Table Of ContentComparative Analysis of the
2010 Americans with Disabilities Act Standards
and the
2010 California Building Code
Chapter 11B Accessibility Standards
Prepared for the California Division of the State Architect
by
Alliance for Access
Formatted for Internet Posting by the Division of the State Architect
December 1, 2012
Managing and Reading the Spreadsheet General Comments on the CBC
1. This document is structured as a symmetrical 2-dimensional matrix with 2,320 rows and 7 columns. 1. Metric rounding differs between the 2010 ADA Standards and the CBC. In larger dimensions, the
Each row contains a single accessibility topic based on the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act ADA typically rounds to the nearest 5 millimeters – these minor differences are not called out in the
Standards for Accessible Design (ADA Standards). Each column represents the corresponding spreadsheet.
source text or analysis comments.
2. In some spreadsheet cells, the contents appear truncated because they exceed Excel’s capacity to 2. References elsewhere in the CBC will need to be coordinated with any changes in Chapter 11B.
properly display. Where this occurs, the reader can view the entire contents of the cell by expanding For example, Chapter 10 – Means of Egress has over a dozen references to corridor and aisle
the formula bar. The Expand Formula Bar function can be initiated by clicking on the button with the widths alone. Other examples in Chapter 10 include references to handrails, ramps, edge
inverted caret symbol on the right side of the formula bar or by the command CTRL+SHIFT+U. protection, stairs, signage, protruding objects, doors, hardware, etc.
3. This spreadsheet is modeled on a previous comparison of the 1991 and 2010 ADA Standards 3. Due to the accumulation of years of changes as the CBC and the ADA developed, internal and
available at www.ADAStandardsComparison.com developed by ETA and available as a free cross-Standard language inconsistencies may make word searching misleading and inconclusive.
download. In that document, every section of both the 1991 and 2010 ADA Standards is compared Work on the revised CBC should be conducted with a clear list of the terms needed to convey all of
requirement-by-requirement. Although there are significant similarities between the California the specific concepts called out in the ADA Standards and care should be taken to adhere strictly to
Building Code (CBC) and the 1991 ADA Standards, there are enough differences that this the use of those specified terms only.
spreadsheet does not attempt to duplicate the exact comparison between the CBC, 1991, and 2010
ADA Standards. The CBC sections line up with one of the instances of the 2010 ADA Standards
that were compared to them. Also, because this spreadsheet is a reduced version of the full
working copy comparison, some rows appear to duplicate others where content has been deleted to
simplify review.
4. This spreadsheet has been modified by the Division of the State Architect for online presentation. 4. A few examples of terms that may or may not be used consistently within CBC Chapter 11B include
Modifications include deleting columns providing links to external figures and changing font height to references to wheelchair spaces, path of travel, path of egress travel, circulation path, circulation
8 pt. route, route, route for the general public, accessible route, exterior (and interior) routes of travel,
accessible route of travel, most practical direct route, accessible path of travel, exit route, exit
discharge path, pedestrian path, pathway, walks, paths, trails, travel route, and vehicle access route.
Similarly, sanitary facility, bathroom, bathing facilities, toilet/bathroom, toilet room, shower room,
toilet facilities, toilet stall, and toilet compartments may be used inconsistently.
5. This spreadsheet is formatted to print full size on 11”x17” paper. Printing the entire document in this 5. To facilitate certification by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) of the CBC accessibility
manner requires approximately 460 pages. provisions as equivalent to (or better than) the ADA Standards, DSA has decided to adopt an
amended version of the ADA Standards into the next edition of the CBC. Where the spreadsheet
says “2010 CBC does not address 2010 ADA requirement,” the assumed recommendation is to
adopt the language from the 2010 ADA Standards and amend to add current CBC provisions that
provide greater accessibility.
6. The 2010 CBC relies on its figures for some of the requirements (e.g. Figure 11B-15). This is
contrary to the norm in most other standards and it often creates confusion when the conditions
don’t match the figure. The DSA’s goal is to follow the International Building Code and ADA
Standards precedents, describe all requirements in writing, and use figures only for illustration
purposes to the fullest extent possible.
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2 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. 1101B.6 2010 CBC is The use of the crossreference phrase “requirements of this Recommendation 1: The CBC provision could substitute
(a) Design and construction. (1) Each facility or part of a facility constructed by, on behalf 1. When a commercial facility is located in a private equivalent to code” raises the possibility that the lack of equivalence in the the phrase “New construction and alterations requirements
of, or for the use of a public entity shall be designed and constructed in such manner that residence, the portion of the residence used exclusively as 2010 ADA. new construction and alterations requirements in other sections of the 2010 Standards” for the phrase “requirements of this
the facility or part of the facility is readily accessible to and usable by individuals with a residence is not covered by this chapter, except as of the CBC will have a negative impact on the accessibility of code” and include an appropriate definition of 2010
disabilities, if the construction was commenced after January 26, 1992. required by Section 1111B.5, but that portion used both for public accommodations in private residences. Standards in section 202 of Chapter 2, Definitions.
