Learn how to ensure your parking lot is ADA compliant.
When it comes to parking lots, there is no such as being “a little ADA compliant,” as there are federal standards and requirements you must meet. If you are not compliant with these requirements, you are at risk of receiving fines or potential lawsuits. Continue reading to learn more about ADA compliance and what you and your parking lot are liable for.
Number Of Accessible Parking Spaces
For business and property owners, it’s crucial that everywhere from the parking lot to the front door is in line with ADA parking lot regulations. One of the most important regulations is the number of accessible parking spaces and access aisles in your lot. An access aisle refers to the area that can accommodate wheelchair use and is connected to an accessible route. The ADA’s parking space requirements vary depending on the total number of parking spaces in your facility. For example, a lot with 51-75 spots must provide at least three accessible parking spots, while a lot with 151-200 must provide at least six.
For every six (or fraction of six) accessible spaces, there must be one van parking space for larger vehicles. So, even if you have a small lot and only need three accessible parking spaces, one is required to accommodate a van.
Required Signage
In addition to the parking spot, you must include signs identifying these spaces to customers and visitors. Many people know that when they see a blue strip on a parking space, it is reserved as a handicap only spot. In addition to the blue strip, the space needs a sign placed a minimum of 60 inches from the ground to ensure they are completely visible. This sign must include the International Symbol of Accessibility.
No Cracks In Pavement
An accessible parking space must be on pavement that is “stable, firm, and slip resistant,” which refers to the slope as well as the quality of the pavement. Cracks and potholes can be dangerous for all customers, but especially to those in wheelchairs. Large cracks and ruts can cause a wheelchair to get stuck and makes it much more difficult for someone to get to the building from the parking lot, meaning that property owners can be liable.
Maintenance You Can Trust from PTG Enterprises
If you want to protect your pavement and ensure it has a long lifespan, choose PTG Enterprises for your retaining wall, sealcoating and asphalt maintenance needs. We offer commercial concrete, masonry, asphalt installation, repair, and paving throughout Baltimore, Harford, Anne Arundel, Howard, and P.G. Counties. If you are interested in hearing how we can help you, contact us onlineor give us a call at (410) 636-8777. For more tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Google+, and Flickr.
Tags: ADA, My Pavement Guy, Parking lot, PTG Enterprises
