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Handicap Ramp Requirements

Learning more about handicap ramp requirements is important for disabled persons, wheelchair users and for anyone wishing to add or provide a ramp to their business. For safety reasons, there are several important guidelines for ramps.

  1. Types Of Handicap Ramps

    • The main types of ramps are permanent or semi-permanent and portable. Portable ramps are smaller and are designed to be used to help facilitate movement to and from vehicles and houses. Permanent or semi-permanent ramps are usually found on buildings and are designed to provide permanent access and exit alternatives for disabled individuals.

    Rise And Slope Requirements

    • In general, the Americans with Disabilities Act recommends the least possible slope be used for a ramp, with the maximum slope for a a new ramp no more or less than 1:12 and the maximum rise no more or less than 30 inches. Exceptions to this rule are sometimes made for existing ramps and for historic buildings if it is determined that building a ramp to these specifications is not possible or would cause exterior or interior damage.

    Landings And Transitions

    • For wheelchairs in particular, it is important to include landings at both the base and the top of the ramp for easy and safe transition.

    Handrails

    • Handrails are important for safety and support and they need to be securely and properly placed. They should be placed on both sides of each ramp segment. They should be no less than 2 ½ feet but no more than 3 feet above the ramp's surface.

    Outdoor Conditions

    • Semi-permanent or permanent ramps installed outdoors on public buildings must be kept free of water, snow, ice and debris. This can be accomplished by regular maintenance and by using canopies and built-in heating coils.

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