Code of Massachusetts Regulations
521 CMR - Architectural Access Board
Title 521 CMR 44 - GROUP 2 BATHROOMS
Section 44.4 - WATER CLOSETS
Current through Register 1531, September 27, 2024
Shall comply with the following:
44.4.1 Location: The centerline of the water closet shall be located 18 inches (18" = 457mm) from the nearest side wall and at least 42 inches (42" = 1067mm) from the farthest side wall or the closest edge of an adjacent fixture. There shall be 42 inches (42" = 1067mm) clear from the front edge of the water closet to the nearest wall or fixture.
44.4.2 Height: The top of the water closet seat shall be 15 inches to 19 inches (15" to 19" = 381mm to 483mm) above the floor.
In Group 2B bathrooms, the water closet seat shall be 17 inches to 19 inches (17"-19" = 470mm to 483mm) above the floor .
44.4.3 Operation: The flush activator shall be operable with a closed fist and shall not require grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Water closet flush control shall be located on the accessible side of the water closet.
44.4.4 Wall Reinforcement: Walls adjacent to and behind the water closet shall be capable of structurally supporting the future installation of grab bars from 32 to 38 inches (32" to 38" = 813mm to 965mm) above the floor. The back wall shall have reinforcement from the interior corner to a distance of six inches (6" = 152mm) beyond the widest part of the water closet. The side wall shall have reinforcement from the interior corner to a distance of six inches (6"= 152mm) beyond the front edge of the water closet, unless interrupted by a door or other fixture, then the reinforcement shall be installed as far as possible.
In Group 2B bathrooms, two grab bars, one 42 inches (42" = 1067mm) long and one 36 inches (36" = 914mm) long shall be installed at the water closet between 33 inches (33" = 838mm) and 36 inches (36" = 914mm) above and parallel to the floor. The 42 inch (42" = 1067mm) grab bar shall be mounted on the side wall closest to the water closet, no more than 12 inches (12" = 305mm) from the back wall. The 36 inch (36" = 914mm) grab bar shall be mounted on the back wall six inches (6" = 152mm) from the interior corner and may be located up to three inches (3" = 76mm) above the top of the water closet tank.
44.4.5 Toilet Paper Dispensers: The toilet paper dispensers shall be located on the side wall closest to the water closet. The centerline of the roll shall be set at a minimum height of 19 inches (19" = 483mm) above the floor. Dispensers that control delivery or that do not permit continuous paper flow are not allowed.
