CHBC · California Historical Building Code

Toilet room alternatives and use of accessible unisex facilities

Q: Can I always replace male/female restrooms with a single unisex accessible restroom under the CHBC?

Not always — § 8-603.5 permits designating an accessible unisex toilet in lieu of separate‑gender facilities where CHBC alternatives apply (historic alteration contexts). You must still justify the alternative and document why strict compliance would threaten historic significance per § 8-602.2 .

Q: Does CHBC § 8-603.5 change technical clearance and fixture requirements?

No. § 8-603.5 authorizes the substitution but does not supply technical dimensions. Technical requirements for accessible fixtures and room clearances remain in the regular code (Chapter 11B) unless an alternative technical solution is approved by the enforcing agency.

If a historic building cannot provide separate‑gender restrooms without damaging its historic features, the California Historical Building Code (CHBC § 8-603.5) lets you designate one accessible unisex (single‑user) toilet instead — but you must document why the regular code would harm the historic character, follow the technical requirements of the regular code unless an alternative is approved, and coordinate with the enforcing agency.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

You may designate an accessible unisex toilet facility instead of providing separate‑gender toilet rooms where the California Historical Building Code allows alternatives for historic buildings. The controlling provision is § 8-603.5.

The single most important rule: if strict application of the regular code’s separate‑gender requirement would threaten or destroy a building’s historical significance, a single accessible unisex toilet may be used as the alternative under CHBC § 8-603.5.

Requirements in detail

Core rule

A designated accessible unisex toilet facility can be used in lieu of separate‑gender toilet facilities required by the regular code. See § 8-603.5.

How this fits into the CHBC framework

The CHBC applies to qualified historical buildings and provides alternatives to the regular accessibility code only where strict compliance would threaten or destroy historical significance or character‑defining features — see § 8-602.1 and § 8-602.2.
The CHBC’s Alternatives chapter references the alternative minimum standards in the ADA (2010) for alterations (see § 8-603.1), so where CHBC directs you to follow an alternative standard, consult that referenced material for technical requirements.
If the alternatives or the CHBC itself would still impair historical features, the enforcing agency may accept other methods of providing substantially equivalent access under § 8-604 — equivalent facilitation.

Decision table — when and how to use a unisex accessible toilet under the CHBC

Decision dimension	Value / trigger	What that means in practice	Code reference
Allowed substitution	Accessible unisex toilet in lieu of separate‑gender	You may designate a single accessible unisex toilet instead of separate‑gender rooms when CHBC alternatives apply.	§ 8-603.5
Applicability	Qualified historical building/property undergoing alteration	CHBC applies only to qualified historical buildings; it is for alterations, not new construction.	§ 8-601.3
Regular code still controls unless conflicting	Regular code (Title 24, Part 2, Ch. 11B) applies unless strict compliance would threaten historic features	Use CHBC alternatives only when necessary; otherwise follow 11B requirements (fixture counts, clearances).	§ 8-602.1 and Section 11B-213 (see related)
Documentation required	Apply alternatives item‑by‑item / case‑by‑case with retained documentation	Reasons and supporting documentation must be retained in the enforcing agency’s permanent file.	§ 8-602.2
If alternatives still harm significance	Use equivalent facilitation (other technologies/designs) to provide substantially equivalent access	The enforcing official must document the basis; the alternative must provide substantially equivalent accessibility/usability.	§ 8-604

What the CHBC does NOT specify (and where to look)

The CHBC text of § 8-603.5 authorizes designation of an accessible unisex toilet but does not give fixture counts, exact clearances, or layout dimensions for that unisex room. For detailed fixture and layout requirements (single‑user vs multi‑user, lavatory/fixture limits, signage), consult the regular code (Chapter 11B) guidance on unisex/single‑user and multi‑user toilet facilities — e.g., 11B‑213.2.1 (unisex single‑user/family room) and related sections.

Exceptions & special cases

CHBC applies to alterations of qualified historical buildings; it does not apply to new construction or reconstructions/replicas. See § 8-601.3.
The CHBC allows alternatives only when strict compliance with the regular code would threaten or destroy historical significance. The alternative provisions are applied on an item‑by‑item or case‑by‑case basis and must be documented. See § 8-602.1 and § 8-602.2.
If even the CHBC’s alternatives would threaten historic fabric, the enforcing official may permit equivalent facilitation — other methods that provide substantially equivalent access (maps, videos, alternate locations, etc.). See § 8-604.
The CHBC references the ADA 2010 alternative minimum standards for alterations (§ 8-603.1); consult those referenced standards where CHBC points to them.

