirements for pedestrian ways and protected areas referenced by § 11B-602.9.

Code references

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

  • CBC § 209.5 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 209.5 Mechanical access parking garages. Mechanical access parking garages shall provide at least one passenger drop-off and loading zone complying with Section 11B- 503 at vehicle drop-off and vehicle pick-up areas.

    SECTION 11B- 210—STAIRWAYS

    11B- 210.1 General. Interior and exterior stairs shall comply with Section 11B- 504 .

    Exceptions:

    1. In detention and correctional facilities, stairs that are not located in public use areas shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 504.

    2. In alterations, stairs between levels that are connected by an accessible route shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 504, except that striping complying with Section 11B-504.4.1 and handrails complying with Section 11B- 505 shall be provided when the stairs are altered.

    3. In assembly areas, aisle stairs shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 504 except that striping complying with Section 11B-504.4.1 shall be provided.

    4. Stairs that connect play components shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 504 except that striping complying with Section 11B-504.4.1 shall be provided.

    SECTION 11B- 211—DRINKING FOUNTAINS AND BOTTLE-FILLING STATIONS

    11B- 211.1 General. Where drinking fountains are provided on an exterior site, on a floor, or within a secured area they shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-211.

    Exception: In detention or correctional facilities, drinking fountains only serving holding or housing cells not required to comply with Section 11B- 232 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 211 .

    11B- 211.2 Minimum number. No fewer than two drinking fountains shall be provided. When provided, one drinking fountain shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.1 through 11B- 602.6, 11B-602.8 and 11B-602.9 and one drinking fountain shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.7 and 11B-602.9.

    Exception: Where a single drinking fountain complies with Sections 11B -602.1 through 11B-602.9, it shall be permitted to be substituted for two separate drinking fountains.

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    11B- 211.3 More than minimum number. Where more than the minimum number of drinking fountains specified in Section 11B- 211.2 are provided, 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.1 through 11B- 602.6, 11B-602.8 and 11B-602.9, and 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.7 and 11B-602.9.

  • CBC § 602.3 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 602.3 Operable parts. Operable parts shall comply with Section 11B- 309 . The flow of water shall be activated by a manually oper- ated system that is front mounted or side mounted and located within 6 inches (152 mm) of the front edge of the fountain or an automatic electronically controlled device.

    11B- 602.4 Spout height. Spout outlets shall be 36 inches ( 914 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

    11B- 602.5 Spout location. The spout shall be located 15 inches ( 381 mm) minimum from the vertical support and 5 inches ( 127 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

    FIGURE 11B -602.5—DRINKING FOUNTAIN SPOUT LOCATION

    11B- 602.6 Water flow. The spout shall provide a flow of water 4 inches ( 102 mm) high minimum and shall be located 5 inches ( 127 mm) maximum from the front of the unit. The angle of the water stream shall be measured horizontally relative to the front face of the unit. Where spouts are located less than 3 inches ( 76 mm) of the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 30 degrees maximum. Where spouts are located between 3 inches ( 76 mm) and 5 inches ( 127 mm) maximum from the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 15 degrees maximum.

    11B- 602.7 Drinking fountains for standing persons. Spout outlets of drinking fountains for standing persons shall be 38 inches (965 mm) minimum and 43 inches ( 1092 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

    11B-602.8 Depth. Wall- and post-mounted cantilevered drinking fountains shall be 18 inches (457 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum in depth.

    11B-602.9 Pedestrian protection. All drinking fountains shall either be located completely within alcoves, positioned completely between wing walls, or otherwise positioned so as not to encroach into pedestrian ways. The protected area within which a drinking fountain is located shall be 32 inches (813 mm) wide minimum and 18 inches (457 mm) deep minimum, and shall comply with Section 11B-305.7. When used, wing walls or barriers shall project horizontally at least as far as the drinking fountain and to within 6 inches (152 mm) vertically from the floor or ground surface.

    11B-602.10 Bottle-filling stations. Bottle-filling stations shall comply with Sections 11B-307 and 11B-309.

    Exception: Where bottle-filling stations are provided at a drinking fountain for standing persons, the bottle-filling station is not required to comply with this section provided a bottle-filling station is located at the drinking fountain complying with Sections 11B- 602.2 through 11B-602.6.