§ 36.401 New construction. the commercial facility and for residential purposes is Recommendation 2: Make no change to the CBC.
(b) Commercial facilities located in private residences. covered by the new construction and alterations
(1) When a commercial facility is located in a private residence, the portion of the requirements of this code.
residence used exclusively as a residence is not covered by this subpart, but that portion
used exclusively in the operation of the commercial facility or that portion used both for 2. The portion of the residence covered extends to those
the commercial facility and for residential purposes is covered by the new construction elements used to enter the commercial facility, including
and alterations requirements of this subpart. the homeowner’s front sidewalk, if any, the door or
(2) The portion of the residence covered under paragraph (b)(1) of this section extends to entryway, and hallways; and those portions of the
those elements used to enter the commercial facility, including the homeowner's front residence, interior or exterior, available to or used by
sidewalk, if any, the door or entryway, and hallways; and those portions of the residence, employees or visitors of the commercial facility, including
interior or exterior, available to or used by employees or visitors of the commercial facility, sanitary facilities.
including restrooms.
2.1 § 36.402 Alterations. 1.1.9. Effective date of this code. Only those standards 2010 CBC is The 2010 Standards link compliance to the last application for a Include language in the CBC that the CBC applies to all
• (a) General. approved by the California Building Standards Commission equivalent to building permit or permit extension and to the date of the first facilities in the State of California covered by the ADA,
. . . that are effective at the time an application for building 2010 ADA. certificate of occupancy and set up three separate compliance including those for which a permit for the design and
◦ (2) An alteration is deemed to be undertaken after January 26, 1992, if the physical permit is submitted shall apply to the plans and dates linked to different standards. Buildings with permits before construction or alteration of the facility does not require a
alteration of the property begins after that date. specifications for, and to the construction performed under, 9/15/2010 and whose first occupancy was after 1/26/93 must be building permit.
that permit. For the effective dates of the provisions built in compliance with the 1991 Standards. Buildings with
contained in this code, see the History Note page of this permits after 9/15/2010, but before 315/2012 must comply with
§ 36.406 Standards for new construction and alterations. code. either the 1991 Standards or the 2010 Standards, and buildings
• (a) Accessibility standards and compliance date. with permits after 3/15/2012 must comply with the 2010
◦ (1) New construction and alterations subject to §§ 36.401 or 36.402 shall comply with Standards.
the 1991 Standards if the date when the last application for a building permit or permit 1.1.3. Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to
extension is certified to be complete by a State, county, or local government (or, in those the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, The CBC provision applies its standards in effect at the time of
jurisdictions where the government does not certify completion of applications, if the date replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, the application for a building permit. Assuming that the other
when the last application for a building permit or permit extension is received by the State, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every provisions in the CBC are in compliance with the 2010
county, or local government) is before September 15, 2010, or if no permit is required, if building or structure or any appurtenances connected or Standards and assuming that the certification is obtained after
the start of physical construction or alterations occurs before September 15, 2010. attached to such buildings or structures throughout the 3/15/2012, then all buildings issued permits in California will
◦ (2) New construction and alterations subject to §§ 36.401 or 36.402 shall comply either State of California. comply with the 2010 Standards.
with the 1991 Standards or with the 2010 Standards if the date when the last application
for a building permit or permit extension is certified to be complete by a State, county, or Under the ADA Standards, if no building permit is required for
local government (or, in those jurisdictions where the government does not certify the design and construction or for the alteration of a facility for
completion of applications, if the date when the last application for a building permit or which physical construction or alterations occurs on or after
permit extension is received by the State, county, or local government) is on or after March 15, 2012, that facility must comply with the 2010
September 15, 2010, and before March 15, 2012, or if no permit is required, if the start of Standards. If the design and construction or alteration of some
physical construction or alterations occurs on or after September 15, 2010, and before facilities covered by the ADA are not required to have building
March 15, 2012. permits in California, then the CBC will have to contain language
(3) New construction and alterations subject to §§ 36.401 or 36.402 shall comply with the that the CBC Standards apply to any facility covered by the ADA
2010 Standards if the date when the last application for a building permit or permit where the start of physical construction or alterations occurs on
extension is certified to be complete by a State, county, or local government (or, in those or after March 15, 2012. The CBC would also have to state that
jurisdictions where the government does not certify completion of applications, if the date the “start of physical construction or alterations” does not mean
when the last application for a building permit or permit extension is received by the State, ceremonial groundbreaking or razing of structures prior to site
county, or local government) is on or after March 15, 2012, or if no permit is required, if preparation.
the start of physical construction or alterations occurs on or after March 15, 2012.
