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2.6.1 Types, Width and Requirements of Accessible Off-Street Parking Spaces

Two types of accessible parking spaces are required; identified as ‘Type A’ and ‘Type B’ spaces.

Type A spaces are wider spaces, primarily intended to accommodate a person who uses a vehicle equipped with a mechanical lift or wheelchair ramp. They incorporate space beside the parked vehicle for the deployment of the lift or ramp and must be marked as “Van Accessible”. Although Type A spaces are identified by signs as being “Van Accessible”, they can be used by anyone who has a valid accessible parking permit.

Type B spaces are standard parking spaces, primarily intended for people who use wheelchairs, canes, crutches or walkers but who don’t need the extra space for a lift or ramp.

The Requirements of this Section apply to:

Government of Ontario, Legislative Assembly, and Designated Public Sector Organizations

Private / Not-for-Profit Sector Organizations

Large Small

Regulation Reference: 80.34(see page 23 for link to the regulation)

Requirements of Accessible Off-Street Parking Spaces - Type and WidthType A:

• Minimum 3,400 mm wide (Refer also to Section 2.6.3 for Access Aisle requirements)

• Identified with a “Van Accessible” sign, in addition to signage requirements under the Highway Traffic Act.

2.6.1 Types, Width and Requirements of Accessible Off-Street Parking Spaces

Photo 2.6.1.1 Accessible Parking with Wheel-Stop

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2.6.1 Types, Width and Requirements of Accessible Off-Street Parking Spaces

Type B:

• Minimum 2,400 mm wide. (Referalso to Section 2.6.3 for AccessAisle requirements)

• Identified with accessible parkingsignage required under the HighwayTraffic Act.

Better Practice ConsiderationsSurface: Consider a firm, stable and slip-resistant surface for accessible parking spaces and their access aisles. Loose material such as gravel does not provide the necessary stability, and is particularly difficult for people who use wheelchairs and other types of mobility aids to traverse. For slip resistance values, refer to Appendix G.

Slope: Consider the slope of accessible parking spaces and their access aisles. Is it sufficient for drainage? Slopes should be minimized where possible and never steeper than 1:25 (4%). A slope no steeper than 1:50 (2%) is ideal.

Wheel-stops: Where spaces are configured such that the front or rear of parked vehicles is immediately adjacent to a pedestrian walkway, consider incorporating wheel-stops to prevent vehicle overhangs which could reduce the width of the walkway.

Photo 2.6.1.2 Van Parking with Side Exit Ramp.

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2.6.1 Types, Width and Requirements of Accessible Off-Street Parking Spaces

Figure 2.6.1.1 Design Requirements and Better Practices for Type A Parking Spaces

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2.6.1 Types, Width and Requirements of Accessible Off-Street Parking Spaces

Figure 2.6.1.2 Design Requirements and Better Practices for Type B Parking Spaces