CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code
What uniformity, shape, color and acoustic qualities must detectable warnings meet?
The CRSC (§ 12‑11A.209 / § 12‑11B.209) requires detectable warnings to be consistent in shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane response, resilience and attachment and to not “significantly degrade” for at least five years (significant degradation = loss of ≥10% of approved characteristics). The CBC supplies the measurable design values (truncated dome dimensions, spacing, yellow color / 70% contrast and resiliency/sound criteria) used to verify compliance.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Referenced Standards Code requires detectable warning products and directional surfaces to “ensure consistency and uniformity” in shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane acoustic quality, resilience, and attachment, and to resist significant degradation for at least five years — see § 12-11A.209 and § 12-11B.209. For how those attributes are measured (dome size/spacing, color/contrast, resiliency / sound-on-cane), the California Building Code specifies the prescriptive dimensions, color/contrast rules and resiliency/sound criteria in Section § 11B-705.
The single most important rule: detectable warnings must be uniform in form and performance (shape, color stability, acoustic/sound‑on‑cane response, resilience and secure attachment) and remain essentially unchanged for five years. § 12-11A.209 / § 12-11B.209.
Requirements in detail
What the CRSC requires (summary)
- The CRSC explicitly requires consistency and uniformity in these attributes: shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane acoustic quality, resilience, and attachment, and that none of these “will degrade significantly for at least five years.” § 12-11A.209 and § 12-11B.209.
- “Significant degradation” is defined in the CRSC such that the product must maintain at least 90 percent of its approved design characteristics (see § 12-11A.210 and § 12-11B.210).
How the Building Code (measurable values) maps to the CRSC attributes
Use the CRSC requirements as the performance/durability mandate and the California Building Code (CBC) as the source for measurable design values (shape, color, contrast, resiliency/sound). The table below collects the decision‑relevant numbers you will check when approving or selecting products.
| Attribute | Decision‑relevant value(s) | Where to verify / test | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape — truncated dome geometry | Base diameter: 0.9 in (22.9 mm) min — 0.92 in (23.4 mm) max; Top diameter: 0.45 in (11.4 mm) min — 0.47 in (11.9 mm) max; Height: 0.2 in (5.1 mm). | Measure domes per specimen / CAD / test report. | § 11B‑705.1.1.1 |
| Shape — dome spacing | Center‑to‑center: 2.3 in (58 mm) min — 2.4 in (61 mm) max (square grid); base‑to‑base: 0.65 in (16.5 mm) min. (Radial pattern exception: center‑to‑center 1.6 in min.) | Layout measurement on installed panel or sample. | § 11B‑705.1.1.2 |
| Color / visual contrast | Preferred: yellow approximating FS/AMS FS 33538. Alternatively, provide 70% minimum visual contrast with adjacent walking surface (use LRV formula). | Color spec, LRV test, or calculate contrast using LRV formula in code. | § 11B‑705.1.1.3.1; § 11B‑705.1.1.3.2 |
| Visual contrast formula | Contrast% = [(B1 − B2) / B1] × 100, where B1 = LRV of lighter area, B2 = LRV of darker area. Require ≥ 70%. | Photometric LRV measurement (spectrophotometer). | § 11B‑705.1.1.3.2 |
| Acoustic / sound‑on‑cane / resiliency | Detectable warnings must differ from adjoining surfaces in resiliency or sound‑on‑cane contact (i.e., provide a cane‑detectable acoustic/resilient cue). | Sound-on-cane test and resilience measurement; field cane test. | § 11B‑705.1.1.4 |
| Durability / five‑year performance | Product shall not degrade significantly for at least five years; “significant degradation” = maintain ≥ 90% of approved design characteristics. | Accelerated weathering / field aging, independent entity evaluation and two‑year recertification per CRSC/DSA‑AC program. | § 12‑11A.209 / § 12‑11B.209; § 12‑11A.210 / § 12‑11B.210; §§ 12‑11A.205–206 (approval/recert). |
Notes on verification: the CRSC requires evaluation by an independent entity and recertification every two years for detectable warning products — see the product approval and independent entity provisions in Chapter 12‑11A / 12‑11B.
Exceptions & special cases
- The CBC allows limited exceptions for replacement: replacing less than 20 percent of existing detectable warnings at a single contiguous location may be done in‑kind using the configuration in effect when originally installed (CBC exception).
