---
title: "Curb Ramp"
url: "https://commonwaysystem.org/patterns/elements/curb-ramp/"
id: "ELM-CRP-03"
description: "A sloped transition cut into a curb, providing an accessible path between the sidewalk and street surface for wheelchair users, strollers, and anyone unable to step up or down a vertical curb face."
updated: "2026-09-26"
---

# Curb Ramp

`ELM-CRP-03`

Recommended Element

Curb Ramp

A sloped transition cut into a curb, providing an accessible path between the sidewalk and street surface for wheelchair users, strollers, and anyone unable to step up or down a vertical curb face.

## Why this pattern exists

A curb that provides no ramped transition is an absolute barrier to wheelchair users and others who cannot step over a vertical curb face; this pattern exists because accessible curb transitions are both a baseline civil rights requirement and a foundational usability feature at every crossing point on the network.

## Key considerations

-   Slope must stay within accessible design limits; a ramp too steep defeats its own purpose[1]
-   Landing space at the top and bottom of the ramp must be clear of obstructions and large enough for a wheelchair to maneuver
-   Detectable Warning Surface should be present at every curb ramp reaching a street, not treated as a separate, optional add-on

## Related patterns

[Detectable Warning Surface](https://commonwaysystem.org/patterns/elements/detectable-warning-surface.md) (ELM-DWS-10) (required companion element); [Curb](https://commonwaysystem.org/patterns/elements/curb.md) (ELM-CRB-01), [Crosswalk](https://commonwaysystem.org/patterns/elements/crosswalk.md) (ELM-CRW-08) (the elements this pattern connects)

## References

1.  Legal / regulatory [PROWAG (U.S. Access Board, 2023 final rule; adopted into DOT's ADA regulations effective January 17, 2025), Section R304, "Curb Ramps and Blended Transitions." Sets a 1:12 maximum running slope, a 1:48 maximum cross slope, and landing dimension and clear-area requirements.](https://www.access-board.gov/prowag/technical.html)