ADA Parking That’s Truly Accessible: Symbol, Sizes & Placement for IL & Beyond

Why ADA compliant parking markings matter

Clear, accurate accessible parking markings help real people get where they need to go safely. When you plan, paint, and place markings the right way, customers, visitors, and employees with disabilities can park, exit vehicles, and reach the entrance without confusion or risk. For facility managers and paving contractors, great markings also reduce liability, pass inspections, and protect your brand. This guide explains wheelchair parking stencil choices, ADA sizes, and placement best practices for Illinois and beyond so you can deliver reliable results every time.

1-800-Stencil has supplied professional grade pavement marking stencils for decades, and our team sees the same issues repeat across lots of projects. The good news is that a few smart decisions about stencil size, layout, and materials can make your accessible parking both compliant and easy to maintain. Whether you manage a single storefront or a multi site portfolio, you will find practical steps and proven tips below.

What the ADA actually requires

How many accessible spaces are required

The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design set minimum counts for accessible spaces based on the total number of parking spaces in a lot. At least one of every six accessible spaces must be van accessible. Use the list below as a quick planning snapshot, then confirm local rules before you stripe:

• 1 to 25 total spaces: at least 1 accessible space

• 26 to 50 total spaces: at least 2 accessible spaces

• 51 to 75 total spaces: at least 3 accessible spaces

• 76 to 100 total spaces: at least 4 accessible spaces

• 101 to 150 total spaces: at least 5 accessible spaces

• 151 to 200 total spaces: at least 6 accessible spaces

• 201 to 300 total spaces: at least 7 accessible spaces

• 301 to 400 total spaces: at least 8 accessible spaces

• 401 to 500 total spaces: at least 9 accessible spaces

• 501 to 1000 total spaces: 2 percent of total spaces

• More than 1000 spaces: 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1000

• At least 1 of every 6 accessible spaces, or fraction, must be van accessible

Accessible spaces should be the closest practical spaces to the accessible entrance on an accessible route. If a site has multiple entrances, accessible spaces should be distributed near the most used accessible entrances.

Stall and aisle sizes that meet ADA

Stalls and aisles work together. You need both to meet ADA requirements and to create a usable space for loading mobility devices.

• Car accessible stall: at least 96 inches wide with an adjacent access aisle at least 60 inches wide

• Van accessible stall Option A: at least 132 inches wide with an adjacent access aisle at least 60 inches wide

• Van accessible stall Option B: at least 96 inches wide with an adjacent access aisle at least 96 inches wide

• Access aisle length: same length as the parking stall and must connect to an accessible route

• Slope: cross slope and running slope of the stall and aisle should not exceed 1:48

Mark the access aisle clearly with diagonal striping and consider adding “NO PARKING” wording to discourage misuse. Post a permanent sign at each accessible space that includes the International Symbol of Accessibility and a “Van Accessible” designation for van spaces. The bottom of the lowest sign should be at least 60 inches above the ground measured at the bottom edge to ensure visibility over parked vehicles.

Wheelchair parking stencil essentials

What the symbol means and when to use it

The International Symbol of Accessibility is the familiar wheelchair icon. The ADA requires signs, not pavement paint, to designate accessible spaces. That said, many states, cities, and property owners also require or strongly prefer pavement symbols for clarity and enforcement. In Illinois and many other jurisdictions, inspectors expect both posted signs and pavement markings in blue and white, especially in new or restriped lots. Always verify what your municipality or department of transportation specifies.

Using a quality wheelchair parking stencil makes the symbol crisp, consistent, and repeatable across the entire lot. It also helps crews work fast with minimal touch up. 1-800-Stencil supplies ADA compliant wheelchair symbols in multiple sizes, plus “NO PARKING,” “VAN ACCESSIBLE,” and directional arrows to complete your layout.

Common wheelchair parking stencil sizes

The ADA does not define a pavement symbol size. Local specs and visibility drive your choice. Here are common options contractors use successfully, and how to pick the best size for the job:

• 36 inch symbol: popular for compact lots or when the symbol sits near the stall head to avoid tire wear

• 42 inch symbol: a balanced choice for most retail lots and office properties

• 48 inch symbol: excellent visibility in larger lots and for van accessible stalls

• 60 inch symbol: maximum impact near major entries or hospitals where wayfinding is critical

Scale the symbol to the stall and viewing distance. A 36 inch wheelchair parking stencil reads well up close, while 48 or 60 inch symbols are easier to see across wider aisles or multi lane drive aisles. When space allows, many crews choose 42 or 48 inches as their everyday standard.

