Common Parking Space and Traffic Signs For Commercial Properties

The Most Prevalent and Important Parking Space and Traffic Signs for Ohio Parking Lots

For contractors and property owners in Ohio, there are some parking sign compliance issues to be aware of. Discover the essential parking lot and traffic signs needed for commercial lots in Ohio.

When you pull your car into a parking lot, you’re probably not thinking about the signs you see posted around or the markings on the ground – but property owners and parking facility managers should. In Ohio, proper signage is about more than organization. It is also about safety for visitors, customers, and employees, legal compliance, and accessibility.

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Whether you own or manage a shopping center, school, office complex, or residential building, compliant parking space and traffic signs are not only critical for safety in many cities and states, but it’s also the law.

Learn about the most important and required parking space and traffic signs for parking lots in Columbus, Ohio.

Regulatory Parking Space and Traffic Signs for Compliance

These types of parking lot and traffic signs show what is legally allowed in your facility. They are required for compliance, help avoid potential fines and confusion, and can lower accident risk.

Handicap Parking

These signs are required for ADA compliance. Federal law mandates that all public access parking facilities include designated Americans with Disability Act-compliant parking spaces. In Ohio, these spaces must feature the standard blue and white wheelchair symbol and include a vertical sign for visibility. The Ohio Revised Code enforces the regulation, and improper signs can result in significant fines.

No Parking/Fire Lane

Emergency access is required for every commercial building. Fire lanes must be clearly marked with a No Parking-Fire Lane sign. These parking space and traffic signs must be visible and reflective, especially in commercial properties. Some Ohio fire codes require signs every 25 to 50 feet in fire lane zones.

Reserved Parking

From employee-only spots to assigned spaces for tenants, reserved parking signs ensure order and prevent unauthorized use. While not typically mandated by law, these signs are essential for parking lot management and can prevent disputes or tows.

Directional Parking Space and Traffic Signs

These signs provide clear guidance and help keep traffic flow organized and safe.

Entrance/Exit Signage

Clearly marked entrance and exit points help visitors navigate your facility. Reflective signage makes them visible even in low light.

One Way/Do Not Enter

Many lots have narrow passages that only allow one-way traffic. One Way/Do Not Enter signs reduce accident risk and eliminate driver confusion.

Stop and Yield Signs

If you manage or own a large lot, you may need Stop or Yield signs to control the right of way. In Ohio, the standard for this signage is set by the Ohio Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (OMUTCD).

Safety and Public Awareness Signage

Your lot isn’t just for vehicle traffic. Pedestrians also cross through your space. Pedestrians may be at risk in poorly lit areas that lack directional signage for pedestrians. These signs help keep everyone safe.

Pedestrian Crossing Signs

Building entrances, crosswalks, and high-traffic walkways should include marked pedestrian crossing signage. This signage is especially crucial near hospitals, schools, shopping centers, and commercial buildings.

Speed Limit Signs

Both public and private lots should have clearly posted speed limits. In Ohio, 5 to 15 MPH is typical, depending on the lot size and amount of pedestrian traffic. Speed limit signs help prevent reckless driving, protecting both drivers and pedestrians.

Pavement Markings and Ground-Level Signage

Along with parking space and traffic signs, ground markings are as important as signs on posts. These markings can designate special areas, aid in directing traffic flow, and clearly designate parking spaces. Examples of pavement markings include:

Painted Arrows and Symbols

Directional arrows, parking space markings, STOP text, and painted handicap symbols help support vertical signage and keep traffic flowing and parking organized.

Loading Zones/Drop-Off Areas

Loading or unloading zones should be clearly marked with painted markings and signage to prevent blocking and ensure unencumbered access when needed.

Choosing the Right Sign Material and Placement

For long-lasting, compliant signage, you should always consider construction materials and sign placement. When considering signage, always opt for reflective aluminum signs, which are especially useful for visibility after dark.

Proper mounting height is often mandated by local regulations. Typically, signs should be mounted 60 inches from the ground to the bottom of the sign (for ADA compliance). If you choose to opt for another sign material, ensure that it can stand up to the Ohio climate (freezing winters and humid summers).

In Ohio, there are some specific guidelines and regulations to be aware of when choosing signage. Ohio follows the Ohio Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (OMUTCD). This guideline outlines all standards for signage size, reflectivity, height, and placement. Non-compliance with established Ohio parking signage laws can result in fines and violations, legal liability in the case of accidents, accessibility lawsuits, and delays in insurance claims.

Additionally, local municipalities may have specific ordinances, so it’s crucial to check with your city, county, or parking lot contractor when planning or updating signage.

A Parking Lot Needs Signage

Parking lot and traffic signs aren’t just helpful. In Ohio, they are legally and ethically essential. Proper signage makes your parking facility safer, operate efficiently, and compliant with Ohio laws. If your lot is missing key signs or has outdated ones, now is the perfect time to upgrade!

At The Super Stripers, our mission is to provide unparalleled parking lot striping services with a focus on reliability, friendliness, and uncompromising quality. We are dedicated to enhancing the appearance, safety, and organization of parking facilities and other line-marking services, such as parking garages, athletic courts, warehouses, and more.

With attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, we aim to be the trusted partner for all your parking lot striping needs. If you are in Columbus or Central Ohio, please call (614) 648-0799 or email contact@superstripers.com for more information. We are locally owned and fully insured, and look forward to working with you.