• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) exists to remove access barriers in public places and private businesses for people with disabilities. The most common barrier--and most frustrating--is comfortably accessing toilets. The ADA has published guidelines for minimum requirements meant to address this and other access issues. The requirements benefit persons who are wheelchair bound and those with other physical and mental disabilities.
  
  

Floor Space

• There must be a clear space measuring at least 30-by-48 inches, either in forward or parallel position, allowing easy wheelchair access to fixtures and equipment. Space requirements include knee and toe clearance under the needed fixtures as well as wheelchair turning space that requires no more than a three-point turn.
  
  

Handicap Toilets

• Every public restroom must have at least one stall that meets ADA requirements. The commode inside must extend at least 17 inches from the wall and have a 29-inch clearance from the top to the floor. Grab bars must be on both sides of the stall for a parallel design, and on the nearest side and back wall for T-shaped designs. Urinals require the same height and clear space requirements, with the lip of the urinal extending a minimum of 14 inches.
  
  

Controls and Mechanisms

• All controls and mechanisms, such as the faucet and toilet-flushing equipment, need to be operable with one hand and not require twisting or grasping motions that exceed five pounds of force. Flush controls go on the open side of the toilet or urinal at 44 inches from the floor.
  
  

Accessible sinks

• Ideally, the stall includes a sink area. Whether inside the stall or out, the counter top cannot exceed a height of 34 inches and must be 19 inches wide. Sink fixtures should be no more than 2 inches from the front edge. Touch-free or sensor-activated faucets should remain on for at least 10 seconds. Hand-drying equipment must be similarly accessible.