- Resiliency / sound‑on‑cane exception: detectable warning surfaces at curb ramps, islands or cut‑through medians are excepted from the resiliency requirement in some specific CBC subsections — check § 11B‑705.1.1.4 for the exception.
- The CRSC requires independent evaluation of products installed after Jan 1, 2001, and two‑year recertification — manufacturers and specifiers must account for that process (see §§ 12‑11A.205–206 / 12‑11B.205–206).
If a specific attribute or numeric metric is missing from the CRSC snippet you have, rely on the CBC prescriptive values (e.g., dome geometry, color/contrast formula) and the CRSC’s durability/uniformity mandate; both documents are referenced by the CRSC product approval sections.
Common mistakes
- Specifying a detectable warning that is not the required truncated dome geometry (wrong diameters/height/spacing). Always check § 11B‑705.1.1.1 & § 11B‑705.1.1.2 for exact dome dimensions and spacing.
- Using a surface color that is not yellow or that fails the 70% visual contrast test — many teams forget to run LRV/contrast calculations per § 11B‑705.1.1.3.2.
- Relying on surface paint or applied coating (non‑integral color) instead of an integral color material; the CBC requires material color to be integral to the surface where applicable.
- Ignoring the CRSC durability metric: a product that loses more than 10% of an approved characteristic over time fails the CRSC “no significant degradation” requirement. Check § 12‑11A.210 / § 12‑11B.210.
- Installing non‑approved products (lack of DSA‑AC listing / independent entity evaluation) — CBC requires only approved DSA‑AC detectable warning products be installed; CRSC specifies independent evaluation/recertification.
Worked example — curb ramp detectable warning (numbers)
Scenario: You are specifying detectable warnings for a new perpendicular curb ramp.
Geometry (shape): select a product with dome geometry matching CBC: base diameter 0.9–0.92 in, top diameter 0.45–0.47 in, height 0.2 in, center‑to‑center spacing 2.3–2.4 in. Verify by measuring sample domes against § 11B‑705.1.1.1 and § 11B‑705.1.1.2.
Color/contrast: the adjacent sidewalk has an LRV of 30 (a relatively dark concrete finish). You choose a yellow detectable warning with LRV 80. Apply the contrast formula in § 11B‑705.1.1.3.2: Contrast% = [(B1 − B2)/B1]*100 where B1 is the lighter of the two LRVs (here B1 = 80, B2 = 30) → (80 − 30)/80 × 100 = 62.5%. That fails the 70% minimum. To meet 70% with B2=30, B1 must be such that (B1−30)/B1 ≥ 0.70 ⇒ B1 ≤ 100 (solve: 0.30×B1 ≤ 30 ⇒ B1 ≤ 100) — but with B1=80 we got only 62.5% so you must choose either a lighter walking surface (not possible) or a darker detectable warning (lower LRV). In practice you would select a detectable warning with LRV ≤ 10 to get (B1=30 vs B2=10) → (30−10)/30 = 66.7% still short, so better to choose the detectable warning as the lighter area (e.g., detectable warning LRV=70 vs walking surface 20): (70−20)/70 = 71.4% which meets the 70% threshold. Use the approach in § 11B‑705.1.1.3.2 and measure with a spectrophotometer.
Durability: the CRSC requires no significant degradation for five years (i.e., maintain ≥ 90% of approved design characteristics per § 12‑11A.210 / § 12‑11B.210). For dome height: initial = 0.2 in; acceptable after ageing = 0.2 × 0.90 = 0.18 in minimum. If testing or field inspection after aging shows dome height < 0.18 in, the product would be considered to have degraded significantly under the CRSC definition.
Acoustic / resiliency: confirm the surface differs from the adjoining walking surface in resiliency or sound‑on‑cane contact per § 11B‑705.1.1.4 (field cane test or lab acoustic test). Note the curb‑ramp exception to this resiliency requirement: check the exception text in § 11B‑705.1.1.4 if applicable.
Product approval: ensure the product is an approved DSA‑AC detectable warning product and that the manufacturer participates in the independent entity evaluation and two‑year recertification per § 12‑11A.205–206 / § 12‑11B.205–206.
Related provisions
- Product scope and test methods: § 12‑11A.202 / § 12‑11B.202.
- Detectable warning product requirements (CRSC): § 12‑11A.203 / § 12‑11B.203.
- Independent entity evaluation and product approval: § 12‑11A.205 / § 12‑11B.205.
