Boating Facilities, Floats, and Gangways

Boarding piers and floats at launching ramps need to be connected by a firm, stable accessible route of travel from parking spaces. Preferred designs do not cross traffic or launching lanes. When a float touches a launch surface at low tide, the route of travel running slope requirements are exempted for that area.

An accessible route on a float or pier for loading into and out of boats must provide for clear space, transfers, and a 5-foot minimum turning circle. Grates if used, cannot be more than a half inch wide in openings and should be perpendicular to the predominate route of travel.

In marinas or moorage facilities, at least one gangway must meet the maximum slope requirement for length. Longer gangways are preferred to provide greater accessibility when the water height fluctuates. If you’re using an 80-foot gangway, but a longer gangway would provide more access with water fluctuation, document why you didn’t build a longer gangway.

At least one boat slip is required to be accessible with 60-inch clear space and turnaround. Wider floats are preferred for stability and turning radius. Please check regulations for total number of boat slips required.

For More Information

U.S. Department of Justice 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Washington Administrative Code 51-50-1101 1101.2.1

Examples

Float

Photograph shows the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's boat ramp and floats at Pleasant Harbor that is fully accessible at all water levels. The float has bull rails along the sides to define the edges.

Gangway

Photograph shows a Port of Bremerton gangway that is fully accessible at all tides.

Boat launch

Photograph shows the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's boat ramp and floats at Mineral Lake. There also is a concrete platform that allows boat passengers to board before launching.

Photograph shows a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's boat launch at Pleasant Harbor where the grating in the center is flush with the decking so barriers aren't created. The launch has bull rails along the sides to define the edges.