Owning a commercial property with a parking lot in Northeast Ohio comes with a responsibility: you must keep your lot safe, accessible, and compliant with both federal ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) rules and Ohio’s specific requirements. Failing to do that can expose you to liabilities, fines, and damage to your reputation.
Here’s your friendly, practical guide to running an “ADA health check” on your parking lot: what to look for, where many properties fall short, and how S&K Asphalt can help you stay ahead of problems.
Why ADA Compliance Matters (Beyond Legal Risk)
Accessibility compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s about providing fair access to everyone and improving your business image.
• Many accessibility requirements are “ongoing obligations.” Even if your lot was compliant years ago, repairs or resurfacing can trigger new requirements.
• Ohio law requires private businesses to remove accessibility barriers where “readily achievable.” Restriping or adding signage is typically considered readily achievable (see Ohio Secretary of State’s ADA Parking Guide.
• A well-marked, well-maintained accessible parking layout improves usability and safety for all customers.
Step-by-Step ADA Audit for Parking Lots
Here’s a simplified checklist you can use to assess whether your Ohio parking lot is ADA compliant:
1. Accessible Spaces Count: Verify you have the correct number of accessible and van-accessible spaces per ADA’s scoping table.
2. Van-Accessible Spaces: At least one of every six accessible spaces must be van-accessible (https://adata.org/factsheet/parking).
3. Dimensions & Layout: Standard spaces must be at least 8 ft wide with a 5 ft access aisle. Van spaces require either a 132 in space + 60 in aisle or 96 in space + 96 in aisle. (https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-5-parking/).
4. Slope & Surface: The slope of accessible spaces and aisles must not exceed 2.08%. Surfaces should be firm, stable, and slip-resistant. (https://www.ada.gov/resources/restriping-parking-spaces/).
5. Signage: Each space must have a vertical sign with the International Symbol of Accessibility, mounted at least 5 ft high. Van spaces must be labeled “Van Accessible.”
6. Accessible Route: Ensure there’s a smooth, direct route from accessible parking to your building entrance without obstructions or abrupt changes in level.
7. Maintenance & Snow Removal: Keep paint fresh, signage visible, and snow cleared from spaces and access aisles. Obstructions or snow piles can result in noncompliance.
Ohio and Local Considerations
Because S&K Asphalt serves Akron, Summit County, and surrounding Northeast Ohio communities, it’s important to note these local factors:
• The Ohio Secretary of State’s ADA Parking Guide aligns with federal rules but clarifies state-level expectations, such as signage and van space clearance (https://www.ohiosos.gov/globalassets/publications/election/ada/adaparkingguide2021.pdf).
• Summit County’s Code (Chapter 351) addresses handicapped locations on public and private lots (https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/summitcounty/latest/summitco_oh/0-0-0-8955).
• Municipalities like Stow, Fairlawn, and Solon may add signage or fine details to enforce compliance. Always check with your local building department.
• Snow removal and winter maintenance are crucial. Blocking curb ramps or access aisles with plowed snow is a common local issue.
How S&K Asphalt Can Help You Achieve Compliance
S&K Asphalt provides expert paving and striping services designed to keep your parking lot compliant and accessible:
• Precision Striping: Durable paint and layout that meet ADA and Ohio standards.
• Signage Installation: Mounting compliant signs at proper heights and placements.
• Layout Consulting: CAD drawings or scaled plans to ensure correct space widths and aisles.
• Resurfacing & Leveling: Correct slope or drainage issues that compromise compliance.
• Maintenance Plans: Regular inspections, repainting, and seasonal snow strategies to preserve accessibility.
Ready to make sure your lot is ADA-compliant? Call S&K Asphalt us today at 330-919-6354 or request a free estimate. Let’s get your parking lot compliant now, so it’s safe, accessible, and looks great.