Complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures your business is accessible to people with disabilities. The ADA issues guidelines for all major components of a commercial property, including parking lots. As you work with your concrete contractor to provide an accessible lot, here are some important ADA recommendations to keep in mind.

How Many Accessible Spaces Are Necessary?

The exact number of accessible spaces you need is determined by the total number of spaces available in the lot. All lots need at least one van-accessible spot; lots with 201 or more spaces require increasingly greater numbers of van-only parking spots. 

Lots with up to 25 spots require no specific parking for standard accessibility other than vans, but the more spots a lot has, the more accessible spaces it will need. This chart breaks down the precise number of spaces your lot will require to bring it into ADA compliance. Bear in mind that certain businesses, like hospitals and rehabilitation centers, must have 10% to 20% more accessible parking.

Where Should Accessible Spots Be Located?

Accessible spots must be located as close as possible to building entrances and exits. They should also be within a reasonable distance from the entrances and exits of the lot itself, as this allows for easier pulling in and out and maintains the driver's right of way. If you have ramps or doors designed specifically for wheelchairs or other mobility aids, the nearest parking spots should be ADA-compliant.

Other Considerations

A concrete contractor can review your parking lot plans and offer insights on other ADA measures that may be helpful. Standard accessible spaces need to be at least 96 inches wide and run the full length of the stall, with a 60-inch access aisle adjacent to the spot. Van-accessible spaces must be a minimum of 132 inches wide and run the full length of the stall.

Remember to include proper signage so that your customers can easily identify accessible spots. All accessible stalls must be marked with the International Symbol of Accessibility mounted on a pole. Also, paint the concrete in a bright color like blue or white to further distinguish the spot and help guide drivers in and out.

The concrete contractors at Barlow Concrete Construction Inc. will be your allies in designing an ADA-compliant parking lot. This business has served Curtis Bay, MD, since 1992. They offer commercial concrete services, including parking lots, walkways, and patios. Call (410) 789-0001 to request a quote, or visit them online to explore their commercial offerings.