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HomeHealth and Safety CodeDiv. 12Pt. 2Ch. 1Art. 1§ 13131 Nonambulatory Persons Definition

§ 13131 Nonambulatory Persons Definition

Health and Safety Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 13131 Nonambulatory Persons Definition

Key Takeaways

  • •This law defines 'nonambulatory persons' as people who can't leave a building by themselves during an emergency.
  • •It includes people who can't react to fire alarms or instructions, and those who need help from things like wheelchairs or walkers.
  • •For people with developmental disabilities, the Director of Social Services decides if they are nonambulatory, with help from the Director of Developmental Services.
  • •For other disabled people (not developmentally disabled) placed after January 1, 1984, the Director of Social Services makes the decision.

Example

A person in a wheelchair lives in an apartment building.

If there's a fire, this person might need help to get out safely. The law says they are 'nonambulatory' because they can't leave the building without help. The Director of Social Services would decide if they need extra help during emergencies.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 13131 Nonambulatory Persons Definition

“Nonambulatory persons” means persons unable to leave a building unassisted under emergency conditions. It includes any person who is unable, or likely to be unable, to physically and mentally respond to a sensory signal approved by the State Fire Marshal, or an oral instruction relating to fire danger, and persons who depend upon mechanical aids such as crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs. The determination of ambulatory or nonambulatory status of persons with developmental disabilities shall be made by the Director of Social Services or his or her designated representative, in consultation with the Director of Developmental Services or his or her designated representative. The determination of ambulatory or nonambulatory status of all other disabled persons placed after January 1, 1984, who are not developmentally disabled shall be made by the Director of Social Services, or his or her designated representative. (Amended by Stats. 1983, Ch. 1132, Sec. 1.)

Last verified: January 23, 2026

Key Terms

nonambulatory personsocial servicesdirectoremergencyfireterminationdangerdevelopmental services

Related Statutes

  • § 34201 Low-Income Housing Conditions
  • § 1568.0832 Bedridden Patient Definition
  • § 129925 Hospital Building Safety Board
  • § 130066.5 Hospital Seismic Compliance Notice
  • § 13104.5 State Fire Hazard Abatement

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Health and Safety Code. Section 13131.
View Official Source