U N I T E D S T A T E S A C C E S S B O A R D outdoor developed areas trails camping & picnic facilities viewing areas beach access a summary of accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas MAY 2014 ADVANCING FULL ACCESS AND INCLUSION FOR ALL
A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Cover photo: J. Strom Thurmond Lake, courtesy of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Reproduction and dissemination of this publication is encouraged.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas i Contents Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Conditions for Exceptions [1019] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Condition for Exception 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Condition for Exception 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Condition for Exception 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Condition for Exception 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Documenting Use of the Conditions for Exceptions on a Portion of a Trail or Beach Access Route [F201.4.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Exemptions for an Entire Trail or Beach Access Route [1017 .1, Exception 2 and 1018 1, Exception 2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Notifying the Access Board When an Entire Trail or Beach Access Route is Exempted [F201.4.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 New Trails [F247.1]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Existing Trails [F247.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Technical Requirements [1017]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Using the Trail Exceptions [1017.1, Exceptions 1 and 2]. . . . . . . . . . 14 Surface [1017.2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Measuring Surface Firmness and Stability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Clear Tread Width [1017.3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Passing Spaces [1017.4]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Tread Obstacles [1017.5] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Openings [1017.6]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Running Slope [1017.7.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Cross Slope [1017.7.2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Resting Intervals [1017.8] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Protruding Objects [1017.9] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
ii A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Trailheads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Trailhead Information Signs [F216.13 and 1017.10]. . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Outdoor Constructed Features at Trailheads [F247.3.1 and 1011]. . . . . . . . 31 Outdoor Recreation Access Routes at Trailheads [F247.3.2]. . . . . . . . . . 32 Existing Trailheads [F202.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Trail Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Camping and Picnic Facilities and Viewing Areas on Trails [F247.4]. . . . . . . 33 Outdoor Constructed Features Along Trails [F247.5] . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Outdoor Recreation Access Routes (ORARs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Scoping Requirements [F244.5, F245.4, F246.4, and F247.3.2] . . . . . . . . .35 Technical Requirements [1016]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Using the ORAR Exceptions [F202.3, Exception 4 and 1016, Exceptions 1, 2, and 3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Surface [1016.2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Clear Width [1016.3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Passing Spaces [1016.4]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Obstacles [1016.5] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Openings [1016.6]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Running Slope [1016.7.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Cross Slope [1016.7.2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Resting Intervals [1016.8] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Protruding Objects [1016.9] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Outdoor Constructed Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Scoping Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Camping and Picnic Facilities [F244.2.3.1, F244.3, F245.2.5.1, and F244.5.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Viewing Areas [F246.3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Trails and Trailheads [F247.3.1 and F247.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas iii Common Technical Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Clear Ground Space [1011.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Surface, Slope, and Openings [1011.2.2, 1011.2.3, and 1011.2.4]. . . . . . 50 Operable Parts [1011.3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Technical Requirements Applicable to Specific Features. . . . . . . . . . . .51 Picnic Tables [1011.2 and 1011.4] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Fire Rings, Grills, Fireplaces, and Woodstoves [1011.2, 1011.3, and 1011.5] . .53 Trash and Recycling Receptacles [1011.2 and 1011.3]. . . . . . . . . . .57 Benches [1011.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Water Hydrants and Water Spouts [1011.2, 1011.3, and 1011.6] . . . . . . .58 Utility and Sewage Hookups [1011.2, 1011.3, and 1011.6]. . . . . . . . . 60 Outdoor Rinsing Showers [1011.2, 1011.3, and 1011.7] . . . . . . . . . . 60 Viewing Scopes [1011.2, 1011.3, and 1011.8]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Other Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Sinks [F212.3, Exception 2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Toilet and Bathing Facilities [F213 and 603 through 610]. . . . . . . . . . . .63 Pit Toilets [F213.1, Exception] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Camping Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Camping Units With Mobility Features [F244.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 Alterations and Additions [F244.2.1]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66 Dispersion [F244.2.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Elements Within Camping Units With Mobility Features [F244.2.3] . . . . . . . .68 Outdoor Constructed Features in Common Use and Public Use Areas [F244.3] . . 68 Outdoor Recreation Access Routes in Camping Facilities [F244.5]. . . . . . . .68 RV Parking Spaces Within Camping Units With Mobility Features and RV Pull-Up Spaces at Dump Stations [F244.2.3.2.1 and F244.4]. . .69 Width of Spaces [1012.3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Surface and Slope [1012.4 and 1012.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Parking Spaces for Vehicles Other Than RVs [F244.2.3.2.2] . . . . . . . . .70 Width of Spaces [1012.3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Surface and Slope [1012.4 and 1012.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
