A well-striped parking lot is essential for safety, functionality, and compliance. Whether you’re planning a new asphalt installation or restriping a faded lot, understanding the full scope of parking lot striping will help you keep your property safe, organized, and up to code.
From ADA requirements to fire lane regulations and the average cost per linear foot, there’s more to striping a parking lot than simply applying paint. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about parking lot striping: costs, codes & best practices to help you manage your parking area efficiently.
For professional striping services that follow all codes and deliver long-lasting results, contact A-Rock Asphalt today at 801-973-9200. We provide expert layout, design, and striping services that ensure your lot is safe, functional, and visually appealing.
Why Parking Lot Striping Is Important
Striping helps drivers and pedestrians safely navigate the parking lot. It clearly defines lanes, parking spaces, accessible parking, and fire zones. Without proper line striping, your parking lot may seem like a free-for-all, increasing the risk of accidents and legal liability.
Additionally, a properly striped parking lot enhances the appearance of your property and reflects well on your business or facility. Whether you’re managing a retail center, office building, or industrial site, striping helps create a functional parking environment.
What Are the Specs for Parking Lot Striping?
To ensure that your parking lot is compliant, it must follow local, state, and federal striping standards. These general specs apply to most parking lots:
- Standard parking space dimensions: 9 feet wide by 18–20 feet long
- Accessible parking spaces: 8 feet wide with a 5-foot access aisle
- Van-accessible spaces: 11 feet wide with a 5-foot access aisle or 8 feet wide with an 8-foot aisle
- Line width: 4 inches
- Fire lanes: At least 20 feet wide, clearly marked with “NO PARKING FIRE LANE” in red paint
- Angled parking: 30–60-degree layouts improve space efficiency in tight lots
Striping standards also require that all accessible parking spaces are clearly marked with the international symbol of accessibility and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
ADA and Fire Lane Requirements
Compliance with the ADA and fire code laws is mandatory for all commercial properties with public parking lots. ADA regulations dictate the number of accessible parking spaces based on the total number of parking spots in the lot. For example:
- 1 accessible space per 25 standard parking spaces
- 1 van-accessible space for every 6 accessible spaces
- Signs must be posted at least 60 inches above ground level
- Spaces must be on level surfaces with no more than a 2.08% slope
Fire lane regulations are equally important. Local fire codes often require that fire lanes be maintained with specific dimensions, access widths, and striping paint that remains visible at all times. Fire lanes ensure emergency vehicles can access the property without obstruction.
How to Calculate Parking Lot Striping
Knowing how to calculate parking lot striping helps estimate both the layout and cost of a striping project. The number of parking spaces depends on the size of the lot, type of parking (angled or parallel), and required dimensions per space. Here’s a general process:
- Measure the total square footage of the lot
- Subtract drive aisles, fire lanes, and no-parking zones
- Divide the remaining area by the space each parking stall requires
- Add required accessible and van spaces
- Account for curb markings, directional arrows, and signage
Striping requires precision, and using a line striping machine can help ensure consistent results. For a professional estimate, contact a trusted striping company like A-Rock Asphalt.
What Is the Best Way to Stripe a Parking Lot?
The best practices for striping a parking lot include:
- Cleaning the surface before striping
- Repairing cracks or potholes ahead of time
- Applying sealcoating your parking lot first, then striping afterward
- Using high-quality striping paint, including water-based or thermoplastic paint
- Measuring carefully to ensure even spacing
- Marking stall lines, stop bars, and arrows with a line striping machine
Proper striping practices also include taking into account pedestrian walkways, crosshatching, loading zones, and traffic flow patterns to create a safe and functional parking lot layout.
How Often Should You Stripe or Restripe a Parking Lot?
Most experts recommend restriping your parking lot every 18 to 24 months. However, parking lots with high traffic volumes or located in areas with extreme weather may need to be restriped annually.
Here are signs that it’s time to restripe:
- Faded parking lines or symbols
- Confused drivers or complaints about unclear markings
- Recent sealcoating or asphalt work
- Fire lanes or handicap spaces that are not clearly marked
Restriping your parking lot ensures ongoing compliance and safety. Parking lots should be restriped after any major surface treatment to maintain the visibility of markings.
How Profitable Is Parking Lot Striping?
For contractors, striping offers a profitable and repeatable service. It requires minimal materials and tools—typically a striping machine and paint—but can generate significant revenue depending on lot size.
- Average cost per linear foot: $0.20–$0.50
- Total project revenue: $500–$5,000+ depending on scope
- Minimal overhead and fast turnaround
- Repeat business every 1–2 years
Many paving companies bundle striping with services like sealcoating, patching, or new asphalt installation for added profitability.
What Type of Paint Should You Use?
The type of paint you use depends on local climate, traffic volume, and longevity requirements:
- Water-based acrylic paint: Easy to apply, quick-drying, environmentally friendly
- Oil-based paint: Durable, but less environmentally friendly
- Thermoplastic paint: Extremely durable, ideal for high-traffic areas and long-lasting markings
Choosing the right paint ensures your parking lines remain visible longer and resist wear from weather and vehicle traffic.
Additional Tips to Keep Your Parking Lot in Good Shape
- Maintain a parking lot cleaning schedule to prevent debris buildup
- Inspect lines and signage regularly for visibility and wear
- Plan restriping jobs after sealcoating or resurfacing
- Work with an experienced contractor to keep your lot up to code
- Always verify your parking lot complies with local and federal guidelines for accessibility and safety
Keeping your lot compliant is not just about appearance—it’s a legal responsibility that impacts drivers, pedestrians, and emergency response teams.
Call A-Rock Asphalt for Expert Striping Services
If you’re ready to improve safety, boost curb appeal, and ensure full compliance, A-Rock Asphalt is here to help. Our experienced team knows everything you need to know about parking lot striping: costs, codes & best practices, and we apply that knowledge to every project.
From fire lane striping to ADA-compliant layouts and clear parking lines, our team provides reliable, high-quality service to property owners across Utah. Whether you’re laying out a new lot or restriping an old one, we’ll make sure your lot is marked correctly, efficiently, and affordably.
Contact A-Rock Asphalt today at 801-973-9200 to schedule your professional striping service or to get a free estimate for your parking striping project.