- Two‑year recertification (manufacturer obligations): § 12‑11A.206 / § 12‑11B.206.
- Definition of significant degradation and the 90% rule: § 12‑11A.210 / § 12‑11B.210.
- Prescriptive dome dimensions, spacing and color/contrast rules: § 11B‑705.1.1.1, § 11B‑705.1.1.2, and § 11B‑705.1.1.3 (CBC).
- Resiliency / sound‑on‑cane criteria and exceptions: § 11B‑705.1.1.4 (CBC).
- Product listing and installation: § 11B‑705.3 (only approved DSA‑AC products shall be installed).
If you need, I can produce: (a) a one‑page checklist to use during field inspection that maps each numeric requirement to pass/fail tests; or (b) a short worksheet that runs the LRV contrast calculation when you provide measured LRVs. Which would help you most?
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRSC § 12-11 High relevance — show source text
DETECTABLE WARNING PRODUCTS
Sections 12-11A.203 and 12-11B.203. Must comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24.
DIRECTIONAL SURFACES
Sections 12-11A.204 and 12-11B.204. Must comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24.
INDEPENDENT ENTITY
Sections 12-11A.205 and 12-11B.205. Evaluation by an independent entity to confirm the prescriptive and performance standard of detectable warning products or direction surfaces installed after January 1, 2001. An independent entity is a not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization, dedicated to testing for public safety. An independent entity would operate for the testing, certification and quality assessment of products, systems and services.
TWO-YEAR APPROVAL
Sections 12-11A.206 and 12-11B.206. Detectable warning products and directional surfaces are to be recertified every two years without exception or waiver.
FEE
Sections 12-11A.207 and 12-11B.207. The Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance may impose a fee on manufacturers of the specified products, to cover the cost of detectable warning products and directional surfaces.
DISABILITY ACCESS ACCOUNT
Sections 12-11A.208 and 12-11B.208. The fees received from manufacturers will be placed in the Disability Access Account.
DETECTABLE WARNING PRODUCTS AND DIRECTIONAL SURFACES
Sections 12-11A.209 and 12-11B.209. Detectable Warning Products and Directional Surfaces must ensure consistency and uniformity: (a) Shape, (b) Color fastness,
(c) Conformation, (d) Sound-on-cane acoustic quality, (e) Resilience, and (f) Attachment will not degrade significantly for at least five years.
SIGNIFICANT DEGRADATION
Sections 12-11A.210 and 12-11B.210. Significant degradation means that the product maintains at least 90 percent of its approved design characteristics.
SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT ENTITY
Sections 12-11A.211 and 12-11B.211. The independent entity selected by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance shall be recognized as having appropriate expertise in determining whether products comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24.
Authority: Government Code Sections 4450, 4460 and Health & Safety Code Section 18949.1.
Reference: Government Code Section 4460.
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12-13 STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL
(See Part 6, Title 24, CCR)
DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS
Bureau of Household Goods and Services
CRSC § 11B-705.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 11B- 705 — DETECTABLE WARNINGS AND DETECTABLE DIRECTIONAL TEXTURE
11B-705.1 Detectable warnings
11B-705.1.1 General. Detectable warnings shall consist of a surface of truncated domes and shall comply with Section 11B- 705 .
11B-705.1.1.1 Dome size. Truncated domes in a detectable warning surface shall have a base diameter of 0.9 inch (22.9 mm) minimum and 0.92 inch (23.4 mm) maximum, a top diameter of 0.45 inch (11.4 mm) minimum and 0.47 inch (11.9 mm) maximum, and a height of 0.2 inch (5.1 mm).
11B-705.1.1.2 Dome spacing. Truncated domes in a detectable warning surface shall have a center-to-center spacing of 2.3 inches (58 mm) minimum and 2.4 inches (61 mm) maximum, and a base-to-base spacing of 0.65 inch ( 16.5 mm) minimum, measured between the most adjacent domes on a square grid.
Exception: Where installed in a radial pattern, truncated domes shall have a center-to-center spacing of 1.6 inches (41 mm) minimum to 2.4 inches (61 mm) maximum.
FIGURE 11B- 705.1—SIZE AND SPACING OF TRUNCATED DOMES
11B-705.1.1.3 Color and contrast . Detectable warning surfaces shall comply with Section 11B-705.1.1.3.1. The material used to comply with this section shall be an integral part of the detectable warning surface.