iv A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Tent Pads and Tent Platforms [1013]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Exception [1013.1, Exception]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Clear Ground Space [1013.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Slope [1013.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Floor Height [1013.4]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Camp Shelters [1014] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Exceptions [1014.1, Exceptions 1 and 2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Entrance [1014.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Transfer Access [1014.2.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Roll-in Access [1014.2.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Floor [1014.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Picnic Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Picnic Units With Mobility Features [F245.2.1 and F245.2.2] . . . . . . . . . . 76 Alterations and Additions [F245.2.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 Dispersion [F245.2.4]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 Elements Within Picnic Units With Mobility Features [F245.2.5]. . . . . . . . . 78 Outdoor Constructed Features in Common Use and Public Use Areas [F245.4] . . 78 Outdoor Recreation Access Routes in Picnic Facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . .78 Viewing Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Definition [F106.5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Distinct Viewing Locations [F246.2, 1015.2, and 1015.3]. . . . . . . . . . . .79 Turning Space [1015.4] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 Surface and Slope [1015.5 and 1015.6] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Outdoor Constructed Features Within Viewing Areas [F246.3]. . . . . . . . . .81 Outdoor Recreation Access Routes in Viewing Areas [F246.4] . . . . . . . . . 81
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas v Beach Access Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Scoping Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Facilities Serving Beaches [F248.1.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Beach Nourishment [F248.1.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Minimum Number of Beach Access Routes [F248.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Location [F248.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Technical Requirements [1018 and 1018.1, Exception 3]. . . . . . . . . . . .84 Using the Beach Access Route Exceptions [1018.1, Exceptions 1 and 2]. . . 84 Connections [1018.2]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Surface [1018.3]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Clear Width [1018.4] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Obstacles [1018.5] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Openings [1018.6] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Running Slope [1018.7.1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Cross Slope [1018.7.2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Resting Intervals [1018.8] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Protruding Objects [1018.9] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Dune Crossings [1018.10]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Appendixes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Key Differences Between Routes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Notification Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Entire Trail Exemption Form [1017.2 Exception 2] . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Entire Beach Access Route Exemption Form [1018.2 Exception 2]. . . . . . 99
vi A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Acknowledgments The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) developed the accessibility guidelines for trails, camping and picnic facilities, viewing areas, and beach access routes through extensive public input from the disability community, Federal land management agencies, and other interested individuals and organizations. This information has been developed and reviewed in accordance with the Access Board’s information quality guidelines www.access-board.gov/the-board/policies/information-quality.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 1 Introduction The Access Board is responsible for developing accessibility guidelines for the construction and alteration of facilities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) of 1968. The guidelines ensure that the facilities are readily accessible to and usable by people with disabilities. The Access Board issued the current guidelines in 2004. The 2004 guidelines contain provisions for several types of recreation facilities, including boating facilities, fishing piers and platforms, golf facilities, play areas, sports facilities, and swimming pools. The Access Board amended the 2004 guidelines in 2013 by adding new provisions for trails, picnic and camping facilities, viewing areas, and beach access routes constructed or altered by Federal agencies or by non-federal entities on Federal land on behalf of a Federal agency pursuant to a concession contract, partnership agreement, or similar arrangement.
