The 2021 IBC introduced key changes expanding the use of single-user, gender neutral bathrooms. We recently consulted with the ICC to get clarification on this issue and thought it was relevant to share our finding on this often confusing issue.
Under 2021 and newer codes, a designer can opt to provide all single-user restrooms in a space or building. 2902.1.2 of the 2021 IBC states that if you provide single-user bathrooms, then you shall make them available to all persons regardless of sex.
Another key change in the 2021 IBC is how the plumbing fixture calculations are performed. Previously, under 2018 IBC, you had to run the calculations for male and female, then round up for each sex. So, in many instances, even if you needed 0.3 toilets for males, and 0.3 toilets for females, really totaling at 0.6, you’d still need a total of 2 toilets because you have to round up to 1 for each gender. There were exceptions for dwelling units, occupant loads under 15, mercantile occupancy under 100, and business occupancy under 25 to have 1 restroom. Below is an example of a plumbing fixture calculation, separating by male and female.
But, under the 2021 IBC, specifically 2902.1.1, exception #3, this allows you to run the plumbing fixture calculations regardless of gender when using single-user toilet room(s). Below is an example of a plumbing fixture calculation, combining the sexes, using the entire occupant load.
Here are some potential figures of # of occupants and space classification (per IBC table 2902.1), that would result in (1) single-user, unisex bathroom being sufficient for the space. Notes that occupant loads would be determined by section 1004 of the IBC.
Restaurants- 75 occupants
Bar- 40 occupants
Office-25 occupants
Factory/ Industrial- 100 occupants
Mercantile/ Shop- 500 occupants
Storage- 100 occupants
In the 2024 IBC, though, 2902.1.1, exception #3 has now been removed. The designer can still choose to provide single-user toilet rooms, but would have to run the calculations for male and female, resulting in at least 2 single-user toilet rooms, unless meeting one of the following exceptions:
