Michigan Handicapped Ramp Building Codes

All buildings in the United States---and thus, Michigan---must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. The ADA has requirements that must be applied during the design, construction and renovation of buildings, which includes the construction of handicapped-accessible ramps.

Slope, Rise and Width

• According to the ADA, the slope should be as small as possible, with the maximum slope of a new ramp being 1:12. Therefore, it can have a maximum rise of six inches. The maximum length of the ramp is 30 inches, and the minimum clear width of the ramp is 36 inches.

Landings

• Ramps must have level landings at both the top and the bottom of the run, and the landing should be at least as wide as the ramp. The minimum length of the landing must be 60 inches clear. If the ramp changes directions, the landing must be 60 inches square, according to the ADA.

Handrails

• The ADA says if a ramp rises more than 6 inches, it must have handrails on both sides. The space between the rail and the wall should be at least one and a half inches, and the gripping surfaces should be continuous. The top of the handrail should be 34 for 38 inches above the ramp's surface. To ensure safety, the ends of the rails must be rounded or return to the floor, wall or post. Also, they should not rotate within their fittings.

Edge and Surfaces

• If a ramp or landing has a drop off, there must be an edge or wall to protect people from slipping off the edge. If the ramp is outside, it should be designed so no water can collect on its surface.