◦ (4) For the purposes of this section, "start of physical construction or alterations" does
not mean ceremonial groundbreaking or razing of structures prior to site preparation.
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3 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. 1134B.1 Scope Which The 2010 ADA Standards require that in any alteration of a 1. Either delete the phrase “except as modified by this
(b) Alterations. (1) Each facility or part of a facility altered by, on behalf of, or for the use of 1134B.2 General Std.provides covered facility, the altered portions shall be made accessible, to division” or ensure that the modifications there
a public entity in a manner that affects or could affect the usability of the facility or part of greater access the maximum extent feasible, to individuals with disabilities. The crossreferenced are congruent with the alterations
the facility shall, to the maximum extent feasible, be altered in such manner that the 1134B.1 Scope. The provisions of this division apply to depends on CBC, however, by using the cross-reference phrases “except as requirements of the ADA Standards.
altered portion of the facility is readily accessible to and usable by individuals with renovation, structural repair, alteration and additions to circumstances. modified by this division” and “those areas listed below” opens 2. Make clear what is included in the phrase “those areas
disabilities, if the alteration was commenced after January 26, 1992. existing buildings, including those identified as historic the possibility that not all areas covered by the 2010 ADA listed below” in 1134B.2 .
§ 36.402 Alterations. buildings. This division identifies minimum standards for Standards are specifically addressed in the cross-referenced 3. Remove or clarify the non-numbered language at the end
(a) General. (1) Any alteration to a place of public accommodation or a commercial removing architectural barriers, and providing and provisions. For example, it is unclear if the crossreference could of 1134B.2.1, Exception 4.
facility, after January 26, 1992, shall be made so as to ensure that, to the maximum maintaining accessibility to existing buildings and their be read to exclude the wide array of recreation facilities now
extent feasible, the altered portions of the facility are readily accessible to and usable by related facilities. covered in the 2010 ADA Standards. However, if an analysis of
individuals with disabilities, including individuals who use wheelchairs. the CBC shows that the modifications listed in “this division” are
(2) An alteration is deemed to be undertaken after January 26, 1992, if the physical No renovation, structural repair, alteration or addition shall congruent with the alterations provisions of the 2010 ADA
alteration of the property begins after that date. be undertaken which decreases or has the effect of Standards, then use of this crossreference would not create lack
(b) Alteration. For the purposes of this part, an alteration is a change to a place of public decreasing accessibility or usability of a building or facility of equivalence with the ADA Standards.
accommodation or a commercial facility that affects or could affect the usability of the below the requirements for new construction at the time of
building or facility or any part thereof. renovation, structural repair, alteration or addition. Another ambiguity is created by the statement in 1134B.2 (4),
(1) Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, which states “The only purpose of this exception is to exclude
reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or rearrangement in structural parts or 1134B.2 General. When alterations, structural repairs or projects from activating the provisions of this section. The
elements, and changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of walls and full-height additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, they exceptions are not intended to relieve projects from complying
partitions. Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or wallpapering, asbestos removal, or shall comply with all provisions of Division I – New with other applicable provisions of this code. . . “ It is unclear
changes to mechanical and electrical systems are not alterations unless they affect the Buildings, except as modified by this division. These what the reference to “this exception” is. If this crossreference is
usability of the building or facility. requirements shall apply only to the area of specific meant to be a general restatement of this entire section and only
(2) If existing elements, spaces, or common areas are altered, then each such altered alteration, structural repair or addition and shall include means that scope of the alteration is limited to the alteration
element, space, or area shall comply with the applicable provisions of appendix A to this those areas listed below: itself, then this crossreference would not be less rigorous than
part. . . . the 2010 ADA Standards. If the crossreference only applies to
(c) To the maximum extent feasible. The phrase "to the maximum extent feasible,'' as subparagraph 4 and is meant to remove alteration of a floor
used in this section, applies to the occasional case where the nature of an existing facility The only purpose of this exception is to exclude projects surface from the path of travel requirement, then the CBC is not
makes it virtually impossible to comply fully with applicable accessibility standards through from activating the provisions of this section. The equivalent to the 2010 ADA Standards (because under the 2010
a planned alteration. In these circumstances, the alteration shall provide the maximum exceptions are not intended to relieve projects from ADA regulation replacing an inaccessible floor surface in a
physical accessibility feasible. Any altered features of the facility that can be made complying with other applicable provisions of this code primary function area of a public accommodation triggers the
accessible shall be made accessible. If providing accessibility in conformance with this (e.g., replacement of carpet does not activate the path of travel requirement. See 28 CFT 36.403(c )(1)(ii).
section to individuals with certain disabilities (e.g., those who use wheelchairs) would not provisions of this section; however, it still must comply with
be feasible, the facility shall be made accessible to persons with other types of disabilities Section 1124B.3). The CBC does not use the phrase “to the maximum extent
(e.g., those who use crutches, those who have impaired vision or hearing, or those who feasible in this section The absence of this language in this
have other impairments). section, which limits the general ADA obligation, is of no
consequence and makes the CBC more rigorous.
