Around the world, traffic signs come with specific codes that meet the required standards as per state law. To some extent, handicap parking signs are not required to say "Reserved Parking" under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

However, Laws differ and depend on the country's level of strictness. According to MUTCD Section 2B.46, the R7-8 **Reserved Parking for persons with disabilities** sign must contain a clear wheelchair symbol, indicating that the space is reserved for individuals with disabilities.

In short, "Reserved Parking" is commonly labeled on signs to indicate that the space is specifically for someone,, it is not a strict requirement as long as the sign includes the necessary elements like the wheelchair symbol. Let's Read more to find out the answer in detail.

What is the law for handicapped parking signs?

The rules and requirements for handicapped parking signs are governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). According to ADA handicap signs must display the international symbol of accessibility (the wheelchair symbol). For van-accessible spaces, the sign must also include the words "van accessible."

Other important guidelines include:

- When businesses or public places repaint parking spaces, they must provide the correct number of accessible spaces based on the total number of parking spots, with at least one space in every six being van-accessible.

- These spaces must be located near accessible entrances and have flat, wide routes without curbs or steps.

- Van-accessible spaces require more room for wheelchair lifts and 98 inches of vertical clearance.

- Signs must be at least 60 inches above the ground to be visible. However, if a lot has only four or fewer spaces, a van-accessible sign isn't necessary.

These requirements ensure ADA compliance while making parking accessible for everyone.

How Do You Get A Handicap Parking Permit?

We hope the guidelines shared above have cleared up doubts about Do handicap signs need to say Reserved Parking. Once you have that answered, the next step is figuring out how to get a handicap parking permit and why it’s needed.

Well, You have to consult with a medical professional to sign your permit. Not every medical professional can sign some specific medical professionals can sign a handicap parking application vary from state to state. In most states, any one of the following can sign your application:

• Licensed physician
• Physician’s assistant
• Advanced nurse practitioner
• Chiropractor

Once the medical professional has verified your disability, they will sign a handicap parking application form that you can submit to your local handicap parking authorities, which, in most states.

List of Important Conditions For A Handicap Parking Permit

You need to have certain medical conditions to be eligible for a disabled parking permit in all states:

• An individual who has difficulty and  cannot  walk 200 feet without rest
• An individual who needs assistance device for walking such as a cane, crutch, wheelchair, Zimmer frame, or another person.
• A chronic heart condition with active symptoms (types and stages)
• Respiratory issues
• A condition that necessitates the use of portable oxygen
• Legal blindness
• Any arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition that seriously curtails mobility

All information on Do handicap signs need to say reserved parking shared above is taken from resources like  National MUTCD: Section 2B.46 for detailed standards., NYS Supplement: Section 2B.47 for New York State guidelines. Design Guide: Provides accessibility requirements for signs.

We hope you enjoyed reading this blog and found it helpful. If you have any more queries or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to Olanzu today!