ADA Compliance and Parking Lot Striping: What You Can’t Overlook

If you manage a property, you’ve got a lot on your plate. Between leaky roofs, cranky tenants and potholes popping up like weeds, it’s easy to let a few faded parking lines slide.
But here’s the thing: when it comes to ADA compliance, those lines aren’t just for looks. They’re the law and ignoring them could cost you big.

What’s ADA Compliance, Anyway?

ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. It’s all about making sure people with disabilities have the same access to businesses and public spaces as everybody else.
One part of that? Your parking lot.

If your lot doesn’t have the right number of handicap-accessible spaces and if they’re not marked clearly, you could end up paying steep fines. Worse, you could be putting people at risk.

How Many Handicap Spaces Do You Need?

Short answer: it depends on how many total spaces you have.

• 1–25 spaces? You need at least one accessible spot

• 26–50 spaces? Two accessible spots

• 51–75 spaces? Three accessible spots

And so on.
Plus, one out of every six accessible spots must be van-accessible meaning extra-wide with vertical clearance.

It’s Not Just About the Numbers

The rules aren’t just about how many spaces. You also have to think about:

• Signs: You need the official blue and white ADA signs posted high enough to see over parked vehicles

• Surface Markings: Handicap symbols must be bright, visible and the right size

• Location: Accessible spaces should be close to the entrance with a clear path that doesn’t involve dodging potholes or climbing curbs

If you don’t check all these boxes, you’re out of compliance.
And a quick slap of blue paint over an old crack won’t cut it.

Why Parking Lot Striping Matters

Here’s where Shield Asphalt comes in.
Good striping doesn’t just keep you legal. It keeps your lot safer and smarter.

Clear lines mean smoother traffic flow, fewer accidents and happier customers. Plus, fresh striping makes your property look sharp and well maintained.
And let’s be real: first impressions count.

When a customer pulls into your lot, you want them to think,

"Hey, if they care enough to keep their lot in good shape, they’ll take care of me too."

Don’t Wait Until It’s a Problem

If your lot’s looking faded, cracked or confusing, it’s time to act.
Shield Asphalt makes it easy. We’ll take care of striping, signage and compliance so you can focus on everything else you’ve got going on.

Get it done right. Stay ahead of the headaches.
Give us a call and let’s get your lot looking (and working) the way it should.