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3.1 § 36.402 Alterations. Section 202, Definitions. 2010 CBC is Although the CBC does not exactly track the language of the No Change Required
(b) Alteration. For the purposes of this part, an alteration is a change to a place of public 1134B.2.1. Exception 4. equivalent to 2010 Standards, it is equivalent to the ADA Standards. In fact,
accommodation or a commercial facility that affects or could affect the usability of the 2010 ADA. the CBC is broader in coverage. For example, it specifically
building or facility or any part thereof. ALTERATION or ALTER. Any construction or renovation includes churches in its definition of public accommodations (the
◦ (1) Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, to an existing structure other than repair or addition. ADA does not); and it covers all structural repairs or additions to
reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or rearrangement in structural parts or existing buildings or facilities, not just those that affect
elements, and changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of walls and full-height [DSA-AC] “Alteration or Alter” is any change, addition or the usability of the building or facility (the language of the ADA
partitions. Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or wallpapering, asbestos removal, or modification in construction or occupancy or structural rules).
changes to mechanical and electrical systems are not alterations unless they affect the repair or change in primary function to an existing structure
usability of the building or facility. made by, on behalf of, or for the use of a public
(2) If existing elements, spaces, or common areas are altered, then each such altered accommodation or commercial facility. Alterations include,
element, space, or area shall comply with the applicable provisions of appendix A to this but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation,
part. reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or
rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and
changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of walls
and full-height partitions.
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES [DSA-AC] are facilities that
are intended for nonresidential use and whose operations
will affect commerce, including factories, warehouses,
office buildings, and other buildings in which employment
may occur. Commercial facilities shall not include railroad
locomotives, railroad freight cars, railroad cabooses,
railroad cars covered under Title II of the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, or facilities that are covered or
expressly exempted from coverage under the Fair Housing
Amendment Act of 1988 (42 USC 3601-3631, et seq.).
PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION [DSA-AC] includes, but is
not limited to, any public use building or facility that may be
classified into one or more of the following categories:
1. Places of public lodging.
2. Establishments serving food or drink open to public use.
3. Places of exhibition or entertainment open to public use.
4 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. None 2010 CBC The language in the ADA Regulations on Landlord/Tenant No Change Required
(2) The path of travel requirements of § 35.151(b)(4) shall apply only to alterations provides creates an exception to the path of travel requirement. It states
undertaken solely for purposes other than to meet the program accessibility requirements greater access that an alteration by a tenant in areas that only the tenant
of § 35.150. than 2010 occupies do not trigger any obligation on the landlord to make
§ 36.403 Alterations: Path of travel. ADA. additional alterations (e.g., a store in a mall makes changes
(d) Landlord/tenant: If a tenant is making alterations as defined in § 36.402 that would inside the store; there is no obligation on the mall to make path
trigger the requirements of this section, those alterations by the tenant in areas that only of travel changes). The absence of a similar exception in the
the tenant occupies do not trigger a path of travel obligation upon the landlord with respect CBC means that an alteration in a building or part of a building
to areas of the facility under the landlord's authority, if those areas are not otherwise being would trigger a path of travel requirement regardless of the
altered. landlord/tenant relationship.
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5 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. 202 Definitions 2010 CBC is While the language in the CBC does not exactly track the No changes recommended.
(i) Primary function. A ‘‘primary function’’ is a major activity for which the facility is 1134B.1 Scope equivalent to language of he 2010 Standards, the CBC language makes clear
intended. Areas that contain a primary function include, but are not limited to, the dining 1134B.2 General 2010 ADA. that any alteration will trigger a concomitant obligation to make
area of a cafeteria, the meeting rooms in a conference center, as well as offices and other 1134B.2.1 changes to the primary entrance of a building and its restrooms,
work areas in which the activities of the public entity using the facility are carried out. 1134B.2.1 Exception 3 drinking fountains, and telephones and signs serving the altered
(A) Mechanical rooms, boiler rooms, supply storage rooms, employee lounges or locker 1134B.2.1 Exception 4 area. The exceptions in the CBC generally conform to the
rooms, janitorial closets, entrances, and corridors are not areas containing a primary exceptions in the 2010 Standards for the path of travel
function. Restrooms are not areas containing a primary function unless the provision of ALTERATION or ALTER. Any construction or renovation requirement.
restrooms is a primary purpose of the area, e.g., in highway rest stops. to an existing structure other than repair or addition.
