ADA Access Consultants

CALIFORNIA CASp Inspections and Reporting

ADA Accessible Bar Counter

Understanding ADA Accessible Bar Counters

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has set forth specific standards for ADA accessible bar counters that will allow access to all types of customers. As a public business, you are subject to the ADA laws and regulations that surround ADA accessibility. One key element to this is the necessity for providing a space for patrons who can’t normally use the bar counter because of its height and position in the room. ADA accessible bar counters are important because they maintain equality and accessibility in a public space while also preventing lawsuits. 

ADA Accessible Bar Counter Requirements

Minimum Seating Required for Bar Counters

  • To ensure equal access, the ADA requires 5% of seats on a bar to be ADA accessible
  • This ensures there is likely access for people with disabilities using facility bars

Bar Counter Clear Floor Space

  • To maintain ADA standards clear floor space under the bar and in front of it is required
  • This clear floor space of 30″ x 48″ will ensure wheelchair access

ADA Bar Counter Height

  • Forward approach floor space is important but so is counter height
  • Proper ADA accessible bar counter height is 34” maximum measured from the floor to the top of the counter surface.

ADA Accessible Bar Counter vs Dining Seating

  • Something to consider: bar seating and dining seating are different categories. 
  • This means the number of seats required is seperate to dining and bar seating areas. 
  • Each “area/section” of seating is subject to its own indivual ADA standards. 
ADA Accessible Bar Counters
ADA-compliant bar seating
Accessible Bar Seating

Need to Fix Your ADA Accessible Bar Counter?

Does My Business Need an ADA Accessible Bar Counter?

ADA compliance applies to all areas of a public business especially bars and restaurants. This means if you have a bar, you need to set aside at least 5% of the bar seating to accomodate ADA accessibility and those with disabilities. 

Designing an ADA Accessible Bar Counter

Designing an ADA accessible bar counter does not just include regulations it is about ensuring an inclusive and comfortable experience for guests. There are several things to consider when creating an ADA compliant bar counter. 

Ensuring an Unobstructed Viewing Experience

Bars usually feature entertainment like televisions, food and drink preparation areas, and social interactions with bartenders. To provide an equal experience to all customers, ADA lowered counter must be fully integrated into the main bar rather than positioned separately. This was there is a equal experience between those of all abilities. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid in ADA Accessible Bar Counters

Even well informed restaurant owners can make mistakes when creating and hiring contractors for accessibility features. Some common errors in design and construction will include:

  • Providing a nearby accessible table instead of modifying the bar itself. The ADA requires that accessibility be provided at the bar, not just near it or around it like some people will try to do.
  • Using a flip-up counter does not work. While it may seem like a quick solution to the issue, a flip-up counter does not meet ADA requirements if full compliance is readily achievable.
  • Placing the accessible seating in an isolated or inconvenient location. This should go without saying. The seating should be integrated seamlessly into the bar’s design so all customers can enjoy the same experience.

By designing a bar counter with the ADA in mind, restaurants can create a more welcoming place that will ensure all guests will feel welcome and valued.

WANT TO MEET ADA BAR COUNTER REQUIREMENTS?

How Can I Create an ADA Compliant Bar Counter?

Start by evaluating whether your bar meets the 34-inch maximum counter height requirement and whether at least 5% of seating at the bar is accessible. Check for adequate knee and toe clearance and ensure the accessible section is located on an accessible route. Bonus tip: Employees should understand ADA requirements and be trained to accommodate guests using accessible seating. By ensuring your bar counter seats are ADA compliant, restaurant owners can create an environment where all guests feel welcome and included.

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