The knee clearance required for a handicapped accessible drinking fountain is a minimum of __________ inches from the floor to the cantilever.

The correct minimum requirement for knee clearance under a handicapped accessible drinking fountain is 27 inches from the floor to the cantilever. This specification is important because it ensures that individuals using wheelchairs or those who have difficulty bending can access the drinking fountain comfortably. The 27-inch measurement provides sufficient space for a person’s knees and legs while allowing for easy maneuverability and accessibility, which aligns with the overall goal of making public facilities inclusive and accommodating to all individuals, including those with disabilities.

While 22, 25, and 30 inches also represent measurements that could be considered for knee clearance, they do not meet the specific standards set forth in the accessibility guidelines. Thus, the requirement of 27 inches is essential in ensuring compliance with regulations aimed at promoting accessibility.