When it comes to ensuring accessibility and inclusion for all individuals, accessible parking spaces play a vital role. Whether you are a business owner, property manager, or simply someone looking to understand the regulations, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of accessible parking spaces and the obligations set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

You can download a more detailed guide of the following information HERE.

Accessible Parking during Restriping

Restriping a parking lot or parking structure presents an excellent opportunity to ensure compliance with ADA regulations. According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, businesses and state or local government entities must provide accessible parking spaces when restriping parking facilities.

Importantly, the ADA also imposes an ongoing obligation on businesses and privately owned facilities to remove access barriers in existing parking facilities whenever it is readily achievable to do so. Restriping, being a relatively inexpensive process, often falls into the readily achievable category, making it a crucial step in achieving compliance.

Calculating the Number of Accessible Parking Spaces

To determine the number of accessible parking spaces required, it's important to calculate this separately for each parking facility, not based on the total number of parking spaces on the entire site. One of every six accessible parking spaces must be van-accessible, but there should always be at least one van-accessible space. The minimum number of accessible parking spaces is based on the total number of parking spaces provided within a single facility. Here's a breakdown according to the 2010 Standards (208.2):

Features of Accessible Parking Spaces

Accessible parking spaces are characterized by specific features to ensure accessibility:

1. Parking Space Identification Sign: A sign displaying the international symbol of accessibility must be mounted at least 60 inches above the ground. If the accessible route is in front of the parking space, wheel stops should prevent vehicles from encroaching on the route.

2. Parking Space Dimensions: Accessible parking spaces must be a minimum of 96 inches wide, marked to define the width, and have a maximum slope of 1:48 in all directions.

3. Access Aisle: The access aisle, which must connect to an accessible route, should be at least 60 inches wide, at the same level as the adjacent parking space(s), and have a maximum slope of 1:48 in all directions.

4. Accessible Entrance: An accessible route never has curbs or stairs, must be at least 3 feet wide, and has a firm, stable, slip-resistant surface. The slope along the accessible route should not be greater than 1:12 in the direction of travel.
   

5. Location: Accessible parking spaces must be strategically located on the shortest accessible route to an accessible facility entrance. State and local laws may also address parking space and access aisle markings.

Additional Features of Van-Accessible Parking Spaces

Van-accessible parking spaces incorporate the features mentioned above and have additional requirements, such as a "van accessible" designation on the sign, wider parking space dimensions, and vertical clearance of at least 98 inches to accommodate van height.

Understanding the requirements for accessible parking spaces is essential for both businesses and individuals. By ensuring compliance with ADA regulations, we create a more inclusive and accessible environment for everyone. Accessible parking spaces are not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental step toward building a more inclusive and welcoming community for individuals with disabilities.

If you have further questions or require assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (Voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY) or you can give us a call at 918-770-9958 and we will do our best to answer any questions you may have.

You can also visit www.ADA.gov for more detailed information on the American With Disabilities Act (ADA). You can download the information outlined above HERE that explains it in more details.

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