What is the ADA accessible counter height?
An accessible sales or service counter must include a section no more than 36 inches above the floor (2010 ADA §904.4). A parallel-approach counter needs at least 36 inches of lowered length; a forward-approach counter needs 30 inches plus knee and toe clearance beneath. Dining and work surfaces run 28–34 inches (§902.3).
Source: 2010 ADA §904.4 · Verify against your AHJ and the adopted code edition.
A sales or service counter must have an accessible portion no higher than 36 inches above the floor (2010 ADA §904.4). How long that lowered section is depends on the approach:
- Parallel approach: at least 36 inches of accessible counter length (§904.4.1).
- Forward approach: at least 30 inches of length, plus knee and toe clearance underneath so a wheelchair can pull in (§904.4.2).
Related surfaces:
- Dining and work surfaces: 28–34 inches above the floor, with a clear floor space and knee/toe clearance (§902.3).
- Lavatory/counter rim in a restroom: 34 inches max (§606.3).
These are federal new-construction values; state codes and ICC A117.1 can differ — verify with your AHJ.
Look it up: the ADA clearances reference has counter, work-surface, and knee/toe dimensions with diagrams.
Sources
- U.S. Access Board — 2010 ADA Standards — 2010 ADA Standards §904.4, §902