According to CBC Chapter 11B (California's accessibility requirements), what is the maximum slope allowed for a ramp in new construction?
Correct Answer
B) 1:20 (5%)
CBC Section 11B-405.2 requires ramps to have a maximum slope of 1:20 (5%) in new construction. This is more restrictive than federal ADA requirements and reflects California's enhanced accessibility standards that provide better access for individuals with disabilities.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
CBC Section 11B-405.2 sets the maximum ramp slope at 1:20 (5%) for new construction. California's accessibility chapter (Chapter 11B) is more stringent than the federal ADA standard of 1:12 (8.33%). A 1:20 slope means for every 20 inches of horizontal run, the ramp rises 1 inch — creating a gentler, more universally accessible path of travel.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 1:10 (10%)
1:10 (10%) far exceeds the maximum allowable slope. A 1:10 ramp would be too steep for wheelchair users and would violate both CBC Chapter 11B and federal ADA requirements. This is among the steepest slopes ever permitted for any accessibility feature.
Option C: 1:8 (12.5%)
1:8 (12.5%) exceeds even the federal ADA maximum. This slope is steeper than 1:12 and is not permitted for accessible ramps under any California or federal standard for new construction.
Option D: 1:12 (8.33%)
1:12 (8.33%) is the federal ADA standard — not the California CBC standard. California's Chapter 11B is more restrictive. Selecting 1:12 is the single most common mistake on this question type, as examinees confuse federal and California-specific requirements.
Memory Technique
Federal ADA = 1:12. California = 1:20. California doubles the run requirement (12 → 20 horizontal units), making the ramp twice as gradual. 'California goes the extra distance for accessibility.'
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