Key takeaways
- The number of accessible spaces depends on the total number of spaces in the lot. See the table below.
- At least 1 of every 6 accessible spaces must be van-accessible.
- Accessible spaces and access aisles must be nearly flat, no steeper than a 1:48 slope (about 2%) in any direction.
- California's rules (Building Code Chapter 11B) are generally stricter than federal ADA, with extra signage and marking requirements.
- Many violations are physical, like slopes, ramps and cracked walkways, and can't be fixed with paint alone.
How Many Accessible Spaces Do You Need?
Under the 2010 ADA Standards (Table 208.2), the minimum number of accessible spaces is based on the total spaces in each parking facility:
| Total spaces in lot | Minimum accessible spaces |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| 501–1,000 | 2% of total |
| 1,001 and over | 20, plus 1 for each 100 (or fraction) over 1,000 |
Medical facilities and some other uses have higher requirements. Of the accessible spaces, at least 1 for every 6 (or fraction of 6) must be van-accessible.
Accessible Parking Checklist
Spaces & access aisles
- Access aisle next to each accessible space, at least 60 inches (5 ft) wide under federal ADA.
- Van spaces: a wider space or a wider aisle (federal ADA: a 132-inch space with a 60-inch aisle, or a 96-inch space with a 96-inch aisle). California has its own minimum dimensions, so confirm with your CASp or designer.
- Slope: no steeper than 1:48 (about 2%) in any direction across the space and aisle. Older lots fail this check often.
- Aisle markings: hatched access aisles. California also requires "NO PARKING" lettering in the aisle.
- Location: accessible spaces on the shortest accessible route to the entrance.
Signs & symbols
- An International Symbol of Accessibility sign at each accessible space, mounted high enough to be seen over parked cars (federal ADA: at least 60 inches to the bottom of the sign).
- A "Van Accessible" sign at van spaces.
- California-specific signage, including tow-away signs at lot entrances and fine information on accessible parking signs.
- Pavement symbols painted in each accessible space.
Curb ramps & path of travel
- Curb ramps with a running slope no steeper than 1:12 (about 8.3%) and level landings.
- Detectable warning surfaces (truncated domes) where required, such as at curb ramps and where walkways cross vehicle areas.
- An accessible route from the spaces to the entrance with no steps, large gaps, broken concrete or steep cross-slopes.
Common Problems We See in Older SoCal Lots
- Accessible stalls built on a slope that's too steep, which requires re-grading and repaving, not just restriping
- Missing or too-narrow access aisles after a lot was re-striped
- Old curb ramps without truncated domes, or with slopes that are too steep
- Cracked or lifted sidewalks along the path of travel
- Faded symbols and missing or outdated signs
How to Get Compliant
- Get an inspection. A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) can inspect your property and give you a written report of what needs to change.
- Get the physical work quoted. Send the report to a contractor who can do the grading, concrete, paving, striping and signage together.
- Fix it in the right order. Slopes and concrete come first, then paving, then striping and signs.
Ochoa Grading & Paving builds the physical corrections: ADA stalls, curb ramps, truncated domes, walkways, striping and signs.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Accessibility standards are detailed and change over time. For a compliance determination, consult a CASp or your local building department.