Attachment_F_-_CA_State_Parks_Accessibility_Guidelines.pdf

Revised and updated from

California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines, 2009

California State Parks

Accessibility Guidelines 2015 Edition

Accessibility Section Acquisition and Development

Revised and updated from

California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines, 2009

California State Parks

Accessibility

Guidelines 2015 Edition

Accessibility Section Acquisition and Development

The Accessibility Guidelines are intended as a reference manual and department policy on accessible design and shall be utilized in planning and implementing regular maintenance activities, construction projects, and in the development of presentations, publications, exhibits, new programs, and special events. The guidelines are not a comprehensive set of requirements for all situations, but rather a summary of information from many sources which provide guidance for common uses in the State Park System. The Accessibility Guidelines are authorized for use throughout California State Parks, including the Off Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, the Division of Boating and Waterways, concessionaires, cooperating associations, and locally operated parks.

These guidelines are not a substitute for legal advice. Any specific legal issues or problems should be referred to legal counsel.

California State Parks takes NO RESPONSIBILITY for reliance upon these guidelines by any person or entity. All persons and entities should independently confirm standards, recommendations, laws, and regulations related to accessibility.

This publication is available in digital format at www.parks.ca.gov. To request an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility Section at (916) 445-8949.

(711, TTY Relay Service) http://www.parks.ca.gov/

Table of Contents

Introduction ------------------------------------------------------------------ Page i

Department Policy and Practices ------------------------------------ Page v

Building Blocks for an Accessible Park ---------------------------- Page ix

Project Review Process ----------------------------------------------- Page xiii

Section 0.1 Accessibility Basics ------------------------------------ Page 1

Section 1 Alarm Systems ---------------------------------------- Page 13

Section 2 Assistive Listening Systems ----------------------- Page 15

Section 3 Audiovisual Programs ------------------------------- Page 17

Section 4 Bathing Facilities -------------------------------------- Page 25

Section 5 Beaches and Shores -------------------------------- Page 39

Section 6 Boating -------------------------------------------------- Page 45

Section 7 Buildings ------------------------------------------------ Page 53

Section 8 Campfire Centers & Assembly Areas ----------- Page 61

Section 9 Camping ------------------------------------------------ Page 67

Section 10 Concessions ------------------------------------------- Page 79

Section 11 Curb Ramps-------------------------------------------- Page 81

Section 12 Dining & Banquet Areas ---------------------------- Page 87

Section 13 Doors and Gates -------------------------------------- Page 91

Section 14 Dormitories, Hotels & Seasonal Housing ------ Page 97

Section 15 Dressing Rooms ------------------------------------ Page 101

Section 16 Drinking Fountains --------------------------------- Page 105

Section 17 Equestrian Facilities ------------------------------- Page 109

Section 18 Exhibits ------------------------------------------------ Page 111

Section 19 Fishing ------------------------------------------------- Page 125

Section 20 Fixed Benches -------------------------------------- Page 131

Section 21 Guided & Self-Guided Programs and Tours - Page 133

Section 22 Handrails ---------------------------------------------- Page 135

Section 23 Historic Sites ----------------------------------------- Page 141

Section 24 Kitchens ----------------------------------------------- Page 149

Section 25 Lifts ----------------------------------------------------- Page 153

Section 26 Parking ------------------------------------------------ Page 155

Section 27 Picnic Sites ------------------------------------------- Page 169

Section 28 Play Areas -------------------------------------------- Page 171

Section 29 Portable Toilets ------------------------------------- Page 179

Section 30 Public Telephones ---------------------------------- Page 181

Section 31 Publications ------------------------------------------ Page 185

Section 32 Ramps ------------------------------------------------- Page 193

Section 33 Restrooms -------------------------------------------- Page 199

Section 34 Routes of Travel --------------------------------------- Page 211

Section 35 Service Machines -------------------------------------- Page 217

Section 36 Signage -------------------------------------------------- Page 221

Section 37 Sinks ------------------------------------------------------ Page 233

Section 38 Special Events ------------------------------------------ Page 235

Section 39 Stairs ------------------------------------------------------ Page 237

Section 40 Storage Areas & Lockers ---------------------------- Page 241

Section 41 Swimming Pools --------------------------------------- Page 243

Section 42 Trails ------------------------------------------------------ Page 249

Section 43 Visitor Information & Sales Areas ----------------- Page 255

Section 44 Vista Points & Overlooks ---------------------------- Page 257

Section 45 Work Areas ---------------------------------------------- Page 261

Glossary ------------------------------------------------------------ Page 263

Appendix

Checklist for Audiovisual Programs --------------------- Page 277

Checklist for Exhibits --------------------------------------- Page 281

Checklist for Publications ---------------------------------- Page 285

Checklist for Special Events ------------------------------ Page 287

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS

ACCESSIBILITY SECTION

Guidelines for accessible design are continually changing as the Federal Access Board incorporates new and revised standards into the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). California State Parks' Accessibility Section maintains these guidelines and performs review of construction projects to ensure compliance with all applicable standards. One of the primary goals of the section is to stay abreast of all laws, guidelines, and changes that affect our state parks.

