Handicap Parking Compliance

Handicapped accessible parking spaces with signs comply with guidelines.

Handicap parking compliance is necessary to allow persons with disabilities access to parking in business and shopping center lots and parking ramps. There are guidelines to be followed to ensure standardized handicapped parking is available.

Spaces

The number of accessible parking spaces in a parking lot is determined by the total spots available in the lot. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG) 4.1.2 (5) is a chart that determines the minimum number of handicap parking spaces required.

Size

According to the website Dimensions Guide, "In the United States, the width of standard handicap parking space is 96 inches." Van-accessible spaces must have an adjacent 5-foot-wide loading area.

Signage

Each handicap parking space should have the International Symbol of Accessibility. Each sign should be centered at the head end of the space and mounted 4 feet to 5 feet above the ground.

Usage

Vehicles with handicap license plates or a hanging placard are permitted to use handicap parking spaces. Do not park on the striped access aisles in between the parking spaces. This area is used for loading mobility devices. Blocking this area could lead to a ticket for obstructing disability parking for others (see Resource).

References

• Access Board: The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
• Dimensions Guide: Dimensions of a Handicap Parking Space
• Minnesota State Council on Disability: "Building Access Survey;" 2001

Resources

• Minnesota State Council on Disability: Disability Parking: Facts You Need to Know