CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code
Detectable warning products — approval, standards and required compliance
In plain terms: California’s Referenced Standards Code requires that tactile detectable‑warning products be approved through DSA‑AC procedures, tested by a DSA‑AC‑selected independent entity, comply with the technical specs in CCR Title 24, be durable (no significant degradation for five years, defined as keeping at least 90% of approved characteristics), and be recertified every two years.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Detectable warning products installed in California must comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 as the controlling technical standard under § 12-11A.203 and § 12-11B.203. Detectable warning products installed after January 1, 2001 must be evaluated by an independent entity selected by the Division of the State Architect‑Access Compliance (DSA‑AC), and are subject to product approval, periodic recertification, and fee provisions in the referenced CRSC sections.
The single most important rule: Detectable warning products require DSA‑AC product evaluation/approval and must meet the technical requirements found in CCR Title 24 (see § 12-11A.203 / § 12-11B.203).
Requirements in detail
Scope and controlling rule
- Scope: The product‑approval provisions for detectable warnings are scoped in § 12-11A.202 and § 12-11B.202; the specific requirement that detectable warning products “must comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 24” is stated in § 12-11A.203 and § 12-11B.203.
Key administrative and performance obligations (CRSC)
- Independent entity evaluation — Detectable warning products and directional surfaces installed after January 1, 2001 must be evaluated by an independent entity selected by DSA‑AC; residential evaluations are in consultation with HCD. See § 12-11A.205 and § 12-11B.205.
- Two‑year recertification — Approved detectable warning products and directional surfaces must be recertified every two years; no exception or waiver. See § 12-11A.206 and § 12-11B.206.
- Fees and account — The DSA‑AC may impose a fee on manufacturers to cover program costs; fees are deposited to the Disability Access Account. See § 12-11A.207 / § 12-11A.208 and corresponding 11B sections.
- Uniformity & durability requirements — Products must ensure consistency in shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane acoustic quality, resilience, and attachment and must not significantly degrade for at least five years. See § 12-11A.209 and § 12-11B.209.
- Significant degradation threshold — “Significant degradation” is defined as maintaining at least 90 percent of the approved design characteristics. See § 12-11A.210 and § 12-11B.210.
- Independent entity selection — DSA‑AC selects an independent entity recognized for product safety testing and certification expertise. See § 12-11A.211 and § 12-11B.211.
Technical specifications — where to find the actual dimensions and color
- The CRSC requires compliance with CCR Title 24 for the technical (prescriptive and performance) specifications. The detailed measurable dimensions and color/contrast/resiliency rules (for example, truncated dome height, dome spacing, detectable area depths for curb ramps, platform edges, etc.) are contained in the California Building Code / CCR Title 24 (for example Sections such as 11B‑705 and 11B‑247). Consult CCR Title 24 / CBC for the precise numeric values.
Decision-relevant dimensions/values (summary table)
| Decision dimension | Required value / rule (summary) | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Controlling mandate | Must comply with CCR Title 24 (technical specs) | § 12-11A.203, § 12-11B.203 |
| Evaluation required if installed after Jan 1, 2001 | Evaluation by Independent entity selected by DSA‑AC; residential consult HCD | § 12-11A.205, § 12-11B.205 |
| Recertification frequency | Every 2 years (no exception) | § 12-11A.206, § 12-11B.206 |
| Manufacturer fee | DSA‑AC may impose a fee on manufacturers; funds to Disability Access Account | § 12-11A.207, § 12-11A.208 |
| Product uniformity/durability | Maintain shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane, resilience & attachment for at least 5 years | § 12-11A.209, § 12-11B.209 |
| Significant degradation metric | At least 90 percent of approved design characteristics retained | § 12-11A.210, § 12-11B.210 |
| Independent entity qualifications | Not‑for‑profit product safety testing and certification organization with expertise | § 12-11A.205, § 12-11B.205 |
| Technical numeric specs (dome size, spacing, area depths) | See CCR Title 24 (e.g., CBC 11B‑705, 11B‑247) — CCR contains exact dimensions and color/contrast rules | CCR Title 24: 11B‑705, 11B‑247 |
(Notes: the CRSC sets the administrative/approval framework and points to CCR Title 24 for the prescriptive numeric requirements; the table above shows the CRSC administrative requirements and where the technical details live. CRSC text excerpts are cited above.)
