Legislation, Codes & Advocacy
See how baby and adult changing table requirements vary across the U.S. and what they mean for your designs.
The Universal Change in Changing Stations
UCTs are already prevalent in Europe and as of 2024, The International Code Council (ICC) has also approved Code E124-21 for the International Building Code (IBC), which requires height adjustable adult changing stations to be provided in certain types of establishments such as:
- Assembly and mercantile locations such as movie theaters, concert halls, banquet halls, casinos, swimming pools, lecture halls, museums, places of worship, arenas, skating rinks, stadiums, amusement parks, airports, department stores, shopping malls, etc.
- College or university business occupancies
- Elementary & high school educational occupancies
- Highway rest stops and service plazas
- And more
In the United States, California was the first state to mandate universal changing tables in 2015, and less than a decade later legislation has already been introduced or passed in 27 states in the country.
Universal Changing Table Legislation by State
Design Smarter: See State-by-State Baby Changing Station Legislation
For those who plan, build, and manage restrooms, staying ahead of codes regarding baby changing tables is critical. Our legislation tracker highlights what each state requires for baby changing stations, helping you design with compliance and care in mind.
Grant Funding
Grant Funding is available to help organizations and individuals cover the cost of a universal changing station. You can learn more about current grant opportunities on the Changing Spaces Campaign’s website.
Advocacy Groups
Both internationally and here in the United States, the Changing Spaces Campaign has fought to raise awareness around the need for adjustable-height universal changing tables in public restrooms. Its state chapters have been instrumental in both driving legislation and getting tables installed at the grassroots level, and its UCT Map is an invaluable resource for locating accessible facilities across the United States. Sova is proud to support Changing Spaces and its mission to promote community inclusion, access, and equality for individuals with disabilities.
For more general information on accessibility and resources for people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers, check out our links below.