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jct74
07-02-2012, 11:18 PM
Regulation of the Day 221: Miniature Golf Courses
by RYAN YOUNG on JUNE 28, 2012 · 7 COMMENTS

Miniature golf is a much more accessible sport than the real thing. Almost anyone can play. You don’t need to drive the ball 200 yards to get a decent score; 200 inches is more than enough. In fact, many players don’t much care what their score is at all. They’re just playing for fun, and trying to dodge the obstacles.

Less fun are the surprisingly detailed federal regulations (http://cnsnews.com/news/article/new-disability-regs-limit-slope-mini-golf-holes-require-businesses-admit-mini-horses) intended to ensure the game’s accessibility to all. Course owners aren’t too happy about the new Americans with Disabilities Act requirements that came into effect on March 15, though construction firms must be delighted at the windfall Washington just sent them.

The federal government regulates the slopes of miniature golf courses. The new standard “permits a slope of 1:4 maximum for a 4 inch rise where the accessible route is located on the playing surface of a hole.”

If a course uses artificial turf instead of grass, it also regulates length for the fibers. The height of the “grass” shall not exceed half an inch.

The so-called “start of play” areas must be at least 48” x 60”, and shall not have a slope steeper than 1:48.

There’s more, too. You can read the Federal Register entry explaining the federal government’s new miniature golf policies here (https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2002/09/03/02-21805/americans-with-disabilities-act-ada-accessibility-guidelines-for-buildings-and-facilities-recreation#table_of_contents). In the meantime, one can expect the ADA’s unparalleled track record as lawsuit fodder to continue.

http://www.openmarket.org/2012/06/28/regulation-of-the-day-221-miniature-golf-courses/

jct74
07-02-2012, 11:19 PM
Here are the new regulations for putt-putt if anyone is interested, not sure if this is all of them:



Section 15.5Miniature Golf

Section 15.5.1General

This section requires newly designed or newly constructed and altered miniature golf courses to comply with section 15.5.Show citation box
Section 15.5.2Accessible Holes

This section requires at least 50 percent of all holes to be accessible and that the accessible holes be consecutive. With the reduction in the minimum number of accessible holes on a miniature golf course, the Board wants to provide a more socially integrated golfing experience for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. An exception also permits one break in the sequence of consecutive accessible holes, provided that the last hole on the miniature golf course is the last hole in the sequence. This exception is provided to allow some flexibility in the layout and design of a miniature golf course.Show citation box
Comment. Significant comment was received from miniature golf course owners and operators regarding the number of holes required to be accessible. The proposed rule required each hole on a miniature golf course to be accessible, with an exception for 50 percent of elevated holes. Commenters were asked to give the Board guidance on differentiating between level and elevated holes. Few comments were received on definition alternatives. Some owners and operators believed that the requirement for all holes to be accessible would significantly impact course design to the extent that the experience may be “fundamentally altered.” Others cited space limitations, concerns about slowing the game down, and having the effect of “compromising the challenge of the game.”Show citation box
Response. The Board has significantly reduced the number of holes required to be accessible in newly constructed miniature golf courses to 50 percent of all holes.Show citation box
Comment. During the comment period following the draft final rule, the Miniature Golf Association recommended that instead of making 50 percent of the holes accessible, miniature golf facilities should have the option of providing tools, equipment, or assistive devices to provide access. They specifically requested that assistive devices such as electric carts be permitted as an alternative to an accessible route. Several other commenters opposed the reduction in the number of accessible holes, expressing concerns about limiting the game for persons with disabilities to only half of the holes.Show citation box
Response. The Board has maintained the requirement that a minimum of 50 percent of all holes in new construction be accessible. The final rule does not recognize the alternative use of assistive devices for providing access in new construction. Designing miniature golf course holes so electric carts can safely maneuver through the holes is likely to have as great or greater impacts than designing an accessible route. Requiring individuals with disabilities to use electric carts on miniature golf courses is also inconsistent with other provisions of the ADA which require goods, services, and facilities to be afforded in the most integrated setting appropriate.Show citation box
Given the diversity of layouts and designs of miniature golf courses, the final rule does not distinguish between courses with elevated holes or those with largely level holes. The 50 percent reduction represents a compromise given the concerns presented. Other considerations relate to the accessible route connecting accessible holes. The Board has established this reduction to give relief where courses are designed on small parcels of land with existing terrain limitations. It is recommended that all holes on a miniature golf course be made accessible where space limitations and existing steep terrain are not present.Show citation box
Section 15.5.3Accessible Route