    SECTION 11B- 603 — TOILET AND BATHING ROOMS

    11B- 603.1 General. Toilet and bathing rooms shall comply with Section 11B- 603 .

  • CBC § 505.10.3 High relevance — show source text

    FIGURE 11B -505.10.3—BOTTOM HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT STAIRS

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    DIVISION 6: PLUMBING ELEMENTS AND FACILITIES

    SECTION 11B- 601 — GENERAL

    11B- 601.1 Scope. The provisions of Division 6 shall apply where required by Division 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this chapter.

    SECTION 11B- 602 — DRINKING FOUNTAINS AND BOTTLE-FILLING STATIONS

    11B- 602.1 General. Drinking fountains shall comply with Sections 11B- 307 and 11B- 602 .

    11B- 602.2 Clear floor space. Units shall have a clear floor or ground space complying with Section 11B- 305 positioned for a forward approach and centered on the unit. Knee and toe clearance complying with Section 11B- 306 shall be provided.

    Exception: A parallel approach complying with Section 11B- 305 shall be permitted at units for children's use where the spout is 30 inches ( 762 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground and is 3 [1] / 2 inches ( 89 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

    11B- 602.3 Operable parts. Operable parts shall comply with Section 11B- 309 . The flow of water shall be activated by a manually oper- ated system that is front mounted or side mounted and located within 6 inches (152 mm) of the front edge of the fountain or an automatic electronically controlled device.

    11B- 602.4 Spout height. Spout outlets shall be 36 inches ( 914 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

    11B- 602.5 Spout location. The spout shall be located 15 inches ( 381 mm) minimum from the vertical support and 5 inches ( 127 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

    FIGURE 11B -602.5—DRINKING FOUNTAIN SPOUT LOCATION

    11B- 602.6 Water flow. The spout shall provide a flow of water 4 inches ( 102 mm) high minimum and shall be located 5 inches ( 127 mm) maximum from the front of the unit. The angle of the water stream shall be measured horizontally relative to the front face of the unit. Where spouts are located less than 3 inches ( 76 mm) of the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 30 degrees maximum. Where spouts are located between 3 inches ( 76 mm) and 5 inches ( 127 mm) maximum from the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 15 degrees maximum.

  • CBC § 11B-211.4 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Where 50 percent of the drinking fountains yields a fraction, 50 percent shall be permitted to be rounded up or down provided that the total number of drinking fountains complying with Section 11B- 211 equals 100 percent of drinking fountains.

    11B-211.4 Bottle-filling stations. Where bottle-filling stations are provided they shall comply with Section 11B-602.10.

    Exception: In detention or correctional facilities, bottle-filling stations only serving holding or housing cells not required to comply with Section 11B-232 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-211.4.

    SECTION 11B- 212—KITCHENS, KITCHENETTES, WET BARS AND SINKS

    11B- 212.1 General. Where provided, kitchens, kitchenettes, wet bars and sinks shall comply with Section 11B- 212 .

    11B- 212.2 Kitchens, kitchenettes and wet bars. Kitchens, kitchenettes and wet bars shall comply with Section 11B- 804 .

    11B- 212.3 Sinks. Where sinks are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type provided in each accessible room or space shall comply with Section 11B- 606 .

    Exceptions:

    1. Mop, service or scullery sinks shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 212.3. 2. Scrub sinks, as defined in California Plumbing Code Section 221.0, shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-606.

    SECTION 11B- 213—TOILET FACILITIES AND BATHING FACILITIES

    11B- 213.1 General. Where toilet facilities and bathing facilities are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B- 213. Where toilet facilities and bathing facilities are provided in facilities permitted by Section 11B- 206.2.3 Exception 1 not to connect stories by an accessible route, toilet facilities and bathing facilities shall be provided on a story connected by an accessible route to an accessible entrance.

    11B-213.1.1 Toilet facilities for designated user groups. Where separate toilet facilities are provided for the exclusive use of sepa- rate user groups, the toilet facilities serving each user group shall comply with Section 11B-213.

    11B- 213.2 Toilet rooms and bathing rooms. Where toilet rooms are provided, each toilet room shall comply with Section 11B- 603. Where bathing rooms are provided, each bathing room shall comply with Section 11B- 603 .

