Differences Between Florida and the IBC for Accessibility

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The 2023 Florida Building Code (FBC) - Accessibility and the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) both aim to ensure accessibility in building designs and facilities. However, there are notable differences between Chapter 2 of the FBC - Accessibility and Chapter 11 of the 2021 IBC in terms of structure, content, and specific provisions.

Structural Differences:

• FBC - Accessibility Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements
  • This chapter provides detailed scoping requirements, specifying which elements and spaces within various facilities must be accessible. It addresses a comprehensive range of topics, from accessible routes and parking spaces to specific facility types like judicial facilities and play areas.
• IBC Chapter 11: Accessibility
  • Chapter 11 outlines the accessibility requirements for buildings and facilities, referencing the ICC A117.1 standard for technical specifications. It provides a framework for accessibility but often refers to the A117.1 standard for detailed technical criteria.

Key Differences:

1. Vertical Accessibility:
   • FBC - Accessibility: Florida's code mandates vertical accessibility (e.g., elevators) to all levels above and below the occupiable grade level, regardless of whether the ADA Standards require an elevator. Exceptions are limited to specific areas such as elevator pits, mechanical rooms, and certain unoccupiable spaces.
   • IBC: The IBC requires elevators for vertical accessibility but provides exceptions for certain buildings, such as those under a specific height or with limited occupiable space.
2. Accessible Routes:
   • FBC - Accessibility: Section 206 emphasizes the requirement for accessible routes within sites, including specifics on site arrival points, within-site circulation, and connections to accessible spaces and elements.
   • IBC: Section 1104 requires accessible routes within sites, specifying connections from public transportation stops, accessible parking, and accessible entrances.ICC Codes
3. Parking Spaces:
   • FBC - Accessibility: Section 208 details the scoping requirements for accessible parking spaces, including the minimum number, location, and specifics for various facility types.
   • IBC: Section 1106 outlines requirements for accessible parking spaces, referencing Table 1106.2 for the minimum number based on the total number of parking spaces provided.ICC Codes+1ICC Codes+1
4. Assembly Areas:
   • FBC - Accessibility: Section 221 addresses requirements for assembly areas, including provisions for wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated aisle seats.ICC Codes+1Florida Building Code+1
   • IBC: Section 1108 covers special occupancies, including assembly areas, and references the A117.1 standard for technical specifications.
5. Integration of Technical Standards:
   • FBC - Accessibility: The FBC integrates both scoping and technical requirements within the same document, providing a unified approach to accessibility standards.
   • IBC: The IBC primarily provides scoping requirements and references the ICC A117.1 standard for detailed technical criteria.

Additional or Missing Provisions:

• FBC - Accessibility:
  • Includes specific sections not explicitly detailed in the IBC, such as:
    • Section 234: Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas
    • Section 243: Playgrounds
• IBC:
  • Contains provisions that may not be explicitly detailed in the FBC - Accessibility, often relying on references to the A117.1 standard for technical details.

Conclusion:

While both the FBC - Accessibility and the 2021 IBC aim to ensure accessibility in the built environment, the FBC provides a more integrated approach by combining both scoping and technical requirements within a single document. In contrast, the IBC outlines scoping requirements and references the A117.1 standard for technical specifications. Understanding these differences is crucial for professionals working in jurisdictions where the FBC is adopted, as it ensures compliance with state-specific accessibility standards.