Ultimate Guide on Parking Lot Measurements and Space Optimization

Do not index

Parking lot measurements are essential for a successful parking lot design. Accurate measurements allow you to make the most of the space and maximize capacity. The importance of proper parking lot measurements extends beyond just the size of the lot, as it also pertains to the width of aisles, space between parking spaces, and the layout of the entrance and exit. With the correct parking lot measurements, you can enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and optimize the functionality of the parking lot. Read on to discover more about the value of parking lot measurements and their impact on parking lot design.

The Importance of the Right Parking Lot Measurements

In parking lot measurements, I understand the significance of accurate dimensions in enhancing the value and attractiveness of your property. Strategic planning of parking space dimensions not only increases your property value but also attracts more renters due to easy parking access. A well-planned parking lot can significantly boost revenue streams and increase the value of your asset.

Community experience

A parking lot is often the first impression patrons or residents have of your business or community. Mismanaged parking spaces, cramped spots, and accidents in progress can affect the perception of your establishment negatively. For apartment complexes, the impact of parking lots extends beyond the lease signing phase. Properly sized parking spaces shield residents from negative experiences like car damage, navigation difficulties in the parking lot, and frustration due to misparked vehicles.

Economic benefits

Optimizing parking lot space through accurate measurements can boost economic benefits for property owners. Increased parking capacity and improved customer satisfaction result from proper planning. A well-organized parking lot can elevate the value of a property and enhance the customer experience leading to increased revenue and customer retention.

Parking Lot Layout Dimensions

What Is Parking Validation

Parking Lot Barrier

What Are the Standard Parking Lot Measurements?

Standard parking space dimensions

Dimensions for "average" sized cars like sedans, crossovers, and minivans

Common dimensions in the U.S.: 8’6” by 18’

Canadian standard: 9’ by 17’

"Standard large" spots for trucks and vans: 9’ by 20’

Compact parking space dimensions

For smaller cars like coupes, smart cars, and fiats

Average dimensions in the U.S.: 8’ by 16’

Parallel parking space dimensions

Standard parallel parking spaces: 8’6” by 23’ (19’ for the spot and 4' for safety space

12 feet of space next to parallel spot for traffic flow

Compact parallel parking spots: 6.5’ by 19.6’ with 11’6” next to it for traffic flow

Handicapped parking space dimensions

ADA guidelines: 1 in 25 conventional spaces need to be handicap accessible

Accessible spots dimensions:

Car accessible: at least 96” wide with 60” wide access aisle

Van accessible: 132” or 96” wide, both with 60” wide access aisle

Tandem parking space dimensions

Spots where one car blocks another car in

Dimensions: 9’ wide and 36’ long

Angled parking space dimensions

Angled spots dimensions remain the same, only space for traffic flow changes

Standard angled spots: minimum 14’ aisle for one-way traffic

Compact spots: 9’10” for one-way traffic

EV parking spot dimensions

Level 2 EV charging spaces

No change in parking spot dimensions, ensure enough space for charging station

5 Key Factors Influencing Parking Lot Size

1. Purpose of the Lot

The first thing you should establish is the purpose of the parking lot. Will your lot serve as a retail parking spot for shoppers? Or maybe a large space for holding truck shipments?

The purpose of your parking lot will influence its design; everything from the measurements to the general layout. Here are some of the ways that parking lot design choices can vary depending on the intended purpose.

Optimizing Parking Space Design with Angled Spaces

Parking space angles Notice how some parking lots have spaces angled at 45 degrees and others have 90-degree spaces? The angle depends on the width and length of the driving aisle, both of which are determined by the purpose of the lot. Take a convenience store parking space for example. This lot will likely have high turnover and a narrow driving aisle due to the limited space. Sixty-degree angled spaces are best for this kind of parking lot, since they’re easier to drive in and out of.

Industry-Specific Considerations for Determining Parking Lot Size

Parking lot size The recommended number of spaces in a parking lot varies depending on the industry. Some businesses, like hotels, use the number of seats or rooms to determine the minimum square footage of the parking space. Research the industry-specific parking code requirements for your location. Check these non-residential parking standards for Kansas City in Missouri as an example.

