Building Division verifies conformance with applicable Disabled Access requirements related to existing buildings and tenant improvements in existing buildings. Per State law (California Building Standards Code - Title 24), existing buildings and facilities must comply when alterations, additions or repairs are to be made. Verification of compliance includes:
- The area of remodel, alteration, addition or repair
- A primary entrance to the building or facility; the path of travel to the area of remodel, alteration, addition or repair
- Sanitary facilities serving the area of remodel, alteration, addition or repair
- Drinking fountains serving the area of remodel, alteration, addition or repair
- Public telephones serving the area of remodel, alteration, addition or repair
- Accessible parking and path of travel to accessible entrances
Small projects (2015 construction valuation up to $147,863) may qualify for an unreasonable hardship exception. See Application for Unreasonable Hardship Exception, Form. Granting an unreasonable hardship exception does not exempt all non-complying features. You still need to spend an amount equal to 20% of the project cost, and only that amount, on making some or all of the non-complying features comply. Existing non-complying features that will cost more than 20% of the project cost to make them comply, or will push the cumulative cost above the 20% limit, may qualify for an exemption. Your plans must show those accessibility features that will be brought to compliance and those existing non-complying features that may qualify for an exemption. For additional information or clarification contact our Chief Building Official at 650-616-7020.