Parking stops—also called wheel stops or parking bumpers—are everywhere in Orange, from the bustling Plaza district to smaller lots near Chapman University or El Modena High. While they’re meant to guide drivers and protect property, they can easily become trip hazards for pedestrians if not properly installed or maintained.

In a walkable city like ours, where people often cut through parking lots to get to places like Orange Circle or St. Joseph Hospital, keeping these stops safe and up to code isn’t just about liability—it’s about being a good neighbor.

Key Takeaways

• Parking stops in Orange must follow California Title 24 rules and be securely anchored to avoid tripping risks.
• Bright paint or reflective strips help stops signs stay visible under harsh sun near places like Hart Park or Villa Park High.
• Stops should never block walking paths, especially in busy pedestrian areas like Glassell Street or the Outlets at Orange.
• Heavy rain can loosen stops in low-lying areas like Yorba Street, so regular inspections are a must.
• Local pros understand Orange’s weather, traffic, and codes better than out-of-town crews who often get it wrong.

5 Ways to Prevent Parking Stops from Becoming Trip Hazards in Orange, CA

Parking stops are meant to guide vehicles—not trip up your customers. In a walkable city like Orange, CA, where lots see foot traffic from families, students, and seniors, improperly placed or poorly maintained stops can quickly become safety hazards.

Here are five key ways to keep your parking lot safe, compliant, and pedestrian-friendly.

1. Install Parking Stops to Code (And Keep Them There)

The City of Orange follows California state ADA guidelines and Title 24 of the California Building Standards Code, which outline how parking stops should be installed to avoid pedestrian risks. For example:

• Proper spacing from sidewalks and walkways (typically 3 feet).
• Secured installation with rebar or lag bolts.
• Visible height that alerts drivers and pedestrians without creating a toe-stubber.

We’ve seen cases off Tustin Street or around Main Place Mall where parking stops have shifted or broken, leading to real safety concerns. Uneven or misaligned stops are one of the biggest causes of trips—especially at night or during the low-visibility fog we sometimes get in the early mornings around Santiago Creek or the foothills of Orange Park Acres.

2. Use High-Visibility Paint or Reflective Strips

Bright, visible parking stops make a great first impression—and help keep everyone safe. A fresh coat of yellow paint or reflective tape ensures stops are easy to spot for both drivers and pedestrians.

In sunny spots around Hart Park or near schools like Villa Park High, we recommend repainting every 1–2 years. The Southern California sun works fast, but with routine upkeep—including your striping—your lot can stay sharp, clean, and welcoming year-round.

Bonus tip: Precast plastic or rubber wheel stops come in vibrant, high-contrast colors and are more resistant to fading than concrete—an easy upgrade with lasting impact!

3. Avoid Placing Stops in Walking Paths

If your lot serves pedestrians—like at cafes around Glassell Street or near the Outlets at Orange—keep walking paths clear. Parking stops should never sit in areas where people are expected to walk.

Even if it looks out of the way, a poorly placed stop could be a hazard for someone pushing a stroller or using a walker.

We’ve helped businesses around Katella Avenue redesign their layouts to reduce pedestrian cross-flow through parking rows. Sometimes, just relocating or shortening a wheel stop can make a big difference in safety.

4. Regular Inspections—Especially After Heavy Rain

While Orange doesn’t see much rain, the occasional late-winter storms can still cause issues. Pooling water can loosen rebar or weaken the asphalt around parking stops. This is more common in older lots near the Santa Ana River trail or in low-lying areas like around Yorba Street.

Make it a habit to walk your lot every few months and check for:

• Cracked or broken parking stops
• Stops that are crooked or have shifted
• Rusting or exposed rebar
• Faded or peeling paint

Taking care of minor issues now, like crack sealing or addressing worn paint, can save you from bigger problems down the road. And don’t forget about sealcoating your pavement regularly to protect it from further damage.

Business owners in Orange who stay on top of maintenance avoid expensive, unexpected repairs.

5. Work With a Local Asphalt & Striping Pro

Whether you’re managing a commercial lot near Chapman University or a church off Lincoln Avenue, working with a local contractor who knows Orange’s climate, traffic patterns, and city regulations is a smart move.

We’ve seen out-of-town companies install stops that don’t meet local codes, leading to fines and frustrated customers. A seasoned local crew will know how to design and maintain a layout that keeps everyone safe.

Stay Ahead of Liability—Keep Your Lot Safe

Don’t wait for accidents to happen. Parking lot safety is often underestimated, yet it’s one of the most noticeable aspects of your property. Issues like cracked pavement, uneven surfaces, or displaced parking stops can harm your reputation just as much as your asphalt.

Regular maintenance — including services like asphalt milling — helps ensure a smooth, safe, and professional-looking lot.

Keep Your Parking Stops Safe and Compliant

Worn-out or poorly placed parking stops can quickly become trip hazards, especially in high-traffic areas like downtown Orange or busy retail centers near Meats Avenue. One misstep—literally—can lead to injury, liability, and a costly lawsuit. In a place like Orange, where families, students, and elderly residents regularly walk through parking lots, safety isn’t optional—it’s expected.

At El Camino Asphalt, we install, replace, and maintain parking stops that meet California codes and Orange City standards. From securing loose stops to applying high-visibility paint and redesigning lot layouts, we make sure your property is safe and accessible.

If you’re a property owner or manager in Orange, let us help you protect your customers and your bottom line. Request a quote today and let’s get your lot up to standard.