Making Temporary Structures Accessible: What You Need to Know

When planning events, construction projects, or any situation requiring temporary facilities, understanding accessibility requirements is essential. The 2010 ADA Standards make it clear: temporary structures must be just as accessible as permanent ones. Whether you're setting up a festival tent, installing portable restrooms, or creating temporary walkways for any reason, accessibility isn't optional—it's required.

The Basic Rule: Temporary Equals Permanent

The 2010 ADA Standards apply to both temporary and permanent buildings and facilities. This means that just because a structure is only in place for a short time doesn't exempt it from accessibility requirements. If a space is open to the public or staff, it must meet accessibility standards so everyone can access it safely and independently.

What Qualifies as a Temporary Structure?

The following are examples of temporary structures covered by the 2010 ADA Standards:

• Reviewing stands and bleacher areas

• Temporary classrooms

• Stages, platforms, and daises

• Exhibit areas and fixed furniture systems

• Wall systems

• Temporary banking facilities

• Temporary health screening facilities

• Portable restrooms

Important exception: Structures and equipment directly associated with the actual processes of construction—such as scaffolding, bridging, materials hoists, and construction trailers used exclusively by construction personnel—are not required to be accessible.

Key Accessibility Requirements for Temporary Structures

Accessible Routes

Every temporary facility must have at least one accessible route connecting to the entrance and between accessible areas. This route must comply with Chapter 4 of the 2010 ADA Standards and must have:

• Minimum clear width of 36 inches (can reduce to 32 inches at doorways for a maximum distance of 24 inches, provided reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 48 inches long minimum and 36 inches wide minimum)

• Passing spaces: Where the accessible route has clear width less than 60 inches, passing spaces must be provided at intervals of 200 feet maximum. Passing spaces must be either 60 inches by 60 inches minimum, or T-shaped spaces with arms extending 48 inches minimum beyond the intersection

• Firm, stable, and slip-resistant surface

• Free of obstructions and debris

• Connection from site arrival points (parking, public sidewalks, transportation stops) to accessible entrances

Ramps and Changes in Level

When temporary structures sit at different elevations or require ramps for access, the 2010 ADA Standards specify:

• Maximum slope: 1:12 ratio (one inch of rise for every 12 inches of horizontal distance)

• Minimum clear width: 36 inches between handrails

• Maximum rise: 30 inches per run before a landing is required

• Handrails: Required on both sides of ramps

• Handrail height: 34 to 38 inches above the walking surface

• Handrail clearance: 1.5 inches minimum from adjacent surfaces

• Cross slope: Cannot exceed 1:48

• Landings: Must be at least as wide as the ramp run and have slopes not steeper than 1:48

Temporary Restrooms

The 2010 ADA Standards require accessible portable restroom units in specific ratios:

For clusters of multiple portable toilet units at a single location:

• Minimum 5% of toilet units in each cluster must be ADA-compliant

• Each type (Men, Women, or Unisex) in each cluster applies the 5% requirement separately

• Accessible units must be marked with the International Symbol of Accessibility

Interior specifications for portable toilets complying with Section 603 of the 2010 ADA Standards:

• Turning space: 60-inch diameter circle minimum for wheelchair users

• Water closet seat height: 17 to 19 inches above the floor

• Grab bars: Required on both sides, at least 42 inches in length, 12 inches or less from the rear wall and extending at least 54 inches from the rear wall. Bars must be capable of withstanding 250 pounds of force in all directions and mounted 33 to 36 inches above the floor

• Toilet position: 16 to 18 inches from any sidewall

• Door: Opens outward and opens to at least 90 degrees with a minimum width of 32 inches

• Route to restrooms: Must comply with accessible route requirements

Tents and Event Spaces

Temporary event tents and structures must provide:

• Entry and exit points: Doorways must be wide enough (minimum 36 inches) and level, complying with accessible route requirements

• Pathways inside tents: Must have minimum 36-inch clear width for wheelchair maneuvering around booths, displays, and equipment. Passing spaces (60 inches by 60 inches) must be provided at 200-foot intervals where width is less than 60 inches

• Accessible parking: On firm, stable ground near the entrance, with accessible routes connecting parking to all event areas

• Firm surface: Walkways must have smooth, continuous surfaces throughout

Bottom Line

Whether your temporary structure will be in place for one day or one year, the 2010 ADA Standards Section 201.3 requires that accessibility requirements apply from the beginning. There is no distinction between temporary and permanent when it comes to ensuring equal access.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney or consultant for advice tailored to your situation.