To accomplish this goal, the Accessibility Section has developed the following vision and mission:

VISION

Universal accessibility is integrated into the Department’s culture and embodied in its programs, providing visitors, regardless of their abilities, with high quality recreational opportunities while preserving the integrity of park resources.

MISSION

To provide direction, leadership, encouragement, and facilitation toward universal accessibility to maximize park visitor opportunities.

Introduction i

Introduction

The California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines (Guidelines) presents principles for providing accessibility in State Park settings.

The Guidelines are intended for practical use throughout California State Parks in regular maintenance duties, construction projects, and to understand and review the work of outside contractors. Towards this end, this document is designed as a reference manual that can be used with flexibility to accommodate unique situations and settings.

The Guidelines embody a compilation of accessibility standards, recommendations, and regulations for compliance with accessibility laws.

California State Parks began the process of developing the California State Park Accessibility Guidelines in the late 1980s. The first edition was published as “Access to Parks Guidelines” in 1994 and subsequent revisions have incorporated more comprehensive and up-to-date material.

Many sections of the Guidelines relate to the physical environment and serve as a resource for planners, designers, contractors, and maintenance staff. There are also sections that apply to programs and presentations that serve to inform rangers, interpreters, and volunteers. The Guidelines are the primary tool provided by the California State Parks Accessibility Section to accomplish its mission of providing guidance in creating universal access to California State Parks.

PARK ACCESSIBILITY

Natural settings are different than urban settings. The urban environment is mostly built and can be “controlled” by design, while parks are both built and nature-based. In fact, people come to State Parks primarily to experience nature. Consequently, the built settings in the parks must be designed to fit into a natural environment without destroying the experience people come to enjoy. For this reason it is not always desirable to create settings that appear too over-built or over-designed.

The challenge for park professionals is to consider the abilities of all visitors without compromising the qualities of natural or cultural resources. The concept of individual choice based on the desired degree of challenge must also be addressed. For example, a trail through a redwood grove may be the desired experience. Some people may want a very challenging hike through the redwoods, while others just want to stroll through a beautiful natural ii Introduction setting. Therefore, unlike an urban pathway the trail is not merely a means of access to a place or activity; it is the place and type of experience visitors have that creates the “program” of that place.

Accessibility, as used throughout these guidelines, is defined as the combination of various elements in a building or outdoor area, which allows access, circulation, and full use of the building, facilities, and programs by person with disabilities. (CBC 2-202) While accessibility is a defined, prescriptive set of standards and measurements that do not change in content from setting to setting, the design challenge in park settings remains. More specifically, basic services and experiences must be accessible to visitors of all abilities, while maintaining the intrinsic qualities of the park.

PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES

The Guidelines are intended to ensure that all programs and facilities available to the public are accessible for the use and enjoyment of persons with disabilities. In the California State Parks system this shall include, but not be limited to:

Amphitheaters & Gathering Places

Audiovisual Programs Beaches & Shores

Boating Facilities Cabins & Lodgings Camping & Picnicking Concessions Drinking Fountains Equestrian Facilities First Aid Stations Fishing Food & Dining Facilities Entrance Stations Historic Sites & Facilities Information Stations Interpretive Programs Living History Programs Marinas Museums Offices, Kiosks & Parking Paths & Trails Play Areas Public Transportation Restrooms & Bathing Facilities Shops & Stores Special Events Swimming Pools Telephones Visitor Centers Volunteer & Docent Programs

SOURCE MATERIALS

The guidelines are, in essence, a summary of the Federal and State accessibility regulations set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act and California’s Title 24 building codes. If questions or clarifications are required beyond this document, refer to the primary source documents listed

Introduction iii below, or contact the California State Parks Accessibility Section.

The four primary sources for the guidelines are:

2013 California Building Code (CBC) California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, Part 2

2010 Department of Justice (DOJ) ADA Standards for Accessible Design (ADASAD)

2013 US Access Board (ABA) Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas, 36 CFR Part 1191 (AGODA) including:

1999 Regulatory Negotiation Committee on Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas (99 AG)

Section 508 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, amended 1998, 29 U.S.C. 794d

DEVIATION FROM GUIDELINES

These guidelines are a summary of the most current regulations and represent the accessibility standards prescribed by the Accessibility Section of California State Parks. For more information on a particular guideline or standard, the source material documents may be consulted.

California State Parks' Accessibility Section recognizes that deviations from standards may be necessary from time to time due to the environmental conditions and unique constraints of a particular site. In these cases, the Accessibility Section should be contacted for guidance and direction.

For more detailed information about the project review process, refer to the Project Review Process Section on page xiii.

UPDATES

The Accessibility Section will periodically update these guidelines as regulations change. All users should send written corrections, suggested changes and additional comments to:

California State Parks Accessibility Section One Capitol Mall, Suite 410 Sacramento, CA 95814

The Accessibility Section is available to answer specific questions and provide technical assistance regarding issues at individual sites.