Text stencils for aisles and curbs can help reduce misuse. Common letter heights include 12 inch, 18 inch, and 24 inch. Use larger letters in wide aisles or where snow and sand can dull contrast. 1-800-Stencil can advise on a matched set so your symbol and wording look cohesive.

Color and contrast that hold up

White symbols on a blue background field are widely recognized and often expected. In some areas, a white symbol directly on asphalt is acceptable. For best contrast and durability:

• Apply a blue rectangular field first, slightly larger than the symbol footprint

• Use a white wheelchair parking stencil over the cured blue field

• Add glass beads while the white is wet if nighttime retroreflectivity is required

• Keep edges crisp by taping the field perimeter and using a reusable stencil with clean cut edges

Check your local code for exact color guidance. IDOT and many municipalities publish paint and color notes in their pavement marking standards.

Placement that passes inspections

There is more to placement than just “paint it in the middle.” The goal is to communicate clearly without putting the symbol where tires will grind it off in a few months. Use these field tested practices:

• Center the symbol laterally between the stall lines

• Place the symbol nearer the head of the stall, typically behind the wheel stop or 24 to 36 inches from the curb

• Never place the symbol inside the striped access aisle

• Align the symbol upright so it faces the drive aisle for easy recognition

• Keep the symbol out of heavy drainage paths to reduce premature wear

Match the location across all accessible stalls to create a consistent look. Consistency helps drivers and helps inspectors see that you followed a plan.

Illinois specifics you should know

Illinois follows the 2010 ADA Standards through the Illinois Accessibility Code. The state typically expects accessible parking signs mounted so the bottom of the lowest sign is at least 60 inches above ground. Signs for van spaces should include “Van Accessible.” Many jurisdictions in Illinois prefer or require a blue pavement field with a white symbol. Some cities also require a supplemental sign plate noting local fines and the International Symbol of Accessibility. Because sign wording and fines can vary by municipality, verify requirements with your local building department or IDOT district before ordering signs.

Illinois weather adds another layer of planning. Snowplows, road salt, and freeze thaw cycles can shorten coating life. In high wear areas, consider longer lasting materials such as MMA or durable epoxy, or use thicker traffic grade coatings with a proper primer on concrete. A reusable UHMW stencil from 1-800-Stencil stands up to repeat jobs, winter storage, and frequent cleaning so your symbols stay sharp season after season.

Materials, paints, and stencil durability

A wheelchair parking stencil is only as good as the material it is made from and the paint you choose. 1-800-Stencil manufactures stencils from durable LDPE and ultra tough UHMW plastics. LDPE provides flexibility and value for frequent use. UHMW resists warping and solvent wear in busy striping crews and wipes clean with less effort.

Pick paints and marking systems that match your schedule, budget, and climate:

• Fast dry traffic paint: economical and quick to reopen to traffic

• Waterborne traffic paint: low odor and good for many municipal specs

• Solvent based paint: reliable cure in cooler temperatures

• MMA or epoxy: long life on high traffic sites and in harsh winters

• Preformed thermoplastic: exceptional durability when applied with heat to compatible surfaces

For best adhesion, clean the pavement, remove dust and chalk, and make sure the surface is dry. On concrete, a compatible primer improves bond. Apply two thin coats rather than one heavy pass. Lift the stencil carefully while the paint is tacky to prevent bridging. Keep a small brush for quick edge touch ups.

How to stencil accessible parking step by step

1. Confirm your count and layout. Identify the number of accessible and van accessible spaces required, and choose the closest feasible locations to accessible entrances.

2. Measure stall and aisle widths. Snap chalk lines to mark a 96 inch car space with a 60 inch aisle, or a compliant van option. Verify slopes are within 1:48.

3. Prep the surface. Sweep, blow, and clean the area. Remove loose paint and debris. Dry the pavement fully.

4. Place the wheelchair parking stencil. Center it laterally and position it near the head of the stall behind a wheel stop or curb line.

5. Mask a blue field if required. Tape off a rectangle slightly larger than the symbol. Spray or roll the blue and let it cure per product directions.