Common mistakes

Assuming CHBC § 8-603.5 lets you remove all accessible fixtures: it does not. It permits designation of an accessible unisex facility instead of separate‑gender rooms when CHBC alternatives apply — it does not negate the need to provide accessibility (or to meet 11B technical criteria where applicable).
Failing to document the justification: CHBC requires item‑by‑item documentation when alternatives are used; failure to retain this documentation is a common compliance error. See § 8-602.2.
Confusing single‑user unisex with multi‑user all‑gender facilities: CHBC authorizes designating an accessible unisex toilet, but detailed limits (e.g., number of lavatories/water closets allowed in a unisex single‑user room) are in the regular code (11B). Check 11B‑213.2.1 for the single‑user/family room definition.
Not coordinating with the local enforcing agency: these alternatives are applied and documented at the discretion of the enforcing official; early coordination avoids later rework. See § 8-602.2 and § 8-604.

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A historic municipal library (a qualified historic building) is undergoing interior alterations that would require reconfiguring two small, adjacent gendered toilet rooms. Removing the dividing historic plasterwork to achieve the regular code’s multi‑stall layout would irreversibly alter character‑defining fabric.

Step 1 — Determine applicability:

The project is an alteration to a qualified historic property, so CHBC applies (see § 8-601.3).

Step 2 — Consider CHBC alternative:

Under § 8-603.5, the owner may designate one accessible unisex toilet facility in lieu of separate‑gender rooms. For example, the two small rooms can be retained as one single‑user accessible unisex room by converting one room to be accessible and designating it as the facility for all users. § 8-603.5 authorizes that substitution.

Step 3 — Document justification:

Record why strict compliance (creating separate multi‑stall rooms) would threaten historical significance, per § 8-602.2. Keep meeting minutes, photos, alternatives considered, and the enforcing agency’s file.

Step 4 — Follow technical detail sources:

Because § 8-603.5 itself does not prescribe specific fixture counts or exact layout dimensions, apply the technical provisions from the regular code (Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 11B) for the technical design of the single‑user accessible toilet (e.g., lavatory height, clearances), unless the enforcing official permits a different technical solution under CHBC or equivalent facilitation. See reference to alternative minimum standards in § 8-603.1 and the regular code provisions (for example 11B‑213.2.1 for single‑user unisex rooms).

Numeric illustration (example only, not from CHBC text):

Convert Room A (existing 6 ft × 6 ft) into the accessible unisex toilet.
Provide at least one accessible water closet and one accessible lavatory laid out to meet the applicable dimensions in 11B (clearance, grab bars, turning space). Confirm dimensions with 11B and the enforcing agency.

Note: the CHBC authorizes the substitution; it does not waive the need for accessible features — you must design the unisex room to provide accessibility (using the regular code technical provisions unless an alternative is approved).

Related provisions (CHBC sections)

§ 8-603.5 — Toilet rooms (authorizes accessible unisex designation).
§ 8-602.1 — Regular code applies unless it would threaten historical significance.
§ 8-602.2 — Alternatives applied item‑by‑item; documentation required.
§ 8-603.1 — Alternative minimum standards reference (2010 ADA Section 202.5).
§ 8-603.2 — Entry alternatives (context on distances and access requirements for historic buildings).
§ 8-604 — Equivalent facilitation (other technologies or methods when CHBC alternatives would also threaten historic fabric).

(For technical fixture counts and layout dimensions referenced by the CHBC, see the regular code — Chapter 11B — e.g., 11B‑213.2.1 on unisex single‑user rooms.)

