Functional Design :

What is the appropriate size for a parking space?*

The size of parking spaces allowed is mandated by the local zoning or land development ordinances. For example, in Philadelphia commercial districts, the minimum size parking space allowed is 8’6” x 18’0”. However, if there are more than 25 spaces, some spaces may be compacted to 8’0” x 18’0”.

Further, in Philadelphia industrial districts the minimum is 9’0” x 18’0”. In New Brunswick, New Jersey the minimum is 9’0” x 18’0”. In Baltimore Maryland it is 9’ x 20”. And in Media, Pennsylvania the minimum parking space size allowed is 9’6” x 20’0”.



The size for parking stalls should be based on typical use. A general rule for this is: the lower the turnover, or the more urban a location is, the smaller the spaces can be tolerated by users. On the other hand, areas with high turnover, and which are less urban, will generally have larger spaces. However, variances of design wavers are often sought for parking stall dimensions.

One common dilemma when constructing a parking garage is considering the type of vehicle for which to design the garage. One standard size is the AASHTO Passenger Car (P) Design Vehicle.

The vast majority of large passenger vehicles on the road today are smaller, and have better turning radii than the AASHTO Passenger Car (P) Design Vehicle. Therefore, if the garage is designed to be able to accommodate this vehicle, then most vehicles will be able to navigate the garage with few issues.