CBC Subsection 1029.13.2.3: Though not an ADA requirement, the state of California has made it compulsory to provide a contrasting marking stripe on the leading each of each tread of a staircase. All marking stripes must be readily apparent when viewed in descent. The stripes must be between 1 to 2 inches in width. Contrasting marking stripes may be omitted when the location of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in descent. 


University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

People with low vision may look at contrast stripes at the edge of each individual stair tread in order to discern where the stair tread ends and the overall slope of descent. Some may also use railings to observe the general structure of a staircase. 


Existing Accessibility Affordances for Stairs

2019 California Standards for Accessible Design Guide (effective January 1, 2020 with July 1, 2021 Amendments) Chapter 11B accessibility to public buildings, public accommodations, commercial buildings and Public Housing Division 5: General site and building elements 11B-504 stairways 11B-504.4 tread surface Corada. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.corada.com/documents/2019CBCPG/11b-504-4-1-contrasting-stripe 


2019 California Standards for Accessible Design Guide


California Building Code Guidelines for Accessible Stairways

§504.6 Handrails must be on both sides of the stairs and maintain their continuity in congruence with the full length of each stair flight. 

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