Code references

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

CHBC § 8-603.5 High relevance — show source text
**Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an
equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces
required by regular code.
8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular
code, an accessible unisex toilet may be designated.
**8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1.A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal
distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower
levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
2.Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm).
Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION
Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping
requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in
Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining
features of the qualified historical building or property.
1.Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis.
2.Access provided by experiences, services, functions, materials and resources through
methods including, but not limited to, maps, plans, videos, virtual reality and related
equipment, at accessible levels. The alternative design and/or technologies used will
provide substantially equivalent or greater accessibility to, and usability of, the
facility.
3.The official charged with the enforcement of the standards shall document the reasons
for the application of the design and/or technologies and their effect on the historical
significance or character-defining features. Such documentation shall be in accordance
with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or
local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local
groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the
permanent file of the enforcing agency. Copies of the required documentation should
be available at the facility upon request.
** Note:**For commercial facilities and places of public accommodation
(Title III entities).
Equivalent facilitation for an element of a building or property when applied as a waiver
of an ADA accessibility requirement will not be entitled to the Federal Department of
Justice certification of this code as rebuttable evidence of compliance for that element.|Applies|Waivers
If a builder
applies for a
waiver of an ADA
accessibility
requirement for
an element of a
building, he or
she will not be
entitled to
certification’s
rebuttable
evidence of
compliance for
that element. This
limitation on the
certification
determination
should be noted
in any publication
of Chapter 8-6 if
certification is
granted.|Applies| |**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.
CHBC § 8-603.2 High relevance — show source text
8-603.2 Entry. These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level landings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1. Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from the primary entrance.
2. Access at any entrance not used by the general public but open and unlocked with directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3. The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem, remote monitoring may be used.
8-603.3 Doors. Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening
3. Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
4. Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
8-603.4 Power-assisted doors. Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces required by the regular code.

8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular code, an accessible unisex toilet facility may be designated.

8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts. Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1. A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
2. Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
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ACCESSIBILITY

SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION

Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or characterdefining features of the historical building or property.
1. Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by- item or a case-by-case basis.
2. Access provided by experiences, services, functions, materials and resources through methods including, but not limited to, maps, plans, videos, virtual reality and related equipment, at accessible levels. The alternative design and/or technologies used will provide substantially equivalent or greater accessibility to, and usability of, the facility.
3. The official charged with the enforcement of the standards shall document the reasons for the application of the design and/or technologies and their effect on the historical significance or character-defining features. Such documentation shall be in accordance with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.

CHBC § 8-603.2 High relevance — show source text

36.
**8-603.2 Entry.**These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level land-
ings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1.Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960
mm) from the primary entrance.
2.Access at any entrance not used by general public but open and unlocked with
directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than
200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3.The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem,
remote monitoring may be used.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |**8-603.3 Doors.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
3.Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear
opening.
4.Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 291/2 inches
(749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
**Exception:**Alternatives in this section do not apply to alteration of commercial facilities
and places of public accommodation (Title III entities).|Does not
apply|Does not
apply|Applies|

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APPENDIX A

TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY—continued	Col2	Col3	Col4
	Title II Public Entities	Title III Private Entities	Title III Barrier Removal
8-603.4 Power-assisted doors.Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces required by regular code. 8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular code, an accessible unisex toilet may be designated. 8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts.Alternatives listed in order of priority are: 1.A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope. 2.Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.	Applies	Applies	Applies
SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining features of the qualified historical building or property. 1.Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis. 2.Access provided by experiences, services, functions,

CHBC § 213.1 High relevance — show source text
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.
2. Where multiple single user portable toilet or bathing units are clustered at a single location 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of the toilet units and bathing units at each cluster shall comply with Section 11B- 603. Portable toilet units and bathing units complying with Section 11B- 603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1.
3. Where multiple single user toilet rooms are clustered at a single location, 50 percent, but no fewer than one, of the single user toilet rooms for each use at each cluster shall comply with Section 11B- 603 .
11B- 213.2.1 Unisex ( single-user or family) toilet and unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms. Unisex (single-user or family) toilet rooms shall contain not more than one lavatory, and not more than two water closets without urinals or one water closet and one urinal. Unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms shall contain one shower or one shower and one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet. Doors to unisex (single-user or family) toilet rooms and unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms shall have privacy latches.

11B-213.2.2 Unisex (Patient) toilet rooms in medical care and long-term care facilities. Common-use unisex toilet rooms for exclusive patient use not located within patient bedrooms shall contain a lavatory and one water closet.

