Space Sizes & Layout
Key numbers — Space Layout
Signs & How Many Spaces
Key numbers — Signs & Scoping
How Many Accessible Spaces Are Required?
The number of accessible parking spaces you need depends on the total number of parking spaces in your lot or garage. The ADA's 2010 Standards provide a specific scoping table.
For example:
- A small medical office with 15 spaces needs at least 1 accessible space.
- A retail store with 60 spaces needs at least 3 accessible spaces.
- A shopping center with 400 spaces needs at least 8 accessible spaces.
Medical facilities that specialize in treating people with mobility impairments must provide 20% accessible spaces for outpatient areas (§208.2.1).
Official Standard
2010 ADA Standards §208.2 — Minimum Number
Parking facilities shall provide accessible parking spaces in accordance with the following table:
| Total Spaces | Min. Accessible |
|---|---|
| 1–25 | 1 |
| 26–50 | 2 |
| 51–75 | 3 |
| 76–100 | 4 |
| 101–150 | 5 |
| 151–200 | 6 |
| 201–300 | 7 |
| 301–400 | 8 |
| 401–500 | 9 |
| 501–1000 | 2% of total |
| 1001+ | 20 + 1 per 100 over 1000 |
Van-Accessible Spaces
For every six accessible spaces (or fraction of six), at least one must be van-accessible. Wheelchair vans need extra room to deploy a side-mounted ramp or lift.
Two configurations are allowed:
Van-accessible spaces must be identified with a sign that includes the words "Van Accessible" in addition to the International Symbol of Accessibility.
Official Standard
2010 ADA Standards §208.2.4
"For every six or fraction of six accessible parking spaces required by 208.2, at least one shall be a van parking space complying with 502."
§502.2 — Vehicle Spaces
Car parking spaces: 96 inches (8 ft) wide minimum. Van parking spaces: 132 inches (11 ft) wide minimum. An alternative configuration of 96 inches (8 ft) van space with 96 inches (8 ft) access aisle is permitted.
Space Dimensions
Here are the minimum dimensions:
Two adjacent accessible spaces may share a single access aisle between them. The aisle must connect to an accessible route leading to the building entrance.
Official Standard
2010 ADA Standards §502.2 — Vehicle Spaces
"Car parking spaces shall be 96 inches (2440 mm) wide minimum."
§502.3 — Access Aisles
"Access aisles serving parking spaces shall comply with 502.3. Access aisles shall adjoin an accessible route."
"§502.3.1 Width. Access aisles serving car parking spaces shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum. Access aisles serving van parking spaces shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum."
Location Requirements
Accessible parking spaces must be located on the shortest accessible route to the entrance they serve. That means:
- As close to the entrance as possible
- On a route that doesn't require crossing traffic lanes, going up/down stairs, or navigating steep slopes
- If a facility has multiple entrances, accessible spaces should be dispersed among them
- In a parking garage, accessible spaces should be on the level closest to the building entrance or elevator
2010 ADA Standards §208.3.1
"Parking spaces complying with 502 that serve a particular building or facility shall be located on the shortest accessible route from parking to an entrance complying with 206.4."
Signage Requirements
Every accessible parking space must have a sign:
- Show the International Symbol of Accessibility(blue wheelchair symbol)
- Be mounted at least 60 inches (5 ft) above the ground, measured to the bottom of the sign — so it's visible even when a vehicle is parked in the space
- Van-accessible spaces must include the text "Van Accessible"
Ground-painted symbols alone are not sufficient. An upright post-mounted sign is always required. Many states also require signs to display the fine amounts for illegal use.
Official Standard
2010 ADA Standards §502.6
"Accessible parking spaces shall be identified by signs showing the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with 703.7.2.1. Signs identifying van parking spaces shall contain the designation 'van accessible.' Signs shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground surface measured to the bottom of the sign."
Slope and Surface Requirements
Accessible spaces and their access aisles must be nearly level:
- Maximum slope of 1:48 (approximately 2%) in any direction — this is essentially flat
- The surface must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant
- The access aisle must be at the same level as the parking space — no curbs, steps, or level changes between them
- Loose gravel, deep grass, or unpaved surfaces generally do not comply
These requirements exist because even a slight slope can cause a wheelchair to roll unexpectedly, making it dangerous for someone transferring between their vehicle and their wheelchair.
Important Note
This guide covers federal ADA standards. Your state or local building code may impose stricter requirements for accessible parking dimensions, signage, and slope. Always check both federal and local requirements. For legal advice, connect with an experienced ADA attorney.
Official Standard
2010 ADA Standards §502.4
"Parking spaces and access aisles shall comply with 302. Access aisles shall be at the same level as the parking spaces they serve. Changes in level are not permitted."
§502.4 — Floor or Ground Surfaces
"Parking spaces and access aisles serving them shall have surface slopes not steeper than 1:48." (Approximately 2% in any direction.)
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Related guide: Accessible Parking Rights