University of Virginia Library


2

Page 2

Dimensions of Spaces:

The ASLA Construction Handbook shows the following critical
dimensions:

  • -45° spaces require 9′x 12′- 9″/car, 49′- 8″ curb to curb, or
    316.7 SF/car

  • -60° spaces require 9′x 10′- 5″/car, 56′- 6″ curb to curb, or
    296.6 SF/car

  • -90° spaces require 9′/car, 58′- 0′ curb to curb, or 261 SF/car

Even though cars today are smaller, there is need to design for
the standard size automobile. It is my opinion that spaces of ample
size are well worth the extra cost in paving; furthermore, parking
areas of ample size allow two-way circulation thereby overcoming
the need to provide circulatory roads. Howland recommends:

  • -90° spaces, 10 feet wide, 60′- 0″ between curbs, or 300 SF/car.

  • -For single-rank parking areas, I recommend 45′- 0″ between
    curbs with spaces 10′ wide.