When you construct, restripe or repaint your parking lot, there are regulations. There is a minimum amount of handicapped spaces and you need to correctly mark them to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Number of Spaces Required
No matter how many spaces you have, you always have to designate the first space to meet the requirements for van accessibility. When it comes to the number of spaces, it depends on the amount of spaces that you have.
- In lots with fewer than 100 spaces, you need one handicapped space for every 25 spaces.
- If you have less than 150 spaces and more than 100, then you need five spaces.
- If you have between 201 and 300 spaces, then you need seven spaces.
- If you have more than 301 spaces, then you need one out of every eight marked as handicapped.
Sizing of Spaces
The spaces have to be about eight feet in width. They also have to have an access aisle with about eight feet for van-accessible spaces and five feet for automobile spaces. The access aisle does not intrude into the space and needs to run the entire length of it.
Likewise, the ADA spaces have to provide access to the building by the shortest and most direct route. If there are curbs in the path, then you have to have a ramp. The ramp cannot intrude into the parking space or access aisle either.
Marking Spaces
An international symbol denotes a handicapped space. You need to have the symbol painted along with a sign installed on the front of the space. For van accessible spaces, the sign must also state that.
When it comes to marking your spaces for ADA compliancy, it’s important to have a contractor that understands the different laws and guidelines for parking lot striping. If you’re about to repaint or construct a new parking lot, contact NVM Paving & Concrete by calling us at 703-423-0471 or sending an email to [email protected] .
