ADA Ramp Requirements 2025 (Commercial Property)

ADA Ramp Requirements 2025: Complete Commercial Property Guide

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) ramp requirements are strict and non-negotiable for commercial properties. Non-compliance results in legal liability, fines, and accessibility violations. This guide covers the exact requirements you must meet for ADA-compliant ramps.

Maximum Slope: 1:12

The maximum allowable slope is 1:12. This means for every 12 inches of horizontal distance (run), the ramp can rise no more than 1 inch (rise).

How to Calculate Slope

Measure the total rise (vertical height to overcome)
Divide by 1/12 (0.0833) to get minimum ramp length
Example: 24-inch rise ÷ 0.0833 = 288 inches (24 feet) minimum ramp length

Why This Matters

Steeper ramps are too difficult for wheelchair users
ADA requires specific slopes for accessibility
Non-compliance = legal liability

Maximum Rise: 30 Inches Before Landing

Ramps cannot exceed 30 inches of rise before requiring a landing. This provides rest areas for users.

Landing Requirements

Minimum size: 60 inches by 60 inches (5 feet square)
Required at: Top, bottom, and every 30 inches of rise
Purpose: Rest area and turning space

How This Works

For rise of 30 inches or less: Landing at top and bottom
For rise over 30 inches: Landing every 30 inches of rise
Each landing must be level (no slope)

Handrails: Required on Both Sides

Handrails are required on both sides of the ramp.

Handrail Specifications

Height: 34-38 inches above ramp surface
Extension: Must extend 12 inches beyond top and bottom of ramp
Grippable: Round or oval cross-section, 1.25-2 inches diameter
Continuous: Uninterrupted along entire ramp length

Additional Requirements

Must be mounted securely
No sharp edges or projections
Clearance from wall (1.5 inches minimum)

Width Requirements

Minimum clear width: 36 inches between handrails

Measured between handrails, not including handrails themselves
Clear path must be maintained
Wider is better for accessibility

Surface Requirements

Firm and stable: Must not shift or compress
Slip-resistant: Adequate traction in all weather
Smooth: No gaps, bumps, or abrupt changes
Concrete: Excellent choice for ADA ramps

Edge Protection

Ramps require edge protection:

Curbs: Minimum 2 inches high
Railings: Can serve as edge protection
Purpose: Prevent wheels from going over edge

Bottom Landing

The bottom landing must:

Be level (no slope)
Extend beyond ramp a minimum of 60 inches
Provide clear path to accessible route

Top Landing

The top landing must:

Be level (no slope)
Minimum 60 inches by 60 inches
At same level as door threshold (or within 1/2 inch)

Documentation and Compliance

For commercial properties:

Keep documentation of compliance
Have plans reviewed for ADA compliance
Consider professional ADA consultation
Regular inspections to ensure ongoing compliance

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliant ramps can result in:

Legal liability and lawsuits
Fines and penalties
Forced removal and reconstruction
Accessibility violations

The Bottom Line

ADA ramp requirements are strict: Maximum slope 1:12, maximum 30 inches rise before landing, handrails on both sides, minimum 36-inch clear width, proper landings, and specific surface and edge protection requirements. Non-compliance creates legal liability and accessibility violations.

For commercial properties, ADA compliance is mandatory, not optional. Work with professionals who understand and can document ADA compliance to protect yourself from liability.

Need ADA-compliant ramp construction? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We build ramps that meet all ADA requirements and provide documentation for compliance.