(B) For the purposes of this section, alterations to windows, hardware, controls, electrical
outlets, and signage shall not be deemed to be alterations that affect the usability of or [DSA-AC] “Alteration or Alter” is any change, addition or
access to an area containing a primary function. modification in construction or occupancy or structural
§ 36.403 Alterations: Path of travel. repair or change in primary function to an existing structure
(b) Primary function. A "primary function'' is a major activity for which the facility is made by, on behalf of, or for the use of a public
intended. Areas that contain a primary function include, but are not limited to, the accommodation or commercial facility. Alterations include,
customer services lobby of a bank, the dining area of a cafeteria, the meeting rooms in a but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation,
conference center, as well as offices and other work areas in which the activities of the reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or
public accommodation or other private entity using the facility are carried out. Mechanical rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and
rooms, boiler rooms, supply storage rooms, employee lounges or locker rooms, janitorial changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of walls
closets, entrances, corridors, and restrooms are not areas containing a primary function. and full-height partitions.
(c) Alterations to an area containing a primary function. (1) Alterations that affect the
usability of or access to an area containing a primary function include, but are not limited
to --
(i) Remodeling merchandise display areas or employee work areas in a department store; 1134B.1 Scope. The provisions of this division apply to
(ii) Replacing an inaccessible floor surface in the customer service or employee work renovation, structural repair, alteration and additions to
areas of a bank; existing buildings, including those identified as historic
(iii) Redesigning the assembly line area of a factory; or buildings. This division identifies minimum standards for
(iv) Installing a computer center in an accounting firm. removing architectural barriers, and providing and
(2) For the purposes of this section, alterations to windows, hardware, controls, electrical maintaining accessibility to existing buildings and their
outlets, and signage shall not be deemed to be alterations that affect the usability of or related facilities.
access to an area containing a primary function.
No renovation, structural repair, alteration or addition shall
be undertaken which decreases or has the effect of
decreasing accessibility or usability of a building or facility
below the requirements for new construction at the time of
renovation, structural repair, alteration or addition.
1134B.2 General. When alterations, structural repairs or
additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, they
5.1 §36.403 Alterations : Path of Travel (c) Alterations to an area 1134B.2.1 A primary entrance to the building and the 2010 CBC ADA does not include signs in the elements along the path of Retain more stringent requirement in CBC.
containing a primary function. (2) For purposes of this section, primary path of travel to the specific area of alteration, provides travel, that are required to be modified when the path of travel is
alterations to . . . signage shall not be deemed to be alterations that affect the usability of structural repair or addition, and sanitary facilities, drinking greater access modified.
or access to an area containing a primary function. fountains, signs and telephones serving the area. than 2010
ADA.
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6 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. 1102B Definitions 2010 CBC is Although the CBC uses the phrase “Particular area” instead of No change is required.
(ii) A ‘‘path of travel’’ includes a continuous, unobstructed way of pedestrian passage by equivalent to the phrase “altered area” in the 2010 Standards, it is clear from
means of which the altered area may be approached, entered, and exited, and which PATH OF TRAVEL is a passage that may consist of walks 2010 ADA. the context of the CBC that the definitions are equivalent.
connects the altered area with an exterior approach (including sidewalks, streets, and and sidewalks, curb ramps and pedestrian ramps, lobbies
parking areas), an entrance to the facility, and other parts of the facility. and corridors, elevators, other improved areas or a
(A) An accessible path of travel may consist of walks and sidewalks, curb ramps and necessary combination thereof, that provides free and
other interior or exterior pedestrian ramps; clear floor paths through lobbies, corridors, unobstructed access to and egress from a particular area
rooms, and other improved areas; parking access aisles; elevators and lifts; or a or location for pedestrians and/or wheelchair users. A
combination of these elements. “path of travel” includes a continuous, unobstructed way of
(B) For the purposes of this section, the term ‘‘path of travel’’ also includes the restrooms, pedestrian passage by means of which a particular area
telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area. may be approached, entered and exited, and which
§ 36.403 Alterations: Path of travel. connects a particular area with an exterior approach
(e) Path of travel. (1) A "path of travel'' includes a continuous, unobstructed way of (including sidewalks, streets, and parking areas), an
pedestrian passage by means of which the altered area may be approached, entered, and entrance to the facility, and other parts of the facility. In
exited, and which connects the altered area with an exterior approach (including existing buildings, when alterations, structural repairs or
sidewalks, streets, and parking areas), an entrance to the facility, and other parts of the additions are made, the term “path of travel” also includes
facility. the sanitary facilities, telephones, drinking fountains and
(2) An accessible path of travel may consist of walks and sidewalks curb ramps and signs serving the altered area.
other interior or exterior pedestrian ramps; clear floor paths through lobbies, corridors,
rooms, and other improved areas; parking access aisles; elevators and lifts; or a
combination of these elements.