This section requires that the accessible route must connect the course entrance with the first accessible hole and the start of play area on each accessible hole. Since accessible holes must be consecutive, this section also requires the course to be configured to allow exit from the last accessible hole to the course exit or entrance. The course must be designed so as not to require an individual to back track through other holes to exit or move around the course. Where the accessible route is located on the playing surface of the accessible hole, five exceptions are permitted and are discussed below.Show citation box
Comment. Miniature golf course operators were concerned that the surface commonly used on miniature golf course holes would not meet the requirements for accessible carpet. Their concerns were centered around the thickness of the surface. ADAAG 4.5.3 includes a requirement that the maximum pile thickness must be no more than1/2inch and be securely attached with a firm cushion, pad, or backing. Exposed edges must be fastened to floor surfaces and must have trim along the entire length of the exposed edge.Show citation box
Response. The Board has added Exception 1 which exempts carpet used on miniature golf course holes from the provisions of ADAAG 4.5.3. Surfaces provided as a part of an accessible route, whether on or off the playing surface, must comply with ADAAG 4.5.2. ADAAG 4.5.2 requires the surface to be “stable, firm, and slip resistant.”Show citation box
Comment. Commenters raised concern about the use of readily removable curbs permitted in the proposed rule. Operators were concerned that their removable qualities would tempt younger players to use them inappropriately. Persons with disabilities questioned who would actually move the curbs and how problems related to their use would be addressed.Show citation box
Response. The final rule does not allow the use of “readily removable curbs”. This option was included to allow for passage on and off the course while containing the ball while in play. As an alternative, Exception 2 has been added which permits a 1 inch curb for an opening distance of 32 inches where the accessible route intersects theplaying surface of a hole. This permits passage of wheelchairs while containing the ball within the hole.Show citation box
Comment. The proposed rule permitted a maximum slope of 1:4 for a 4 inch rise where the accessible route is located on the playing surface. A few commenters questioned how close together a designer could locate these steeply sloped surfaces. They were concerned about the appropriateness where these steep slopes existed for long distances without areas to rest.Show citation box
Response. Exception 3 permits a slope of 1:4 maximum for a 4 inch rise where the accessible route is located on the playing surface of a hole. Exception 4 specifically addresses the issue of landings where sloped surfaces are provided. This exception permits the landings to be 48 inches long with slopes no greater than 1:20. ADAAG 4.8.4(3) requires landings to be 48 inches by 60 inches minimum, where ramps change direction. Providing a separation or break from the steeper slopes is necessary for individuals with disabilities to safely maneuver on the hole.Show citation box
Exception 5 states that where the accessible route is located on the playing surface of a hole, handrails are not required.Show citation box
Section 15.5.3.2Accessible Route—Adjacent to the Playing Surface

Where the accessible route is located adjacent to the playing surface, the equirements of 4.3 apply. This provision clarifies that the accessible route may be located on the playing surface of the accessible hole or adjacent to the hole.Show citation box
Section 15.5.4Start of Play Areas

This section requires start of play areas required to comply with 15.5.2 to have a slope not steeper than 1:48 and to be 48 inches minimum by 60 inches minimum.Show citation box
Comment. The proposed rule required the minimum space for the start of play area to be 60 inches by 60 inches. Commenters questioned the need for this space and recommended a reduction where possible especially where space limitations exist. Questions were also raised regarding the appropriateness of overlapping the accessible route with the start of play area.Show citation box
Response. The final rule reduces the space required since the start of play area will usually not require a person using a wheelchair or mobility aid to make a complete turn. Rather, space is necessary for positioning to take the first shot of the hole. Consistent with ADAAG, unless otherwise specified, the accessible route and the clear space required at the start of play area are permitted to overlap.Show citation box
Section 15.5.5Golf Club Reach Range

