Ensuring ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance in millwork design—especially at sinks—is crucial for accessibility and functionality. A frequent oversight involves improper detailing of toe and knee clearances, which can result in code violations, costly rework, or impractical installations.

The Common Mistake

One of the most common errors is misinterpreting the 6-inch maximum toe clearance requirement. This dimension does not refer to the distance from the wall. Instead, it defines how far an angled plumbing panel may project into the required 17 inches of clear toe space, as measured from the front edge of the countertop or enclosure.

In other words, the panel can intrude no more than 6 inches into this 17″ deep space. Any further, and the space becomes non-compliant—regardless of whether a user can technically fit their feet or knees under.

ADA Requirements (Reference Image Above)

To help visualize it, refer to the image above showing proper toe and knee clearances:

• Toe Space:
  • Minimum depth: 17 inches from the front edge of the countertop
  • Maximum height: 9 inches
  • The panel may project no more than 6 inches into this space
• Knee Space:
  • Begins above the 9″ toe space
  • Must be at least 27 inches high
  • Must provide a minimum of 8 inches clear depth
  • The angled transition between toe and knee space must follow a 1:6 slope

When drawn correctly, this forms a “clear space envelope.” Nothing should intrude into this envelope, including sink bowls, panels, pipes, or brackets.

A Simple Tool for Getting It Right

To simplify compliance, we’re offering a free downloadable CAD block that outlines the required ADA toe and knee clearance envelope. Just insert it into your section drawings with the basepoint placed at the front edge of your countertop, and you’ll immediately see if your design is compliant.

This tool helps avoid misinterpretations and ensures your plumbing panels, supports, and sink placements are within ADA limits.

Download the CAD block now: https://mailchi.mp/75c0e65b90f7/duckworks_adablock

Best Practices for Compliance

• Always measure from the front edge of the countertop or cabinet—not the wall.
• Use our CAD block as a visual aid in your sections to prevent intrusions into the required clear space.
• Coordinate fixture selection—ADA-compliant sinks and P-traps must also fit within this space.
• Educate your team—Designers, engineers, and installers should all understand these details to ensure compliance from concept to completion.

Conclusion

Getting toe and knee space right is about more than passing inspections—it’s about ensuring usability for everyone. By measuring from the right reference point, respecting the clear space envelope, and using tools like our free CAD block, your team can avoid costly mistakes and deliver truly accessible millwork.

See the original post that inspired this blog: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7239256306484752384