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. 


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. 

ADA Compliant Handrails

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. 


University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

People with low vision may face a reduced sense of depth perception and peripheral vision. Stair navigation therefore proves to be a dangerous mobility challenge, as people with low vision experience higher rates of falling and injuring themselves. Those with low vision may walk slowly, keep their line of vision downwards to see the current tread and the next one, and shuffle their feet to feel the edges. 


Challenge of Navigating Stairs for People with Low Vision


Zhao, Yuhang & Kupferstein, Elizabeth & Castro, Brenda & Feiner, Steven & Azenkot, Shiri. (2019). Designing AR Visualizations to Facilitate Stair Navigation for People with Low Vision. 10.1145/3332165.3347906. 


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