11B-213.2.3 Unisex (Patient) bathing rooms in medical care and long-term care facilities. Common-use unisex bathing rooms for exclusive patient use not located within patient bedrooms shall contain one shower or one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet.
CHBC § 8-601.3 High relevance — show source text
8-601.3 Scope. The CHBC shall apply to every qualified historical building or property that is required to provide access to persons with disabilities.
1. Provisions of this chapter do not apply to new construction or reconstruction/replicas of historical buildings.
2. Where provisions of this chapter apply to alteration of qualified historical buildings or properties, alteration is defined in California Building Code (CBC), Chapter 2.
8-601.4 General application. The provisions in the CHBC apply to local, state and federal governments (Title II entities); alteration of commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities); and barrier removal in commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities). Except as noted in this chapter.

SECTION 8-602 — BASIC PROVISIONS

8-602.1 Regular code. The regular code for access for people with disabilities (Title 24, Part 2, Vol. 1, Chapter 11B) shall be applied to qualified historical buildings or properties unless strict compliance with the regular code will threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining features of the building or property.

8-602.2 Alternative provisions. If the historical significance or character-defining features are threatened, alternative provisions for access may be applied pursuant to this chapter, provided the following conditions are met:
1. These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or a case-by-case basis.
2. Documentation is provided, including meeting minutes or letters, stating the reasons for the application of the alternative provisions. Such documentation shall be retained in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.
SECTION 8-603 — ALTERNATIVES

8-603.1 Alternative minimum standards. The alternative minimum standards for alterations of qualified historical buildings or facilities are referenced in Section 202.5 of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as incorporated and set forth in federal regulation 28 CFR Pt. 36.

8-603.2 Entry. These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level landings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1. Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from the primary entrance.
2. Access at any entrance not used by the general public but open and unlocked with directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3. The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem, remote monitoring may be used.
8-603.3 Doors. Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening
3. Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
4. Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
8-603.4 Power-assisted doors. Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces required by the regular code.

8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular code, an accessible unisex toilet facility may be designated.
CHBC § 8-602 High relevance — show source text
** The provisions in the CHBC apply to local, state and federal
governments (Title II entities); alteration of commercial facilities and places of public
accommodation (Title III entities); and barrier removal in commercial facilities and places of
public accommodation (Title III entities). Except as noted in this chapter.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |SECTION 8-602 — BASIC PROVISIONS
8-602.1 Regular code. The regular code for access for people with disabilities (Title 24, Part
2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B) shall be applied to qualified historical buildings or properties unless
strict compliance with the regular code will threaten or destroy the historical significance or
character-defining features of the building or property.
**8-602.2 Alternative provisions.**If the historical significance or character-defining features
are threatened, alternative provisions for access may be applied pursuant to this chapter,
provided the following conditions are met:
1.These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis.
2.Documentation is provided, including meeting minutes or letters, stating the reasons
for the application of the alternative provisions. Such documentation shall be retained
in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |Section 8-603 — ALTERNATIVES
**8-603.1 Alternative minimum standards.**The alternative minimum standards for alter-
ations of qualified historical buildings or facilities are referenced in Section 202.5 of the_ 2010_
ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as incorporated and set forth in federal regulation 28
CFR Pt. 36.
**8-603.2 Entry.**These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level land-
ings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1.Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960
mm) from the primary entrance.
2.Access at any entrance not used by general public but open and unlocked with
directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than
200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3.The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem,
remote monitoring may be used.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |**8-603.3 Doors.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
3.Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear
opening.
4.Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 291/2 inches
(749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
**Exception:**Alternatives in this section do not apply to alteration of commercial facilities
and places of public accommodation (Title III entities).|Does not
apply|Does not
apply|Applies|

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APPENDIX A
CHBC § 213.2.1 High relevance — show source text
1. Where multiple single user toilet rooms are clustered at a single location, 50 percent, but no fewer than one, of the single user toilet rooms for each use at each cluster shall comply with Section 11B- 603 .
11B- 213.2.1 Unisex ( single-user or family) toilet and unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms. Unisex (single-user or family) toilet rooms shall contain not more than one lavatory, and not more than two water closets without urinals or one water closet and one urinal. Unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms shall contain one shower or one shower and one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet. Doors to unisex (single-user or family) toilet rooms and unisex (single-user or family) bathing rooms shall have privacy latches.

11B-213.2.2 Unisex (Patient) toilet rooms in medical care and long-term care facilities. Common-use unisex toilet rooms for exclusive patient use not located within patient bedrooms shall contain a lavatory and one water closet.