Exceptions & special cases
- Residential products: evaluation requirement for products/surfaces used in residential housing is performed in consultation with the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) rather than solely by DSA‑AC selection. See § 12-11A.205 / § 12-11B.205.
- No waivers for recertification: the CRSC explicitly states recertification every two years without exception or waiver. See § 12-11A.206 / § 12-11B.206.
- Technical exceptions and precise dimension exceptions (e.g., reduced detectable depth where technically infeasible, replacement-in-kind thresholds) are handled in CCR Title 24 / CBC (for example, some exceptions appear in 11B‑705). For the exact scope and numeric exceptions, consult CCR Title 24 directly. The CRSC requires compliance with Title 24 but does not restate all those numeric exceptions.
If you need a list of the numeric exceptions (parallel ramps, blended transitions, replacement thresholds, color contrast formulas, dome dimensions) the CRSC requires you to follow CCR Title 24; those specifics are not fully reproduced in the CRSC summary text.
Common mistakes
- Treating any textured tile as compliant: the CRSC requires a Title 24 technical standard–compliant product and DSA‑AC approval — not all commercial tactile tiles meet the requirement. Check DSA‑AC approved listings. (See § 12-11A.203 / § 12-11B.203).
- Missing the two‑year recertification schedule: manufacturers or specifiers may assume a one‑time approval; the CRSC requires recertification every two years. (See § 12-11A.206 / § 12-11B.206).
- Overlooking the durability metrics: CRSC requires five‑year consistency and defines significant degradation as ≥90% retention of approved design characteristics — don’t rely solely on short lab tests. (See § 12-11A.209, § 12-11A.210).
- Ignoring program fees or administrative steps: DSA‑AC may impose manufacturer fees and has authority to select the independent entity; plan for administrative review time and fees. (See § 12-11A.207, § 12-11A.208, § 12-11A.205).
Worked example — manufacturer product approval timeline
Scenario: A manufacturer of a new truncated‑dome tile wants DSA‑AC approval for use on curb ramps statewide.
- Baseline: The product is designed to meet CCR Title 24 truncated‑dome technical specs (e.g., dome height, spacing, color contrast per 11B‑705 — confirm numeric values in Title 24).
- Independent evaluation: The manufacturer contracts testing and certification through an independent entity recognized by DSA‑AC (per § 12-11A.205). Submit test reports and documentation to DSA‑AC.
- Initial approval: DSA‑AC issues approval (including any fee assessed under § 12-11A.207). Manufacturer prepares for production and labeling consistent with the approved model.
- Durability requirement: The product must show that shape, color fastness, conformation, sound‑on‑cane acoustic quality, resilience and attachment will not significantly degrade for at least five years; “significant degradation” = < 90% of approved characteristics (so the product must retain ≥ 90%). For example, if the approved dome height is 0.20 in., the product must maintain at least 0.18 in. (90% of 0.20 in.) over the durability interval as demonstrated by testing. (See § 12-11A.209 & § 12-11A.210; numeric dome height reference is in CCR Title 24, e.g., 11B‑705).
- Recertification schedule: The manufacturer must recertify every two years. If initial approval is issued Jan 1, 2026, recertify by Jan 1, 2028, Jan 1, 2030, etc. (See § 12-11A.206).
Related provisions
- § 12-11A.202 / § 12-11B.202 — Product approval scope for detectable warning products and directional surfaces.
- § 12-11A.205 / § 12-11B.205 — Independent entity evaluation requirements and qualifications.
- § 12-11A.206 / § 12-11B.206 — Two‑year approval / recertification requirement.
- § 12-11A.207 / § 12-11B.207 — Authority to impose fees on manufacturers.
- § 12-11A.208 / § 12-11B.208 — Disability Access Account (where fees are deposited).
- § 12-11A.209 / § 12-11B.209 — Product uniformity and five‑year durability expectations.
- § 12-11A.210 / § 12-11B.210 — Definition of significant degradation (≥ 90% retention).
- For the specific numeric and placement requirements (dome size, spacing, detectable area depths, color, contrast, resiliency): see CCR Title 24 / California Building Code sections such as 11B‑705 and 11B‑247.