Exceptions:
1. Replacement of less than 20 percent of existing detectable warnings at a single contiguous location shall be permit- ted to be in-kind at existing curb ramps, islands or cut-through medians with detectable warnings in compliance with the code requirements in effect at the time of installation.
2. Existing installed detectable warnings at curb ramps, islands or cut-through medians may comply with Section 11B- 705.1.1.3.2 in lieu of Section 11B-705.1.1.3.1.
11B-705.1.1.3.1 Detectable warning surfaces shall be yellow and approximate 33538 of SAE AMS-STD-595A.
11B-705.1.1.3.2 Detectable warning surfaces shall provide a 70 percent minimum visual contrast with adjacent walking surfaces. Contrast in percent shall be determined by:
Contrast percent = [(B1-B2)/B1] × 100 where
B1 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the lighter area and
B2 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the darker area.
Exception: Where the detectable warning surface does not provide a 70 percent minimum contrast with adjacent walking surfaces, a 1-inch (25 mm) wide minimum visually contrasting surface shall separate the detectable warning from adjacent walking surfaces. The visually contrasting surface shall contrast with both the detectable warning and adjacent walking surfaces, either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.
CRSC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text
(f) Release bar deformation. The cross-bar on a 36-inch (914 mm) wide door shall not be permanently set or deformed in excess of [1] / 4 inch (6 mm), by the test; a spacing of at least 1 inch (25 mm) is to be provided and maintained between the cross-bar and the face of the door when the horizontal force is applied against the cross-bar.
MARKING
Sec. 12-10-306. The listee’s name (or approved symbol), type or model designation shall be plainly marked on the releasing assembly. Devices and assemblies which are not listed by an approved listing agency for the intended purpose shall bear a label or other identifying markings as approved by the State Fire Marshal.
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CHAPTERS
12-11A and 11B BUILDING AND FACILITY ACCESS SPECIFICATIONS
Detectable warning products and directional surfaces installed after January 1, 2001, shall be evaluated by an independent entity, selected by the Department of General Services, Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance, for all occupancies, including transportation and other outdoor environments, except that when products and surfaces are for use in residential housing evaluation shall be in consultation with the Department of Housing and Community Development. See Government Code Section 4460.
PRODUCT APPROVAL FOR DETECTABLE WARNING PRODUCTS AND DIRECTIONAL SURFACES
SCOPE
Sections 12-11A.202 and 12-11B.202. These requirements and test methods apply to detectable warning products and directional surfaces.
DETECTABLE WARNING PRODUCTS
Sections 12-11A.203 and 12-11B.203. Must comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24.
DIRECTIONAL SURFACES
Sections 12-11A.204 and 12-11B.204. Must comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24.
INDEPENDENT ENTITY
Sections 12-11A.205 and 12-11B.205. Evaluation by an independent entity to confirm the prescriptive and performance standard of detectable warning products or direction surfaces installed after January 1, 2001. An independent entity is a not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization, dedicated to testing for public safety. An independent entity would operate for the testing, certification and quality assessment of products, systems and services.
TWO-YEAR APPROVAL
Sections 12-11A.206 and 12-11B.206. Detectable warning products and directional surfaces are to be recertified every two years without exception or waiver.
FEE
Sections 12-11A.207 and 12-11B.207. The Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance may impose a fee on manufacturers of the specified products, to cover the cost of detectable warning products and directional surfaces.
DISABILITY ACCESS ACCOUNT
Sections 12-11A.208 and 12-11B.208. The fees received from manufacturers will be placed in the Disability Access Account.
DETECTABLE WARNING PRODUCTS AND DIRECTIONAL SURFACES
Sections 12-11A.209 and 12-11B.209. Detectable Warning Products and Directional Surfaces must ensure consistency and uniformity: (a) Shape, (b) Color fastness,
CRSC § 1.1.3.2 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
1. Replacement of less than 20 percent of existing detectable warnings at a single contiguous location shall be permit- ted to be in-kind at existing curb ramps, islands or cut-through medians with detectable warnings in compliance with the code requirements in effect at the time of installation.
2. Existing installed detectable warnings at curb ramps, islands or cut-through medians may comply with Section 11B- 705.1.1.3.2 in lieu of Section 11B-705.1.1.3.1.
11B-705.1.1.3.1 Detectable warning surfaces shall be yellow and approximate 33538 of SAE AMS-STD-595A.
