Opinion: Ramp requirements

Inquiry: 

97-30a

Subject: 

Ramp requirements

Code:

1994 UBC Section 1007 (yr., title, section) CABO/ANSI A117.1-1992 Section 4.8

Submitted by:

Building Codes and Standards Division

Approved by:

Thomas R. Joachim, State Building Official

Issue date: 

July 22,1996 

Question:  

When a ramp is part of an accessible route, should it be designed to meet UBC Chapter 10 or CABO/ANSI requirements? 

Answer:

Since there are conflicting requirements for ramp design between 1994 UBC section 1007 and section 4.8 of CABO/ANSI A117.1-1992, the more specific requirement shall apply in accordance with UBC section 101.3. In the case where the ramp is part of an accessible route, CABO/ANSI A117.1-1992 would be considered the more specific section as it is intended specifically for accessible design. Therefore, when a ramp is located along an accessible route it should be designed in accordance with the specifications of section 4.8 of CABO/ANSI A117.1-1992 without consideration of other conflicting code sections.

Approved by Building Codes and Standards Access Committee February 20, 1997.