Parking lot striping does more than guide traffic and organize parking spaces. For commercial property managers and industrial facility operators in Northern California, it plays a critical role in meeting federal requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Failing to comply with ADA regulations can lead to fines, lawsuits, or restrictions on property use. That’s why understanding the basics of compliant striping is essential for any business or facility with a parking area.
This guide breaks down what you need to know about ADA-compliant parking lot striping, including space layout, measurements, signage, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is ADA-Compliant Parking Lot Striping?
ADA-compliant parking lot striping refers to the design, layout, and marking of accessible parking spaces to meet federal requirements for people with disabilities. These regulations exist to create safe, accessible paths from parking areas to facility entrances. The layout must allow for mobility devices such as wheelchairs and provide enough space for vans with ramps.
The ADA guidelines apply to new construction and, in many cases, to existing facilities undergoing repaving, restriping, or significant renovation.
How Many Accessible Spaces Are Required?
The number of accessible spaces is based on the total number of parking spaces in the lot. At a minimum:
- 1 of every 6 accessible spaces must be van-accessible
- Lots with 1–25 total spaces require at least 1 accessible space
- Lots with 26–50 spaces require at least 2 accessible spaces
- Requirements increase from there based on total capacity
For example, a commercial facility in Sacramento with 200 spaces needs at least 6 accessible spaces, and 2 of those must be van-accessible.
For complete guidelines, the U.S. Access Board provides detailed breakdowns by lot size and type of facility.
Striping Dimensions for ADA Compliance
Accessible spaces must meet specific size and striping requirements:
- Standard accessible space: At least 8 feet wide with a 5-foot access aisle
- Van-accessible space: At least 8 feet wide with an 8-foot access aisle
- Access aisles: Must be marked with diagonal striping and cannot be shared between two spaces unless centrally located
The access aisle must connect directly to a designated accessible route leading to an entrance. Curb ramps should not extend into the aisle space. The layout should also avoid steep slopes, as surfaces must be stable, firm, and slip-resistant.
Signage and Surface Markings
In addition to painted striping, ADA-compliant parking areas must include appropriate signage:
- Each accessible space must have a sign with the International Symbol of Accessibility mounted at least 60 inches above the ground
- Van-accessible spaces must be labeled as such
- Pavement markings typically include the symbol of accessibility painted on the surface
It’s important that signage is not blocked by parked vehicles or landscaping features. Permanent, weather-resistant materials should be used to avoid fading or damage over time.
Location Matters
ADA regulations require accessible parking spaces to be located on the shortest accessible route to the building entrance. This often means spaces near main doors, but it can vary by site layout. For large sites with multiple entrances, accessible spaces should be distributed to serve each entrance.
If the main entrance is not accessible, the parking spaces must still be located on the closest route to the accessible entry point.
Striping Paint and Material Selection
The quality and durability of your striping material can impact ADA compliance. Faded lines and markings can confuse drivers and lead to improper use of spaces. For high-traffic areas in Northern California, weather-resistant thermoplastic or epoxy-based paints often last longer than traditional latex paint.
Make sure the contractor you hire uses high-contrast colors that meet visibility standards. Blue is the standard background color for accessible surface markings, with white or yellow used for symbols and lines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some of the most frequent ADA-related issues with parking lot striping include:
- Incorrect number of accessible spaces
- Improper access aisle widths
- Shared aisles without central placement
- Missing or poorly mounted signage
- Faded striping or damaged markings
- Inaccessible routes to building entrances
Each of these problems can lead to violations or lawsuits. Taking shortcuts during planning or striping can cost more in the long run.
When to Re-Stripe
ADA compliance isn’t a one-time box to check. Property managers should inspect parking lot striping regularly. In most cases, striping needs to be refreshed every 18 to 36 months, depending on climate, traffic volume, and materials used.
Any time you resurface, sealcoat, or change the layout of a parking lot, ADA striping must be updated to match current standards.
Who Is Responsible?
Ultimately, the property owner or facility manager is responsible for ADA compliance. Even if you hire a contractor to handle striping, you are still accountable for the result. That’s why it’s critical to work with experienced paving professionals who understand both federal and state-specific requirements.
For example, in California, the state building code has additional requirements layered on top of the federal ADA standards. These include specific signage details, contrast levels, and path-of-travel considerations that not every contractor is equipped to handle.
Additional ADA Resources
Understanding ADA rules is critical not only for legal compliance but also for serving the needs of the community. If you need clarification on state and federal parking lot guidelines, the ADA National Network provides fact sheets and checklists that can help you stay aligned with current regulations.
Working with the Right Partner
Parking lot striping isn’t just about paint—it’s about protecting people and property. For commercial and industrial properties across Northern California, staying ADA compliant helps reduce legal risk and improves access for tenants, employees, and visitors.
Working with an experienced contractor like BRIXCO means getting the job done right. We understand the ins and outs of ADA requirements and California building codes. Our team uses durable materials, precise measurements, and high-visibility markings that last. Whether you’re building a new facility or re-striping an existing lot, we’ll make sure your property is accessible and ready for inspection.
Contact BRIXCO for Professional Parking Lot Striping
Don’t leave ADA compliance up to chance. Contact BRIXCO today for professional parking lot striping services across Northern California. From planning to layout to final striping, our team is here to help you meet ADA guidelines and keep your property safe and accessible.
FAQ: Parking Lot Striping for ADA Compliance
1. How often should a commercial parking lot be re-striped to maintain ADA compliance?
Most commercial lots should be re-striped every 18 to 36 months, depending on wear and tear, climate, and traffic volume. In Northern California, exposure to sun and seasonal rain can cause striping to fade faster. Even if the paint still looks visible, any changes to your lot’s layout or pavement condition—like resurfacing or sealcoating—require updating striping to maintain ADA compliance. It’s also smart to schedule inspections after major maintenance work or ahead of routine building inspections.
2. What happens if my property fails an ADA inspection due to parking lot striping issues?
If your parking lot is found to be non-compliant, you may face fines, legal action, or be required to make immediate corrections. A quick review and re-striping job from a qualified contractor can help address violations without costly delays or rework.
3. Do I need van-accessible spaces even if no one at my property uses them?
Yes. ADA regulations require a minimum number of van-accessible spaces based on the total number of parking spaces, regardless of who is currently using the property. These requirements are proactive, not reactive, and are intended to serve all potential users. Even if you haven’t had a tenant or visitor request one, your property still needs to meet the van-accessible criteria to be compliant and avoid liability.
Buck Neu is the President and CEO of BRIXCO Construction Group, a commercial construction firm based in Milpitas, California. Since joining BRIXCO in 2017, Buck has held multiple leadership roles, including Operations Manager and Vice President/CFO, before stepping into his current role in 2022. His professional experience spans over 15 years in civil and commercial construction, including key project management and project engineer roles. Buck holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Management from Arizona State University, where he specialized in heavy and civil construction. He brings a mix of field experience and financial leadership to every project he oversees.
