Skip to content

United States · ADA · Illustrated standards guidance

Clear floor space and turning space

Illustrated guidance on wheelchair clear floor spaces, approaches, alcoves and turning spaces around interior fixtures and furniture.

AccessibilityAnthropometry & ergonomicsStairs & circulation
Open original PDF at page 9

Source wording and page order preserved. Drawings and table layouts remain available in the original PDF.

Chapter 3: Building Blocks Clear Floor or Ground Space and Turning Space Size [§304.3] Turning space can be provided in the shape of a circle or a T. Elements with knee and toe space can overlap a portion of the turning space. Circular Turning Space Objects with knee 60” and toe space can min overlap space max Recommendation: To provide easie r access, locate elements with knee and toe space outside the turning space or, with circular space, limit overlap to approximately 12” so that wheelchai r space 48” long minimum remains clear. T-Shaped Turning Space T-shaped space can be configured for approach on any segment (stem or either arm). 60” min Overlap cannot extend 36” beyond segment min 60” min 12” min 12” min Other segments must be clear for approach and backing-up 36” min 9

Edition and local adoption determine which requirements apply. Use the publisher’s document for the complete clauses, diagrams and amendments.