11B-705.1.1.3.2 Detectable warning surfaces shall provide a 70 percent minimum visual contrast with adjacent walking surfaces. Contrast in percent shall be determined by:
Contrast percent = [(B1-B2)/B1] × 100 where
B1 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the lighter area and
B2 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the darker area.
Exception: Where the detectable warning surface does not provide a 70 percent minimum contrast with adjacent walking surfaces, a 1-inch (25 mm) wide minimum visually contrasting surface shall separate the detectable warning from adjacent walking surfaces. The visually contrasting surface shall contrast with both the detectable warning and adjacent walking surfaces, either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.
11B-705.1.1.4 Resiliency. Detectable warning surfaces shall differ from adjoining surfaces in resiliency or sound-on-cane contact.
Exception: Detectable warning surfaces at curb ramps, islands or cut-through medians shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-705.1.1.4.
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11B-705.1.2 Locations. Detectable warnings at the following locations shall comply with Section 11B-705.1.
11B-705.1.2.1 Platform edges. Detectable warning surfaces at platform boarding edges shall be 24 inches (610 mm) wide and shall extend the full length of the public use areas of the platform.
11B-705.1.2.2 Curb ramps. Detectable warnings at curb ramps shall comply with Section 11B-705.1.2.2.
11B-705.1.2.2.1 Perpendicular curb ramps. Detectable warnings at curb ramps shall extend 36 inches (914 mm) in the direc- tion of travel. Detectable warnings shall extend the full width of the ramp run less 2 inches (51 mm) maximum on each side, excluding any flared sides. Detectable warnings shall be located so the edge nearest the curb is 6 inches (152 mm) minimum and 8 inches (203 mm) maximum from the demarcation line at the face of the curb between the curb and the gutter, street or highway.
CRSC § 11B-109 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
1. Where it is technically infeasible to provide a minimum 108 inches (2743 mm) wide turning space, as measured perpendicular to the curb, the depth of detectable warnings may be reduced to 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.
2. Existing parallel curb ramps with detectable warnings in compliance with the code requirements in effect at the time of installation shall not be required to provide a minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion of the turning space without detectable warnings.
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11B-705.1.2.3 Islands or cut-through medians. Detectable warnings at pedestrian islands or cut-through medians shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum in depth extending the full width of the pedestrian path or cut-through less 2 inches (51 mm) maximum on each side, placed at the edges of the pedestrian island or cut-through median, and shall be separated by 24 inches (610 mm) minimum of walking surface without detectable warnings.
Exception: Detectable warnings shall be 24 inches (610 mm) minimum in depth at pedestrian islands or cut-through medians that are less than 96 inches (2438 mm) in length in the direction of pedestrian travel.
11B-705.1.2.4 Bus stops. When detectable warnings are provided at bus stop boarding and alighting areas, the detectable warn- ings shall extend the full width of the boarding/alighting area and shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum in depth.
11B-705.1.2.5 Blended transitions. Detectable warnings at blended transitions shall be 36 inches (914 mm) in depth and extend the entirety of the transition separating the walk or sidewalk from the vehicular way.
11B-705.1.2.6 Reflecting pools. When detectable warnings are provided at reflecting pools, it shall be 24 inches (610 mm) mini- mum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum in width.
11B-705.1.2.7 Track crossings. Detectable warnings at track crossings shall be 36 inches (914 mm) in the direction of pedestrian travel and extend the full width of the circulation path.
11B-705.2 Detectable directional texture. Detectable directional texture at transit boarding platforms shall comply with Figure 11B-705.2 and shall be 0.1 inch (2.5 mm) in height that tapers off to 0.04 inch (1.0 mm), with bars raised 0.2 inch (5.1 mm) from the surface. The raised bars shall be 1.3 inches (33 mm) wide and 3 inches (76 mm) from center-to-center of each bar. This surface shall differ from adjoining walking surfaces in resiliency or sound-on-cane contact. The color shall be yellow and approximate FS 33538 of Federal Standard 595C. This surface will be placed directly behind the yellow detectable warning texture specified in Section 11B- _705.1.2.1, aligning with all doors of the transit vehicles where passengers will embark.
CRSC § 704.2.4 High relevance — show source text
11B- 704.2.4 Cord length. The cord from the telephone to the handset shall be 29 inches ( 737 mm) long minimum.