    Exceptions:

    1. In alterations where it is technically infeasible to comply with Section 11B- 603, altering existing toilet or bathing rooms shall not be required where a single unisex (single-user or family) toilet room or bathing room complying with Section 11B- 213.2.1 is provided and located in the same area and on the same floor as existing inaccessible toilet or bathing

    rooms.

    1. Reserved.
  • CBC § 211.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: In detention or correctional facilities, drinking fountains only serving holding or housing cells not required to comply with Section 11B- 232 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 211 .

    11B- 211.2 Minimum number. No fewer than two drinking fountains shall be provided. When provided, one drinking fountain shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.1 through 11B- 602.6, 11B-602.8 and 11B-602.9 and one drinking fountain shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.7 and 11B-602.9.

    Exception: Where a single drinking fountain complies with Sections 11B -602.1 through 11B-602.9, it shall be permitted to be substituted for two separate drinking fountains.

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    11B- 211.3 More than minimum number. Where more than the minimum number of drinking fountains specified in Section 11B- 211.2 are provided, 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.1 through 11B- 602.6, 11B-602.8 and 11B-602.9, and 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall comply with Sections 11B- 602.7 and 11B-602.9.

    Exception: Where 50 percent of the drinking fountains yields a fraction, 50 percent shall be permitted to be rounded up or down provided that the total number of drinking fountains complying with Section 11B- 211 equals 100 percent of drinking fountains.

    11B-211.4 Bottle-filling stations. Where bottle-filling stations are provided they shall comply with Section 11B-602.10.

    Exception: In detention or correctional facilities, bottle-filling stations only serving holding or housing cells not required to comply with Section 11B-232 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-211.4.

    SECTION 11B- 212—KITCHENS, KITCHENETTES, WET BARS AND SINKS

    11B- 212.1 General. Where provided, kitchens, kitchenettes, wet bars and sinks shall comply with Section 11B- 212 .

    11B- 212.2 Kitchens, kitchenettes and wet bars. Kitchens, kitchenettes and wet bars shall comply with Section 11B- 804 .

    11B- 212.3 Sinks. Where sinks are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type provided in each accessible room or space shall comply with Section 11B- 606 .

    Exceptions:

  • CBC § 1010.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    1010.4.1

    Power-operated 1010.3.2 Revolving 1010.3.1 Security 402.8.8, 1010.2.9, 1010.3.4 Sensor release 1010.2.11 Side swinging 1010.1.2 Smoke 710.5

    Stairways 1010.2.6 Stairways, high-rise 403.5.3 Structural testing, exterior 1709.5 Thresholds 1003.5, 1010.1.4, 1010.1.6 Vestibule 1010.1.7

    Width 1010.1.1, 1010.1.1.1 Dormitories 310.3, 310.4, 420.11.1 Accessibility Chapters 11A and 11B Cooking 420.11, 904.15 Fire alarms and smoke alarms 420.5

    Separations 420.2, 420.3 Sprinkler protection 420.4 Draftstopping 202 Attics 718.4 Floor-ceiling assemblies 718.3 Drinking Fountains 11B-211, 11B-602, 11B-602.10 Drinking Fountains and Bottle-Filling Stations 11B-211, 11B-602, 11B-602.10 Dry Cleaning Plants 415.9.3 Drying Rooms 417 Dumbwaiters 713.14 Dwelling Units 310.3, 310.4 Accessibility Chapters 11A and 11B Alarms and detection 420.5, 907.2.12, 907.2.8, 907.2.9 Area 1208.4, 1208.5 Efficiency dwelling unit 1208.5 Group R310 Live/work units (see Live/work Units) Plumbing fixtures required Chapter 29 Scoping 101.2 Separation 420.2, 420.3 Sleeping Loft Appendix P Sound transmission 1206

    Sprinkler protection 420.4, 903.2.8

    Earthquake Loads (see Seismic) 1613 Earthquake Recording Equipment Appendix L Eaves (See Combustible Projections and Cornices) Educational Occupancy (Group E)

    305 Accessibility Chapter 11B Alarms and detection 907.2.3

    Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Height 503, 504, 505, 508 Incidental uses 509

    Interior finishes Table 803.13, 804 Live load Table 1607.1 Locking 1010.2.12, 1010.2.7 Means of egress Aisles 1018.2, 1018.5 Corridors 1020.2, 1020.3 Panic hardware 1010.2.8

    Stairway, exit access 1019 Travel distance 1006.2.1, 1006.3.3, 1017.2 Mixed occupancies 508.3, 508.4 Accessory 303.1.3, 508.2 Assembly 303.1.3 Child care 305.2, 308.4, 310.4.

