Code of Massachusetts Regulations
521 CMR - Architectural Access Board
Title 521 CMR 28 - ELEVATORS
Section 28.1 - GENERAL

Universal Citation: 521 CMR 28 MA Code of Regs 28.1

Current through Register 1518, March 29, 2024

In all multi-story buildings and facilities, each level including mezzanines , shall be served by a passenger elevator. If more than one elevator is provided, each passenger elevator shall comply with 521 CMR 28. Accessible elevators shall be on an accessible route and located within the space with which it is intended to serve. Elevators are not required under the following exceptions.

a. Buildings having only two levels may provide an interior accessible ramp complying with 521 CMR 24.00: RAMPS in lieu of an elevator.

b. Buildings having only two levels, in which each level serves an unrelated use and in which there is no internal stair, do not require an elevator if each level is accessible.

c. Freight elevators shall not be required to meet the requirements of 521 CMR 28.00 unless the only elevators provided are used as combination passenger and freight elevators for the public and employees.

d. Elevator pits, elevator penthouses, mechanical rooms, and piping or equipment catwalks shall not be required to meet the requirements for elevator access.

e. Where platform lifts are allowed to be installed in lieu of an elevator as per 521 CMR 28.12, Wheelchair Lifts/Limited Use Elevators.

f. Multiple dwellings where all accessible rooms and all public use and common use spaces are on the accessible level.

g. Transient lodging facilities of less than three stories in height and where all accessible rooms and all public and common use spaces are on the accessible level.

28.1.2 The elevator exceptions set forth above do not obviate or limit in any way the obligation to comply with the other accessibility requirements of 521 CMR. For example, floors above or below the accessible ground floor must meet the requirements of 521 CMR except for elevator service. If toilet or bathing facilities are provided on a level not served by an elevator, then toilet or bathing facilities must be provided on the accessible ground floor.

28.1.3 A passenger elevator that provides service from a garage to only one level of a building or facility is not required to serve other levels.

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