ADA Compliance & Handicap Markings - Stripe & Restripe
Accurate, Accessible, and Code-Compliant
ADA Compliance and Handicap Parking Markings
Stripe & Restripe provides full ADA parking compliance services for commercial, municipal, franchise, and multi-family properties. Our team understands the federal guidelines, Minnesota state nuances, and local ordinance requirements that govern accessible parking. Since 2007, we have helped property owners remove accessibility risk by installing compliant spaces, van-access aisles, signage, and pathways that meet legal standards and promote safe, dignified access for all visitors.
Introduction to ADA Compliance for Parking Lots
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets minimum requirements for accessible parking spaces, access aisles, signage, and routes to public facilities. Compliance not only avoids civil penalties and lawsuits but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and customer service. Stripe & Restripe specializes in precisely measuring, marking, and documenting ADA provisions to ensure your property meets or exceeds applicable standards.
Why ADA Compliance Matters
Legal Obligation
Federal ADA guidelines and Minnesota regulations require accessible parking provisions. Non-compliance can lead to fines, litigation, and forced corrective measures.
Community Access
Properly marked accessible spaces facilitate independence and safe access for individuals using wheelchairs, mobility devices, or with limited mobility.
Risk Mitigation
Clear accessible signage and designated routes reduce the risk of citations and costly retrofits.
Public Perception
Accessibility improvements signal that your property values all visitors and fosters customer loyalty.
Key Components of
ADA Parking Compliance
Required Accessible Space Count
The number of accessible spaces required is based on the total number of parking stalls at the site. We calculate and recommend the correct count.
Van-Accessible Spaces
Specific dimensions and signage for areas meant to accommodate larger wheelchair lifts.
Access Aisles
Marked adjacent areas provide space to deploy ramps or transfer from vehicles.
International Symbol of Accessibility (ISA)
Properly sized and located painted symbols that indicate accessible stalls.
Route to Entrance
A clear, obstacle-free accessible route must link parking areas to building entrances or public ways.
Surface and Slope
ADA requires stable, slip-resistant surfaces with limited slope to ensure safe movement.
Signage
Vertical signs mounted at appropriate heights and distances to mark accessible stalls and van spaces.
How Stripe & Restripe Ensures Compliance
Site Assessment and Measurement
We begin with a comprehensive audit of the parking field. This includes precise measurement of stall widths, aisle widths, slopes, drainage, and proximity to entrances. We determine the number of accessible stalls required and evaluate existing routes for compliance.
Design and Documentation
Our team drafts a compliant layout that includes stall placements, van-access locations, access aisles, crosswalks, and route designations. We provide documentation suitable for municipal permit submissions or for record-keeping in the event of an inspection.
Material Application and Durability
Accessibility markings must remain clearly visible year-round. We use durable paints with reflective elements where required and thermoplastic for high-use or high-abrasion areas. Our materials are chosen with Minnesota weather and snow removal considerations in mind.
Signage and Symbol Installation
Vertical signage is installed at the correct mounting height and setback. The painted ISA symbol is sized and positioned per federal guidelines, with blue-and-white color as standard. We ensure sign posts are placed to avoid conflict with plow patterns and pedestrian flows.
Accessibility Upgrades and Retrofits
Many older lots require retrofits to achieve ADA compliance. We handle:
Why Work with Stripe & Restripe for ADA Markings
Accuracy: Measurements and installations meet federal and state guidelines.
Documentation: We provide clear site plans and records to show compliance efforts.
Durability: Materials and installation methods designed for long life in Minnesota climates.
Coordination: We work with property managers and contractors to schedule work with minimal disruption.
Risk Reduction: Our professional installations minimize the chance of citations and litigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many accessible parking spaces does my lot need?
The required number depends on the size of your parking field. For example, a lot with 1–25 spaces typically requires 1 accessible space; larger lots require more. We perform the calculation during our site audit and provide a compliant layout.
What makes a van-accessible space different?
Van-accessible spaces require wider dimensions and a marked access aisle to accommodate side-mounted lifts. They also require an R7-8 sign (or municipal equivalent) indicating van accessibility.
What about signage height and placement?
Signs must be mounted at a specific height above the ground to ensure visibility even when vehicles are parked in adjacent spaces. We install posts and signs according to regulations and local requirements.
Can I add accessible spaces without disturbing my existing layout?
In many cases, yes. We evaluate existing circulation and can reposition stalls or reassign spaces to meet ADA counts. If major slope or surface issues exist, minor paving adjustments may be necessary.
Contact
To schedule an ADA compliance assessment or request an on-site compliance plan, call Stripe & Restripe or visit our office at 1245 Charlton St, West Saint Paul, MN 55118.