ADA Parking Requirements for Missouri Businesses

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires all businesses open to the public to provide accessible parking spaces. Non-compliance can result in fines of $75,000 for first violations and $150,000 for subsequent violations.

How Many Accessible Spaces Do You Need?

Total Parking Spaces	Minimum Accessible Spaces
1-25	1
26-50	2
51-75	3
76-100	4
101-150	5
151-200	6
201-300	7
301-400	8
401-500	9
501-1000	2% of total
1001+	20 plus 1 per 100 over 1000

Van-Accessible Space Requirements

At least one of every six accessible spaces (or fraction thereof) must be van-accessible. Van-accessible spaces require:

Minimum width: 11 feet (space) + 5 feet (access aisle) = 16 feet total

Alternative: 8-foot space with 8-foot access aisle (universal design)

Standard Accessible Space Requirements

According to the U.S. Access Board's ADA Standards:

Minimum width: 8 feet for the parking space

Access aisle: 5 feet minimum, shared between two spaces allowed

Surface: Firm, stable, and slip-resistant

Slope: Maximum 2% in any direction

Required Signage

Each accessible space must have:

Post-mounted sign showing the International Symbol of Accessibility

"Van Accessible" designation where applicable

Mounting height: 60 inches minimum from ground to bottom of sign

Fine amount posted per Missouri law

Pavement Markings

Blue border around the space (recommended)

White International Symbol of Accessibility on the ground

Access aisles marked with diagonal stripes

"NO PARKING" in access aisles

Location Requirements

Accessible spaces must be:

Located on the shortest accessible route to the entrance

On level ground (maximum 2% slope)

Connected to accessible routes via curb ramps or level surfaces

Common Compliance Mistakes

Faded markings - Must be clearly visible

Blocked access aisles - Shopping carts, debris, or snow

Missing or low signage - Signs must be visible when a vehicle is parked

Incorrect slope - Often overlooked during resurfacing

Wrong number of spaces - Recalculate after lot expansion

Enforcement in Missouri

Missouri follows federal ADA guidelines. Enforcement can come from:

Department of Justice investigations

Private lawsuits from individuals

Local building inspectors during permits

How STL Line Striping Can Help

We specialize in ADA-compliant parking lot markings. Our services include:

Complete ADA compliance audits

Proper space and aisle dimensions

Correct symbol and signage placement

Documentation for your records

Don't risk costly fines. Contact us for a free compliance assessment.

ADA Parking Requirements in Missouri: Complete Compliance Guide (2026)