  • CBC § 414.4 High relevance — show source text

    414.4 Lead Content. Dishwashing machines shall comply with the lead content requirements of Section 604.2.

    415.0 Drinking Fountains. 415.1 Application. Drinking fountains shall be self-closing and comply with ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, or ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4. Drinking fountains and bottle filling stations shall also comply with NSF/ANSI/CAN 61. Permanently installed electric water coolers and bottle filling stations shall also comply with UL 399.

    [HCD 1] Drinking fountains shall be installed and so regu- lated that a jet of water extending at least 2 inches (51 mm) in height from the water orifice shall be constantly available. The orifice shall not be accessible to the mouth of the drinker nor subject to immersion.

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 65

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

    415.2 Drinking Fountain Alternatives. Where food is consumed indoors, water stations shall be permitted to be substituted for drinking fountains. Bottle filling stations shall be permitted to be substituted for drinking fountains up to 50 percent of the requirements for drinking fountains. Drinking fountains shall not be required for an occupant load of 30 or less. 415.3 Drainage Connection. Drinking fountains shall be permitted to discharge directly into the drainage system or indirectly through an air break in accordance with Section 809.1. 415.4 Location. Drinking fountains shall not be installed in toilet rooms.

    416.0 Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment. 416.1 Application. Emergency eyewash and shower equipment shall comply with ISEA Z358.1. 416.2 Water Supply. Emergency eyewash and shower equipment shall not be limited in the water supply flow rates. Where hot and cold water is supplied to an emergency shower or eyewash station, the temperature of the water supply shall be controlled by a temperature actuated mixing valve complying with ASSE 1071. Where water is supplied directly to an emergency shower or eyewash station from a water heater, the water heater shall comply with ASSE 1085. The flow rate, discharge pattern, and temperature of flushing fluids shall be provided in accordance with ISEA Z358.1. 416.3 Installation. Emergency eyewash and shower equipment shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s

    installation instructions.

    416.4 Location. Emergency eyewash and shower equipment shall be located on the same level as the hazard and accessible for immediate use. The path of travel shall be free of obstructions and shall be clearly identified with signage. 416.5 Drain. A drain shall not be required for emergency eyewash or shower equipment. Where a drain is provided, the discharge shall be in accordance with Section 811.0.

  • CBC § 11B-602.8 High relevance — show source text

    11B-602.8 Depth. Wall- and post-mounted cantilevered drinking fountains shall be 18 inches (457 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum in depth.

    11B-602.9 Pedestrian protection. All drinking fountains shall either be located completely within alcoves, positioned completely between wing walls, or otherwise positioned so as not to encroach into pedestrian ways. The protected area within which a drinking fountain is located shall be 32 inches (813 mm) wide minimum and 18 inches (457 mm) deep minimum, and shall comply with Section 11B-305.7. When used, wing walls or barriers shall project horizontally at least as far as the drinking fountain and to within 6 inches (152 mm) vertically from the floor or ground surface.

    11B-602.10 Bottle-filling stations. Bottle-filling stations shall comply with Sections 11B-307 and 11B-309.

    Exception: Where bottle-filling stations are provided at a drinking fountain for standing persons, the bottle-filling station is not required to comply with this section provided a bottle-filling station is located at the drinking fountain complying with Sections 11B- 602.2 through 11B-602.6.

    SECTION 11B- 603 — TOILET AND BATHING ROOMS

    11B- 603.1 General. Toilet and bathing rooms shall comply with Section 11B- 603 .

    11B- 603.2 Clearances. Clearances shall comply with Section 11B- 603.2.

    11B- 603.2.1 Turning space. Turning space complying with Section 11B- 304 shall be provided within the room.

    11B- 603.2.2 Overlap. Required clear floor spaces, clearance at fixtures and turning space shall be permitted to overlap.

