Ramps & Entry
Wheelchair Ramp Slope Requirements
One inch of rise needs about one foot of ramp at the commonly referenced 1:12 slope. Gentler is easier to push.
Written by Marcus Thorne
Reviewed by Elena Marsh
Updated August 27, 2026
Fact-checked August 27, 2026
2 min read
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How to measure rise correctly
Rise is the vertical distance from the lower surface — driveway, walkway, or patio — up to the finished landing surface at the door, not the top step. Measure with a level and a tape rather than adding up step heights, because settled walkways throw that math off.
Landings matter as much as slope
- A level landing at the top gives space to open the door without rolling backward.
- Landings are also used where a ramp changes direction or where a long run is broken into sections.
- Landings should be level in both directions; a landing that pitches sideways is hard to hold position on.
- Leave room for the door swing so the landing is not blocked when the door opens outward.
Edges, surface, and handrails
- Edge protection keeps a caster from dropping off the side of the run.
- A slip-resistant surface matters most where rain, ice, or leaves collect.
- Handrails on both sides help walkers and anyone assisting a chair.
- Cross slope should be minimal so the chair does not steer itself toward one edge.
When the required length will not fit
A 30-inch rise at 1:12 needs about 30 feet of ramp plus landings, which does not fit in many front yards. Switchback designs, side-yard routes, a lower entry door, or a porch lift are the usual answers. A porch lift takes a fraction of the footprint but adds power, maintenance, and a higher price.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1:12 a legal requirement for a private home?
Not automatically. The 1:12 figure comes from public accessibility standards and is widely used as a design target. What applies to a private residence depends on your local building department, and any permit review will tell you what they enforce.
How long a ramp do I need for three steps?
Measure the actual rise instead of counting steps. Three steps often total 18 to 24 inches, which is roughly 18 to 24 feet of ramp at 1:12, before landings.
Keep reading
Sources
- ADA Standards for Accessible Design, ramps — U.S. Department of Justice
Marcus Thorne
Senior Editor, Mobility Equipment
Marcus covers stair lifts, home elevators, and platform lifts for Home Access Advisor. He spent eleven years estimating residential remodels before moving into consumer publishing, and he reads dealer quotes for a living — which is why most of his guides start with the line items other sites leave out.
Covers: Stair lifts · Residential elevators · Installation pricing · Dealer quotes
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