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Commission backs ordinance to require diaper‑changing accommodations in public buildings and businesses
Summary
The Building Inspection Commission unanimously supported Board File 161,353, moving diaper‑changing accommodation requirements into the administrative/building code, requiring male‑accessible or all‑gender stations where female restrooms already provide them, clarifying covered establishments, signage, waivers and a 12‑month compliance window for city buildings.
At its Feb. 15, 2017 meeting the Building Inspection Commission voted unanimously to support Board of Supervisors File No. 161,353, a proposed ordinance that would require public‑serving buildings and certain businesses to install and maintain baby diaper‑changing accommodations. Diana Kizon, legislative aide to Supervisor Katie Tang, presented the measure and described amendments recommended by the Code Advisory Committee and DBI staff.
Key provisions described in the presentation and discussion include: placing the requirement in the administrative/building code for enforceability; requiring at least one diaper‑changing accommodation accessible to women and one accessible to men, or a single all‑gender station; expanding the list of covered public‑serving establishments (daycare centers, hospitals, nurseries and similar uses); requiring signage consistent with section 11B216.2 (pictographs/tactile signs); clarifying that compliance must not conflict with state and federal disability access laws; and a waiver procedure allowing relief for leases, space constraints or technical infeasibility. The ordinance narrows the "substantially renovated" trigger to $50,000 of restroom construction and allows city buildings up to 12 months after the ordinance effective date to comply.
Commissioners asked about outreach and permitting requirements; DBI staff confirmed outreach would include technical guidance and that installing a basic wall‑mounted fold‑down changer generally does not require a permit, while restroom remodeling that exceeds the $50,000 threshold would trigger standard permitting and inspections. The commission made a motion to support the legislation; Commissioner Walker moved and Commissioner Lee seconded. The motion carried on a unanimous roll call.
Next steps described: the measure will proceed through the Board of Supervisors and human‑rights and enforcement pathways described in the ordinance.