FIGURE 11B- 704.2.1.2—FORWARD APPROACH TO TELEPHONE
11B- 704.3 Volume control telephones. Public telephones required to have volume controls shall be equipped with a receive volume control that provides a gain adjustable up to 20 dB minimum. For incremental volume control, provide at least one intermediate step of 12 dB of gain minimum. An automatic reset shall be provided. Volume control telephones shall be equipped with a receiver that generates a magnetic field in the area of the receiver cap. Public telephones with volume control shall be hearing aid compatible.
11B- 704.4 TTYs. TTYs provided at a public pay telephone shall be permanently affixed within, or adjacent to, the telephone enclosure. Where an acoustic coupler is used, the telephone cord shall be sufficiently long to allow connection of the TTY and the telephone receiver.
11B -704.4.1 Height. When in use, the touch surface of TTY keypads shall be 34 inches ( 864 mm) minimum above the finish floor.
Exception: Where seats are provided, TTYs shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 704.4.1.
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11B- 704.5 TTY shelf. Public pay telephones required to accommodate portable TTYs shall be equipped with a shelf and an electrical outlet within or adjacent to the telephone enclosure. The telephone handset shall be capable of being placed flush on the surface of the shelf. The shelf shall be capable of accommodating a TTY and shall have 6 inches ( 152 mm) minimum vertical clearance above the area where the TTY is to be placed.
SECTION 11B- 705 — DETECTABLE WARNINGS AND DETECTABLE DIRECTIONAL TEXTURE
11B-705.1 Detectable warnings
11B-705.1.1 General. Detectable warnings shall consist of a surface of truncated domes and shall comply with Section 11B- 705 .
11B-705.1.1.1 Dome size. Truncated domes in a detectable warning surface shall have a base diameter of 0.9 inch (22.9 mm) minimum and 0.92 inch (23.4 mm) maximum, a top diameter of 0.45 inch (11.4 mm) minimum and 0.47 inch (11.9 mm) maximum, and a height of 0.2 inch (5.1 mm).
11B-705.1.1.2 Dome spacing. Truncated domes in a detectable warning surface shall have a center-to-center spacing of 2.3 inches (58 mm) minimum and 2.4 inches (61 mm) maximum, and a base-to-base spacing of 0.65 inch ( 16.5 mm) minimum, measured between the most adjacent domes on a square grid.
CRSC § 11B-705.1.2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
11B-705.1.2.5 Blended transitions. Detectable warnings at blended transitions shall be 36 inches (914 mm) in depth and extend the entirety of the transition separating the walk or sidewalk from the vehicular way.
11B-705.1.2.6 Reflecting pools. When detectable warnings are provided at reflecting pools, it shall be 24 inches (610 mm) mini- mum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum in width.
11B-705.1.2.7 Track crossings. Detectable warnings at track crossings shall be 36 inches (914 mm) in the direction of pedestrian travel and extend the full width of the circulation path.
11B-705.2 Detectable directional texture. Detectable directional texture at transit boarding platforms shall comply with Figure 11B-705.2 and shall be 0.1 inch (2.5 mm) in height that tapers off to 0.04 inch (1.0 mm), with bars raised 0.2 inch (5.1 mm) from the surface. The raised bars shall be 1.3 inches (33 mm) wide and 3 inches (76 mm) from center-to-center of each bar. This surface shall differ from adjoining walking surfaces in resiliency or sound-on-cane contact. The color shall be yellow and approximate FS 33538 of Federal Standard 595C. This surface will be placed directly behind the yellow detectable warning texture specified in Section 11B- 705.1.2.1, aligning with all doors of the transit vehicles where passengers will embark. The width of the directional texture shall be equal to the width of the transit vehicle’s door opening. The depth of the texture shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm).
FIGURE 11B-705.2 — DETECTABLE DIRECTIONAL TEXTURE
11B-705.3 Product approval. Only approved DSA-AC detectable warning products and directional surfaces shall be installed as provided in the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, Part 1, Chapter 5, Articles 2, 3 and 4. Refer to CCR Title 24, Part 12, Chapter 11B, Section 12-11B.205 for building and facility access specifications for product approval for detectable warning products and direc- tional surfaces.
SECTION 11B- 706 — ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS
11B- 706.1 General. Assistive listening systems required in assembly areas, conference and meeting rooms shall comply with Section 11B- 706 .
11B- 706.2 Receiver jacks. Receivers required for use with an assistive listening system shall include a [1] / 8 inch (3.2 mm) standard mono jack.
