An accessible parking lot provides adequate space for people with mobility issues to enter and exit vehicles. It reduces the risk of injury and improves organization on your property. Ensuring your parking lot is handicap-friendly goes beyond painting the accessibility symbol. You must follow various considerations regarding accessible parking lot striping.
Here are some essential ADA guidelines to follow.
The Number of Handicap Parking Spaces
The required number of accessible parking spaces varies based on your lot’s layout. It’s best to consult the Access Board chart or an accessible parking lot striping expert. Still, there are some general rules you should follow.
One in every six slots should be van-accessible if your parking lot has less than 500 spaces. However, if the number is between 500 and 1000, 2% must be van-accessible. Every parking lot with more than 1000 spaces should have at least 20 van-accessible spots.
While these accessible parking lot striping rules apply to most businesses, some exceptions exist. For example, medical facilities must have 10% more slots for people with mobility issues. Some facilities also require 20% more spaces to meet ADA compliance. These include clinics and rehab, offering physical therapy and mobility treatments.
If your parking lot is only for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it’s not compulsory to use accessible parking lot striping. This exemption also applies to vehicle impound or law enforcement parking areas. You only need handicap-accessible spaces in such places if you allow public access.
Handicap-Accessible Signage
Another accessible parking lot striping rule to follow pertains to signage. You must install a post with the International Symbol of Accessibility. This one has a blue background and shows a person in a wheelchair. You also need to paint the symbol on the dedicated slots.
Handicap-accessible signs should be visible to all users. You must place them at least 5 feet from the ground. Ensure no obstruction, even if vehicles park in front of the sign.
When installing handicap-accessible signage on your parking lot, ensure it doesn’t block other vehicles. The post should be visible for drivers entering and exiting the area.
Accessible Parking Slot Size
When considering accessible parking lot striping, follow some size requirements. Ensure that the slots are at least 8 feet wide and the standard length of a parking space.
Designate a 5-foot-wide access aisle next to each slot. This one should lead to a ramp or a handicap-friendly entryway.
Other Essential Accessible Parking Lot Striping Requirements
The ADA has other policies regarding accessible parking lot striping that don’t fall under a particular category. For example, you can only paint the area on a level surface. This measure ensures that the parking slot is smooth and stable for improved safety.
Here are other accessible parking lot striping considerations:
- Ensure the spaces and adjacent aisles are on the same level
- Only use blue, white, green, yellow, or red for accessible parking lot striping
- Paint diagonal hatch marks on access aisles to discourage parking
Contact Georgia Wildcat Paving for Accessible Parking Lot Striping
Hiring an expert for accessible parking lot striping has many benefits. It protects your company’s reputation and ensures compliance with federal regulations.
Georgia Wildcat Paving will help you determine the best way to stripe your parking lot for accessibility. Our professionals will consider the layout, traffic flow, and your property’s design. Request a free quote now.
