(To qualify for the exemption, a building must either be under three stories or have fewer than 3000 square feet per floor; it need not meet both criteria.) BUT: A two-story shopping center with 40,000 square feet on each floor is required to have an elevator, because shopping centers are not entitled to the exemption.

When must a building have an elevator?

Elevator Requirements for Buildings

For architects and designers, however, ADA compliance—that is, compliance with guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act—is required for all buildings over three stories tall, or with more than 3,000 square feet per floor.

What buildings must have elevators?

If your building has less than 3,000 SF per floor or is a 2-story building, generally an elevator is not required. But this is based upon what types of tenants are located on the other floor(s). If there are any medical offices an elevator is required. Also, if there are any retail shops, an elevator is required.