For accessibility questions or to receive this publication in an alternate format, contact the Accessibility Section at (916) 445-8949, 711, TTY RELAY SERVICE, or by email at:

access@parks.ca.gov.

mailto:access@parks.ca.gov iv

Department Policy and Practices v

Department Policy and Practices

California State Parks has many policies and practices that are mandated to ensure that all citizens have access to park facilities and programs. Chapter 2600 of the Department Operations Manual provides the basis and authority for these guidelines which are intended to provide technical standards for the provision of accessible programs and facilities. For further information about the policies summarized below consult the corresponding Departmental Notice or DOM Chapter Section.

The Department’s accessibility policies include:

ACCESSIBILITY

POLICIES

DESCRIPTION

Accessibility Program Policy

DOM 2600,

DN 1995-32

It is the policy of the Department to meet the recreational needs of all the people of California and to provide an accessible environment in which all visitors to the State Park system units are given the opportunity to understand, appreciate and participate in the State’s cultural, historical and natural heritage.

Accessible Campsite Policy

DOM 2607.8,

DN 2006-05

It is the policy of the Department to establish consistent and uniform statewide guidelines that all park units will follow to ensure that accessible campsites are available for park visitors with disabilities, while maximizing campground occupancy.

Use of Qualified Sign Language

Interpreters

DOM 2607.5,

DN 2004-07

It is the policy of the Department to make available appropriate auxiliary aids and services, such as a qualified sign language interpreter, when requested.

vi Department Policy and Practices

Department Policy and Practices

ACCESSIBILITY

POLICIES

DESCRIPTION

Accessibility and Historic Properties

Policy

DN 2005-03

This Departmental Notice establishes a policy to ensure that the public access to the Department’s historic properties complies with the law. Further, this notice provides standards, guidelines and the process to follow throughout the Department in order to provide compliant access while preserving historic fabric.

Accessibility and Publications Policy

DOM 2607.3

It is the policy of the Department that all new or reprinted Department publications shall be prepared using the standards specified in the Department’s Accessibility Guidelines.

Accessibility Comment /

Complaint Policy

DOM 2607.7,

DN 2001-07

This policy of California State Parks is to ensure that people with disabilities are treated with dignity and respect and are free from discrimination while visiting California State Parks. The Department has established procedures to give persons with disabilities the opportunity to make comments or file discriminatory complaints against State Park System units that have not complied with the ADA.

Special Events Accessibility

Policy

DOM 2607.6

It is the policy of the Department that events beyond the normal scope of activities and operations be accessible to all visitors, and shall follow the standards specified in the Department’s Accessibility Guidelines.

Department Policy and Practices vii

ACCESSIBILITY

POLICIES

DESCRIPTION

Service Animals Policy

DOM 2607.9

It is the policy of the Department that service animals be allowed into all areas that are open to the public. Service animals are animals that are individually trained to perform tasks for persons who have qualifying disabilities under the

ADA.

Beach Wheelchair Policy

DOM 2607.10

It is the policy of the Department to provide beach wheelchairs in some locations free of charge for people who use wheelchairs or have other mobility disabilities.

Beach wheelchairs provide access to soft sandy surfaces for people who use wheelchairs or who have other mobility disabilities.

Other Power Driven Mobility

Device (OPDMD) Policy

DOM 2607.11

It is the policy of the Department to permit the use of certain specified OPDMD’s by persons with mobility disabilities. An OPDMD is any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines that is used by individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion.

Construction Project

Accessibility Review Policy

DOM 2608.1

Projects that will result in physical changes to public or employee use areas shall be reviewed for compliance by the Accessibility Section. See the Project Review Process section on page xiii.

viii Department Policy and Practices

Following are suggested accessibility references, other than the Guidelines, that can be consulted when needed.

Professional designers should consult source materials such as the most current version of the California Building Code and applicable federal standards and guidelines.

DEPARTMENTAL REFERENCES

“All Visitors Welcome – Accessibility in Interpretive Programs and Facilities.” California State Parks.

SUGGESTED REFERENCES

“CalDAG – California Disabled Access Guidelines” Most Recent Edition. Michael P. Gibbons.

“2013 CBC Advisory Manual” State of California, Division of the State Architect.

“California Historical Building Code” Most Recent Edition. California Building Standards Commission.

“Everyone’s Welcome” American Association of Museums, 1998.

Lighthouse International – www.lighthouse.org/accessibility.

“Means ADA Compliance Pricing Guide” Most recent edition.

Adaptive Environments Center, Inc.

R.S. Means Engineering Staff.

“Preserving the Past and Making it Accessible for People with Disabilities.” National Park Service, Cultural Resources Preservation Assistance Division, 1992.

“Smithsonian Guidelines for Accessible Exhibition Design.”

Smithsonian Institution, Office of the Provost, Accessibility Program, most recent edition.

“Universal Access to Outdoor Recreation – A Design Guide.”

PLAE, Inc., Berkeley, CA and U.S.F.S., 1993.

“2010 ADA Standards Excerpts for Recreational Boating Facilities.”