(3) For the purposes of this part, the term "path of travel'' also includes the restrooms,
telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area.
7 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. 1134B.2.1 Exceptions 1 & 2 2010 CBC is In almost all instances, the language of the CBC specifically Consider rewording CBC language to eliminate the
(iii) Disproportionality. (A) Alterations made to provide an accessible path of travel to the equivalent to tracks the language of the 2010 Standards. confusion among some building officials who read
altered area will be deemed disproportionate to the overall alteration when the cost 1134B.2.1 A primary entrance to the building or facility and 2010 ADA. Exception #1 to mean that when the cost of the path of
exceeds 20% of the cost of the alteration to the primary function area. the primary path of travel to the specific area of alteration, In one area, the CBC is more rigorous than the 2010 Standards. travel work is less than the current threshold, no work is
(B) Costs that may be counted as expenditures required to provide an accessible path of structural repair or addition, and sanitary facilities, drinking The CBC does not allow the use of the disproportionality required at all.
travel may include: fountains, signs and public telephones serving the area. provision for certain projects where he cost of the alteraitons
(1) Costs associated with providing an accessible entrance and an accessible route to the exceeds $128, 410.86; the 2010 Standards would allow the use
altered area, for example, the cost of widening doorways or installing ramps; Exceptions: of the disproportionality defense in all situations.
(2) Costs associated with making restrooms accessible, such as installing grab bars, 1. When the total construction cost of alterations, structural
enlarging toilet stalls, insulating pipes, or installing accessible faucet controls; repairs or additions does not exceed a valuation threshold
(3) Costs associated with providing accessible telephones, such as relocating the of $50,000, based on January 1981, “ENR US20 Cities”
telephone to an accessible height, installing amplification devices, or installing a text Average construction cost index of 3372.02 (Engineering
telephone (TTY); and News Record, McGraw Hill Publishing Company), and the
(4) Costs associated with relocating an inaccessible drinking fountain. enforcing agency finds that compliance with this code
(iv) Duty to provide accessible features in the event of disproportionality. (A) When the creates an unreasonable hardship, compliance shall be
cost of alterations necessary to make the path of travel to the altered area fully accessible limited to the actual work of the project. The enforcing
is disproportionate to the cost of the overall alteration, the path of travel shall be made agency shall annually update the valuation threshold to a
accessible to the extent that it can be made accessible without incurring disproportionate current amount based on the increase in the index since
costs. the last figure used. (For example, the January 2011
(B) In choosing which accessible elements to provide, priority should be given to those amount is $132,536.28.) For purposes of this exception, an
elements that will provide the greatest access, in the following order— unreasonable hardship exists where the cost of providing
(1) An accessible entrance; an accessible entrance, path of travel, sanitary facilities,
(2) An accessible route to the altered area; public phones and drinking fountains, is disproportionate to
(3) At least one accessible restroom for each sex or a single unisex restroom; the cost of the project; that is, where it exceeds 20 percent
(4) Accessible telephones; of the cost of the project without these features. Where the
(5) Accessible drinking fountains; and cost of alterations necessary to make these features fully
(6) When possible, additional accessible elements such as parking, storage, and alarms. accessible is disproportionate, access shall be provided to
(v) Series of smaller alterations. (A) The obligation to provide an accessible path of travel
the extent that it can be without incurring disproportionate
may not be evaded by performing a series of small alterations to the area served by a
cost. In choosing which accessible elements to provide,
single path of travel if those alterations could have been performed as a single
priority should be given to those elements that will provide
undertaking.
the greatest access in the following order:
(B)(1) If an area containing a primary function has been altered without providing an
accessible path of travel to that area, and subsequent alterations of that area, or a
1.1. An accessible entrance,
different area on the same path of travel, are undertaken within three years of the original
alteration, the total cost of alterations to the primary function areas on that path of travel
1.2. An accessible route to the altered area,
during the preceding three year period shall be considered in determining whether the
cost of making that path of travel accessible is disproportionate.
