Office Buildings
Office uses generally require moderate parking ratios based on employee density and client traffic
- Typical ratio: 3 to 4 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area
- Higher ratios may apply in suburban or car-dependent areas without transit access
- Ratios may be reduced in TOD zones or with shared parking agreements
- Accessible and visitor parking must be factored in per ADA and local standards
Flex and Light Industrial Buildings
Flex spaces combine office and warehouse functions, leading to hybrid parking requirements
- Typical ratio: 2 to 2.5 spaces per 1,000 square feet, varying by tenant mix
- Additional loading and delivery areas are required for industrial components
- Sites must accommodate trailer parking and truck circulation without interfering with employee parking
- Some jurisdictions allow lower ratios if significant warehousing or storage space dominates the use
Retail and Commercial Buildings
Retail developments demand higher parking due to customer turnover and peak period activity
- Typical ratio: 4 to 5 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross leasable area
- Shopping centers, restaurants, and gyms often trigger higher minimums
- Parking requirements may increase for drive-throughs, entertainment, or event venues
- Shared parking models are encouraged in mixed-use or multi-tenant developments
Institutional and Specialized Uses
Civic, medical, and educational buildings have tailored parking ratios based on unique usage patterns
- Medical office: 4 to 6 spaces per 1,000 square feet due to higher patient turnover
- Schools: spaces per staff member plus student drop-off zones
- Warehouses: 1 space per 1,000 to 2,000 square feet, primarily for employees
- Places of assembly: 1 space per 3 to 5 seats, based on occupancy load
