ADA Bathroom Height Standards

ADA standards improve accessibility.

The Americans with Disabilities Act, originally voted into law in 1990, enumerates accessibility standards for commercial and residential construction. Using these guidelines to build or remodel your bathroom can increase your resale opportunities.

Sinks and Mirrors

Install bathroom sinks 34 inches maximum above the floor, measuring at the higher of the rim of bowl or the counter top. Minimum toe and knee clearance beneath sinks is nine inches. Hang the bottom edge of mirrors above counter tops or sinks no more than 40 inches from the floor.

Tubs and Showers

Minimum height for fixed shower heads is 48 inches, where permitted. Install a grab bar eight to 10 inches above the bathtub rim on the control end and place the controls below the bar.

Toilets

The ADA guideline for residential toilet seat height is between 15 inches and 19 inches. The commercial standard is 17 inches minimum to 19 inches maximum. Place toilet paper dispensers at least 15 inches, but no more than 48 inches, above the floor.

Grab Bars

Specific heights, lengths and locations of grab bars in toilet and bathing facilities vary according to the size and shape of the room. Placement drawings are available in the ADA and ABA Guidelines of 2005 summary online.

References

• ADA Bathroom: The ADA and the ADA Approved Bathroom
• Mobility Advisor: ADA Bathroom Design Guidelines
• ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities: Chapter 6
• ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities: Chapter 3, 306