6. Paint the symbol. Lay the stencil flat. Apply white paint in light, even passes to avoid under spray.

7. Add glass beads if needed. Broadcast beads while the paint is wet to improve night visibility.

8. Mark the access aisle. Use diagonal striping and add “NO PARKING” text with a lettering stencil sized for clear visibility.

9. Install or verify signs. Mount the sign so the bottom of the lowest panel is at least 60 inches above grade and add a “Van Accessible” plaque where required.

10. Let it cure and reopen. Follow paint cure times before letting traffic back in. Place cones and signs to keep vehicles out during drying.

11. Final check. Confirm symbol placement, sign height, aisle striping, and route connectivity before calling the job complete.

Pro tips to avoid common mistakes

• Do not place the wheelchair symbol in the striped access aisle

• Keep slopes within 1:48 across both stall and aisle

• Make the access aisle the full length of the stall and directly connect it to an accessible route

• Use consistent stencil sizes across a property to avoid a patchwork look

• Mount signs at the right height so they are visible above parked vehicles

• Coordinate with snow removal to protect markings and signs during winter

Why contractors choose 1-800-Stencil

Based in Alsip, Illinois, 1-800-Stencil is a trusted supplier of high quality pavement marking stencils for professionals across North America. We build stencils that make crews faster and markings sharper. After joining RAE Products & Chemicals Corporation, 1-800-Stencil now pairs expert stencil design with RAE’s proven pavement marking paints and materials, giving you a complete solution from layout to finish coat. Contractors rely on our precise cuts, durable plastics, and responsive service to hit deadlines and pass inspections.

From standard wheelchair parking stencil sizes to complex custom requests for airports and industrial facilities, we deliver accurate, reusable stencils that stand up to daily work. Our catalog includes:

• Alphabet & Number Kits

• Arrow Stencils

• Handicap Stencils

• Retail Stencils

• DOT Stencils

• Wording Stencils

• Custom Stencils

We manufacture with LDPE and UHMW materials so your stencils lay flat, clean easily, and deliver crisp edges job after job. Need a custom logo or a specific wheelchair parking stencil size to match local specs? Our team turns around proofs fast and ships nationwide.

Ordering and support

Ready to simplify your next ADA parking project? Talk with the 1-800-Stencil team for help choosing the right wheelchair parking stencil size, aisle wording, and arrow sets that fit your scope. We can also bundle stencils with compatible coatings from RAE to streamline ordering and ensure a consistent finish. Call 1-800-STENCIL or email info@1800stencil.com for quotes, product guidance, and custom options. We ship from Illinois and support projects across the country with practical advice drawn from real field experience.

Note that codes can change and local rules can add requirements. Use this article as a practical guide, then confirm specifics with your authority having jurisdiction before painting.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to paint the wheelchair symbol on the pavement?

The ADA requires permanent signs to designate accessible spaces. Painting the pavement symbol is not required by the federal standard, but many states and cities expect it. In Illinois, inspectors commonly look for both posted signs and pavement markings. Check local ordinances and your building department.

What color should the wheelchair parking stencil be?

White on a blue background is common and widely understood. Some areas allow a white symbol directly on asphalt. For best visibility and consistency, use a blue field with a white symbol unless your local code states otherwise.

How big should “NO PARKING” letters be in the access aisle?

Letter sizes of 12 to 24 inches are typical. Use larger letters in big lots or where drivers approach at higher speeds. The key is clear, legible text that contrasts well with the pavement.

Where should I place the symbol within the stall?

Center the symbol between the stall lines and locate it near the head of the stall behind a wheel stop or close to the curb. Avoid the tire path and drainage areas to extend the life of the marking.

How often should I repaint accessible symbols and aisle striping?

In many climates, accessible markings get refreshed every 12 to 24 months. Heavy traffic, snow removal, and deicing salts can shorten that timeline. Durable coatings and clean surfaces extend service life.

Which stencil material lasts longer, LDPE or UHMW?

Both are durable. LDPE offers flexibility and a great value for frequent use. UHMW is extra tough, resists warping, and cleans more easily, which saves time for high volume crews. 1-800-Stencil stocks both so you can choose what fits your workload and budget.

Accessible parking that works for everyone starts with the right layout, sizes, and symbols. With a reliable wheelchair parking stencil and clear placement, you make your site easier to navigate and easier to inspect. When you are ready to order, 1-800-Stencil is here with the products and support to help you get it done right the first time.