What is the maximum allowable slope for parking spaces?
2 Answers
Parking lot slopes should not be too steep to prevent vehicle rollaway. Below is more information on parking space slope requirements: 1. Minimum longitudinal slope: 0.3%; 2. Maximum longitudinal slope parallel to the driveway: 1%; 3. Maximum slope perpendicular to the driveway: 3%; 4. The slope of entrance/exit driveways should preferably be 0.5%-2%, with a maximum slope not exceeding 7% under difficult conditions. The following are specifications for accessible parking spaces: 1. Residential parking lots and garages should allocate no less than 0.5% of total spaces as accessible parking; if multiple parking facilities exist, each should provide at least one accessible space; 2. Accessible parking spaces in surface lots should be located near parking area entrances/exits. Where possible, residential areas should position accessible spaces near residential building entrances; 3. Pedestrian entrances to garages must be accessible. Multi-level garages must provide accessible pathways connecting to elevators or stairs that reach the ground floor.
The slope of a parking space should not be too steep, generally with a maximum allowable gradient between 2% to 5%. I've personally experienced this while driving—if the ramp is too steep, the car can easily slide, especially during rainy or icy conditions when tire slippage becomes particularly dangerous. Parking lot designs must take this into account, as excessive slopes can lead to vehicle rolling or difficulty in opening doors. I recommend checking if the ground is level before parking to avoid steep inclines. Most standards set a maximum limit of 5% to ensure safe driving. Drainage is another concern; an appropriate slope allows water to flow away, preventing puddles and road surface damage. In short, keeping the 5% guideline in mind will make driving much safer.
