Key Takeaways:
- The total number of parking spaces determines the number of accessible parking spots in a parking lot.
- For every 25 parking spaces, there must be at least one handicapped-accessible space.
- Van-accessible spaces must also be available in the parking lot.
- Accessible spaces must be designated with signage and markings that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- JB Lines offers parking lot striping and paving services to customers in Okotoks, Alberta, and the surrounding areas.
When it comes to accessible parking spaces, many people have strong opinions. Some people feel there should be a spot for every driver who needs one, while others think the sites should only go to those who need them. How many accessible parking spaces should a parking lot have? That’s a question that has been debated for years.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to it, as the required number of accessible parking spots in a parking lot will vary according to the size and layout of the lot. However, you can follow some general guidelines to ensure that your parking lot meets all your customers’ needs. JB Lines will discuss these guidelines and provide tips for creating a parking lot that is accessible for everyone!
Benefits of Accessible Parking Spaces
Accessible parking spaces provide many benefits for individuals with disabilities. They ensure that differently-abled individuals have access to convenient and safe parking, making it easier for them to participate in activities outside the home. Also, these spaces can help reduce traffic congestion and promote social inclusion.
The Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) legally restricts discrimination against disabled persons in all areas of public life, including parking lots. The ADA requires that all new or renovated parking lots have a certain number of accessible parking spaces, depending on the size of the lot.
The ADA Accessibility Guidelines
The ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) are the standards by which compliance with the ADA is determined. The ADAAG includes specific requirements for accessible parking, including the minimum number of spaces that must be provided, the size of the spaces, and the location of the spaces within the parking lot.
To ensure that disabled people have equal access to parking facilities, the ADA Accessibility Guidelines require that all new and renovated parking facilities comply with the guidelines. Any new or renovated parking facility must provide the minimum number of accessible and van-accessible parking specified in the guidelines.
The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Parking Spaces apply to all parking facilities, including surface lots, garages, and street-level curbside spaces.
Also, please read our blog on parking lot striping mistakes to avoid.
1. Minimum Number of Accessible Parking Spaces Required
The minimum number of accessible spaces depends on the lot’s total number of parking spaces. For example, a parking lot with 100 or fewer spaces must have at least two handicapped-accessible spaces. In comparison, a parking lot with 1000 or more spaces must have at least 20 handicapped-accessible spaces.
The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Parking Spaces specify the minimum number of accessible spaces provided in a given parking facility and the specific dimensions and features these spaces must have.
The guidelines state that, in general, at least one percent of the total number of parking spaces in a given facility must be accessible. However, this minimum percentage may increase to two percent if the facility has more than 500 parking spaces or is located in an area where on-street parking is unavailable.
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2. Size of Accessible Parking Spaces
Accessible spaces must be wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or other mobility device. They must be at least 8 feet wide and 18 feet long, with an additional 5-foot wide aisle adjacent to each space. The aisle must be marked so that it is clearly for handicapped access only. The access aisle must be free of obstacles and connected to an accessible route to the building entrance.
3. Location of Accessible Parking Spaces within the Parking Lot
Accessible spaces must be allocated on the shortest route from the entrance to the building or facility they serve. They should also be located close to an accessible entrance, if possible. If multiple entries exist to a building or facility, accessible spaces should be located near each entrance.
4. Signage with International Symbol of Accessibility
Accessible spaces must also be designated with signage of international symbols of accessibility. The sign must be anchored at least five feet above the ground to be visible to people with disabilities who use mobility devices.
5. Van-Accessible Parking Spaces
In addition to the required number of accessible parking spots, the ADA Guidelines also specify that a facility manager provides a certain percentage of van-accessible spaces. These spaces are wider than standard ones. They have an adjacent access aisle at least eight feet wide to accommodate wheelchair users who use vans for transportation.
Van-accessible parking must also be designated with signage of the international symbol of accessibility and the word “van.”The sign must be placed at least five feet above the ground to be visible to people with disabilities who use mobility devices.
6. Requirements for Accessible Parking Spaces
There are specific requirements for accessible parking, as set forth by the ADA. These spaces must be at least 8 feet wide and have an access aisle 5 feet wide.
7. Exceptions to the Rule
Some exceptions to the rule require a certain number of accessible spaces in a parking lot. For example, if a parking lot has fewer than 100 spaces, it is unnecessary to have handicapped-accessible areas. Additionally, suppose a parking lot is only used for employee vehicles and is not open to the public. In that case, it is not required to have any handicapped-accessible spaces.
Need Parking Lot Striping or Paving Services in Okotoks, Alberta? No Problem!
If you’re looking for a reliable parking lot striping and paving company in the Okotoks, Alberta, area, look no further than JB Lines. We offer free estimates to give you an idea of your project’s cost before starting. We take pride in our abilities and aim to exceed our client’s expectations. Contact us today to get started!