Industry-Specific Considerations for Determining Parking Lot Size

Pavement thickness The thickness of your pavement depends on the kind of vehicles your lot will be holding. For large vehicles like trucks, the pavement will need more depth to achieve the necessary load-bearing capacity. Other than vehicle weight classes, you also need to consider the quality of the soil underneath when determining pavement thickness. Some soils are more prone to swelling and shrinkage, so you will want to avoid those.

2. Measurements and Space Configuration

Take the measurement of the entire lot and draw each boundary line. This will determine the total number of parking spaces you can have in your lot and the dimensions of each. Follow these steps to calculate how big your parking pavement should be.

Determining Parking Space Quantity Based on Requirements

Figure out the number of spaces Determine how many parking spaces you need according to industry recommendations or building code requirements. Again, this will depend on the purpose of the lot. Knowing the number of spaces you need to fit into the whole parking lot will help you see whether you still have space for other elements, such as gates or drop-off points. You can’t compromise the number of spaces just to accommodate other amenities.

Standardizing Parking Space Dimensions for Accessibility

Determine parking space size The standard size of public-use parking spaces is 9 by 19 feet. Some spaces need to be bigger than others, though, such as the spaces reserved for people with disabilities. Also, consider making your space size bigger if you feel like your customers will need the space. For example, the parking lot of a grocery store should have wide spaces to accommodate people carrying groceries.

Maximizing Space Efficiency with Angled Parking

Account for space angle If you’re going for 60 or 45-degree angled parking spaces, the angle will impact the number of spaces you can fit in the lot. Make sure you take this into consideration when you’re planning your dimensions. For space-conscious parking lots, 90-degree angled spaces are the best option. Just make sure the driving aisle is wide enough for the vehicles to maneuver into the parking space.

Ensuring Accessibility Compliance with Handicapped Parking

Consider accessibility requirements Parking lots must be safe and accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. You need extra space for accessibility requirements, including handicapped parking spaces, ramps, and walkways. You’ll also need van-accessible spaces. These are parking spaces with wider access aisles to accommodate a wheelchair lift.

Meeting ADA Requirements for Accessible Parking Spaces

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the total number of parking spaces in a lot determines the minimum number of accessible parking spaces. Then, for every six accessible parking spaces, one of them must be van-accessible. You can check the accessible parking chart on the ADA website to determine how many handicapped parking spaces you need.

Allocating Additional Space for Multi-Purpose Needs

Consider other uses for extra space You might need to allot spaces for additional functions depending on the purpose of your parking lot. For a school parking lot, you’ll need enough space for a loading and drop-off zone. If the lot is for a fast-food chain, you can offer a drive-through lane for customers.

3. Layout and Traffic Flow

Your parking lot must have an intuitive, efficient layout to prevent traffic bottlenecks. When designing your parking layout, the location of the entrances and exits is important for a smooth flow. Place them away from pedestrian crosswalks and busy public intersections to avoid traffic jams and accidents.

Consider the following elements when planning your parking layout and traffic flow.

Wheelstops

Wheelstops are the concrete barriers located on the front end of each parking space. They help the driver align the car evenly on the designated space and not park too close to a curb or other vehicles.

Parking lot striping and safety markings

Striping is critical to the space efficiency of your parking lot, especially if you’re going with 45 or 60-degree angled spaces. The stripes guide traffic, keep the vehicles in their designated spaces, mark handicapped spots, and prevent accidents. Make sure to use different colors for the parking stripes and for the markings indicating pedestrian zones and access aisles.

Traffic signage

Traffic signs protect pedestrians and right-of-way. Some signs you’ll need for a parking lot are speed limit markers, directional arrows, pedestrian crossing, reserved parking for handicapped signs, and stop and yield.That the placement of the signs should align with the flow of the traffic so that they’d be visible to both pedestrians and drivers.