California Department of Boating and Waterways, 2013.

http://dbw.parks.ca.gov/PDF/ Reports/DBW_2010_ADA_Booklet- Dec_2012.pdf.

http://www.lighthouse.org/accessibility

Building Blocks for an Accessible Park ix

Building Blocks for an Accessible Park

The California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines cover standards for particular features in the park environment. These park features should be integrated into an overall park site plan and be considered as part of a larger planning process for accessibility. Site planning is important to the process of providing access to all programs and services that the park offers. Each site shall be planned as a whole to form a well-integrated, accessible network of facilities and programs.

The goal is to provide all visitors optimum experiences through individual choice. For example, if camping or picnic areas provide some sites in the sun, some in the shade, and some over-looking a lake, then accessible sites should be developed in each location rather than offering a limited selection. Partial accessibility does not provide for optimum experiences through individual choice.

It is Department policy (DN 95-32) that all public use facilities, furnishings, and equipment (i.e., picnic tables, fire rings, drinking fountains, chemical toilets, etc.) when purchased, leased, or rented by the Department must be of the accessible variety. In addition, new development, including modifications to existing facilities, MUST be designed in accordance with these guidelines.

In the event that a park program or facility is not, or cannot be made physically accessible, parks staff must make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, and/or procedures when necessary to ensure that people with disabilities are afforded an equal opportunity to benefit from the program or activities provided.

CIRCULATION

No program or facility can function independent of its linkage to the natural, social and physical environment to which it belongs.

Similarly, no program or facility can be accessible by itself. If a park provides major programs in different areas, accessible circulation must be provided to connect each of these areas, facilities and activities, rather than restricting visitors with disabilities to using only selected areas and programs.

There are three types of circulation that can provide accessibility and each must begin at a point of arrival be it a parking space, a transit stop, or pedestrian entry from the park boundary.

x Building Blocks for an Accessible Park

Building Blocks for an Accessible Park

1. Exterior Route of Travel and Accessible Route of Travel: These general terms describe a continuous, unobstructed path connecting accessible elements and spaces in a building or between exterior elements of a facility. Exterior and accessible routes are safe and usable by persons with disabilities, including pedestrians and visitors requiring the use of mobility devices. These paths or routes may include walks, sidewalks, ramps, corridors, and other such improved areas.

a. Exterior accessible routes may include: parking access aisles, curb ramps, crosswalks at vehicular ways, walks, ramps, and lifts.

b. Interior accessible routes may include: corridors, floors, ramps, elevators, lifts, and clear floor space at fixtures.

c. An accessible circulation path may include an exterior or interior way of passage from one place to another for pedestrians, including, but not limited to, walks, hallways, courtyards, stairways, and stair landing.

2. Outdoor Recreation Access Route:

Paths that connect and provide access to elements within a picnic area, camping area, or designated trailhead.

3. Trails: Paths that provide access to a site’s remote settings or that are constructed primarily for outdoor recreational purposes. Trails enhance the visitor’s experience of natural and cultural features of a site, allowing varied levels of accessibility without negatively impacting the recreational activity or resources.

Parks must provide accessible circulation that connects accessible features within a park so that a visitor with a disability can enter the park, get to and utilize restrooms and facilities, and take part in the programs available (visitor center, picnic area, campgrounds, etc.).

The basic dimensions and specifications required for accessibility are provided within these Guidelines.

SPACE ALLOWANCES

When designing for all people, the spatial requirements are different from those historically used in design.

Universal design takes into account the fact that people come in a variety of shapes, sizes, abilities, and ages.

Therefore, when planning and designing, it is important to utilize widths, lengths, and dimensions that accommodate a wide range of people and ensure access to recreational facilities and programs for all visitors.

Building Blocks for an Accessible Park xi

The basic spatial dimensions necessary to accommodate people who use wheelchairs, mobility aids, or who have visual impairments form the basis of these guidelines.

Typical space allowances for accessibility that you will find throughout these guidelines include clear ground or floor space, the minimum dimensions required for an adult using a wheelchair, and the passing widths and turning requirements for that person.

REACH RANGES

The “reach range” refers to the maximum and minimum heights that a person in a wheelchair can reach in the forward and side directions. Objects that can be reached (such as exhibit buttons, telephones, Braille signs, grills, hose bibs, etc.) need to be positioned within the appropriate reach range to be accessible to people in wheelchairs. The two types of reach ranges are in the “forward” and “side” directions. In general, where reaches are required over an obstruction, such as a shelf or desktop, clear floor space must be provided under the obstruction or reach depths shall be limited to ensure access compliance.

OBSTACLES, HAZARDS, AND

CLEARANCE

In recreational settings it is often desirable to retain the natural features and character of a place through aesthetically appropriate design. This must be done in a way that also provides safe maneuvering and access. To maximize clearances and minimize hazards, projections, protrusions, and gratings or openings in the clear ground or floor space need to be carefully considered.