1.3. At least one accessible restroom for each sex,
(2) Only alterations undertaken on or after March 15, 2011 shall be considered in
determining if the cost of providing an accessible path of travel is disproportionate to the
14 Accessible telephones
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7.1 28 CFR 406(c) Places of lodging. Places of lodging subject to this part shall comply with 1107A Definitions: Which Rather than specifically refer to the sections of the 2010 ADA
the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to transient lodging, including, but not TRANSIENT LODGING is a building, facility, or portion Std.provides Standards, the CBC lists a series of specific requirements. The
limited to, the requirements for transient lodging guest rooms in sections 224 and 806 of thereof, available to the public as an inn, hotel, motel, greater access review of Sections 224 and 806 in this chart will determine
the 2010 Standards. timeshare, or place where one or more dwelling units or depends on equivalency.
sleeping accommodations are provided for transient circumstances.
406(c )(3) Facilities with residential units and transient lodging units. Residential guests, excluding inpatient medical care facilities and The definition of places of lodging is not equivalent with the new
dwelling units that are designed and constructed for residential use exclusively are not lodging houses with 5 or less guest rooms. Transient changes to the definition in the ADA regulation of the
subject to the transient lodging standards. lodging may include but is not limited to, resorts, group Department of Justice
homes, and dormitories.
Place of public accommodation means a facility operated by a private entity whose Column U: Include a general statement in the CBC that places
operations affect commerce and fall within at least one of the following categories – 1102A.1 Where required. Buildings or portions of of lodging covered by the ADA shall comply with the ADA’s
• (1) Place of lodging, except for an establishment located within a facility that contains not buildings and facilities within the scope of this chapter shall requirements for transient lodging; conform the definition of
more than five rooms for rent or hire and that actually is occupied by the proprietor of the be accessible to persons with disabilities. Each building on place of lodging to the definition in the ADA regulation
establishment as the residence of the proprietor. For purposes of this part, a facility is a a building site shall be considered separately when
"place of lodging" if it is – determining the requirements contained in this chapter,
◦ (i) An inn, hotel, or motel; or except when calculating the number of units which must
◦ (ii) A facility that – comply with Section 1102A.3.1. Dwelling units within a
▪ (A) Provides guest rooms for sleeping for stays that primarily are short-term in nature single structure separated by firewalls do not constitute
(generally 30 days or less) where the occupant does not have the right to return to a separate buildings.
specific room or unit after the conclusion of his or her stay; and
▪ (B) Provides guest rooms under conditions and with amenities similar to a hotel, motel, Newly-constructed covered multifamily dwellings as
or inn, including the following – defined in this chapter, include, but are not limited to, the
▪ (1) On- or off-site management and reservations service; following:
▪ (2) Rooms available on a walk-up or call-in basis;
▪ (3) Availability of housekeeping or linen service; and 1. Apartment buildings with 3 or more dwelling units
▪ (4) Acceptance of reservations for a guest room type without guaranteeing a particular including timeshare apartments not considered a place of
unit or room until check-in, and without a prior lease or security deposit.
public accommodation or transient lodging as defined in
Health and Safety Code Section 19955 (a) and Chapter 2
of the California Building Code.
2. Condominiums with 4 or more dwelling units including
timeshare condominiums not considered a place of public
accommodation or transient lodging as defined in Health
and Safety Code Section 19955 (a) and Chapter 2 of the
California Building Code.
3. Lodging houses, as defined in Chapter 2 of the
California Building Code, used as a residence with more
than 3 but not more than 5 guest rooms
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7.2 28 CFR 36.406(d) Social service center establishments. Group homes, halfway 310.2 Definitions. Which Rather than specifically refer to the sections of the 2010 ADA Include in the CBC a provision that group homes, halfway
houses, shelters, or similar social service center establishments that provide either Std.provides Standards, the CBC lists a series of specific requirements. The houses, shelters, or similar social service center
temporary sleeping accommodations or residential dwelling units that are subject to this DORMITORY. A space in a building where group sleeping greater access review of Sections 233 and 809 in this chart will determine establishments that provide either temporary sleeping
part shall comply with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to residential accommodations are provided in one room, or in a series of depends on equivalency. accommodation or residential dwell units comply with the
facilities, including, but not limited to, the provisions in sections 233 and 809. closely associated rooms, for persons not members of the circumstances. provisions of sections 233 and 809 of the 2020 ADA
same family group, under joint occupancy and single Standards.
management, as in college dormitories or fraternity houses.
. . .
SECTION 1111B
ACCESSIBILITY FOR GROUP R OCCUPANCIES
1111B.1 General. Group R occupancies shall be
accessible or adaptable as provided in this chapter. Public-
use and common-use areas serving adaptable guest
and/or dwelling units shall be accessible. See also the
general accessibility requirements in Section 1114B.1.1.