11B-213.2.3 Unisex (Patient) bathing rooms in medical care and long-term care facilities. Common-use unisex bathing rooms for exclusive patient use not located within patient bedrooms shall contain one shower or one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet.

11B-213.2.4 Multi-user all-gender toilet facilities. Where multi-user all-gender toilet facilities are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B-213.3.1.

11B- 213.3 Plumbing fixtures and accessories. Plumbing fixtures and accessories provided in a toilet room or bathing room required to comply with Section 11B- 213.2 shall comply with Section 11B- 213.3.

11B- 213.3.1 Toilet compartments and urinal compartments. Where only toilet compartments are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B-213.3.1.1. Where both toilet and urinal compartments are provided, they shall comply with Section 11B-213.3.1.2.

11B-213.3.1.1 Toilet compartments. Where toilet compartments are provided, at least five percent of the toilet compartments, or five percent of the combination of toilet compartments and urinals, but no fewer than one toilet compartment shall comply

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

with Section 11B- 604.8.1. In addition to the compartments required to comply with Section 11B- 604.8.1, where six or more toilet compartments are provided, or where the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures, toilet compart- ments complying with Section 11B-604.8.2 shall be provided in the same quantity as the toilet compartments required to comply with Section 11B-604.8.1.

_**11B-213.3.1.2 Toilet rooms with toilet compartments and urinal compartments.
CHBC § 1.9.1.5 High relevance — show source text
The details of the finding of unrea-_ sonable 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;

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

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.

9. 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 provi- sions 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 disproportion- ality 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 m [2] ) 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 m [2] ) 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.
CHBC § 8-6 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8-6 ACCESSIBILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Section

8-601 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

8-602 Basic Provisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

8-603 Alternatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

8-604 Equivalent Facilitation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

CHAPTER 8-7 STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Section

8-701 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-702 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

8-703 Structural Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-704 Nonhistorical Additions and

Nonhistorical Alterations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

8-705 Structural Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-706 Lateral Load Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

CHAPTER 8-8 ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND METHODS OF

CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Section

8-801 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-802 General Engineering Approaches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-803 Nonstructural Archaic Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

8-804 Allowable Conditions for Specific Materials . . . . . . . 15 8-805 Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-806 Adobe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

8-807 Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

8-808 Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
CHBC § 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.
CHBC § 1224.4.4.6.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1. Work counter

2. Handwashing station 3. Storage facilities for clean and sterile supplies

1224.4.4.6.1 Clean supply room. If the room is used only for storage and holding as part of a system for distribution of clean and sterile materials, the work counter or a handwashing station may be omitted.

1224.4.4.7 Soiled utility/workroom. The soiled workroom or soiled holding room shall be separate from and have no connection with either clean workrooms or clean supply rooms. The soiled utility/workroom shall contain: 1. Clinical sink (or equivalent flushing-rim fixture). 2. Handwashing station

3. Work counter

4. Space for separate covered containers for soiled linen and/or waste

1224.4.4.7.1 Soiled holding room. Rooms used only for temporary holding soiled material may omit the clinical sink and work counter. If the flushing-rim clinical sink is eliminated, facilities for cleaning bedpans shall be provided elsewhere.

1224.4.4.8 Toilet rooms. Separate toilet rooms shall be provided for the use of patients, staff and public.

1224.4.4.8.1 Staff toilets. The number of staff toilets provided in a health facility shall comply with the requirements of the Cali- fornia Plumbing Code, Table 4-2. When staff toilet rooms are required to be dedicated to a specific Service Space, the number of staff toilet rooms provided under the California Plumbing Code shall be based on the number of staff within the specific Service Space served. Satellite service spaces do not require dedicated toilet rooms.

1224.4.4.8.2 Signage. When provided, single-user toilets shall include a door-mounted geometric symbol, as identified in Section 11B-703.7.2.6.3, Unisex toilet and bathing facilities and wall signage designating use for patients, staff or public. When existing toilet rooms are not compliant with Section 11B-603, Toilet and bathing rooms, directional signage in compliance with Section 11B-216.8, Toilet rooms and bathing rooms, shall also be provided.

Exception: Patient toilet rooms accessed directly from patient bedrooms are not required to include signage.

1224.4.5 Outpatient waiting rooms. Waiting rooms for outpatients shall provide a seating area and space for wheelchairs and have public corridor access. Public toilets, drinking fountains and telephones shall be readily accessible.

