R.M. from Franklin County, Ohio writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
How many handicap parking spots are allowed for 26 condo units? And how do you go about having one installed?
Mister Condo replies:
R.M., if you have reviewed my blog, you know I have written a great deal about handicapped parking. The simple truth is that condominium parking lots are typically private property. As such, they are not “required” to offer any handicapped parking. It isn’t a function of the number of units; it is a function of the “reasonableness” of offering any handicapped parking spots in a privately-owned lot where parking is typically tight and at a premium. The Board is obligated to review any requests for handicapped parking but they are not obligated to oblige the request unless there is abundant parking available and designating handicapped parking cannot be deemed “unreasonable”. My advice is for you to apply to the Board and let them respond to your request. They may say “yes” but they will probably say “no”. At that time, you may wish to speak to your own attorney to see if the he or she agrees with the Board that the request is unreasonable. Also, if it is approved, the Board may request that you pay for the painting/striping/placard used to designate the handicapped space. Again, because this is private property, it is not incumbent upon the Board to pay for the space. Good luck!