# French Ramp Rules: Housing Access and Terrace Exceptions

Check which French access rules apply. Outside housing routes and space for a future terrace ramp have distinct limits and conditions.

- Canonical HTML: https://www.chippy.tools/building-codes/fr/ramps/ramp-gradients/
- Publisher: Chippy Tools
- Updated: 2026-09-06
- Market: fr
- Code edition / reference: Accessibility arrêtés (1 Aug 2006 & 24 Dec 2015) — scope-limited, exempt for a self-build
- References: FR CCH L161-1; FR Arrêté 2015-12-24; FR Arrêté 2006-08-01


## Check the scope first

CCH L161-1 gives an access-rule exemption for owners who build or improve a home for their own use. Other safety rules still apply. Check the scope for a home built for sale or rent. Public buildings use other texts.

Article 2 of the 24 December 2015 order covers the outside access route for housing within its scope. It sets these slopes:

- At most 5% in the normal case.
- Up to 8% for at most 2 m in an exceptional case.
- Up to 10% for at most 0.50 m in an exceptional case.
- Rest landings at both ends. Add one every 10 m if the slope is 4% or more.

## Do not use the terrace exception for any ramp

Article 14 covers balconies, terraces and loggias. In specified cases, space must be left to add a ramp later. The text uses 10% over 2 m and 12% over 0.50 m for that space. It also has a 12% case for a terrace without the stated insulated screed.

These are not general limits for ramps inside a home. Read Article 14 for the full scope, threshold and clear space rules.

## Work out the run

A 300 mm rise at 5% needs 300 ÷ 0.05 = 6000 mm of flat run. Add the level areas at the ends. A shorter run does not mean you can just use a steeper slope.

## Sources

- [CCH Article L161-1](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/article_lc/LEGIARTI000041588425).
- [Housing access order, Articles 2 and 14](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000031692481).
- [French building-code hub](https://www.chippy.tools/building-codes/fr/).

Scope and figures checked on 6 September 2026. Confirm the rules for the actual building and work before setting out.


This page is general information for tradespeople and is not compliance, engineering or legal advice. Requirements are subject to state and territory variations and adoption timing. Always confirm requirements with your building certifier and relevant state authority.