Forward reach with no obstruction: 15-48" AFF
HUD FHA Design Manual Ch 5 §5.5 Forward reach with no obstructionDescription
Where no obstruction interferes with the reach, controls and outlets may be mounted between 15" and 48" above finished floor. A 30" × 48" clear floor space perpendicular to the wall, adjoining a 36"-wide accessible route, must be available so a wheelchair user can position for the forward reach.
Why this exists
15" is the seated-reach low limit; 48" is the seated forward-reach high limit. Architects should design wall switches at 44-48" (the standard mid-range works for both seated + standing users) and outlets above 15" (which is also where small children stop being able to insert objects).
Measurements
| Property | Operator | Value | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
reachLow | min | 15 | in AFF | Low limit for unobstructed forward reach |
reachHigh | max | 48 | in AFF | High limit for unobstructed forward reach |
clearFloorWidth | min | 30 | in | Clear floor space width |
clearFloorDepth | min | 48 | in | Clear floor space depth (perpendicular to wall) |
Categories
Source
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Universal-design wider doorways · HUD UD §3.2
- Universal design features encouraged for residential accessibility under Section R320.3 · Virginia USBC 2021 Amendment 33 (IRC R320.3)
- Covered multifamily dwellings: at least one building entrance on an accessible route · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 1 (Chapter One)
- Public and common use areas must be readily accessible to and usable by people with disabilities · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 2 (Chapter Two)
- All doors must provide a clear opening of at least 32 inches when open 90 degrees · HUD FHA Design Manual Requirement 3 (Chapter Three)
Last reviewed 2026-05-14.