2025 California Standards for Accessible Design Guide (effective January 1, 2026)

11B-226.1 General.

Where dining surfaces are provided for the consumption of food or drink, at least 5 percent of the seating spaces and standing spaces at the dining surfaces shall comply with Section 11B-902. In addition, where work surfaces are provided for use by other than employees, at least 5 percent shall comply with Section 11B-902.

Exceptions:

1. Sales counters and service counters shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-902. See Section 11B-227.
2. Check writing surfaces provided at check-out aisles not required to comply with Section 11B-904.3 shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-902.

Advisory 11B-226.1 General. In facilities covered by the ADA, this requirement does not apply to work surfaces used only by employees. However, the ADA and, where applicable, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, provide that employees are entitled to "reasonable accommodations." With respect to work surfaces, this means that employers may need to procure or adjust work stations such as desks, laboratory and work benches, fume hoods, reception counters, teller windows, study carrels, commercial kitchen counters, and conference tables to accommodate the individual needs of employees with disabilities on an "as needed" basis. Consider work surfaces that are flexible and permit installation at variable heights and clearances. ◼