This section requires all areas within accessible holes where golf balls rest to be within 36 inches maximum of an accessible route having a maximum slope of 1:20.Show citation box
Comment. The proposed rule required that all level areas within accessible holes where golf balls rest be within 27 inches maximum of an accessible route. A few commenters questioned the appropriateness of the 27 inch dimension. They recommended an increase to include a broader range of skill levels and golf club lengths.Show citation box
Response. The distance from the level areas has been increased to 36 inches to balance the impact on course design and incorporate the reach of a typical adult size golf club. This is a maximum distance from the accessible route which may be located either on the hole or adjacent to the hole. Where possible, designers should locate the accessible route as close as possible to the level areas on the course. This will improve the ability to reach the golf ball for a variety of users.


https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2002/09/03/02-21805/americans-with-disabilities-act-ada-accessibility-guidelines-for-buildings-and-facilities-recreation


http://cnsnews.com/sites/default/files/images/golf-ADA.jpg?1340752280

oyarde
07-02-2012, 11:26 PM
Junction , is that for real ? , whoever did that must be the same ass that drew up Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem requirements for Pennsylvania and moved on to the Fed level .....

Danke
07-03-2012, 01:44 AM
Finally everyone can enjoy putt-putt golf.

kathy88
07-03-2012, 05:47 AM
Can't even think of what to say.

tod evans
07-03-2012, 05:49 AM
We're paying for this shit!

CaptUSA
07-03-2012, 05:58 AM
The Windmills must not have more than four blades, and may not be seen to make fun of the Dutch.
The balls must be multi-colored and must be handed out in rotating order so as not to discriminate one color from another.
and finally...

Any clowns must not laugh at the golfer so that his feelings are not hurt.


http://www.imdb.com/rg/VIDEO_PLAY/LINK//video/hulu/vi2883649561/

Weston White
07-03-2012, 06:10 AM
They might as well just make everything in the entire world handicap accessible and then pass an amendment to the PPACA requiring you to permanently disable yourself or otherwise pay an annual “tax” for refusing to have done so.

Great work Congress! Keep making Americans proud of your fine, fine work; you overbearing idiots.

phill4paul
07-03-2012, 06:15 AM
Local putt-putt that has been around for 30 years just closed the doors. Since they did a 'fair' amount of business I would bet this is why.

Barrex
07-03-2012, 06:28 AM
I would love to have that law in Croatia.... I broke most of other stupid ones in my country that I know off that...breaking them again is not that fun....

Lafayette
07-03-2012, 07:54 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq1qOE9cayg&feature=related

raystone
07-03-2012, 09:02 AM
can't wait to see the federal regulations coming up for horseback riding, scuba diving, and mountain climbing outfitters.

Kotin
07-03-2012, 09:05 AM
Well at least maybe they are making laws on something of which they have knowledge.. But probably not.

JK/SEA
07-03-2012, 09:39 AM
Good, about time Congress got involved in this. Next up: New Bowling regulations. I think the bowling lanes need to be concave so even a 2 year old can get a 300 game.

DamianTV
07-03-2012, 06:12 PM
What this whole thing says to me is that someone in Govt owns their own Mini Golf Park that would comply with these standards and they are just looking to abuse the power of Govt to shut down their competition.

CaseyJones
07-03-2012, 06:55 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nL9zg7-rzPc

Origanalist
07-03-2012, 07:06 PM
Local putt-putt that has been around for 30 years just closed the doors. Since they did a 'fair' amount of business I would bet this is why.

I would bet the same. Disgusting.

tfurrh
07-03-2012, 07:10 PM
Handicapper General.

fisharmor
07-03-2012, 07:13 PM
Omfg I'm listening to my wife explain to her dipshit stepmother why this isn't a good idea... man I hate spending time over here

Origanalist
07-03-2012, 07:14 PM
Omfg I'm listening to my wife explain to her dipshit stepmother why this isn't a good idea... man I hate spending time over here

Lol:rolleyes:

PaulConventionWV
07-03-2012, 09:31 PM
Finally everyone can enjoy putt-putt golf.

And it's all thanks to the government. What would we ever do........

PaulConventionWV
07-03-2012, 09:32 PM
The Windmills must not have more than four blades, and may not be seen to make fun of the Dutch.
The balls must be multi-colored and must be handed out in rotating order so as not to discriminate one color from another.
and finally...

Any clowns must not laugh at the golfer so that his feelings are not hurt.


http://www.imdb.com/rg/VIDEO_PLAY/LINK//video/hulu/vi2883649561/

Please tell me those are not real. Please...

jct74
07-05-2012, 02:37 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jBwSSJ4E1k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jBwSSJ4E1k