Commercial Stair Lifts and Building Codes

Commercial stair lifts are sometimes used to improve accessibility in public or community spaces, especially where a full elevator installation isn’t practical and where ADA compliance is not required. Professionally installed on existing stair treads, these stair chair lifts allow individuals with limited mobility to ride up and down a staircase using a mounted chair.

Stair lifts can offer added convenience in certain settings. Places of worship, veterans’ organizations, fraternal orders, and other community service establishments are common examples. However, they aren’t appropriate for all commercial spaces, especially those subject to strict ADA or building code requirements. 

Let’s look at the benefits and limitations of commercial stair lifts to help you understand when they may be a viable solution and when a different option is needed.

Pros of Commercial Stair Lifts

Because they mount directly onto the stair tread, commercial stair lifts are one of the easiest mobility aids to have professionally installed. The process typically requires minimal to no construction and can often be completed without shutting down stairways for long periods. In fact, the typical stair lift installation process on-site takes less than one day to complete (note: not including inspection, when required).

Chair lifts for stairs are also a highly cost-effective option for helping certain visitors use your space (see below for further details). Specific prices vary by the type of stairway lift, but typically all options cost less than installing an elevator or otherwise overhauling an existing space. Long-term maintenance is also more affordable than it is for other accessibility lift and elevator equipment options. 

Finally, commercial stair lifts offer a compact, non-intrusive way to make your stairs more accessible for many types of users. The seat folds conveniently out of the way when not in use, leaving the stairs free for walkers. Plus, the lift itself only extends out from the bottom stair by 24–30 inches, keeping the landing area around your stairs relatively open. This makes them a practical option in spaces where stairs see frequent use and need to remain fully functional for all visitors. Stair lifts can easily integrate into busy stairways without creating bottlenecks or limiting access

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Are Commercial Stair Lifts ADA Compliant?

Commercial stair lifts offer several benefits, but they’re not the best choice for every space. One thing that is important to understand is that these lifts are not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

The ADA (and local codes that support it) is designed to ensure that any wheelchair user can travel from point A to point B independently. However, stair lifts cannot carry wheelchairs. They require the user to sit directly in the seat to ride up or down the stairway. Not every wheelchair user is capable of transferring to a stair lift seat, and even those who can would need a second wheelchair or someone to move their wheelchair to the other end of the lift. 

Ultimately, this means that if you’re running a public business, installing a commercial chair lift won’t help you meet ADA requirements. They’re better suited for public spaces that aren’t required to follow ADA guidelines, or those that already have other accessibility pathways in place.

Building Codes That Limit the Use of Stair Lifts in Commercial Spaces

Besides ADA stair lift restrictions, building codes also determine when commercial stair lifts can be used. When stairs are required for exiting a building, many codes require stairways to have a minimum unobstructed width for egress. In some situations, stair lifts—despite being fairly compact—occupy too much space to meet these requirements, so unless you have multiple stairways, adding a commercial stair lift may not be feasible. 

Handrail access can also be a consideration. Many codes require any staircase to have accessible handrails, so a commercial stair lift would only work if it doesn’t block the existing handrail. 

Building owners should also check local permitting requirements before installing a stair lift, as some areas may require extra preparation or safety steps. In most cases, the lift will also need to pass annual inspections and receive ongoing maintenance.

Find the Right Mobility Solution for Your Commercial Space

Commercial stair lifts don’t meet ADA requirements, and building codes can sometimes restrict their use. Still, in places where ADA compliance isn’t required, they can be a helpful solution. Locations like places of worship, VFW halls, and other community organizations often have enough stairway space to meet code, and a stair lift can make it much easier for visitors who use canes or have trouble with stairs.

For locations where strict accessibility standards apply, you may need to explore other options. Fortunately, whether you need a vertical platform lift, a LULA elevator, or another commercial accessibility solution, the experts at Arrow Lift® can point you in the right direction. These alternatives not only meet ADA standards but also provide long-term flexibility as your building’s accessibility needs evolve. By comparing stair lifts with options like VPLs, LULAs, and other lift systems, you’ll be better equipped to choose the solution that keeps your space welcoming and compliant.

We carry a large selection of stair lifts, and our Technicians know how to install them safely and up to local code requirements. Request a Free Consultation to explore your options.