ADA Bathroom Requirements

As of January 26, 1992, The American with Disabilities Act requires that all public restrooms be accessible to people with disabilities. This law applies to new construction, as well as bathrooms in existing establishments. The goal is to make all services available to people with disabilities. You may also wish to follow these guidelines in your own home.

Toilet Stall Grab Bars

The grab bars located on the side walls inside the toilet stall must be at least 42 inches long and not more than 12 inches away from the rear wall. The grab bar on the rear wall must be at least 36 inches long, and has to be located a minimum of 12 inches on one side from the center line of the bathroom stall and at least 24 inches on the other.

Bathtub Grab Bars

A grab bar at least 24 inches long must be placed on the wall not more than 10 inches above the lip of the tub, at the end where the water controls for the tub are located. Two grab bars of similar length are to be placed on the back wall.

Faucets

Bathroom faucets should be either of the lever type, the touch type, the push type or automatic. If they are automatic, the stream of water has to run at least 10 seconds.

Mirrors

The mirrors in the bathroom must be no more than 40 inches above the floor if they are located above a sink or countertop. If they are not above a countertop or sink, they cannot be more than 35 inches above the floor.

Urinals

A urinal cannot be hung more than 17 inches above the floor.

Resources

• The ADA and the ADA-approved bathroom