2016 California Standards for Accessible Design Pocket Guide - Eff. Jan. 1, 2017

1136A.1 Receptacle heights.

Electrical receptacle outlets on branch circuits of 30 amperes or less and communication system receptacles shall be located no more than 48 inches (1219 mm) measured from the top of the receptacle outlet box nor less than 15 inches (381 mm) measured from the bottom of the receptacle outlet box to the level of the finished floor or working platform. If the reach is over a physical barrier or an obstruction (for example, a kitchen base cabinet), receptacles shall be located within the reach ranges specified in Section 1138A.3. Physical barriers and obstructions shall not extend more than 25 inches (635 mm) from the wall beneath the receptacle.

Receptacle outlets that do not satisfy these specifications are acceptable provided that comparable receptacle outlets, that perform the same functions, are provided within the same area and are accessible.

Exceptions:

1. Receptacle outlets installed as part of permanently installed baseboard heaters are exempt.

2. Required receptacle outlets shall be permitted in floors when adjacent to sliding panels or walls.

3. Baseboard electrical outlets used in relocatable partitions, window walls or other electrical convenience floor outlets are not subject to the minimum height requirements.

4. This section shall not apply to existing buildings when the enforcing agency determines that compliance with these standards would create an unreasonable hardship.