Passageways: 36" minimum clear width, 80" minimum ceiling
NKBA 4th ed §1.7 PassagewaysDescription
Passageways are unobstructed clear floor areas with a 36" minimum width and 80" minimum ceiling height, located outside circulation zones at activity centers. Obstacles may project up to 4" into the passageway. Wheelchair-pass-by needs 60"-67" wide; wheelchair-turn locations need a turning circle or T-turn.
Why this exists
36" is the IRC R311.6 hallway minimum and also accommodates a single wheelchair. 4" projection allows for door trim + cabinet face frames without violating clear width. The 60"-67" pass-by is required so two wheelchair users can navigate past one another.
Measurements
| Property | Operator | Value | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
passageWidthMin | min | 36 | in | Minimum clear width |
ceilingMin | min | 80 | in | Minimum ceiling height |
maxProjection | max | 4 | in | Maximum obstacle projection into passageway |
wheelchairPassBy | min | 60 | in | Wheelchair pass-by width minimum |
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
- Bathroom entry doorway · NKBA Bath 1
- Kitchen walkway and work-aisle widths · NKBA Kitchen 6
- Single-door clear opening: 34" minimum (36" door leaf) · NKBA 4th ed §1.1 Doorways
- Wheelchair-maneuvering clearance at doorways · NKBA 4th ed §1.1 Doorways
- Flush flooring transitions; max 1/4" eased, 1/2" beveled · NKBA 4th ed §1.3 Floor Transitions
Last reviewed 2026-05-14.