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United States · ADA · Illustrated standards guidance

Entrances, doors and gates: approach clearances

Doorway clear widths, maneuvering spaces, thresholds and hardware, illustrated for different approach directions.

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

Chapter 4: Accessible Routes Entrances, Doors, and Gates Recessed Doors and Gates [§404.2.4.3] 8” max The maneuvering clearance is measured from the wall but cannot be offset more than 8” from the face of the door. Thick walls, casework, shelving, columns and other elements can cause doors or gates to be recessed. If any obstruction within 18” of the latch side projects more than 8” from the face of a door or gate, maneuvering clearances for a forward approach must be provided. This space must be inset at obstructions so that it is no more than 8” from the face of the door or gate. Walls and other obstructions can At deeper recesses, the maneuvering clearance offset the maneuvering clearance up must be sized for a forward approach and to 8” from the face of the door. located 8” maximum from the face of the door. 8

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