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 § 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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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 § 11B-705.1.2.5 High 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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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
CRSC § 1009.12 High relevance — show source text
Emergency exit and panic hardware.
|SFM|Part 9, Section 1009.12| |Chapter 12-11A,
12-11B|Detectable warning products and directional
surfaces|DSA|Part 2, Sections 1112A.9, 1116A.5, 11B-247,
11B-406.5.12, 11B-705, 11B-810.5.2| |Chapter 12-12|Reserved||| |Chapter 12-13|Standards for insulating material|CA/SFM|Part 2.5, Section R302.10.1
Part 6, Section 110.8
Part 9, Section 720, Table 721.1(1)
Part 11, Section A5.504.4.8| |Chapter 12-16-1|California standard for earthquake-actuated
automatic gas shutoff systems|DSA|Part 2, Chapters 16 and 16A
Part 5, Section 1211.8| |Chapter 12-16-2|California standard for residential excess flow
actuated automatic gas shutoff valves|DSA|Part 5, Section 1209.1| |Chapter 12-31C|Radiation shielding|DPH|Part 2, Section 3102C| |Chapter 12-71|Air filters|SFM|Part 4, Sections 401.2, 509.2.3, 509.2.3.4
Part 6, Section 120.1| |Chapter 12-72-1|Protective signaling systems.
Standard test procedures.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-2|Protective signaling systems. Single-and
multiple-station fire alarm devices
mechanically operated type.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-3|Protective signaling systems. Smoke detectors,
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12-1 ADMINISTRATION
RESERVED
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12-3 RELEASING SYSTEMS FOR SECURITY BARS IN DWELLINGS
(This standard includes provisions of Underwriters Laboratories Subject 2326, Appendix B, dated December 17, 1999, reprinted with their permission.)
INTRODUCTION
SECTION 12-3-1—SCOPE
12-3-1.1 These requirements cover releasing systems for bars, grilles, mesh, glazing or other items intended to provide security at doors and windows required for emergency escape from dwelling units. When actuated by the occupant, the system allows the obstructions over the door or window to be moved so occupants can escape in the event of an emergency.
CRSC § 12-10 Medium relevance — show source text
Note: Mechanisms involving dead-locking bolts may require modification in the test procedure in order to simulate the intended in-service condition. Modifications in the test procedure shall be filed for evaluation and approval before proceeding with the test.
(d) Releasing pressure. The motor-driven mechanism shall be arranged to apply not to exceed 15 pounds pressure against the cross-bar to release the door latch(es) or dead-locking bolts before the door is pushed open.
(e) Cycle test. The release mechanism and latches or dead-locking bolts shall function as intended for 100,000 cycles of operation without failure or excessive wear of the parts.
EMERGENCY OPERATION TEST
Sec. 12-10-305.
(a) Releasing pressure. The release mechanism shall be so designed that a horizontal force of 50 pounds or less will actuate the release bar and latches or dead-locking bolt when the latched or locked door is subjected to outward pressure as described in Sections 12-10-305 (c) and (d). The horizontal force shall be applied at any point along the cross-bar perpendicular to the door in the direction of swing.
(b) Test specimen. The test specimen for the emergency operation test shall be the sample which has been previously subjected to the cycle test specified in Section 12-10-304.
(c) Testing instrument. The horizontal force applied to the cross-bar shall be measured with a calibrated spring scale or other approved means.
(d) Outward pressure, single door. A hydraulic loading device or load dynamometer shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 250 pounds against the latching edge in the direction in which the door opens. The thrust load shall be applied to the stile immediately above the latching mechanism.
(e) Outward pressure, double doors. A hydraulic loading device or load dynamometer shall be used to apply a horizontal force of 250 pounds against the lock stile of each door of doors in pairs 2 inches (51 mm) in from the edge at midpoint between top and bottom of each door leaf in the direction of door swing.
(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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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
CRSC § 11B-705.2 Medium relevance — show source text
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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11B-706.4 Sound pressure level. Assistive listening systems shall be capable of providing a sound pressure level of 110 dB minimum and 118 dB maximum with a dynamic range on the volume control of 50 dB.
11B- 706.5 Signal-to-noise ratio. The signal-to-noise ratio for internally generated noise in assistive listening systems shall be 18 dB minimum.
11B- 706.6 Peak clipping level. Peak clipping shall not exceed 18 dB of clipping relative to the peaks of speech.
SECTION 11B- 707 — AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINES, FARE MACHINES AND POINT-OF-SALE DEVICES
11B- 707.1 General. Automatic teller machines, fare machines and point-of-sale devices shall comply with Section 11B- 707 .
11B- 707.2 Clear floor or ground space. A clear floor or ground space complying with Section 11B- 305 shall be provided.
Exception: Clear floor or ground space shall not be required at drive-up only automatic teller machines and fare machines.