    11B- 603.2.3 Door swing. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance required for any fixture. Doors to accessible water closet compartments shall be permitted to encroach into the turning space without limitation. Other than doors to accessible

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    water closet compartments, a door, in any position, shall be permitted to encroach into the turning space by 12 inches (305 mm) maximum.

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

    2. Where the toilet room or bathing room is for individual use and a clear floor space complying with Section 11B- 305.3 is provided within the room beyond the arc of the door swing, doors shall be permitted to swing into the clear floor space or clearance required for any fixture.

    3. In residential dwelling units complying with Section 11B-233.3.1.1, doors shall be permitted to swing over the turning space without limitation.

  • CBC § 505.10.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    FIGURE 11B -505.10.1—TOP AND BOTTOM HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT RAMPS

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

    11B- 505.10.2 Top extension at stairs. At the top of a stair flight, handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beginning directly above the first riser nosing. Extensions shall return to a wall, guard or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.

    FIGURE 11B -505.10.2—TOP HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT STAIRS

    11B- 505.10.3 Bottom extension at stairs. At the bottom of a stair flight, handrails shall extend at the slope of the stair flight for a horizontal distance equal to one tread depth beyond the last riser nosing. The horizontal extension of a handrail shall be 12 inches (305 mm) long minimum and a height equal to that of the sloping portion of the handrail as measured above the stair nosings. Extension shall return to a wall, guard or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.

    FIGURE 11B -505.10.3—BOTTOM HANDRAIL EXTENSION AT STAIRS

    11B-80 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

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

    DIVISION 6: PLUMBING ELEMENTS AND FACILITIES

    SECTION 11B- 601 — GENERAL

    11B- 601.1 Scope. The provisions of Division 6 shall apply where required by Division 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this chapter.

    SECTION 11B- 602 — DRINKING FOUNTAINS AND BOTTLE-FILLING STATIONS

    11B- 602.1 General. Drinking fountains shall comply with Sections 11B- 307 and 11B- 602 .

    11B- 602.2 Clear floor space. Units shall have a clear floor or ground space complying with Section 11B- 305 positioned for a forward approach and centered on the unit. Knee and toe clearance complying with Section 11B- 306 shall be provided.

    Exception: A parallel approach complying with Section 11B- 305 shall be permitted at units for children's use where the spout is 30 inches ( 762 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground and is 3 [1] / 2 inches ( 89 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

  • CBC § 11B-8 Medium relevance — show source text

    DIVISION 2 – SCOPING REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11B-8

    11B-201 Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-8

    11B-202 Existing Buildings and Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-8

    11B-203 General Exceptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-10

    11B-204 Protruding Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-11

    11B-205 Operable Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-11

    11B-206 Accessible Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-12

    11B-207 Accessible Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-16

    11B-208 Parking Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-16

    11B-209 Passenger Drop-off and Loading Zones and Bus Stops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-18

    11B-210 Stairways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-18

    11B-211 Drinking Fountains and Bottle-Filling Stations . . . 11B-18

    11B-212 Kitchens, Kitchenettes, Wet Bars and Sinks . . . . . . 11B-19

    11B-213 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-19

    11B-214 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers. . . . . . . . . . . 11B-20

    11B-215 Fire Alarm Systems and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-20

    11B-216 Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-20

    11B-217 Telephones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-22

  • CBC § 206.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    11B-206.6, 11B-411 Detectable warnings 1112A.9, 1116A.5, 11B-247, 11B-705 Detention and correctional

    facilities 11B-232, 11B-807 Dimensions for adults and

    children 11B-102

    Dining areas 11B-226, 11B-902 Dining surfaces and work surfaces 11B- 226, 11B-902 Doors, doorways and gates 1126A, 1132A, 11B-206.5, 11B-404 Dressing, fitting and locker rooms 11B- 222, 11B-803 Dressing rooms 11B-222, 11B-803 Drinking fountains 1139A Bottle-filling stations 11B-211, 11B- 602, 11B-602.10 Dwelling units Chapter 11A Egress (see Accessible Means Of Egress) 1009 Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 406.2.7, 11B-228, 11B-812 Elevators 1009.2.1, 1009.4, 1009.7.3, 1124A, 11B-206.6, 11B-407, 3001.2,