11B- 706.3 Receiver hearing-aid compatibility. Receivers required to be hearing-aid compatible shall interface with telecoils in hearing aids through the provision of neckloops.
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CRSC § 11B-246 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 11B-246—OUTDOOR DEVELOPED AREAS
11B-246.1 General. Outdoor developed areas shall comply with Section 11B-246.
Exceptions:
1. Where the enforcing agency finds that, in specific areas, the natural environment would be materially damaged by compli- ance with these regulations, such areas shall be subject to these regulations only to the extent that such material damage would not occur.
2. Automobile access or accessible routes are not required when the enforcing agency determines compliance with this chap- ter would create an unreasonable hardship as defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.
11B-246.2 Camping facilities. In camping facilities where campsites are provided, at least two campsites and one additional campsite for each 100 campsites or fraction thereof, shall be accessed by and connected to sanitary facilities by travel routes with a maximum slope of 1:12. Permanent toilet and bathing facilities serving campsites shall comply with Section 11B-603.
11B-246.3 Beaches. Beaches shall be accessible.
11B-246.4 Day use areas and vista points. Day use areas, vista points and similar areas shall be accessible.
11B-246.5 Picnic areas. Where picnic tables are provided, at least one picnic table, and one additional table for each 20 tables or frac- tion thereof, shall be accessible and comply with Section 11B-902.
11B-246.6 Parking lots. Parking lots shall comply with Sections 11B-208 and 11B-502 and shall be provided with curb cuts leading to adjacent walks, paths or trails.
11B-246.7 Trails and paths. Trails, paths and nature walk areas, or portions of them, shall be constructed with gradients permitting at least partial use by wheelchair occupants. Buildings and other functional areas shall be served by paths or walks with firm and stable surfaces.
11B-246.8 Nature trails. Nature trails and similar educational and informational areas shall be accessible to individuals with vision impairments by the provision of rope guidelines, raised Arabic numerals and symbols, or other similar guide and assistance devices.
SECTION 11B-247—DETECTABLE WARNINGS AND DETECTABLE DIRECTIONAL TEXTURE
11B-247.1 Detectable warnings.
11B-247.1.1 General. Detectable warnings shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-247.1 and shall comply with Section 11B-705.1.
11B-247.1.2 Where required. Detectable warnings shall be provided where required by Section 11B-247.1.2.
11B-247.1.2.1 Platform edges. Platform boarding edges shall have detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.1.
11B-247.1.2.2 Curb ramps. Curb ramps shall have detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.2.
California Referenced Standards Code Medium relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.CRSC § 11B-705.1.2.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
11B-705.1.2.2.2 Parallel curb ramps. Detectable warnings at parallel curb ramps shall be located so the edge nearest the curb is 6 inches (152 mm) minimum and 8 inches (203 mm) maximum from the demarcation line at the face of the curb between the curb and the gutter, street or highway. Detectable warnings shall extend the full width of the turning space at the demarcation between the street and the sidewalk less 2 inches (51 mm) maximum on each side.
FIGURE 11B-705.1.2.2.2—PARALLEL CURB RAMPS
11B-705.1.2.2.2.1 One entrance/exit point. Where the turning space has one entrance/exit point other than the sloped ramp segments, detectable warnings shall be 36 inches (914 mm) deep, as measured perpendicular to the curb, and the turning space shall provide a minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion without detectable warnings to allow pedestrian travel in the direction of the sidewalk without travelling over the detectable warnings.
Exceptions:
1. Where it is technically infeasible to provide a minimum 72 inches (1828 mm) wide turning space, as measured perpendicular to the curb, the depth of detectable warnings may be reduced to 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.
2. Existing parallel curb ramps with detectable warnings in compliance with the code requirements in effect at the time of installation shall not be required to provide a minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion of the turning space without detectable warnings.
11B-705.1.2.2.2.2 Two entrance/exit points. Where the turning space has two entrance/exit points other than the sloped ramp segments, detectable warnings shall be 36 inches (914 mm) deep at both entrance/exit points, as measured perpen- dicular to the curb, and the turning space shall provide a minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion without detectable warnings to allow pedestrian travel in the direction of the sidewalk without travelling over the detectable warnings.
Exceptions:
1. Where it is technically infeasible to provide a minimum 108 inches (2743 mm) wide turning space, as measured perpendicular to the curb, the depth of detectable warnings may be reduced to 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.