2 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas The U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. General Services Administration, and the U.S. Postal Service have adopted the Access Board’s 2004 guidelines, including the 2013 amendments, as the enforceable standards for the ABA. The ABA standards adopted by these agencies are available on the Access Board’s Web site at www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and -standards/buildings-and-sites/about-the-aba-standards/aba-standards. The ABA Standards are comprised of two types of provisions: scoping requirements and technical requirements. The scoping requirements specify when and where elements must be accessible. The scoping requirements also specify the number of a particular type of element that must be accessible when more than one is provided. The scoping requirements are in chapter 2 of the ABA Standards and the section numbers are preceded by the capital letter “F.” The technical requirements specify the design criteria for individual elements. The technical requirements for trails, picnic and camping facilities, viewing areas, and beach access routes are in chapter 10 of the ABA Standards. The scoping and technical requirements are minimum requirements. Designers, owners, and operators are encouraged, but are not required, to exceed the minimum requirements where possible to provide increased accessibility and opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy trails and other outdoor developed areas. This guide is intended to help designers, owners, and operators understand and use the ABA Standards for trails, picnic and camping facilities, viewing areas, and beach access routes. Guides for other recreation facilities, including boating facilities, fishing piers and platforms, golf facilities, play areas,
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 3 sports facilities, and swimming pools, are available on the Access Board’s Web site at www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/buildings-and -sites/about-the-ada-standards/guide-to-the-ada-standards. The Access Board is also developing guides for toilet and bathing facilities, parking facilities, and other elements and spaces that are required to be accessible by the ABA Standards. These guides will be available on the Access Board’s Web site at www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/recreation-facilities as they are completed. Incorporating accessibility into the design of outdoor developed areas must begin early in the planning process, with careful consideration given to the location of accessible elements and the routes that connect them. Emphasis must be placed on ensuring that people with disabilities are able to access these unique facilities and use a variety of elements that serve these facilities. The new provisions for trails, picnic and camping facilities, viewing areas, and beach access routes are not included in the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) 2010 ADA Standards and have no legal effect on State and local governments and private entities subject to DOJ’s ADA regulations. State and local governments and private entities may, however, use the provisions for guidance when designing trails, picnic and camping facilities, viewing areas, and beach access routes. State and local governments and private entities are cautioned to check with DOJ about using the technical requirements for outdoor recreation access routes, instead of accessible routes, to connect elements at picnic and camping facilities, viewing areas, and trailheads.
4 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Conditions for Exceptions [1019] The ABA Standards recognize the existence of constraints and limitations in the outdoor environment and allow for exceptions from specific provisions in the technical requirements where certain circumstances, referred to as “conditions for exceptions,” apply. When an entity determines that any of the conditions for exceptions do not permit full compliance with a specific provision in the technical requirements, compliance with that provision is required to the extent practicable. The phrase “to the extent practicable” means reasonably doable under the circumstances. The conditions for exceptions should be used only after all other design options are thoroughly explored. Where a condition for exception applies to only part of a trail, a beach access route, or an outdoor recreation access route, the rest of the trail or route must comply with all the technical requirements for the trail or route. The following sections describe the four conditions for exceptions and provide examples of situations where they might apply.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 5 Condition for Exception 1 Compliance is not practicable due to terrain. The phrase “not practicable” means not reasonably doable. For example, where a trail is constructed in a steeply sloped area, compliance with the running slope provision may not be practicable on parts of the trail where it would require extensive cuts or fills that are difficult to construct and maintain, cause drainage and erosion problems, significantly lengthen the trail, and create other adverse environmental impacts. Condition for Exception 2 Compliance cannot be accomplished with the prevailing construction practices. This condition does not require the use of construction equipment or methods other than those typically used in a particular type of setting. For example, where handtools would normally be used to construct a trail in order to minimize the impact on a sensitive adjacent stream and the prevailing construction practices for this type of setting do not include blasting, blasting does not have to be used to remove a rock outcrop in order to comply with the clear tread width provision. Compliance with the clear tread width provision is required to the extent that it can be accomplished using handtools. Prevailing construction practices are those used by most contractors or designers faced with the same or similar projects in the area. Preferences or practices used by a single contractor or designer are not necessarily prevailing construction practices.
6 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Condition for Exception 3 Compliance would fundamentally alter the function or purpose of the facility or the setting. This condition recognizes that public lands provide a wide variety of recreational experiences, from highly developed areas to wilderness areas that appear unchanged from primeval times and provide opportunities for people to experience primitive and challenging conditions. The condition applies where compliance with specific provisions in the technical requirements would fundamentally alter the function or purpose of the facility or the setting. For example, people using primitive trails experience the outdoor environment in a nearly natural state, with limited or no development. Use of manufactured building materials or engineered construction techniques to comply with specific provisions in the technical requirements for trails could fundamentally alter the natural or undeveloped nature of the setting and change the recreational experience. Trails that are intended to provide a rugged experience, such as a cross-country training trail with a steep grade, a fitness challenge course with abrupt and severe changes in elevation, and a trail that traverses boulders and rock outcroppings to provide users with the opportunity to climb the rocks, are other examples. To remove the obstacles on these trails or to reroute the trails around the obstacles would fundamentally alter the function or purpose of the trails.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 7 Condition for Exception 4 Compliance is limited or precluded by any of the following laws, or by decisions or opinions issued or agreements executed pursuant to any of the following laws: ¡ ¡ Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 1531 et seq.) ¡ ¡ National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 4321 et seq.) ¡ ¡ National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 470 et seq.) ¡ ¡ Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 1131 et seq.) ¡ ¡ Other Federal, State, or local law, the purpose of which is to preserve threatened or endangered species; the environment; or archaeological, cultural, historical, or other significant natural features The laws specified in this condition prescribe certain activities or require certain analyses to be prepared or procedures to be followed when planning projects that may impact features protected under the laws. The condition does not require full compliance with a specific provision in the technical requirements where compliance is limited or precluded by the laws, or by decisions or opinions issued or agreements executed pursuant to the laws.