    3001.4 Emergency housing Appendix Q Employee work areas 11B-206.2.8, 11B-215.3

    Entrances Chapter 11A, 11B-206.4 Equivalent facilitation Chapter 11A

    INDEX

    Exercise machines and equipment 11B-236, 11B-1004 Existing buildings 1102A.2, 11B- 202 Fire alarm systems 11B-215, 11B-702 Fishing piers and platforms 11B-237, 11B-1005 Floor or ground surfaces 11B-302 General exceptions 11B-203 Golf facilities 11B-238, 11B-1006 Grab bar 1127A, 1134A, 11B-609 Ground floor Chapter 11A Guard (or guardrail) 1114A, 1116A, 1122A, 1125A Handrails 1114A, 1115A, 1122A, 1123A,

    11B-505 International symbol of accessibility Chapter 11A, 11B- 703.7.2.1

    Judicial facilities 11B-231, 11B-808 Kitchens, kitchenettes and wet bars 1133A, 11B-212 Knee and toe clearance 11B-306

    Knee and toe space 1127A, 1133A, 1134A, 1138A Laundry 1127A, 1135A Lifts 1009.5 Limited-use/limited-application elevators 11B-206.6, 11B-408 Live/work unit 508.5.9 Mail boxes 11B-228

    Maintenance of accessible

  • CBC § 11B-402 Medium relevance — show source text

    Accessible routes Chapter 11A, 11B- 206, Chapter 11B Division 4, 11B-402 Amusement rides 11B-234, 11B-1002 Application 1.9.1, Chapter 11B Division 1 Assembly 1009.1 Assembly areas 11B-221, 11B-802 Assistive listening systems 11B-219, 11B-706 Automatic teller machines, fare machines and point-of-sale devices 11B-220, 11B-707 Bathroom 1127A, 1134A, 11B-806.2.4, 11B-809.10 Benches 11B-903

    Bus stops 11B-209 Changes in level 1111A, 1121A, 1131A, 11B-303 Clear floor or ground space Chapter 11A, 11B-305 Covered multifamily dwellings Chapter 11A Curb ramps, blended transitions and islands 1112A, 11B-406 Destination-oriented elevators

    11B-206.6, 11B-411 Detectable warnings 1112A.9, 1116A.5, 11B-247, 11B-705 Detention and correctional

    facilities 11B-232, 11B-807 Dimensions for adults and

    children 11B-102

    Dining areas 11B-226, 11B-902 Dining surfaces and work surfaces 11B- 226, 11B-902 Doors, doorways and gates 1126A, 1132A, 11B-206.5, 11B-404 Dressing, fitting and locker rooms 11B- 222, 11B-803 Dressing rooms 11B-222, 11B-803 Drinking fountains 1139A Bottle-filling stations 11B-211, 11B- 602, 11B-602.10 Dwelling units Chapter 11A Egress (see Accessible Means Of Egress) 1009 Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations 406.2.7, 11B-228, 11B-812 Elevators 1009.2.1, 1009.4, 1009.7.3, 1124A, 11B-206.6, 11B-407, 3001.2,

    3001.4 Emergency housing Appendix Q Employee work areas 11B-206.2.8, 11B-215.3

    Entrances Chapter 11A, 11B-206.4 Equivalent facilitation Chapter 11A

    INDEX

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need two drinking fountains for a small retail store?

If drinking fountains are provided, the CBC requires no fewer than two; however, a single unit that complies with §§ 11B-602.1–11B-602.9 may substitute for two separate fountains (§ 11B-211.2).

Can I put a bottle-filling station at counter height instead of wall-mounted?

Yes, but the bottle-filling station must comply with the accessibility reach and operable-part rules in §§ 11B-307 and 11B-309 as required by § 11B-602.10 unless it is the incidental filler located at a standing fountain that meets §§ 11B-602.2–602.6 and is covered by the § 11B-602.10 exception.

What height should the spout be for the accessible fountain?

The spout outlet for the accessible (non-standing) fountain must be 36 inches maximum above the finish floor (§ 11B-602.4).

Are drinking fountains allowed to project into corridors?

No — drinking fountains must be located within alcoves or otherwise positioned so they do not encroach into pedestrian ways; the protected area must be at least 32 in. by 18 in. (§ 11B-602.9).

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