What is the maximum ramp gradient allowed?

The maximum gradient depends on the going (length of the ramp flight). For goings up to 2 m, the maximum gradient is 1:12. For goings up to 5 m, the maximum is 1:15. For goings up to 10 m, the maximum is 1:20. The preferred gradient for all ramps is 1:20 or shallower. These requirements are set out in AD-M Diagram 1 and BS 8300-1:2018 Table 2.

What landings are required on a ramp?

A level landing is required at the top and bottom of every ramp. Intermediate landings are required where the going of a single flight exceeds the maximum for the gradient used (e.g. every 10 m at 1:20, every 5 m at 1:15). Landings must be at least 1,200 mm long (1,500 mm preferred) and the full width of the ramp. A 1,500 mm x 1,500 mm turning space is needed where direction changes occur.

What width should a ramp be?

The minimum width between handrails is 1,500 mm for ramps used by the general public and in non-domestic buildings. For dwellings, a minimum width of 900 mm is acceptable. Where ramps are used by wheelchair users and pedestrians together, 1,800 mm width is preferred to allow passing. These are from AD-M and BS 8300-1.

Do ramps need handrails on both sides?

Yes. Ramps with a rise greater than 300 mm require handrails on both sides at 900-1,000 mm height, with a second lower rail at 600 mm (for wheelchair users and children). Handrails must extend 300 mm beyond the top and bottom of the ramp, have a profile that can be gripped (40-50 mm diameter circular or oval), and contrast visually with the background.

Part M Ramp Gradient Requirements

Maximum Ramp Gradients (AD-M Diagram 1 / BS 8300-1 Table 2)

Going (Flight Length)	Max. Gradient	Max. Rise per Flight	Notes
Up to 2 m	1:12	166 mm	Steepest permitted — short ramps only
Up to 5 m	1:15	333 mm	Moderate length ramps
Up to 10 m	1:20	500 mm	Preferred gradient for all ramps
Over 10 m	1:20 max (with landings every 10 m)	500 mm per flight	Intermediate landings required

Landing Requirements

Parameter	Requirement
Top landing length	≥ 1,200 mm (1,500 mm preferred)
Bottom landing length	≥ 1,200 mm (1,500 mm preferred)
Intermediate landing	≥ 1,500 mm long, full ramp width
Turning space (change of direction)	1,500 mm x 1,500 mm unobstructed
Cross-fall on landing	≤ 1:50 (for drainage only)

Handrail Requirements

Parameter	Requirement
Upper handrail height	900-1,000 mm above ramp surface
Lower handrail height	600 mm above ramp surface
Handrail diameter	40-50 mm (circular) or equivalent oval profile
Extension beyond ramp	300 mm at top and bottom
Visual contrast	Handrail must contrast with background
Required when	Rise exceeds 300 mm

Edge Protection and Surface Finish

Feature	Requirement
Raised kerb	≥ 100 mm high on open edges
Surface finish	Slip-resistant in wet and dry conditions
Tactile warning	Corduroy hazard warning at top and bottom (non-domestic)
Cross-fall on ramp	≤ 1:50 (for drainage)

Scotland & Northern Ireland

Scotland follows Technical Handbook Section 4.3 (Stairs and ramps) with broadly similar gradient limits but some differences in landing size and handrail details. Northern Ireland follows Technical Booklet R. BS 8300-1:2018 is referenced across all UK jurisdictions as the supporting standard for access design.

Related Calculators

Use the Wheelchair Ramp Calculator for ramp design, or the Part M Door Widths reference for accessible door requirements.

Always check the latest edition of Approved Documents on the Planning Portal (planningportal.co.uk) as regulations are updated periodically.

Part M Ramp Gradient Requirements

Maximum Ramp Gradients (AD-M Diagram 1 / BS 8300-1 Table 2)

Landing Requirements

Handrail Requirements

Edge Protection and Surface Finish

Scotland & Northern Ireland

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