There are specific Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) laws for accessible routes in restaurants, cafeterias, and bars. The diagram below is representative of accessible routes in a restaurant.

2010 ADA Standard 206.2.4, [Accessible Routes] Spaces and Elements, states, “At least one accessible route shall connect accessible building or facility entrances with all accessible spaces and elements within the building or facility which are otherwise connected by a circulation path unless exempted by [Standard] 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.” In most cases the exemptions do not apply. The diagram on the left is an example of dining surfaces in a restaurant or cafeteria on an accessible route.

2010 ADA Standard 206.2.5, [Accessible Routes] Restaurants and Cafeterias, states, “In restaurants and cafeterias, an accessible route shall be provided to all dining areas, including raised or sunken dining areas, and outdoor dining areas.” The photo on the right is an example of a raised or sunken dining area. A mezzanine could be an example of a raised dining area. See the photo below for a representation of a mezzanine.

There are some exceptions to this Standard if there is an accessible area where the same decor and services are provided in the accessible area as are provided in the areas not accessible. Examples of “same services” include, but are not limited to, bar service, rooms having smoking and non-smoking sections, lotto and other table games, carry-out, and buffet service. Examples of “same decor” include, but are not limited to, seating at or near windows and railings with views, areas designed with a certain theme, party and banquet rooms, and rooms where entertainment is provided. For example, in alterations, an accessible route shall not be required to existing raised or sunken dining areas, or to all parts of existing outdoor dining areas where the same services and decor are provided in an accessible space usable by the public and not restricted to use by people with disabilities.

In sports facilities, tiered dining areas providing seating required to comply with Standard 221 shall be required to have accessible routes serving at least 25 percent of the dining area provided that accessible routes serve seating complying with [Standard] 221 and each tier is provided with the same services. Standard 221.1, [Assembly Areas] General, states, “Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated aisle seats complying with [Standards] 221 and 802.” The photo on the right is representative of a tiered sports facility, or stadium. A stadium is an assembly area.

If you observe a building that is not ADA compliant and you would like to know how to proceed, please see the link at What To Do When A Building Is Not ADA Compliant or Accessible.

ADA Inspections Nationwide, LLC, offers ADA/ABA/FHA accessibility compliance inspections for buildings and facilities, as applicable to the different laws, and expert witness services with respect to ADA/ABA/FHA laws for building owners, tenants and managers. Also, ADAIN offers consulting for home modifications as a CAPS consultant for people wishing to age in place in their homes. For a complete list of services please see ADAIN Services.

Thank you.