Tactile paving warnings have names like sidewalk truncated domes, detectable surface indicators, and many others. These bumpy surface patterns represent features the visually impaired can use when navigating sidewalks and other public areas. Not all places require tactile paving warnings, but some do.
Are There Regulations in Place That Apply?
A lot of what governs tactile paving requirements come from the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Mainly, it’s the ADA that sets specific requirements for ramps and other features that increase or promote accessibility. However, when it comes to tactile paving on sidewalks, the requirements can vary based on several factors.
Beyond the federal level requirements for tactile paving, state and local requirements may also play a role in determining if a tactile paving warning is a requirement or not. This means municipalities and commercial businesses may have to contend with a larger body of regulations than just federal mandates.
Is the Route in Question Considered Accessible?
Since the ADA provides broad guidelines that most other institutions follow as a baseline, it’s a good idea to start with their regulations. The prime concern of the ADA is whether a path or route is a publicly accessible one.
Typically, a tactile paving warning will become a requirement for sidewalks that lead to or from a public transportation installation. For example, if there’s a bus stop just outside of a commercial building, there’s a chance that a tactile paving warning installation should also appear on the curb or leading off the sidewalk of that location.
If the building in question is a state or government facility, then the tactile warning becomes a mandated necessity. Noncompliance can lead to multiple levels of penalties, especially if a person or group files official complaints about the lack of accessibility.
Are There People with Vision Impairments Around?
Tactile warning surfaces aren’t always necessary, but they can add to or create levels of accessibility whether mandated or not. This means some property owners or municipalities can still consider adding these features even if they don’t necessarily have to.
However, if an institution does intend to add tactile paving warnings, then those features must meet all local, state, and federal guidelines. Considerations will include:
- Height of the dome
- Base diameter
- Size
- Space between the ramp or curb edges
- Colors used
- Placement
The particulars of sidewalk truncated domes and other types of tactile paving will need strict compliance, which means it’s best to speak with professionals about how best to construct them.