COMMUNICATION

Physical access is only one form of access to parks. Making park programs accessible requires making communications accessible. Parks that offer visitors physical access to programs and facilities cannot be considered fully accessible unless the staff can effectively communicate with visitors with disabilities. Interpretive programs, nature walks, campfire talks, films, and other special programs should also be made available to everyone through alternative formats such as sign language, Braille, oral description, and captioning. These are described in the guidelines that follow.

xii Building Blocks for an Accessible Park

For additional detailed information about how to make communication accessible refer to the California State Parks document, “All Visitors Welcome

– Accessibility in Interpretive Programs & Facilities” and the Department’s Qualified Sign Language Interpreters policy.

These basic building blocks for accessibility appear throughout the Guidelines and must be considered when designing or maintaining State Park settings. The sections in the Guidelines outline requirements for specific park features.

Project Review Process xiii

Project Review Process

The Department must incorporate accessible features when it undertakes projects that potentially alter use areas or facilities within State Parks. The Department is also mandated to track accessibility improvements. The Accessibility Section is responsible for ensuring compliance with these mandates by reviewing all projects and should be involved in the planning stages of projects that affect employee or visitor use areas to ensure that access is adequately integrated.

Accessibility Section project review will also ensure that California State Parks continues to provide all visitors, regardless of their abilities, with high quality recreational opportunities, while preserving the integrity of park resources.

Consequently, all Project Evaluation Forms (PEFs) SHALL be routed to the Accessibility Section for review and approval regardless of the anticipated CEQA compliance determination.

In order to ensure an accurate project description on your PEF and to avoid repetitive reviews, it is highly recommended that the accessibility review occur prior to review by other specialists. Do not assume there are no access issues involved in a project unless the Accessibility Section has exempted it because an oversight of access may cause significant delays.

If your project does not require a PEF for CEQA purposes, it may still require an accessibility review if it has the potential to alter a facility or use area.

Upon submission of the PEF, the Accessibility Section will provide the project manager with a Review and Comment Sheet, (DPR 727) which will indicate accessibility features that must be incorporated into the project. In some cases, the comment sheet will indicate that the project is exempt from accessibility requirements. The Accessibility Section makes every attempt to conduct its review and provide the comment sheet within 10 business days. Copies of the review and Comment Sheet should be kept in the official project files. PEFs can be emailed to the Accessibility Section at access@parks.ca.gov, or hard copies sent to the Section at:

California State Parks Accessibility Section One Capitol Mall, Suite 410 Sacramento, CA 95814

It is your responsibility to contact the Accessibility Section when you begin work on any project, including design, planning, interpretive, engineering, trail, or construction projects. When you do, Accessibility Section Specialists will help you address legally mandated access compliance issues.

mailto:access@parks.ca.gov xiv Project Review Process

ACCESSIBILITY SECTION PROJECT

REVIEW PROCESS

I. PROJECT PLANNING

Planning for access for people with disabilities needs to take place at the very early stages of a project. When Project Evaluation Forms (PEF) and Concept Papers are initially drafted, that is the appropriate phase at which to have the project reviewed by the Accessibility Section. A phone call to discuss the project will allow the Accessibility Section to log the project into its database and help project managers determine the specific components that should be included in the project. The more information about the project and existing site conditions that you provide, the better the Accessibility Section specialists will be able to assist you. Site drawings, topographic maps, and photographs are quite valuable in helping to impart the details of your project, and often these same documents can be used as part of the final PEF. Early review will determine if the access features in the project have been adequately addressed and/or if subsequent reviews will be necessary.

This stage of review will also identify all issues with physical alterations required for access compliance often associated with qualified historical properties and outdoor environments, and will prevent access issues from being overlooked or applied improperly.

II. PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

In addition to conceptual reviews, projects for which plans and specifications are developed will need to be reviewed at the stages of preliminary plan design, design development, and construction document preparation stages. The complexity of the project and schedule will vary. As a result, the level of completeness for the intermediate stages of preliminary plan design review submittal will vary.

In general, design review submittals should take place at each of the following steps:

1) Schematic/preliminary design,

2) Design development / 30% construction documents, and

3) 70% completed construction documents.

III. FINAL PLAN REVIEW AND

CERTIFICATION

Pursuant to the Government Code, contracted construction projects cannot

Project Review Process xv be put out to bid until the plans and specifications have been certified by Accessibility Section Architects.

Approved and certified construction documents must demonstrate that the project will comply with current accessibility codes, regulations, and guidelines. To that end, the Accessibility Section of California State Parks must review all final plans and specifications to ensure compliance.

All approved plans will receive a certification stamp, dated and signed by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp).

IV. POST CONSTRUCTION

An “Accessibility Verified Report” form (DPR 339) must be submitted at the completion of all construction projects.

This form documents that park staff or contractors have completed the project pursuant to acccessible standards. At the completion of a public works project, the project manager should notify the Accessibility Section so that a verified report can be completed and certified. District Staff can utilize the Accessibility Guidelines as a reference to prepare the verified report for small, district-led projects. Project managers shall submit a copy of the verified report to the Accessibility Section, and retain a copy in the project file.

When planning trail projects, the following steps should be completed in order to coordinate review by the Accessibility Section and ensure compliance with current regulations and integration into the statewide accessible trail program.