8 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Example Situations where the condition may apply include: ¡ ¡ Congressionally designated wilderness areas. The condition applies if work that is necessary to comply with a specific provision in the technical requirements can’t be accomplished using handtools, because motorized equipment is prohibited by law in Congressionally designated wilderness areas. ¡ ¡ Designated wetlands or coastal areas where construction methods and materials are limited. ¡ ¡ Tribal sacred sites where the physically undisturbed condition of the land is an important part of the sacred observance. ¡ ¡ Areas where water crossings are restricted to safeguard aquatic features protected under Federal or State laws. Archaeological and cultural features include burial grounds and cemeteries, protected tribal sites, and other properties considered sacred by an organized religion. Historical features are properties listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or other places of recognized historic value. Significant natural features include objects, such as large boulders, rocky outcrops, and bodies of water; or unique trees or vegetation, such as giant sequoia groves, that are regarded as distinctive or important locally, regionally, or nationally and are therefore placed under legal protection.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 9 Table 1 summarizes the conditions for exceptions and when and where they may apply. Table 1— Permissible Uses of Conditions for Exceptions Technical Requirements Specific Provisions Applies To Outdoor constructed features Clear ground space Alterations only Tent pads and tent platforms Any specific provision New construction or alterations Camp shelters Any specific provision New construction or alterations Outdoor recreation access routes at camping facilities, picnic facilities, and trailheads Any specific provision Alterations only Viewing areas Any specific provision Alterations only Outdoor recreation access routes to viewing areas Any specific provision New construction or alterations Trails Any specific provision New construction or alterations Beach access routes Any specific provision New construction or alterations Documenting Use of the Conditions for Exceptions on a Portion of a Trail or Beach Access Route [F201 .4 .1] When using the conditions for exceptions on a portion of trail or a beach access route, Federal agencies should document in writing why they could not fully comply with a specific provision in the technical requirements for trails or beach access routes. The documentation should be retained with the project records. The documentation should include the date the decision is made and the names and positions of the people making the decision. The Access Board is responsible for investigating complaints alleging violations of the ABA Standards and will request documentation when a complaint involves a trail or beach access route. A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS
10 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Exemptions for an Entire Trail or Beach Access Route [1017 .1, Exception 2 and 1018 .1, Exception 2] When extreme or numerous conditions for exceptions make it impractical to construct a trail or beach access route that complies with the technical requirements, the ABA Standards provide an exemption for the entire trail or beach access route. The exemption for an entire trail or beach access route can only be used after applying the conditions for exceptions to portions of the trail or beach access route. When determining whether to exempt an entire trail or beach access route, consider the portions of the trail or beach access route that can and cannot comply with the specific provisions in the technical requirements and the extent of compliance where full compliance cannot be achieved. Notifying the Access Board When an Entire Trail or Beach Access Route is Exempted [F201 .4 .1] In the rare cases where an entire trail or beach access route is exempted, Federal agencies must notify the Access Board about the exemption. Sample notification forms are in the appendix of this guide and are also available on the Access Board’s Web site at www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and -standards/recreation-facilities/outdoor-developed-areas/final-guidelines -for-outdoor-developed-areas/notification-forms. Federal agencies do not have to obtain approval from the Access Board to exempt an entire trail or beach access route. The Access Board will monitor the use of exemptions for an entire trail or beach access route and may provide additional guidance on the use of such exemptions. Federal agencies are encouraged to seek technical assistance from the Access Board when considering exempting an entire trail or beach access route.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 11 Trails Definition [F106 5] A trail is defined as a pedestrian route developed primarily for outdoor recreational purposes. Pedestrian routes that are developed primarily to connect accessible elements, spaces, and buildings within a site are not a trail. The Access Board is developing accessibility guidelines for sidewalks and shared-use paths. The key differences between accessible routes, sidewalks, shared-use paths, and trails are outlined in the appendix of this guide. New Trails [F2471] When a trail is designed for use by hikers or pedestrians and directly connects to a trailhead or another trail that substantially meets the technical requirements for trails, the trail must comply with the technical requirements. Do the Standards Apply? ¡ ¡ Is the trail designed for hiker or pedestrian use? ¡ ¡ Is the trail connected to a trailhead or an existing trail that substantially meets the technical requirements for trails? The ABA Standards for trails apply when the answer to both questions above is “yes.”
