ADA

ADA Door Requirements:

Ensuring Equal Access for All

At Welcome All, we believe that independence, dignity, and belonging begin at the entrance. We are committed to helping healthcare providers, businesses, and community spaces understand and meet accessible door standards, ensuring no one is left behind.

What the ADA Requires for Doors

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides clear guidelines for door accessibility to create environments that are welcoming and usable for all.

Key ADA Requirements:

  • Clear Width: Doorways must provide a minimum of 32 inches of clear width when the door is open to 90 degrees. (ADA Standards §404.2.3)
  • Maneuvering Clearance: Adequate space must be available for individuals using mobility devices to open and pass through doors — typically 48 inches deep in the direction of travel. (ADA Standards §404.2.4)
  • Accessible Hardware: Handles, pulls, and latches must not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting, and must be mounted between 34 and 48 inches above the ground. (ADA Standards §404.2.7)
  • Opening Force: Interior hinged doors must require no more than 5 pounds of force to open. Exterior doors should minimize opening force whenever possible. (ADA Standards §404.2.9)
  • Closing Speed: Doors equipped with closers must take at least 5 seconds to close from 90 degrees to 12 degrees. (ADA Standards §404.2.8)
  • Thresholds: Door thresholds must not exceed 1/2 inch in height, and should be beveled if over 1/4 inch. (ADA Standards §404.2.5)

Are Automatic Doors Required?

While the ADA does not specifically mandate automatic or push-button doors, it does require that entrances be usable by people with disabilities. If a manual door is heavy, difficult to open, or poses a barrier, adding an automatic opener may be considered a reasonable accommodation under the law.

Key Insight: A door can meet the letter of the law but still deny dignity and independence.

California-Specific Accessibility Standards

California strengthens federal accessibility requirements:

  • Interior doors must require no more than 5 pounds of force to open, and this is strictly enforced.
  • Some healthcare facilities must have at least one power-operated door per group of doors.
  • Renovations and alterations must include accessible path of travel improvements, dedicating at least 20% of project costs to upgrades if full compliance isn’t immediately feasible.

For more, review California Building Code Accessibility Requirements and HCAI Accessibility Standards.

Why Push-Button Doors Matter

At Welcome All, we believe a door should send a message:
You are welcome. You are expected. You are respected.

Push-button doors:

  • Reduce barriers for those with mobility challenges.
  • Enhance dignity, safety, and autonomy.
  • Strengthen true compliance — not just technical compliance.

A simple push can change a life.

Helpful Resources

Questions or Need Help?

We’re here to support your journey toward true inclusivity.
Contact us at contact@welcomeall.org.

Welcome All | Push for Inclusive Access 🚪