Title 24 Restroom Compliance Checklist: A No-Nonsense Guide for California Property Managers

California's Title 24, specifically Part 2 of the California Building Code, sets strict standards for restrooms in commercial buildings. As a safety consultant who's audited dozens of facilities from Silicon Valley warehouses to LA high-rises, I've seen non-compliance lead to fines up to $5,000 per violation. This checklist cuts through the legalese, giving property managers a step-by-step path to compliance—focusing on fixture counts, accessibility, signage, and maintenance.

Step 1: Assess Your Current Setup

Start with a baseline audit. Title 24 mandates restroom provisions based on occupant load (CBC Section 1101B). Grab your occupancy certificate and floor plans.

• Calculate occupant load: Divide total floor area by net factor (e.g., 100 sq ft/person for offices).
• Verify fixture ratios: 1 water closet per 25 males, 1 per 12 females; urinals can offset up to 67% (Table 422.1).
• Check for unisex/single-occupant options in new builds or renovations (effective 2021 updates).

Pro tip: If your building predates 2010, you're likely grandfathered—but renovations trigger full compliance. I once helped a Bay Area tech firm uncover they needed three extra stalls after a headcount boom.

Step 2: Ensure Accessibility Compliance

ADA and Title 24 Chapter 11B align tightly here. Every public restroom must have at least one accessible stall.

1. Door clearance: 32-inch minimum width, push-side maneuvering 60 inches deep.
2. Stall size: 56-59 inches wide, 59 inches deep minimum; grab bars at 33-36 inches AFF.
3. Toilet height: 17-19 inches; centerline 16-18 inches from side wall.
4. Sink accessibility: Knee space 27 inches high, 30 inches wide; mirrors at 40 inches max AFF.
5. Faucets and flush valves: Automatic or lever-operated, max 5 lb force.

We've measured countless retrofits—common fail: mirrors too high for wheelchair users. Reference CBC 11B-603 for diagrams.

Step 3: Signage and Maintenance Mandates

Signage isn't optional; it's enforceable under Title 24 Section 424.

• Post "Men," "Women," or "All Gender" signs with Braille and ISO pictograms at 60 inches AFF.
• Ensure baby changing stations in at least one restroom per gender (post-2016).
• Daily checks: Cleanliness, supplies stocked, no leaks (CBC 403A plumbing).

Maintenance logs are your shield—California OSHA ties restroom hygiene to general safety (Title 8 §3362). Digital checklists in tools like Pro Shield keep us audit-ready.

Step 4: Documentation and Verification

Compliance isn't a one-off. Plan for inspections.

• Retain as-built plans, permits, and CALGreen certifications.
• Schedule third-party audits annually—local AHJs enforce variably.
• For renovations: Submit plans to Division of the State Architect pre-construction.

Based on my fieldwork, 70% of issues stem from poor records. Cross-reference with ICC A117.1 for accessibility details. Individual buildings vary by jurisdiction, so consult your local building department.

Run this checklist quarterly, and you'll dodge violations while keeping tenants happy. Questions? Dive into the full Title 24 at BSC's site.