Every commercial property in California must meet accessibility standards to ensure safe and equal access for all visitors. One of the most visible parts of those standards is ADA ramps. At Victory Paving, we build and replace ADA-compliant concrete ramps for businesses, municipalities, and property managers across Temecula and Southern California. Knowing what the law requires helps property owners plan projects correctly and avoid costly compliance issues later.
Why ADA Compliance Matters
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets nationwide accessibility standards for public spaces. In California, these rules are reinforced and expanded under the California Building Code (CBC) Title 24, which often includes stricter guidelines. Together, they govern how ramps must be built, including slope, width, landings, surface texture, and handrail placement. Failure to meet these standards can result in failed inspections, fines, or even lawsuits. More importantly, proper ramps ensure that every visitor, customer, and employee can access your property safely.
Key California ADA Ramp Requirements
What Defines a Ramp
Any path with a slope greater than 1 inch rise for every 20 inches of length is considered a ramp. Anything below that is simply a walkway.
Maximum Running Slope
In most new construction, the running slope cannot exceed 1 inch rise for every 12 inches of run, or about 8.33 percent.
Maximum Rise Before a Landing
A single ramp run cannot rise more than 30 inches before a level landing is required. Landings provide rest areas and space for wheelchairs to maneuver safely.
Minimum Width
In California, many commercial ramps must be at least 48 inches wide between handrails.
Landings at Top and Bottom
Landings must be level. The top landing should be at least 60 inches long in the direction of travel, and the bottom landing should be at least 72 inches long.
Intermediate Landings
When a ramp changes direction or exceeds a 30-inch rise, an intermediate landing is required, for turns greater than 30 degrees, the landing must measure at least 72 inches in the direction of travel.
Cross Slope and Surface Texture
The surface must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant. The cross slope cannot exceed 1 unit vertical in 48 units horizontal, or approximately 2 percent.
Handrails
When a ramp rises more than 6 inches, handrails must be installed on both sides. They should be continuous, between 34 and 38 inches high, and extend beyond the top and bottom of the ramp for stability.
Edge Protection
A barrier or curb at least 2 inches high is required along open sides to prevent wheels or crutches from slipping off the ramp.
Permitting and Inspections
In many jurisdictions, ADA ramps must be reviewed by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) or local building official. Having a detailed compliance checklist during construction helps streamline the approval process.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Noncompliance
Many ADA ramps fail inspection due to small but important details. These include slopes that are slightly too steep, landings that are too small, or surfaces that allow water to accumulate. Even a one-degree error can cause a ramp to fail. That is why professional layout, grading, and forming are critical from the start.
Serving Temecula and Southern California
Victory Paving constructs ADA-compliant ramps for commercial properties, municipalities, and HOAs throughout Temecula, Murrieta, Riverside, Lake Elsinore, and neighboring cities. We understand how to navigate California’s accessibility requirements and deliver ramps that pass inspection the first time.
Request a Quote
If your property needs ADA ramp upgrades or you are unsure whether your existing ramps meet current standards, contact Victory Paving today. We will assess your site, review slope and layout requirements, and provide a cost-effective plan that ensures compliance and accessibility.