Handicapped Parking In Wisconsin: Painting Guide

To paint a handicapped parking space in Wisconsin, you must first ensure you are adhering to local codes. In general, handicapped parking spots should be painted with the International Symbol of Accessibility, which consists of a white outline of a person sitting in a wheelchair on a blue background. The space should be at least 17 feet wide, with a 5-foot-wide access aisle to provide space for the handicapped person to maneuver. The following steps will guide you through the process of painting a handicapped parking space:

1. Prep the surface by removing dirt, dust, and leaves.

2. Place the stencil background on the asphalt and spray the blue paint inside the border.

3. Remove the border and place the handicap stencil on the blue background.

4. Use white paint to create the outline of the handicap symbol and let it dry.

The International Symbol of Accessibility

To paint a handicapped parking space in Wisconsin, you must first prepare the surface by removing dirt, dust, and leaves. Then, place the stencil background on the asphalt and spray blue paint inside the border. Next, remove the border and place the handicap stencil on the blue background, ensuring it is centred. Finally, use white paint to create the outline of the handicap symbol—a wheelchair—and let it dry.

The ISA is referenced in various codes and standards in the U.S. to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA). These include the International Codes Council’s International Building Code, the National Fire Protection Association’s Building Construction and Safety Code, and the Federal Highway Administration’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways, among others.

The ADA Standards, promulgated by the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation, require the use of the ISA to label or provide direction to certain accessible spaces, including parking spaces, entrances, and toilet facilities. The ABA Standards, implemented by various federal agencies, also mandate the use of the ISA to label or provide direction to accessible spaces.

While the ISA is widely recognised, some have critiqued its effectiveness in representing individuals with non-mobility impairments. There is also a correlation between age and the effectiveness of the ISA, with older participants in a study rating the symbol more favourably. Overall, the ISA continues to serve as a global icon for accessibility, promoting legibility and consistency in the designation of accessible spaces.

Surface preparation

Once the surface is clean, you will need to measure and mark the designated handicapped parking area. Measure out a 17-feet-wide parking space, which includes a 12-foot space for the vehicle and a 5-foot-wide access aisle to provide space for the handicapped person to manoeuvre. Mark the area clearly, using chalk or another suitable temporary marking tool.

After marking the area, you will need to place the stencil background on the asphalt. Ensure that the stencil is centred and secured in place to prevent any smudging or mistakes during the painting process. Choose a stencil that complies with the International Symbol of Accessibility, which is a white wheelchair outline on a blue background. This symbol is widely recognised and ensures uniformity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Before applying the paint, it is essential to check the weather conditions and ensure that the surface is dry. Moisture or dampness on the surface can affect the paint's adhesion and longevity. Additionally, avoid painting in direct sunlight, as the heat can cause the paint to dry too quickly, potentially impacting its durability.

By thoroughly preparing the surface, you will ensure that the handicapped parking symbol is clearly visible and adheres properly to the asphalt. This process will help create a designated parking area that is accessible and compliant with relevant guidelines.

Stencilling

Firstly, you will need to purchase a handicap stencil. These are available in various sizes and styles, so be sure to select one that complies with Wisconsin's local accessibility requirements. You will also need to purchase water-based or oil-based traffic line paint that is made for asphalt and concrete.

Once you have your supplies, start by prepping the surface. Remove any dirt, dust, or leaves using a street broom and/or a leaf blower. Then, place the stencil background on the asphalt and spray blue paint inside the border. Remove the border and place the handicap stencil on the blue background, ensuring that it is centred. Spray white paint inside the stencil to create the outline of the handicap symbol. Let the paint dry before removing the stencil.

For a more polished look, you may want to consider a two-piece stencil, which creates a white box with a blue field inside and a white handicap symbol. You can also achieve a better-looking result by using a two-line "NO PARKING" stencil, which will prevent the words from intersecting with the parking space lines.

In addition to the handicap symbol, you may also want to mark an access aisle. This should be marked with a 4-inch-wide outline and diagonal stripes on a maximum of 36-inch centres.

Painting

To paint a handicapped parking space in Wisconsin, you will need to follow the International Symbol of Accessibility guidelines, which include a white wheelchair outline on a blue background. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

First, prepare the surface by removing any dirt, dust, or debris using a broom and/or a leaf blower. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly to the asphalt. Next, measure out a 17-foot-wide parking space, which includes a 12-foot space for the vehicle and a 5-foot-wide access aisle for the handicapped person to manoeuvre in.

Now, you are ready to begin painting. Start by marking out the 12-foot-wide handicap vehicle space with a 4-inch wide stripe of light blue spray paint. Then, measure 5 feet out from one side of the vehicle space, whichever is closest to the entrance, and spray another 4-inch wide stripe to indicate the access aisle. At the bottom of this 5-foot-wide access aisle line, spray another 4-inch line. Measure 12 inches up from this line and place your "No Parking" stencil on the pavement. Spray the open areas of the stencil with light blue paint.

Next, remove any hash marks or diagonal lines in the access aisle. Spray new diagonal lines, 36 inches apart, starting from the bottom aisle access line, ensuring you do not spray over the "No Parking" letters. Now, place the blue square stencil inside the access aisle lines and spray around it with light blue paint. Then, place the International Symbol of Accessibility stencil (the white wheelchair outline) over the blue square and spray with white paint. Allow this to dry.

Finally, place the handicap stencil (the figure of a person in a wheelchair) over the blue square and spray with white paint, ensuring everything is covered with a thick coat. Again, allow this to dry.

Your handicapped parking space should now be clearly visible and accessible, adhering to the necessary guidelines.

Local code requirements

In Wisconsin, the International Symbol of Accessibility, which consists of a white outline of a person sitting in a wheelchair on a blue background, must be painted in handicapped parking spots. The blue and white colours should be in light shades.

To paint the symbol, you need to first prep the surface by removing dirt, dust, and leaves. Then, place the stencil background on the asphalt and spray blue paint inside the border. After letting it dry, place the handicap stencil on the blue background and spray white paint to create the outline of the symbol.

It is important to use water-based or oil-based paints made for asphalt and concrete, as regular paints do not adhere properly. The handicapped parking spot should be located near the entrance of the building with a maximum surface slope of 1/4-foot. The parking space should be 17 feet wide, with a 12-foot space for the vehicle and a 5-foot wide access aisle.

Frequently asked questions