3111B Steps, Recessed Steps, Ladders and Stairs — 2025 California Building Code

A means of entry and exit to and from the pool shall consist of steps, recessed steps, ladders, stairs, ramps or a combination of these. Stairs or ramps shall be provided in the shallowest portion of a pool if the vertical distance from the bottom of the pool to the deck is over 1 foot (305 mm). In pools with more than one shallow end, stairs or ramps shall be provided at a minimum at one shallow end. A second means of entry and exit shall be provided in the deep portion of a pool having a depth greater than 4 1/2 feet (1372 mm). Where the width of the pool exceeds 30 feet (9144 mm), such means of entry and exit shall be provided at each side, not more than 100 feet (30,480 mm) apart.

Note: For illustrated diagrams pertaining to this section see Figures 31B-6 and 31B-7.

Ladders shall be corrosion resistant and shall be equipped with slip resistant tread surfaces. Ladders shall be rigidly installed and shall provide a clearance of not less than 3 inches (76 mm) or more than 5 inches (127 mm) between any part of the ladder and the pool wall.

Each step of a stair shall have a tread in accordance with Figure 31B-7. Risers shall conform to Figure 31B-7. At least one hand rail shall be provided extending from the deck to not less than a point above the top of the lowest step installed in accordance with Figure 31B-7.

Ladder treads and recessed steps shall have a minimum tread of 5 inches (127 mm) and a width of 14 inches (356 mm) and shall be designed to be readily cleaned. Step risers shall be uniform and shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) in height. The first riser shall be measured from the deck.

Handrails shall be provided at the top of both sides of each ladder and recessed steps and shall extend over the coping or edge of the deck.

Two hand rails shall be provided extending from the deck to not less than a point above the top of the lowest step in accordance with Figure 31B-7. The steps shall be located where the deck is at least 4 feet (1219 mm) wide.

Finished step tread and riser construction tolerances shall be + 1/2 inch (12.5 mm).

[DSA-AC] Additional requirements may apply. Refer to Chapter 11B for accessibility provisions applicable to public accommodations, commercial buildings and public housing.