12 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas The Federal Trail Data Standards (FTDS) classify trails by their designed use and managed use Under the FTDS, a trail has only one designed use that determines the design, construction, and maintenance parameters for the trail. A trail can have more than one managed use based on a management decision to allow other uses on the trail. Trails that have a designed use for hikers or pedestrians are required to comply with the technical requirements for trails. Trails that have a designed use for other than hikers or pedestrians, such as mountain bike or equestrian trails, are not required to comply with the technical requirements for trails. A trail system may include a series of connecting trails. Only trails that directly connect to a trailhead or another trail that substantially meets the technical requirement for trails are required to comply with the technical requirements for trails. A trail that complies with most of the technical requirements for trails is considered to substantially meet the technical requirements. Existing Trails [F2472] When the original design, function, or purpose of an existing trail is changed, regardless of the reason, and the altered portion of the trail directly connects to a trailhead or another trail that substantially meets the technical requirements for trails, the altered portion of the existing trail must comply with the technical requirements for trails. The term “reconstruction” is not used in the ABA Standards, though the term is used frequently by the trails community. For the purposes of the ABA
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 13 Standards, actions are categorized as either new construction or an alteration. Routine or periodic maintenance activities are not considered an alteration that would trigger the application of the ABA standards. The difference between an alteration and maintenance is as follows: ¡ ¡ An alteration is work done to change the original design, purpose, intent, or function of an existing trail. ¡ ¡ Maintenance is the routine or periodic repair of existing trails or trail segments to restore them to their originally designed and built condition. Maintenance does not change the original design, purpose, intent, or function for which a trail is designed. Maintenance may include: · · Removing debris and vegetation, such as fallen trees or broken branches on the trail; clearing the trail of encroaching brush or grasses; and removing rock slides · · Maintaining trail tread, such as filling ruts, reshaping a trail bed, repairing a trail surface or washout, installing riprap to retain cut and fill slopes, and constructing retaining walls or cribbing to support trail tread · · Performing erosion control and drainage work, such as replacing or installing drainage dips or culverts · · Repairing or replacing deteriorated, damaged, or vandalized trail or trailhead structures or parts of structures, including sections of bridges, boardwalks, information kiosks, fencing and railings; painting; and removing graffiti
14 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Technical Requirements [1017] The technical requirements for trails include specific provisions for the surface, clear tread width, passing spaces, tread obstacles, openings, running slope, cross slope, resting intervals, protruding objects, and trailhead signs. Using the Trail Exceptions [10171, Exceptions 1 and 2] When a condition for exceptions does not permit full compliance with a specific provision in the technical requirements on a portion of a trail, that portion of the trail must comply with the specific provision to the extent practicable. When extreme or numerous conditions for exceptions make it impracticable to construct a trail that complies with the technical requirements, the entire trail can be exempted from complying with the technical requirements. An entire trail can be exempted from the technical requirements only after applying the conditions for exceptions to portions of the trail. When determining whether to exempt an entire trail from the technical requirements, consider the portions of the trail or beach access route that can and cannot comply with the specific provisions in the technical requirements and the extent of compliance where full compliance cannot be achieved. Additional information on the conditions for exceptions, including documenting use of the exceptions on portions of a trail and notifying the Access Board when an entire trail is exempted from the technical requirements, is provided in the section of this guide on the conditions for exceptions.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 15 Surface [10172] The surfaces of trails, passing spaces, and resting intervals must be firm and stable. A firm trail surface resists deformation by indentations. A stable trail surface is not permanently affected by expected weather conditions and can sustain normal wear and tear from the expected uses between planned maintenances. Paving with concrete or asphalt may be appropriate for highly developed areas. For less developed areas, crushed stone, fine crusher rejects, packed soil, soil stabilizers, and other natural materials may provide a firm and stable surface. Natural materials also can be combined with synthetic bonding materials to provide greater stability and firmness. These materials may not be suitable for every trail. DESIGN TIP—Building a firm and stable surface A firm and stable surface does not always mean concrete and asphalt. Some natural soils can be compacted so that they are firm and stable. Other soils can be treated with stabilizers without drastically changing their appearance. Designers are encouraged to investigate the options and use surfacing materials that are consistent with the site’s level of development and that require as little maintenance as possible.
