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Handicap Ramp Specifications for Van Buren County, Michigan

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets national guidelines for the construction of wheelchair ramps, also known as handicap ramps. If you build such a ramp in Van Buren County, Michigan, these ADA standards apply.

  1. Ramp Dimensions

    • You must construct new ramps with a slope maximum of 1:12, which means one inch incline per 12 inches of length. The ramp cannot rise more than 30 inches across its entire length. Under ADA guidelines, a handicap ramp must be at least 36 inches wide.

    Landing

    • Landings must be level and located at both ends of the ramp. This landing is required to be a minimum of 60 inches long. The landing size must be 60 inches x 60 inches if your ramp changes direction at the landings.

    Hand Railing

    • Both sides of the ramp must have handrails. The top of the rails must be from 34 to 38 inches above the ramp surface for adult use. Ramps designed for use by children shall have handrails located 28 inches above the ramp surface.

    Ramp Edges

    • If a drop-off is part of your ramp design, curbs, walls, railings, or some other surface, must prevent someone from slipping off the ramp.

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