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When is a Handrail Required on Sidewalks?

Handrails are installed on various sidewalks throughout the country. These handrails are a safety measure to prevent pedestrians from falling and becoming injured. There are guidelines that vary by state which explain when a handrail is required on a sidewalk.

  1. Vertical Drop

    • A main reason a handrail may be required on a sidewalk is due to a vertical drop. The size of a vertical drop which constitutes the need for a handrail depends upon which state the sidewalk is in. For example, a sidewalk with a vertical drop of 2.5 feet or more in Maryland will require a handrail.

    Sidewalk Slope

    • A sidewalk that is on a slope of a greater angle than the road it is adjacent to may constitute the need for a handrail. The angle of this slope varies by state.

    Other Unsafe Areas

    • If an area is found by a city engineer to be unsafe for any other reason, a handrail may be required.

    Building Code

    • The requirements for a sidewalk handrail can be found in your area's state building code and standards book.

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