Parking spaces for disabled people are required by two federal laws, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act. The laws require specific standards for the number of disabled spaces, the dimensions of spaces, and signage. The minimum number of spaces to be set aside depends on the total parking lot capacity. Every space must be clearly marked with the International Symbol of Accessibility. Local codes may have additional requirements.

Number of spaces

• The minimum number of disabled parking spaces is determined by the total capacity of the parking lot.
• For lots up to 25 spaces: Requires at least one accessible space.
• For lots with 26 to 50 spaces: Requires at least two accessible spaces.
• For larger lots: The number of required spaces increases with the total number of spaces.

For example, a lot with 60 spaces requires 3 accessible spaces, and a lot with over 500 spaces must have at least two percent accessible spaces.

Space and aisle dimensions

• Standard spaces: Must be at least 8 feet wide with a 5-foot-wide access aisle.
• Van-accessible spaces: Must be 11 feet .wide, or 8 feet wide if it is paired with an 8-foot access aisle.

Signage and marking

• All accessible parking spaces must be clearly marked with the International Symbol of Accessibility.
• In California, the sign must include the words "Permanent Parking Only" and indicate that it is a "towaway zone".
• In many private properties, including condominiums, the blue wheelchair symbol must be visible.

Additional considerations

• Condominium associations are be required to provide reasonable accommodation for disabled residents, which could include a parking space closer to their unit or one large enough for a specially equipped vehicle.
• Local building codes may have different. requirements than federal or state law. In such cases, the law that is most beneficial to disabled individuals must be followed.
• Private property parking rules may differ, but the law can still apply if there are public parking spaces available.
• Ensuring compliance is crucial, as non-compliance can lead to significant legal and financial penalties.

 

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