The Size Guidelines for ADA-Compliant Parking Spaces

Your parking lot must legally meet ADA standards. Creating an inclusive environment can help your business grow its customer base and improve its reputation. Here are the most important accessible parking space requirements you should know:

An ADA-compliant parking space should be a minimum of eight feet in width. The required width for accessible parking will make it easier for a person using a wheelchair or another mobility device to get in and out of a vehicle comfortably.

Alongside this space, you should provide an access aisle of at least five feet wide. The access aisle provides the necessary space for people to move from their vehicle to a wheelchair or other mobility device and vice versa.

Accessibility vans often come equipped with side or rear-mounted lifts that require extra space. A van-accessible parking space should have a minimum width of 11 feet. If the parking space is only eight feet wide, the adjoining access space must be at least eight feet wide to accommodate the van’s lift.

The ADA set guidelines about the minimum number of accessible parking spaces businesses must provide. If your business has multiple parking lots of different sizes, each must provide a certain number of ADA-compliant parking spaces. Here is a breakdown of the number of accessible parking spaces required by the ADA:

• For lots with 1–25 spaces: 1 accessible space
• For lots with 26–50 spaces: 2 accessible spaces
• For lots with 51–75 spaces: 3 accessible spaces
• For lots with 76–100 spaces: 4 accessible spaces

The required number of accessible parking spaces scales up as the parking lot size increases. Business owners and property managers must consult the ADA guidelines or work with professionals familiar with them to ensure parking lots.

ADA-compliant parking lot striping ensures spaces are clearly designated and easy to identify. You should mark your access aisles with diagonal stripes to distinguish them from actual parking spaces. Additionally, use proper signage for standard and van-accessible disability parking spaces. For van-accessible spaces, the sign should include the phrase “van-accessible” to notify drivers for the intended use for the space.

While understanding the size guidelines for ADA-compliant parking spaces may seem tricky, it can demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity. Whether you are a business owner, property manager, or a concerned citizen, it is essential to ensure public parking lots comply with ADA standards. Contact Precise Property Management for help with marking your parking spaces. We can ensure your parking lot complies with ADA guidelines and suits the needs of your customers.