Guides / Decision guide

Use planning references for layout and reach

What the ADA kitchen standards and the NKBA planning guidelines cover, and why neither is a code requirement for a private single-family kitchen.

Reviewed
Category
cabinets
Area
Venice and Sarasota, Florida

What is not established

ADA kitchen and reach sections

The 2010 ADA Standards, section 804 and the reach ranges in section 308, state clearances between opposing cabinets in pass-through and U-shaped kitchens, a maximum or adjustable work-surface height, a share of storage within reach ranges, forward and side reach maximums, and removable base cabinetry under sinks in covered dwelling units. They are facility and covered-dwelling standards; for a private single-family kitchen they are reference guidance, not a code requirement.

NKBA planning guidelines

The National Kitchen & Bath Association's fifth-edition planning guidelines were prepared in response to the 2024 International Residential Code and cover clearances, activity centers, cabinetry and finishes, air quality, electrical, lighting and ventilation. They are a paid trade reference aimed at certified designers and are not adopted code in Florida.

Original paraphrase of the Access Board and NKBA pages. No clearance numbers are restated here.

Sources: U.S. Access Board 2010 ADA Standards, kitchens and reach ranges; NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines

Sources

External references are provided for research context. A source link does not indicate enrollment, endorsement, or availability in your area.

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