16 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas CONSTRUCTION TIP—Stable materials Generally, the following materials provide firmer surfaces that are more stable than the alternative: ¡ ¡ Crushed rock (rather than uncrushed gravel) ¡ ¡ Rocks with broken faces (rather than rounded rocks) ¡ ¡ A rock mixture containing a full spectrum of sieve sizes, including fine material (rather than a single size) ¡ ¡ Hard rock (rather than soft rock that breaks down easily) ¡ ¡ Rock that passes through a ½-inch screen (rather than larger rocks) ¡ ¡ Rock material that is compacted in 3- to 4-inch layers (rather than thicker layers) ¡ ¡ Material that is moist (but not too wet) before it is compacted (rather than material that is compacted when it is dry) ¡ ¡ Material that is compacted with a vibrating plate compactor, roller, or by hand tamping (rather than material that is laid loose and compacted by use)
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 17 Measuring Surface Firmness and Stability The rotational penetrometer (RP) is a precision surface-indenter measuring tool for evaluating the firmness and stability of ground and floor surfaces (figure 1). To measure firmness, the precision spring applies force to the penetrator and the caliper measures the vertical displacement of the penetrator into the surface. The penetrator is then rotated and the total displacement into the surface is measured, indicating surface stability. The Access Board has conducted several research projects using the RP to evaluate the firmness and stability of trail and play area surfaces. Additional information about these projects is available at www.access-board.gov/research /completed-research/accessible-exterior-surfaces. Slip resistance is not required for the surface of trails because leaves, dirt, ice, snow, and other surface debris and weather conditions are part of the natural environment that would be difficult, if not impossible, to avoid. Figure 1—The rotational penetrometer is a portable precision surface indenter that is used for measuring the firmness and stability of surfaces.
18 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Clear Tread Width [10173] The clear tread width of trails must be a minimum of 36 inches (figure 2). The 36-inch-minimum clear tread width must be maintained for the entire distance of the trail and may not be reduced by gates, barriers, or other obstacles unless a condition for exception does not permit full compliance with the provision. Figure 2—Minimum clear trail tread width. Where gates and barriers require users to make 90-degree or 180-degree turns, sufficient space should be provided for people using mobility devices to make the turns (figure 3). Mobility devices that are used in the outdoors typically have a longer wheel base and are wider than mobility devices that are used indoors. The Access Board and National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research sponsored research to collect anthropometric
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 19 data from a sample of about 500 people who use manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters. The Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access in the School of Architecture and Planning, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York conducted the “Anthropometry of Wheeled Mobility Project.” The final report for this project is available at www.udeworld .com/documents/anthropometry/pdfs/AnthropometryofWheeledMobility Project_FinalReport.pdf. The report recommends that, in order to accommodate 95 percent of the users of manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters in the project sample, a minimum clear width of 43 inches is needed to make a 180-degree turn around a barrier similar to a chicane-style gate. Figure 3—Clearance needed to negotiate a 180-degree turn. 42" MIN (1065 mm) 42" MIN (1065 mm) 48" MIN (1220 mm) X ‹ 48” (1220 mm) (A) 180-DEGREE TURN 60" MIN (1525 mm) 36" MIN (915 mm) 36" MIN (915 mm) X ‹ 48” (1220 mm) (B) 180-DEGREE TURN (EXCEPTION)
20 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Passing Spaces [10174] A trail tread width less than 60 inches does not permit two people using mobility devices to pass each other. Consequently, where the tread width is less than 60 inches, passing spaces must be provided at intervals of at least 1000 feet. Where the trail is heavily used or the trail is not at the same level as the adjoining ground surface, such as a bridge crossing a ravine, increasing the frequency of passing spaces or widening the tread width to a minimum of 60 inches provides greater access. People using mobility devices also use passing spaces to turn around. Where the full length of a trail does not fully comply with the trail technical requirements, a passing space must be located at the end of the trail segment that complies fully with the technical requirements. This enables people who use mobility devices to turn around and proceed back to where they started. Consider ways to alert people using mobility devices when a passing space provides the last opportunity on a trail to turn around, because this may not always be apparent. Printed materials, trail Web sites, trailhead information signs, and signage at the end of the trail segment that fully complies with the technical requirements could be used to indicate the location of the last place on the trail to turn around. Passing spaces must be: ¡ ¡ A minimum of 60 by 60 inches (figure 4) or MIN 60" (1525 mm) CROSS SLOPE MIN 60" (1525 mm) 2% TO 5% MAX Figure 4—Minimum dimensions for a passing space.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 21 ¡ ¡ The intersection of two trails that provide a T-shaped space that complies with section 304.3.2 of the ABA Standards (figure 5), and the base and the arms of the T-shaped space extend a minimum of 48 inches beyond the intersection (figure 6) Figure 5—A T-shaped turning space (304.3.2). 36" (915 mm) MIN 12" (305 mm) MIN 12" (305 mm) MIN 36" (915 mm) MIN 60" (1525 mm) MIN 60" (1525 mm) MIN 24" (610 mm) MIN arm arm base Figure 6—Minimum dimensions for a T-shaped passing space.