2. Existing parallel curb ramps with detectable warnings in compliance with the code requirements in effect at the time of installation shall not be required to provide a minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion of the turning space without detectable warnings.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11B-109
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
11B-705.1.2.3 Islands or cut-through medians. Detectable warnings at pedestrian islands or cut-through medians shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum in depth extending the full width of the pedestrian path or cut-through less 2 inches (51 mm) maximum on each side, placed at the edges of the pedestrian island or cut-through median, and shall be separated by 24 inches (610 mm) minimum of walking surface without detectable warnings.
CRSC § 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
CRSC § 11B-246.7 Medium relevance — show source text
11B-246.7 Trails and paths. Trails, paths and nature walk areas, or portions of them, shall be constructed with gradients permitting at least partial use by wheelchair occupants. Buildings and other functional areas shall be served by paths or walks with firm and stable surfaces.
11B-246.8 Nature trails. Nature trails and similar educational and informational areas shall be accessible to individuals with vision impairments by the provision of rope guidelines, raised Arabic numerals and symbols, or other similar guide and assistance devices.
SECTION 11B-247—DETECTABLE WARNINGS AND DETECTABLE DIRECTIONAL TEXTURE
11B-247.1 Detectable warnings.
11B-247.1.1 General. Detectable warnings shall be provided in accordance with Section 11B-247.1 and shall comply with Section 11B-705.1.
11B-247.1.2 Where required. Detectable warnings shall be provided where required by Section 11B-247.1.2.
11B-247.1.2.1 Platform edges. Platform boarding edges shall have detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.1.
11B-247.1.2.2 Curb ramps. Curb ramps shall have detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.2.
11B-247.1.2.3 Islands or cut-through medians. Islands or cut-through medians shall have detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.3.
11B-247.1.2.4 Bus stops. Where detectable warnings are provided at bus stop boarding and alighting areas in compliance with Section 11B-810.2.3, detectable warnings shall comply with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.4.
11B-247.1.2.5 Blended transitions. Blended transitions shall have detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.5.
11B-247.1.2.6 Reflecting pools. The edges of reflecting pools shall be protected by railings, walls, warning curbs or detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.6.
11B-247.1.2.7 Track crossings. Where it is necessary to cross tracks to reach transit boarding platforms, detectable warnings complying with Sections 11B-705.1.1 and 11B-705.1.2.7 shall be provided.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11B-39
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
11B-247.2 Detectable directional texture. At transit boarding platforms, the pedestrian access shall be identified with a detectable directional texture complying with Section 11B-705.2.
Frequently asked questions
What is the single authoritative CRSC section that requires uniformity and durability?
The controlling CRSC sections are § 12‑11A.209 and § 12‑11B.209, which require uniformity in shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane acoustic quality, resilience and attachment, and that these not degrade significantly for at least five years.
Where do I find the numeric dome dimensions and spacing to test against?
Numeric dome geometry and spacing are specified in the California Building Code at § 11B‑705.1.1.1 and § 11B‑705.1.1.2. Use those values when verifying shape.
How is “significant degradation” quantified?
The CRSC defines “significant degradation” as failing to maintain at least 90 percent of the approved design characteristics — see § 12‑11A.210 / § 12‑11B.210.
Is yellow required for detectable warnings?
Yes — the CBC prefers yellow (approx. FS 33538) as the standard detectable‑warning color; alternatively, a detectable warning may meet the 70% minimum visual contrast requirement using the LRV formula in § 11B‑705.1.1.3.2.
Do detectable warnings have to be recertified?
Yes — under the CRSC product approval program products are to be recertified every two years and evaluated by an independent entity as described in § 12‑11A.205–206 / § 12‑11B.205–206.
More in California Referenced Standards Code
- Administration and scope — CRSC Chapter 12 overview
- Air filter standards (Chapter 12‑71)
- Building and facility access / accessibility standards (Chapters 12‑11A, 12‑11B)
- Engineering regulations — quality and design of construction materials (12‑16 series)
- Exits and means of egress (Chapters 12‑10 series)
- Protective signaling systems and detectors (Chapters 12‑72‑1, ‑2, ‑3)
- Radiation shielding standards (Chapter 12‑31C)
- Referenced standards index / cross‑reference table (Part 12 listing of referenced standards)
- Releasing systems for security bars (egress-release standards)
- Standards for insulating materials (Chapter 12‑13)
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