Are Vertical Car Lifts ADA-Compliant? What You Need to Know

As cities get denser and land prices climb, developers and property owners are turning to stackers and vertical car storage systems to maximize parking capacity. But one question comes up often: Are vertical car lifts ADA-compliant?

The answer depends on how the system is designed and how it’s used.

Understanding ADA and Parking Requirements

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) sets requirements for accessible parking spaces in commercial and public facilities. These rules cover:

• The required number of accessible spaces

• Proper signage

• Access aisle dimensions

• Slope and surface requirements

• Accessible routes to building entrances

Importantly, the ADA focuses on usability and independent access for individuals with disabilities.

Are Stackers ADA-Compliant?

In most cases, traditional stackers and automated vertical car storage systems are not considered ADA-accessible parking spaces if they require:

• An attendant to operate

• A driver to exit the vehicle before lifting

• Mechanical controls that cannot be independently used by someone with mobility limitations

Accessible parking spaces must allow individuals to park, exit, and access the building without assistance. Because many stackers require exiting the vehicle before lifting or retrieving the car, they typically cannot replace required ADA-accessible spaces.

However — and this is key — stackers and vertical car storage systems can absolutely be used in addition to required ADA spaces. Developers often meet ADA requirements at grade level and use vertical car storage to increase overall parking counts.

When Can Vertical Car Storage Work in an ADA Context?

Some advanced or custom-designed vertical car storage systems may meet accessibility standards if:

• Controls are reachable and usable by individuals with disabilities

• The system allows independent vehicle retrieval

• Clear floor space and access aisles are compliant

• The accessible route to and from the lift platform meets ADA standards

Because every project is different, compliance depends on layout, jurisdiction, and building type.

Best Practices for Developers Using Stackers

If you’re planning to incorporate stackers or vertical car storage into your project:

1. Consult an ADA specialist early in the design phase.

2. Confirm local building code requirements, which may be stricter than federal ADA rules.

3. Provide all required accessible spaces at grade unless your lift system is specifically engineered for compliance.

4. Document everything during permitting to avoid delays.