Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark civil rights law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It requires public entities, employers, businesses, and places of public accommodation to provide equal access and reasonable accommodations in areas such as employment, public services, transportation, and facilities. The ADA promotes inclusive design and accessibility standards—ensuring physical access, effective communication, and nondiscriminatory policies—while providing enforcement mechanisms and protections to uphold the rights and independence of people with disabilities
Maple Shade Millwork understands the critical importance of maintaining ADA requirements and incorporates accessibility into every project. We ensure designs meet ADA standards while preserving the intended aesthetic, delivering functional, code-compliant millwork solutions that support accessibility, safety, and long-term usability.
Countertop Height
ADA guidelines require countertop heights and work surfaces to be a maximum of 34 inches above the finished floor, with a minimum of 27 inches of knee clearance and 30 inches of width underneath. Specific dimensions and clearances depend on whether the counter is used for workspaces, sales, or dining
Countertop Height (Kids)
For kids aged 5 and under — think preschool and kindergarten — you’re allowed to use a parallel approach to counters and tables. That means the child can sit or stand alongside the surface rather than facing it head-on. For these young users, the tops of counters and tables should be between 26" and 30" high. Keeping surfaces in that range makes them easier and safer for little ones to reach, use, and interact with independently.
Turn Around Clearance
ADA turnaround clearances (technically defined as "Turning Space") are required open areas that allow wheelchair and mobility device users to rotate a full 360 degrees or perform a 3-point turn. A minimum diameter of 60" is required.
Door Clearance
ADA entry and exit clearances require a specific clearance based on the swing of the door. For a front approach on the pull side of a swinging door, the ADA requires a minimum of 18 inches of clearance beyond the latch side, extending 60 inches minimum perpendicular to the doorway, this includes cabinets and countertops.
