When do the Texas Accessibility Standards apply?

The Texas Accessibility Standards apply during the design, construction, additions to, and alterations of facilities because these standards are intended to ensure that all facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This comprehensive application is meant to promote inclusivity and ensure that accessibility is considered at every stage of a facility's lifecycle, from initial design through any modifications or improvements made later.

Applying the standards during all phases of a facility's development helps guarantee that accessibility features are integrated from the outset, which is crucial for compliance with the law and for serving the needs of all community members. The intent is to create environments that are functional for individuals with different levels of mobility and other disabilities, thereby enhancing accessibility in public and private spaces alike. Focusing the accessibility standards solely on one aspect, such as new construction or only alterations, would neglect the opportunities to optimize accessibility across various stages of a building's existence.