The Americans with Disabilities Act was designed to protect people who have a disability against discrimination. Covering everything from service animals to communication to parking and more, this law is designed to promote equality.
Businesses of all sizes that provide parking for their customers must comply with the ADA parking requirements by law. Let’s dive into what these requirements are and how abiding by them can help citizens throughout the country.
Who Must Follow the ADA Requirements for Parking?
Any business or organization that supplies goods or services to the public needs to comply with ADA parking space requirements. This is the case for restaurants, bars, hotels, schools, museums, shopping establishments, medical offices, and many others. Some buildings that don’t provide goods or services to the public must also comply with the regulations, including office buildings and factories.
Additionally, all of the states in the country are required to follow the established ADA parking space requirements and other guidelines. However, some states may have additional accessibility requirements that go beyond what is outlined by the ADA. Similarly, ADA-issued parking permits are typically available for use across states but may require additional registration or paperwork.
Why the ADA Parking Requirements Are Important
Following the ADA parking requirements means more than just adhering to the law. It ensures equal access to individuals with disabilities and promotes their safety. Additionally, it indicates that a business values inclusivity and attracts diverse customers.
Lastly, following the ADA requirements for parking spaces promotes social responsibility, which sets an example for valuing the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. Below, you will find different elements of this law, including size regulations, establishments with exceptions, how to mark parking spots, and beyond.
Complying with ADA Parking Space Requirements for Size and Number of Spaces
Per the ADA parking space requirements, each accessible parking space must be a minimum of 96 inches wide. This gives enough space for individuals with walkers and other devices to safely enter and exit their vehicles. For width, measurements can vary. Typically, they are at least 240 inches long to accommodate the vehicle and have space to access the trunk.
Where to Place the Parking Spots
The parking spots that are closest to the accessible entrances and exits should be used as accessible parking spots. This ADA requirement helps guarantee that disabled drivers and passengers can easily access the building and safely make their way back to their vehicles after the visit.
It is also best practice to assign the parking spaces close to ramps that lead to entryways. Take note of any barriers or hazards in the path from the spaces to the building and remove them promptly.
The Proportionate Number of Spaces
The ADA parking requirements necessitate a certain number of spaces that must be accessible based on the size of the parking lot. This typically equates to 2% to 5% of spaces being marked as accessible.
For example, if there are 1-25 spaces total for a facility, a business must dedicate 1 space to accessible parking for cars and 1 space to accessible parking for vans. If a lot has 101-150 spaces, there must be at least 5 accessible car spaces and 1 accessible van space. The full list that lays out the number of spaces for each parking lot size is listed on the ADA’s website.
Additionally, it goes without saying that business and property owners can choose to have more parking spaces dedicated to those with disabilities.
Van-Accessible Spaces
Van-accessible parking features extra room for unloading wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, and other devices for assisting those who are disabled. These spots have three extra feet of width on the side in comparison to regular accessible spaces. The extra room can be used by those who need to deploy a ramp or other assisting device and should not be blocked for any reason.
How to Follow the ADA Requirements for Identifying Accessible Parking Spaces
Another ADA parking requirement is that the accessible space must be clearly marked with the universal sign. The International Symbol of Accessibility must be clearly displayed on a pole that stands at the end of the spaces. The symbol has an individual in a wheelchair marked in white against a blue background.
This signage should be on a pole at least five feet above the ground’s surface to ensure that it is visible even if there is a vehicle in front of it. Last but not least, it is important that this sign is visible from the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Special Circumstances
There are always exceptions to rules, and with good reason. Specifically, the ADA requirements might differ for places that can expect more Americans with disabilities. Here are some of the places where accessible parking is increased:
- Medical facilities – Facilities like hospitals and similar buildings that have outpatient services should have 10% more accessible parking spaces for patients and visitors.
- Rehabilitation centers – Areas that host rehab centers or clinics that provide treatment and therapy to the mobility-impaired should have an additional 20% accessible parking spaces on top of the normal requirement.
Conversely, there are facilities that require fewer accessible spaces due to the nature of the company. For example, lots that are used for buses, trucks, delivery vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, and impounded vehicles are not required to have accessible spaces. However, it is important to note that if these parking lots allow public access, they must have accessible loading zones to accommodate passengers with disabilities.
Using UNIQUE Products to Keep Parking Lots Safe
Now that we have gone through the requirements, let’s talk about materials you can use to keep your parking lot in the best condition to prevent injury. This means repairing holes and cracks to promote a smooth surface.
- KOLD-FLO® Pourable Crack Filler – Use our KOLD-FLO® Pourable Crack Filler to fill and seal cracks and reduce long-term damage.
- UPM® Cold Mix – This asphalt patch repair will permanently fill your potholes and it remains useable in all conditions, from snow and ice to everything in between.
- MICROMIX® Mini Cold Mix – Our mini cold mix has the same benefits as our regular cold mix, it just comes in a smaller size. Use it to repair narrow or shallow areas that need flexible yet reliable adhesion.
- INTEGRA-SEAL® Rejuvenating Asphalt Sealer – Our sealer is a professional-grade pavement sealer designed to seal, protect, and beautify aging asphalt without odors.
At UNIQUE Paving Materials, we have over 60 years of experience in creating innovative solutions for asphalt and concrete repairs. Allow our products to keep your parking lot looking good while maintaining safety for all patrons.
Contact Us with Any Questions You Have
Adhering to ADA parking space requirements means more than just setting up the spaces; it means maintaining them and providing equal access for Americans who need it.
Start maintaining your parking lot today with products from UNIQUE Paving Materials. Contact us today with questions!