1) Contact the Accessibility Section Trail Specialists to discuss the trail project, determine the potential level of accessibility, and evaluate the trails inclusion in the statewide accessible trail's program.

2) Submit a draft PEF to the Accessibility Section with a detailed project description, maps showing connections to other trails and to trailheads, and photographs.

3) If the Accessibility Section Trail Specialist determines that the trail qualifies for a departure from the current guidelines, a detailed explanation of the reason for this departure from the guidelines is required. Photographs and topographic maps would be helpful in supporting the reason for departure.

4) Trail accessibility recommendations, departures, and exceptions must be documented and kept on record as evidence of accessibility review in the project files.

V. TRAIL PLANNING

xvi Project Review Process

VI. EXHIBIT DESIGN

When new interpretive exhibits are constructed, or when existing exhibits are altered or modified, an accessibility review is required to verify that the exhibit is, or will be physically accessible. This may include but is not limited to: verifying exhibit location along an accessible route, exhibit mounting height, and to verify that buttons or controls are within proper reach ranges. Exhibit artwork, graphics, and text must conform to the requirements contained in the exhibits section of this publication but are not subject to review by the Accessibility Section.

It is important to initiate the review process prior to the completion of the exhibit design, otherwise additional design costs and delays may occur.

Staff should contact the Accessibility section during the initial design planning stage.

Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics 1

Accessibility Basics

SECTION 0.1

I. CONCEPT

A. This Section contains criteria for what are considered “building blocks” of accessibility as established by the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (ADASAD). Included are requirements for ground and floor surfaces, changes in level, wheelchair turning space, clear floor space, knee and toe clearances, protruding objects, reach ranges, and operable parts.

II. FLOOR AND GROUND SURFACES - ADASAD 302

A. Accessible floor and ground surfaces are stable, firm, and slip resistant.

1. A stable surface is one that remains unchanged by contaminants or applied force, so that when the contaminant or force is removed, the surface returns to its original condition.

2. A firm surface resists deformation by either indentations or particles moving on its surface.

3. A slip-resistant surface provides sufficient frictional counterforce to the forces exerted in walking to permit safe ambulation.

B. Carpet or carpet tile must be securely attached and have a firm cushion, pad, or backing, or have no cushion or pad. Accessible carpet or carpet tile has a level loop, textured loop, level cut pile, or level cut/uncut pile texture. Pile height must be no more than 1/2". Exposed edges of carpet must be fastened to floor surfaces and have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge.

Carpet edge trim must comply with Part III, Changes in Level below.

Figure 0-1 Carpet Pile Height

2 Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics

Section 0.1 - Accessibility Basics

C. Openings in floor or ground surfaces must not allow passage of a sphere more than 1/2" in diameter. Elongated openings are to be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel.

Figure 0-2 Elongated Openings in Floor or Ground Surfaces

III. CHANGES IN LEVEL - ADASAD 303

A. Changes in ground or floor level must not exceed ½”. Any change in level exceeding ½” must comply with the requirements for a ramp.

Refer to Section 31 - Ramps.

B. Vertical changes in level must not exceed ¼”.

Figure 0-3 Vertical Change in Level

C. Changes in level between 1/4" high minimum and 1/2" inch high maximum are to be beveled with a slope not steeper than 1:2.

Figure 0-4 Beveled Change in Level

D. Abrupt changes in level exceeding 4” in a vertical dimension between walks, sidewalks, or other pedestrian ways and adjacent surfaces or features shall be

Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics 3 identified by warning curbs at least 6” in height above the walk or sidewalk surface.

CBC 11B-303.5

EXCEPTIONS: (1) A warning curb is not required between a walk or sidewalk and an adjacent street or driveway. (2) A warning curb is not required when a guard or handrail is provided with a guide rail centered 2” minimum and 4” maximum above the surface of the walk or sidewalk.

Refer to Section 22 – Handrails.

Figure 0-5 Warning Curb Height

IV. TURNING SPACE - ADASAD 304

A. At accessible turning spaces, there must be a clear space measuring 60” in diameter or a T-intersection with aisles at least 36” wide and 60” long for turning a wheelchair around.

Figure 0-6 T-Shaped Turning Space

4 Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics

B. These clear spaces must be free of obstructions but may include knee and toe clearances as shown in Part VI, Knee and Toe Clearance (at the T-shaped space this is permitted only at the end of either the base or one arm).

C. Doors are permitted to swing into these spaces.

V. CLEAR FLOOR OR GROUND SPACE - ADASAD 305

A. Clear floor and/ground spaces are required at many accessible elements (e.g.

plumbing features, counters, exhibits, etc.).

B. Floor or ground surfaces of a clear floor or ground space must comply with Part VI, Floor and Ground Surfaces. Changes in level are not permitted. Slopes must not exceed 2%.

C. Clear floor or ground surfaces are 30” minimum by 48” minimum.

Figure 0-7 Clear Floor or Ground Space

D. Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying Part VI, Knee and Toe Clearance.

E. Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be positioned for either forward or parallel approach to an element.

Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics 5

Figure 0-8 Position of Clear Floor or Ground Space

F. One full unobstructed side of the clear floor or ground space must adjoin an accessible route or adjoin another clear floor or ground space.

G. Where a clear floor or ground space is located in an alcove or otherwise confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering clearance must be provided as follow:

1. For a forward approach, alcoves must be 36” wide minimum when the depth exceeds 24”.

Figure 0-9 Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove, Forward Approach

2. At a parallel approach, alcoves must be 60” wide minimum where the depth exceeds 15”.

6 Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics

Figure 0-10 Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove, Parallel Approach

VI. Knee and Toe Clearance - ADASAD 306

A. Where clear floor spaces are required or permitted beneath elements, knee and toe clearance apply.

B. Space under an element between the finish floor or ground and 9” above the finish floor or ground are considered toe clearance and comply with the following:

1. Where toe clearance is required at an element as part of a clear floor space, the toe clearance shall extend 17” minimum under the element.

Figure 0-11 Toe Clearance

2. Space extending greater than 6” beyond the available knee clearance at 9” above the finish floor or ground is not to be considered toe clearance.

3. The width of toe clearance is 30” wide minimum.

C. Space under an element between 9” and 27” above the finish floor or ground are considered knee clearance and comply with the following:

Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics 7

1. Where knee clearance is required at an element as part of a clear floor space, the knee clearance shall extend 11” deep minimum at 9” above the finish floor or ground, and 8” deep minimum at 27” above the finish floor or ground.

Figure 0-12 Knee Clearance

2. The width of knee clearance is 30” wide minimum.

VII. Protruding Objects - ADASAD 307

A. Objects with leading edges more than 27” and less than 80” above the finish floor or ground cannot protrude more than 4” horizontally into the circulation path. Note: Handrails are permitted to protrude 4½” maximum.

Figure 0-13 Limits of Protruding Objects

B. Free-standing objects mounted on posts or pylons cannot overhang circulation paths more than 12” when located between 27” and 80” above the finish floor

8 Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics or ground. Where a sign or other obstruction is mounted between posts or pylons and the clear distance between the posts or pylons is greater than 12”, the lowest edge of such sign or obstruction must be 27” maximum or 80” minimum above the finish floor or ground.

Figure 0-14 Post-Mounted Protruding Objects

C. If there is less than 80” of clear headroom next to an accessible route, there must be a cane detectable barrier within 27” of the floor. Note: Door closers and door stops are permitted to be 78” minimum above the finish floor or

Figure 0-15 Cane Detectable Barrier

D. Protruding objects must not reduce the clear width required for accessible routes.

Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics 9

VIII. REACH RANGE - ADASAD 308

A. Forward reach ranges:

1. Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach is 48” maximum and the low forward reach is 15” minimum above the finish floor or

Figure 0-16 Unobstructed Forward Reach

2. Where a high forward reach is over an obstruction, the clear floor space shall extend beneath the element for a distance not less than the required reach depth over the obstruction. The high forward reach must be 48” maximum where the reach depth is 20” maximum. Where the reach depth exceeds 20”, the high forward reach can be no more than 44” over a maximum depth of 25”.

Figure 0-17 Obstructed High Forward Reach

10 Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics

B. Side reach ranges:

1. Where a side reach is unobstructed, the high side reach is 48” maximum and the low side reach is 15” minimum above the finish floor or ground.

Note: An obstruction is permitted between the clear floor or ground space and the element where the depth of the obstruction is no more than 10”.

Figure 0-18 Unobstructed Side Reach

2. Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to an element and the high side reach is over an obstruction, the height of the obstruction can be 34” maximum and the depth of the obstruction can be 24” maximum.

The high side reach can be 48” maximum for a reach depth of 10” maximum.

Where the reach depth exceeds 10”, the high side reach can only be 46” maximum for a reach depth not to exceed 24”.

Figure 0-19 Obstructed High Side Reach

Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics 11

IX. Operable Parts - ADASAD 309

A. A clear floor or ground space complying with Sub -Section V, Clear Floor or

Ground Space, must be provided at all elements with operable parts.

B. Operable parts must be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in Part VII.

C. Operable parts must be operable with one hand and cannot require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts can be no more than be 5 lbs.

Section 1 – Alarm Systems 13

Alarm Systems

SECTION 1

I. CONCEPT

A. Alarm systems must be accessible to people with visual and hearing impairments. The State Fire Marshal must be contacted for all existing, new, and retrofit system requirements.

B. For program accessibility requirements that may require visual or audible alarms absent any construction, contact the Accessibility Section.

II. GENERAL

A. If fire alarms are provided, they shall have permanently installed audible and visible alarms complying with NFPA 72 (1999 or 2002 edition).

ADASAD 215, 702

B. Audible alarms shall produce a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dB) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dB above the maximum sound level having the duration of at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupiable space within the building. The minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 75 dB in residential occupancies; 90 dB in mechanical equipment rooms;

and 60 dB in other occupancies.