22 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Where the intersection of two trails serves as a passing space, the vertical alignment of the trails at the intersection that form the T-shaped space must be nominally planar so that all the wheels of a mobility device remain on the ground when turning into and out of the space. Nominally planar means on the same nominal table surface (same nominal geometric surface plane) and the slopes of the table surface correspond to the running slope and cross slope of the trail tread. For example, if the trail tread has a 2 percent cross slope and 5 percent running slope, the nominal surface plane of the trail tread and passing space must both have a 2 percent cross slope and a 5 percent running slope. This allows people using mobility devices with three or four wheels to better maintain contact with the surface when moving from the main trail into a passing space. This makes it less likely that the mobility device will tip or overbalance to one side. Passing spaces and resting intervals can overlap. When passing spaces and resting intervals overlap, the technical requirements for resting intervals apply and the slope of the ground surface must be no steeper than 1:48 (2 percent) in any direction. When the surface is constructed of materials other than asphalt, concrete, or boards, slopes no steeper than 1:20 (5 percent) are allowed when necessary for drainage.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 23 Tread Obstacles [10175] A tread obstacle is anything that interrupts the evenness of the tread surface. The vertical alignment of joints in concrete, asphalt, or board surfaces, as well as natural features, such as tree roots and rocks, within the trail tread can be tread obstacles. The limit on the height of tread obstacles on trails, passing spaces, and resting intervals is based on the surface material used. When the trail surface is constructed of concrete, asphalt, or boards, tread obstacles cannot exceed one-half inch in height at their highest point. When the trail surface is constructed of materials other than concrete, asphalt, or boards, tread obstacles are permitted to be a maximum of 2 inches high. Frequent tread obstacles and tread obstacles that cross the full width of a trail tread can make travel very difficult for people using mobility devices. Where possible, separate tread obstacles by at least 48 inches, particularly when the obstacles cross the entire tread width. This separation allows people using mobility devices to fully cross one obstacle before confronting another.
24 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Openings [10176] Openings are gaps in the surface of a trail. Gaps, including slots in a drainage grate and spaces between the planks on a bridge or boardwalk (figure 7), that are big enough for wheels, canes, or crutch tips to drop through or become trapped in are potential hazards. Openings in the surfaces of trails, passing spaces, and resting intervals must be small enough so that a sphere more than one-half inch in diameter cannot pass through. Where possible, elongated openings should be placed perpendicular, or as close to perpendicular as possible, to the dominant direction of travel. Figure 7—Where possible, openings in boardwalk decking should be placed perpendicular to the direction of travel. Running Slope [101771] Running slope, also referred to as grade, is the lengthwise slope of a trail, parallel to the direction of travel. Trails or trail segments of any length may be constructed with running slopes up to 1:20 (5 percent). To accommodate steep terrain, trails may be designed with shorter segments that have a running slope and length, as shown in table 2, with resting intervals at the top and bottom of each segment.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 25 Table 2—Maximum Running Slope and Segment Length Running Slope of Trail Segment Maximum Length of Segment Steeper Than But Not Steeper Than 1:20 (5%) 1:12 (8.33%) 200 feet 1:12 (8.33%) 1:10 (10%) 30 feet 1:10 (10%) 1:8 (12%) 10 feet To ensure that a trail is not designed as a series of steep segments, no more than 30 percent of the total length of the trail may have a running slope exceeding 1:12 (8.33 percent). The running slope must never exceed 1:8 (12 percent). Resting intervals must be provided more frequently as the running slope increases (figure 8). Figure 8—The running slope is measured along a trail’s length; the cross slope is measured across its width. Trail Running Slope Whenever possible, trails should be constructed with lesser slopes to provide greater independent access and usability.
