Is there a disabled toilet law? According to the American’s with Disabilities Act, public and commercial buildings are required to make their toilets accessible for all visitors.
In most cases, you’ll find a wider bathroom stall in every bathroom. It’s slightly larger compared to other stalls and there will be handrails along near the toilet. There is a minimum size for the doorway and stall, as well as a height range for the toilet and a minimum length for the handrails.
In the sections below, we’ll look at the disabled toilet law and learn what you can do to make your organization or home accessible to all visitors. There are more detailed requirements for the bathroom, however, this article is focused on the toilet.
How The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Defines Disability:
- A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual.
- A record of impairment or disability
- Being regarded as having such an impairment
Do All Public and Commercial Buildings Need To Have Disabled Toilets
Most newly developed buildings will adhere to the disabled toilets law. City inspectors will make sure the bathroom is built to accommodate all persons, regardless of ability.
Older buildings may not have toilets and stalls built according to the ADA and some buildings will only have one toilet. If a public or commercial building only has one toilet, it’s in their best interest to make the single toilet handicapped accessible.
Disabled Toilet Law Requirements
Let’s take a look at the specific requirements for disabled person toilets. Remember, this list only discusses the toilet. If you have a business you’ll want to read additional information on the stall, sinks, urinals, as well as the size and space of the bathroom (read the full ADA here) Clear Floor Space
The area inside the toilet stall must provide the individual adequate space to move around and move from a wheelchair to the toilets. Example distances that will provide adequate floor space are seen below in the photo
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Height
There is also a specific requirement for a handicapped accessible toilet. The heights should be 17-19 inches. The measurement should be from the ground to the top of the toilet seat. Comfort height toilets work great as disabled toilets.
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Grab Bars
Grab bars should also be installed around the toilet and should be 36 inches in length at a minimum. Grab bars are for individuals who must support themselves as they stand/sit or transfer from chair to the toilet.
They are a must when it comes to disabled toilets.
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Flush Controls
Flush controls must be hand operated or automatic and mounted on the wide side of the toilet area a minimum of 44 inches above the floor. Check out my article on dual flush toilets.
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Dispensers
Dispensers are installed for toilet paper and should be within reach at a reasonable height compared to the toilets. Paper dispensers should provide continuous paper flow and not utilize controlled delivery (my review for best toilet roll holders)
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Stalls
If the disabled toilet has a stall, the door must open outward and be wide enough for a wheelchair to fit through it (at least 900mm wide).
Water Closets (toilets) for children
Depending on the location/building, some toilets may be primarily for children ages 12 and less. These toilets must include the same requirements, however, at different measurements suitable for children (please see page 46 on ACA).
Handicapped Toilet – Do I Need To Be Disabled To Use It
Have you ever gone into a public restroom only to find all the stalls are taken, except the last stall that’s marked as handicapped accessible? Is it okay to use that toilet if you’re not disabled? What if someone enters that really needs it?
Some people believe that those stalls should be left open for a disabled person, similar to a handicapped parking space. However, most people agree that toilets marked for the handicapped are open to all people, yet built to accommodate those with disabilities.
I subscribe to the latter view. If handicapped accessible toilet stalls were “reserved” for only people that had a true disability, it would be empty most of the time.
Furthermore, toilets are used for a few minutes at a time and if the handicapped toilet is occupied, a disabled person can wait for a few minutes until the stall is empty.
What if you’re not disabled but need more space because of your size? What if you have a stroller with you and need to keep your baby close?
Many people can utilize the larger stall for their specific situation and those who aren’t disabled shouldn’t feel bad about it. You should always give up the stall if there is someone disabled who is waiting for it.
Conclusion
There are plenty of regulations when it comes to bathrooms. Accommodating all persons, regardless of ability is important. Bathrooms should have emergency alarms, wide stall doors for wheelchairs, and handrails among others.
The regulations around toilets are fairly straightforward and easy to follow. The toilet should be a specific height, have rails nearby, and adequate space around it to maneuver.
If you have more questions about the regulations it’s important to read through the ADA that outlines everything from the height of sinks in the bathroom, to the height of the toilet.
Thanks for reading another Toilet Travels blog post. Check out the home page for everything related to toilets!