CBC 9-907.5.2.1.1

C. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with CBC Chapter 9, Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.5.

D. Fire alarm pulls are to be a minimum of 42” and a maximum of 48” above the floor to the highest point of the activating handle or lever of the box.

CBC 9-907.4.2.2

E. Fire alarm pull stations shall be accessible and operable without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting. The force required to activate pulls shall be 5 lbs. (22.2 N) maximum.

CBC 11B-309.4

Section 2 – Assistive Listening Systems 15

Assistive Listening Systems

SECTION 2

I. CONCEPT

A. Assistive listening systems (ALS) are used to help individuals hear the programs that State Parks provides. These systems may be either permanently installed or portable. Permanent systems are generally installed for specific areas while portable systems allow use for walking tours or similar activities.

Typical areas in the parks where ALS will be used are assembly areas, meeting rooms, campfire centers, visitor centers and museums. Selecting or specifying an effective ALS for a large or complex venue often requires the assistance of a professional sound engineer.

B. Types of ALS include, but are not limited to, hard wired systems, audio-induction loops, radio frequency systems and infrared transmission.

The type of ALS should be selected for the appropriate application. For example, in a room where fluorescent lighting is used, the ballasts can cause interference with infrared systems. Infrared may be appropriate for interpretive centers with audio/visual presentations but not functional in outdoor settings without clear lines of sight.

C. With any system, visitors must be aware that it is available and staff must be trained on system use and maintenance.

II. GENERAL

A. In public assembly areas, conference and meeting rooms where audible communication is integral to the use of the space, ALS for persons with hearing impairments shall be provided.

ADASAD 219.2

1. The minimum number of receivers to be provided shall be equal to 4% of the total number of seats, but in no case less than two.

ADASAD 219.3

2. 25% and no fewer than two of the total number of receivers provided shall be hearing aid compatible.

ADASAD 219.3

16 Section 2 – Assistive Listening Systems

Section 2 - Assistive Listening Systems

3. Receivers required to be hearing aid compatible shall interface with telecoils in hearing aids through the provision of neckloops.

ADASAD 706.3

4. Receivers required for use with an ALS shall include a 1/8” standard mono jack.

ADASAD 706.2

5. ALS 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.

ADASAD 706.4

6. The signal to noise ratio for internally generated noise in ALS shall be 18 dB minimum.

ADASAD 706.5

7. Peak clipping shall not exceed 18 dB of clipping relative to the peaks of speech.

ADASAD 706.6

B. If the ALS provided is limited to specific areas or seats, then such areas or seats shall be within a 50’ unobstructed viewing distance of the performing area.

CBC 11B-219.4

C. A permanently installed ALS is required in areas if (1) they accommodate at least 50 persons or they have audio-amplification systems, and (2) they have fixed seating. If a portable ALS is used for conference or meeting rooms, the system may serve more than one room.

CBC 11B-219.5

III. SIGNAGE

A. A visual sign shall be posted in a prominent place indicating the availability of the ALS and shall include the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss.

ADASAD 703.7.2.4

Refer to Section 36 – Signage for design specifications.

Section 3 – Audiovisual Programs 17

Audiovisual Programs

SECTION 3

I. CONCEPT

A. Audiovisual programs are informational, educational, interpretive, or training programs that are transmitted by auditory and/or visual means with the aid of audiovisual equipment. Audiovisual programs include- but are not limited to-live presentations with an audiovisual component (e.g. PowerPoint, video, etc.), live interactive videoconference presentations, exhibits with an audiovisual component, and streaming audiovisual programs.

B. The Accessibility Compliance Checklist for Audiovisual Programs may be found in the Appendix. This checklist contains the basic elements necessary for accessible design. Refer to this checklist when developing or redesigning audiovisual programs to ensure that they are accessible and legally compliant with all statutes and regulations.

C. It is recommended that park staff consult with the Information Technology Office to ensure that audiovisual programs meet the technical requirements of the Section 508 Standards.

II. GENERAL GUIDELINES

A. Audiovisual programs are required to be presented in and available from, accessible locations.

Refer to Section 7 - Buildings, Section 8 – Campfire Centers & Assembly

Areas, and Section 34 – Routes of Travel.

B. For any public participation program or event, Districts are responsible for providing a qualified sign language interpreter upon request.

DOM 2607.5, DN 2004-07

C. Assistive listening systems shall be provided in each public assembly area where audible communication is integral to the use of the space.

ADASAD 219.2

Refer to Section 2 - Assistive Listening Systems and Section 8 –

Campfire Centers & Assembly Areas.

18 Section 3 – Audiovisual Programs

Section 3 - Audiovisual Programs

D. Audiovisual programs which are freestanding, non-portable, and intended to be used in one location and which have operable controls shall comply with the requirements for clear floor space, reach range, and operable parts as outlined in Section 0.1 – Accessibility Basics and knee clearance as outlined in

Section 12 – Dining & Banquet Areas.

29 U.S.C. 794d 1194.25(j)

III. AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT GUIDELINES

A. All analog televisions, computer monitors, and digital televisions which…