26 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas CONSTRUCTION TIP—How is running slope measured? Running slope is often described as a ratio of vertical distance to horizontal distance, or rise to run (figure 9). For example, a running slope of 1:20 (5 percent) means that for every foot of vertical rise, there are 20 feet of horizontal distance. The technical requirements specify running slope as both a ratio and percentage. Figure 9—Determining the slope ratio. Cross Slope [101772] Cross slope is the side-to-side slope of a trail tread. Some cross slope is necessary to provide drainage and to keep water from ponding and damaging the trail surface, especially on unpaved or natural surfaces. When the trail surface is constructed of concrete, asphalt, or boards, the cross slope must be no steeper than 1:48 (2 percent). When the trail surface is constructed of materials other than asphalt, concrete, or boards, cross slopes no steeper than 1:20 (5 percent) are allowed when necessary for drainage.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 27 Resting Intervals [10178] Resting intervals are level areas that provide an opportunity for people to stop after a steep segment and recover before continuing on. Resting intervals are required between trail segments any time the running slope exceeds 1:20 (5 percent). Resting intervals may be provided within the trail tread or adjacent to the trail tread. When the resting interval is within the trail tread, it must be at least 60 inches long and at least as wide as the widest segment of the adjacent trail tread. When the resting interval is adjacent to the trail, it must be at least 60 inches long and 36 inches wide. A turning space that complies with section 304.2.3 of the ABA Standards must be provided. The vertical alignment of the trail tread, turning space, and resting interval must be nominally planar so that all the wheels of a mobility device touch the ground when turning into and out of the resting interval. When the surface of the resting interval is constructed of concrete, asphalt, or boards, the slope of the resting interval must be no steeper than 1:48 (2 percent) in any direction. When the surface of the resting interval is constructed of materials other than concrete, asphalt, or boards, slopes no steeper than 1:20 (5 percent) are allowed when necessary for drainage.
28 A SUMMARY OFACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR OUTDOOR DEVELOPEDAREAS accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas Protruding Objects [10179] Objects that protrude into the trail clear tread width, passing spaces, and resting intervals can pose hazards to people who are blind or have low vision. Constructed elements on trails, resting intervals, and passing spaces must comply with the technical requirements for protruding objects in section 307 of the ABA Standards. Signs and other post-mounted objects are examples of constructed elements that, if located incorrectly, can be protruding objects. The technical requirements for protruding objects do not apply to natural features, such as tree branches, rock formations, and trails that pass beneath rock ledges or through caves because these are not constructed elements (figure 10). Clearing limits for trail construction and maintenance usually require that brush, limbs, trees, and logs be cut back a foot or more from the edge of the trail. However, trail maintenance cycles may be several years for some trails, and vegetation may encroach on the trail in the interim between cycles. While it may not always be possible to control vegetation, it is always possible to place constructed features where they won’t pose a hazard to hikers who are blind or have low vision. Figure 10—Protruding object requirements do not apply to natural features such as caves in undeveloped areas.
accessibility standards for Federal outdoor developed areas 29 Trailheads Definition [F106 5] A trailhead is defined as an outdoor space that is designated by an entity responsible for administering or maintaining a trail to serve as an access point to the trail. The junction of two or more trails or the undeveloped junction of a trail and a road is not a trailhead. For example, if a trail crosses the road, the crossing does not automatically become a trailhead. Trailhead Information Signs [F216 13 and 101710] All hikers need trail information to make informed decisions. For example, hikers want to know which trail is most appropriate for the amount of time they have available, the people in their group, and the type of hike that best suits their needs or desires. Information about the accessibility of a trail enables people with disabilities to decide whether the characteristics of the trail are suited to their abilities. When this information is available on Web sites and in printed materials, it allows all hikers, including people with disabilities, the opportunity to understand the possible challenges of the trail before arriving at the trailhead.
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