Is Your Parking Lot ADA Compliant? Why It Matters More Than You Think
Is Your Parking Lot ADA Compliant? Why It Matters More Than You Think
As a business owner, maintaining a clean, safe, and accessible property isn’t just good practice, it’s your responsibility. And while your storefront might shine and your team may deliver top-notch service, overlooking your parking lot could cost you in more ways than one.
One of the most critical, but often overlooked, aspects of your lot is ADA compliance.
ADA Compliance: More Than Just a Suggestion
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses and public entities to ensure their facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities. That includes parking lots, which must meet specific guidelines for accessible spaces.
Here’s something many business owners don’t realize! When it comes to projects like striping or re-striping a parking lot, compliance is considered “readily achievable” by the ADA. Why? Because it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other renovations.
Failing to meet these standards can lead to hefty fines, lawsuits, and a damaged reputation.
What the Law Says
In 2010, the U.S. Department of Justice issued updated regulations outlining minimum requirements for accessible parking. These include:
Number of Accessible Parking Spaces
Determined by the total number of parking spots in your lot.
At least one of every six accessible spaces must be van-accessible.
Medical facilities may have higher requirements:
Hospital outpatient centers: 10% of spaces must be accessible.
Physical therapy or mobility-focused rehab centers: 20% must be accessible.
Location Matters
Accessible spaces must be the closest to the business entrance. If terrain or slope makes that impractical, select the nearest level area. If your building has multiple accessible entrances, parking should be dispersed accordingly.
Signage Requirements
All accessible spaces must have signs displaying the international symbol of accessibility, mounted at least 60 inches above the ground. Van-accessible spots need additional labeling to indicate their purpose.
The Hidden Costs of Noncompliance
Noncompliance can also expose your business to liability. Crumbling pavement, potholes, poor lighting, and faded striping can all contribute to serious accidents, and serious legal trouble.
Did you know that over 500 deaths occurred in parking lot accidents in 2017 alone? Not to mention countless injuries. If a hazard like a pothole is proven to have existed and you didn’t fix it, you could be held financially responsible for resulting damage or injury.
Signs Your Lot Needs Attention
Take a quick walk-through and look for these red flags:
Potholes or uneven surfaces
Cracking or settling
Crumbling edges or pitting
Standing water
Faded or missing striping
Inadequate or missing signage
Weak or webbed surface texture
Let’s Make It Easy – We’ve Got You Covered!
Whether you’re planning a new lot or just restriping, Johnson and Sons Paving can help you navigate ADA compliance with confidence. Our in-house Engineer will assess your site and develop a clear, customized plan that includes:
Parking space layout
Proper signage
Access aisles and traffic flow
ADA-compliant islands and entrances
No stress. No pressure. No surprises.
Get a Free, No Obligation ADA Compliance Assessment Today!
Let’s protect your business and serve your community better. Call (262) 251-5585 or contact the Johnson and Sons Paving team to schedule your free walkthrough and quote.
We’ll make sure your lot is accessible, compliant, and welcoming to everyone.
One of the most critical, but often overlooked, aspects of your lot is ADA compliance.