4. Safety and Security Provisions

Having multiple vehicles coming and going at the same time can be dangerous if you don’t have the proper safety provisions. Make sure your parking lot has the following elements to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians.

Pedestrian Safety with Proper Amenities

Pedestrian safety provisions You’ll need to provide the proper amenities to ensure the safety of the drivers as they walk out of their cars and into the establishment. Provide access points and crosswalks from all sides of the parking lot to facility entries. If it’s inevitable for pedestrians to walk in the drive aisles, make sure the aisle is wide enough for two-way traffic.

Effective Lighting for Parking Lots

Functional lighting design Light fixtures with sufficient coverage are essential to a parking lot. They should be bright enough to guide the drivers and illuminate the markings and signs but not to the point that they cause glare or visual interference. The lighting should be stronger in high-traffic areas, such as the entrances and exits.

Incorporating Access Ramps for Accessibility

Access ramps Your parking lot should have ramps leading from the handicapped parking spaces to the pedestrian access. Also, you’ll need to build ramps into the perimeter curb design to allow access from the pavement to the elevated sidewalks.

5. Concrete Maintenance Solutions

You have to think about the longevity of your concrete pavement. Cracks, potholes, and other types of damage make it difficult for drivers to maneuver around a limited lot, increasing the risk of accidents.

With that, it’s important to follow the necessary maintenance steps to extend the life of your concrete and prevent wear and damage. Below are the minimum requirements for preserving your concrete parking lot.

Proper installation Installation is critical to the performance and longevity of concrete. One thing to remember is that a concrete parking lot contains more than just pavement. It also has joints, curbs, and drainage facilities, all of which must work together to achieve the concrete’s maximum load-bearing capacity.

If you’re using Portland cement, you can use ACI PRC-330-08 Guide for the Design and Construction of Concrete Parking Lots to get the best information on concrete installation.

Annual cleaning and joint sealing Parking lots are exposed to oil, grease, and other petroleum-based substances, which can eat away the concrete. The stains can sink into the concrete and become permanent. Although they won’t cause structural damage, they do affect the parking lot’s visual appeal. Make sure to promptly remove stains to keep your parking lot clean and create a better impression on your customers.

You’ll also need to reseal the concrete expansion joints regularly. These joints allow the concrete to expand in a controlled way, minimizing cracks on the surface. For parking lots with a high turnover, reseal the expansion joints every year to prevent serious damage.

Repairing cracks Cracks are bound to happen to any concrete pavement over time. You have to fill and seal the cracks promptly. Otherwise, water can penetrate the base of the concrete and cause structural damage.

Parking lot construction is a complicated process. The best course of action is to hire professional concrete services to make sure that you’re meeting all the requirements and safety guidelines.

How To Open A Commercial Truck Parking Lot

Parking Control

Parking Lot Designs

Parking Lot Designer

Parking Lot Software

Parking Lot Dimensions Layout

Parking Solution

Parking Garage Ticket Machine

Parking Lot Payment Systems

Parking Lot Calculator

How To Draw A Parking Lot

How Much Do Parking Lots Make

Parking Lot Design Software

How Much Can You Make Owning A Parking Lot

Parking Payment Systems

Design Parking Lot

Parking Lot Design Standards

Design a Parking Lot

Parking Lot Design Ideas

Small Parking Lot Design

Parking Lot Layout Design

Parking Lot System Design

ACNH Parking Lot Design

Parking Lot Lighting Design

Design Parking Lot Software

Design Parking Lot System Design

Layout Designs for Parking Lots

Asphalt Parking Lot Design

Best Parking Lot Designs

Design Considerations to Optimize Parking Lot Space

When designing a parking lot, the choice between angled and straight parking spots is crucial. Angled parking is preferable for tighter spaces, as it allows for more spaces per square footage. The angle chosen is also important, with 45-degree angle spots being ideal for high-density areas, accommodating more spaces with just 14 feet of space for a turning aisle.

A 60-degree angle is a popular choice that balances space efficiency and ease of use, requiring a turning aisle of around 20 feet. On the other hand, 75-degree angle spots are more space-saving than perpendicular parking but can be more challenging to maneuver into.