11B- 707.3 Operable parts. Operable parts shall comply with Section 11B- 309. Unless a clear or correct key is provided, each operable part shall be able to be differentiated by sound or touch, without activation.
Exceptions: 1. Drive-up only automatic teller machines and fare machines shall not be required to comply with Sections 11B- 309.2 and 11B- 309.3.
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.
CRSC § 12-7 Medium relevance — show source text
Fire tests of building
construction and materials.|SFM|Part 2, Section 703| |Chapter 12-7-2|Reserved||| |Chapter 12-7-3|Fire-resistive standards.
Fire testing furnaces.|SFM|Part 9, Section 3001| |Chapter 12-7-4|Fire-resistive standards.
Fire door assembly tests.|SFM|Part 2, Section 716| |Chapter 12-7-5|Fire-resistive standards. Interior
finish of decorative material.|SFM|Part 2, Chapter 8
Part 9, Chapter 8| |Chapter 12-7A|Materials and construction methods for
exterior wildfire exposure|SFM|Part 7, Chapter 5| |Chapter 12-8-1|Fire-resistive standards for fire protection|SFM|Part 2, Sections 408.14 and 435.6.2| |Appendix 12-8-1A|Calculation of the total rate of heat and carbon
monoxide or carbon dioxide production|SFM|| |Appendix 12-8-1B|Guide to mounting techniques for wall and
ceiling interior finish material|SFM|| |Chapter 12-10-1|Exits. Power-operated exit doors.|SFM|Part 2, Sections 408.4.2, 1010.1.4.2, 1010.1.9.1| |Chapter 12-10-2|Exits. Single-point latching or locking devices.|SFM|Part 2, Section 1010.2.2
Part 9, Section 1010.2.2| |Chapter 12-10-3|Exits. Emergency exit and panic hardware.
|SFM|Part 9, Section 1009.12| |Chapter 12-11A,
12-11B|Detectable warning products and directional
surfaces|DSA|Part 2, Sections 1112A.9, 1116A.5, 11B-247,
11B-406.5.12, 11B-705, 11B-810.5.2| |Chapter 12-12|Reserved||| |Chapter 12-13|Standards for insulating material|CA/SFM|Part 2.5, Section R302.10.1
Part 6, Section 110.8
Part 9, Section 720, Table 721.1(1)
Part 11, Section A5.504.4.8| |Chapter 12-16-1|California standard for earthquake-actuated
automatic gas shutoff systems|DSA|Part 2, Chapters 16 and 16A
Part 5, Section 1211.8| |Chapter 12-16-2|California standard for residential excess flow
actuated automatic gas shutoff valves|DSA|Part 5, Section 1209.1| |Chapter 12-31C|Radiation shielding|DPH|Part 2, Section 3102C| |Chapter 12-71|Air filters|SFM|Part 4, Sections 401.2, 509.2.3, 509.2.3.4
Part 6, Section 120.1| |Chapter 12-72-1|Protective signaling systems.
Standard test procedures.|SFM|| |Chapter 12-72-2|Protective signaling systems.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 § 1.1.3.2 Medium 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.
11B-108 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
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-705.1 Medium 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 § 11B-705.1.1.4. Medium relevance — show source text
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.
11B-108 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
Who decides which independent entity evaluates a product?
The Division of the State Architect‑Access Compliance (DSA‑AC) selects the independent entity; the CRSC requires that entity to be a recognized not‑for‑profit product safety testing and certification organization. (See § 12-11A.205 / § 12-11B.205).
How often must a product be recertified?
Every two years — recertification is mandatory with no exception or waiver. (See § 12-11A.206 / § 12-11B.206).
What does “significant degradation” mean for detectable warnings?
It means the product retains at least 90 percent of its approved design characteristics; falling below that is considered significant degradation. (See § 12-11A.210 / § 12-11B.210).
Where are the numeric dome sizes, spacing and detectable area depths specified?
The CRSC points you to CCR Title 24 for prescriptive technical specifications. The CBC (Title 24) sections such as 11B‑705 and 11B‑247 contain the numeric values (dome height, spacing, area depths, color/contrast). (See § 12-11A.203 / § 12-11B.203 and CBC 11B‑705 / 11B‑247).
Are there any program fees for manufacturers?
Yes — the DSA‑AC may impose a fee on manufacturers to cover program costs; fees are placed in the Disability Access Account. (See § 12-11A.207 / § 12-11A.208).
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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