Note: One waiting area may serve more than one department or service.

1224.4.5.1 Outpatient access. Outpatient access to services shall not traverse a nursing unit.

1224.4.6 Miscellaneous requirements.

1224.4.6.1 Station outlets. Station outlets for oxygen, vacuum and medical air shall comply with Table 1224.4.6.1.

1224.4.6.2 Gas and vacuum systems. The design, installation and testing of medical gas and vacuum systems shall conform to Table 1224.4.6.1 and NFPA 99.

1224.4.6.3 Hyperbaric facilities. The design and construction of hyperbaric facilities shall conform to NFPA 99; Health Care Facil- ities and Section 1224.39.5.
CHBC § 11B-216.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
1. Reserved.
2. In residential facilities, where parking spaces are assigned to specific residential dwelling units, identification of accessible parking spaces shall not be required.
11B-216.5.2 Electric vehicle charging spaces. Signs identifying electric vehicle charging spaces shall comply with Section 11B-812.8.

11B-216.5.3 Parking and electric vehicle charging facilities. Signs within parking and charging facilities shall comply with Section 11B-216.5.3.

11B-216.5.3.1 Signs intended for use by pedestrians. Signs intended for use by pedestrians within parking and charging facili- ties, including directional or informational signs indicating parking sections or levels, shall comply with the requirements of Section 11B-216.

11B-216.5.3.2 Additional signs. Signs within parking facilities containing parking spaces complying with Section 11B-502 shall comply with Section 11B-502.8.

11B- 216.6 Entrances. In existing buildings and facilities where not all entrances comply with Section 11B- 404, entrances complying with Section 11B -404 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1. Directional signs complying with Section 11B-703.5 that indicate the location of the nearest entrance complying with Section 11B-404 shall be provided at entrances that do not comply with Section 11B-404. Directional signs complying with Section 11B-703.5, including the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1, indicating the accessible route to the nearest accessible entrance shall be provided at junctions when the accessible route diverges from the regular circulation path.

11B- 216.7 Elevators. Where existing elevators do not comply with Section 11B- 407, elevators complying with Section 11B- 407 shall be clearly identified with the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1. Existing buildings that have been remodeled to provide specific elevators for public use that comply with these building standards shall have the location of and the direc- tions to these elevators posted in the building lobby on a sign complying with Section 11B-703.5, including the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1.

11B- 216.8 Toilet rooms and bathing rooms. Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply with Section 11B- 603, directional signs indicating the location of the nearest toilet room or bathing room complying with Section 11B- 603 within the facility shall be provided. Signs shall comply with Section 11B- 703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B -703.7.2.1. Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply with Section 11B- 603, the toilet rooms or bathing rooms complying with Section 11B- 603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1.

Frequently asked questions

Can I always replace male/female restrooms with a single unisex accessible restroom under the CHBC?

Not always — § 8-603.5 permits designating an accessible unisex toilet in lieu of separate‑gender facilities where CHBC alternatives apply (historic alteration contexts). You must still justify the alternative and document why strict compliance would threaten historic significance per § 8-602.2.

Does CHBC § 8-603.5 change technical clearance and fixture requirements?

No. § 8-603.5 authorizes the substitution but does not supply technical dimensions. Technical requirements for accessible fixtures and room clearances remain in the regular code (Chapter 11B) unless an alternative technical solution is approved by the enforcing agency.

What documentation do I need to keep when using this alternative?

You must document, on an item‑by‑item or case‑by‑case basis, the reason the regular code would threaten or destroy historical significance and the alternative provided; retain this documentation in the enforcing agency’s permanent file as required by § 8-602.2.

If the CHBC alternative still harms historic fabric, what then?

If the CHBC alternative would also threaten historic features, use equivalent facilitation (other designs/technologies) to provide substantially equivalent access; the enforcing official must document rationale per § 8-604.

Who decides whether the alternative may be used?

The local enforcing official applies the CHBC alternatives and is responsible for documentation and approval. Early coordination with that official is essential. See § 8-602.2 and § 8-604.

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Related in the CHBC

Accessible entrance requirements and distance/notification alternatives

Door clearances, minimum widths and power-assisted door allowances

Ramp and lift alternatives: permitted slopes and maximum horizontal distances

Element-specific alternatives (entrances, doors, ramps, toilets)

California Historical Building Code