Tandem Spots: Saving Space in a Pinch

Tandem spots can be a solution for extremely tight spaces, but should be used sparingly, as they can be cumbersome for residents. Residents may not appreciate having to coordinate moving cars with another person, making it a last resort to squeeze in a few extra parking spaces.

Flexibility is Key: Mixing and Matching Spot Types

A parking lot with a mix of straight, angled, and tandem spots can cater to various space needs without sacrificing resident experience. This flexibility allows for optimal space utilization without adding unnecessary operational complications.

4 Innovations in Commercial Parking Lot Design

1. Warm-Mix Asphalt

Warm-mix asphalt, while not new, is seeing increased use in the paving industry due to its sustainability benefits. This type of asphalt is more environmentally friendly, cools faster, lasts longer, and produces fewer gases. It’s also safer for workers since it requires less heat and chemicals to lay down.

2. Striping

Parking lot striping is an essential part of managing a parking lot. It helps mark off individual parking spots, restricted areas, and manage traffic flow. Striping ensures ADA compliance by marking off disability-accessible parking spaces with the required adjacent space for wheelchair users.

3. Recycled Asphalt

Asphalt can be recycled, making it another sustainable option. When asphalt wears out, it can be broken down into bits of gravel, then reassembled using fresh petroleum. This process allows for the reuse of asphalt, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

4. Smart Parking Technologies

Modern parking lots benefit from smart parking technologies. By monitoring and analyzing data related to parking lot usage, businesses can identify patterns and optimize the parking experience for customers. This data-driven approach helps in making informed decisions about parking lot design and management for enhanced customer convenience.

Simplify Your Parking Operations and Improve Your Customer Experience with Parqour －Book A Free Demo Today

The innovative platform, Parqour, introduces a groundbreaking approach to parking management. Offering a comprehensive end-to-end management platform, Parqour aims to revolutionize the parking industry by streamlining operations, enhancing customer experience, and optimizing revenue. With real-time data, automated plate recognition, and contactless payments, Parqour ensures an efficient parking experience for both operators and customers.

Real-Time Data and Analytics: Enhancing Parking Efficiency

Parqour’s real-time data and analytics provide parking operators with valuable insights to optimize their parking operations. By offering real-time occupancy, revenue, utilization, and parking trends, operators can make informed decisions to maximize parking lot efficiency. The data-driven approach ensures that parking spaces are utilized effectively, leading to increased revenue and reduced operational costs.

Automated Plate Recognition: Streamlining Parking Access

The automated plate recognition feature of Parqour simplifies parking access for customers. With a 99.6% license plate recognition rate, customers can effortlessly enter and exit parking facilities without the need for physical tickets or passes. This contactless parking experience enhances convenience and improves customer satisfaction, setting Parqour apart from traditional parking management systems.

Contactless Payments and Online Payment Methods: Simplifying Transactions

Parqour’s contactless payment and online payment methods offer customers hassle-free transactions while enhancing security. By integrating with popular payment platforms such as Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, and PayByPhone, Parqour enables customers to pay for parking conveniently using QR codes. This seamless payment process not only saves time but also provides a safer and more convenient parking experience.

Hardware with Zero Upfront Costs: Cost-Effective Parking Solutions

Parqour’s innovative approach eliminates the need for bulky hardware with zero upfront costs. By providing a remote control system that operates 24/7, Parqour ensures that parking operators can manage their facilities efficiently without the burden of significant capital investment. This cost-effective solution makes Parqour an attractive option for parking operators looking to optimize their operations without incurring high expenses.

Seamless Integration with Third-Party APIs: Enhancing Parking Flexibility

Parqour’s seamless integration with third-party APIs offers parking operators the flexibility to connect with popular parking platforms. By integrating with Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, PayByPhone, and other third-party services, Parqour enables operators to expand their reach and cater to a wider customer base. This integration not only enhances parking convenience but also boosts revenue by attracting more customers to the parking facility.