Exception: When the enforcing agency determines that
compliance with any regulation under this section would
create an unreasonable hardship, an exception shall be
granted when equivalent facilitation is provided.
1111B.2 Public and common use rooms or areas.
Public- and common-use rooms and similar areas shall be
made accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to
specific provisions contained in other portions of these
regulations. See also general requirements in Section
1114B.1.1.
7.3 28 CFR 36.406(e) Housing at a place of education. Housing at a place of education 1107A Definitions: Which Rather than specifically refer to the sections of the 2010 ADA Include a specific statement in the CBC that housing at
that is subject to this part shall comply with the provisions of the 2010 Standards TRANSIENT LODGING is a building, facility, or portion Std.provides Standards, the CBC lists a series of specific requirements. The places of education comply with the requirements for
applicable to transient lodging, including, but not limited to, the requirements for transient thereof, available to the public as an inn, hotel, motel, greater access review of Sections 224 and 806 in this chart will determine transient lodging guest rooms in sections 224 and 806 of
lodging guest rooms in sections 224 and 806, subject to the following exceptions. For the timeshare, or place where one or more dwelling units or depends on equivalency. the ADA Standards; state that the term “sleeping room” is
purposes of the application of this section, the term "sleeping room" is intended to be sleeping accommodations are provided for transient circumstances. intended to be used interchangeably with the term ‘guest
used interchangeably with the term "guest room" as it is used in the transient lodging guests, excluding inpatient medical care facilities and room”; ensure that apartments or townhouse facilities that
standards. lodging houses with 5 or less guest rooms. Transient are provided by or on behalf of a place of education, which
lodging may include but is not limited to, resorts, group are leased on a year-round basis exclusively to graduate
36.406(e) (3) Apartments or townhouse facilities that are provided by or on behalf of a homes, and dormitories. students or faculty and that do not contain any public use or
place of education, which are leased on a year-round basis exclusively to graduate common use areas for educations programming, comply
students or faculty and do not contain any public use or common use areas available for 1111B.4 Hotels, motels, inns, dormitories, resorts, with the requirements for residential facilities in sections
educational programming, are not subject to the transient lodging standards and shall homeless shelters, halfway houses, transient group 233 and 809 of the 2010 Standards.
comply with the requirements for residential facilities in sections 233 and 809 of the 2010 homes and similar places of transient lodging. Hotels,
Standards. motels, inns, dormitories, resorts, homeless shelters,
halfway houses, transient group homes and similar places
of transient lodging shall provide access for persons with
disabilities in accordance with the provisions of the
accessibility requirements of this California Building Code,
except as herein provided.
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8 § 35.151 New construction and alterations. 310.2
(e) Social service center establishments. Group homes, halfway houses, shelters, or 1111B.1
similar social service center establishments that provide either temporary sleeping 1111B.4
accommodations or residential dwelling units that are subject to this section shall comply
with the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to residential facilities, including, but SECTION 310
not limited to, the provisions in sections 233 and 809. RESIDENTIAL GROUP R
§ 36.406 Standards for new construction and alterations.
(d) Social service center establishments. Group homes, halfway houses, shelters, or 310.2 Definitions.
similar social service center establishments that provide either temporary sleeping
accommodations or residential dwelling units that are subject to this part shall comply with DORMITORY. A space in a building where group sleeping
the provisions of the 2010 Standards applicable to residential facilities, including, but not accommodations are provided in one room, or in a series of
limited to, the provisions in sections 233 and 809. closely associated rooms, for persons not members of the
same family group, under joint occupancy and single
management, as in college dormitories or fraternity houses.
. . .
SECTION 1111B
ACCESSIBILITY FOR GROUP R OCCUPANCIES
1111B.1 General. Group R occupancies shall be
accessible or adaptable as provided in this chapter. Public-
use and common-use areas serving adaptable guest and/or
dwelling units shall be accessible. See also the general
accessibility requirements in Section 1114B.1.1.
Exception: When the enforcing agency determines that
compliance with any regulation under this section would
create an unreasonable hardship, an exception shall be
granted when equivalent facilitation is provided.
1111B.2 Public and common use rooms or areas.
Public- and common-use rooms and similar areas shall be
made accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to
specific provisions contained in other portions of these
regulations. See also general requirements in Section
1114B.1.1.
At least one of each type of amenity (such as washers,
dryers and similar equipment installed for the use of
occupants) in each common area shall be accessible and
Comparative Analysis - 2010 ADA vs 2010 CBC Page 10 of 462 December 1, 2012
Description:Metric rounding differs between the 2010 ADA Standards and the CBC. cells, the contents appear truncated because they exceed Excel's capacity to the specific concepts called out in the ADA Standards and care should be taken to .. inside the store; there is no obligation on the mall to make path.
