Understanding ADA Ramp Requirements

What You Need to Know About Accessibility Codes

If you’re renting a ramp for residential or public use, certain features may be required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — especially if the ramp will serve the public or be installed at a business, church, school, or facility. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the basics.

What is the ADA?

And Why Does It Matter?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. It ensures that people with mobility challenges have safe, equal access to buildings, services, and public spaces — including through the use of properly designed ramps.

For many families and organizations, ADA compliance isn’t just about following the law — it’s about doing the right thing. Whether you’re renting a ramp for a loved one returning home from the hospital or for a building that serves the public, following ADA guidelines helps ensure everyone can enter and exit safely, with dignity and independence.

At All American Ramp Rentals, we understand what’s required — and we make it simple to rent ramps that meet or exceed those standards.

Understanding the basics

Key ADA Requirements for Ramps

The following are some of the most common and important ADA requirements related to ramps. While not a complete list, these core guidelines cover the essentials of safe, accessible design — including slope, width, landings, and handrails. Depending on your location or facility type, additional rules may apply.

For a full and detailed reference, you can review the ADA Standards for Accessible Design from the U.S. Access Board. And since local codes can vary, we also recommend checking with your local building department to ensure compliance with any additional requirements in your area.

To meet ADA guidelines, ramps need a gentle incline — no steeper than 1 inch of rise for every 12 inches of length. So, a 24-inch rise would require at least 24 feet of ramp.

The usable ramp surface must be at least 36 inches wide between handrails. This ensures enough space for wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices.

Every ramp needs a flat landing at the top and bottom. These landings must be at least 60 inches long and as wide as the ramp. If the ramp changes direction, a 5′ x 5′ turning platform is required.

If the ramp rises more than 6 inches, handrails are required on both sides. They should be mounted 34 to 38 inches high and extend 12 inches beyond the top and bottom of the ramp run.

Ramp surfaces must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant — to keep users safe in any weather or condition.

Built for safety

Backed by Experience

You don’t need to memorize every detail of the ADA — that’s our job.

Every ramp we rent is designed and installed with ADA standards in mind, and our team is trained to ensure your setup meets the right guidelines for your space. Whether it’s required by code or simply the safest choice, we’ll make sure your ramp is done right — so you can focus on what matters most.