# Making the Grade: The 2% Slope Rule **URL:** \ **Category:** Programming & Analysis\ **Tags:** virtual-workshops\ **Created:** [August 22, 2025, 8:03pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/making-the-grade-the-2-slope-rule/7472 "2025-08-22T20:03:54Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 1\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![ryanrendano](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex029/user_avatar/community.blackspectacles.com/ryanrendano/32/1777_2.png) [@ryanrendano](https://community.blackspectacles.com/u/ryanrendano)\ **Post date:** [August 22, 2025, 8:03pm UTC](https://community.blackspectacles.com/t/making-the-grade-the-2-slope-rule/7472/1 "2025-08-22T20:03:54Z")
Hello PA testers! During a recent Virtual Workshop hosted by @coachfaithbroussard, we received the following question: do we need to memorize the 2% slope rule, or just understand the intent? **What Is It?** The 2% slope rule refers to accessibility standards like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and determines when a surface is classified as a ramp vs. sloped walkway. **Why Is It Important?** A 2% slope allowance exists because in real-world construction, achieving a perfectly flat surface is nearly impossible. Thus, sloped surfaces up to 2% are considered “level.” Slight slopes are often needed for drainage, so accessibility guidelines tolerate up to a 2% slope without triggering additional requirements. When a walkway’s slope is greater than 2% (1:50), it is no longer considered a level surface, and classified as an accessible route instead. If the running slope in the direction of travel meets or exceeds 5% (1:20), the walkway must adhere to all ramp requirements, including handrails, edge protection, landings, and a maximum length per rise. Thus, the 2% rule ensures that accessible routes are both usable and safe for users. In summary, slopes 2% (1:50) and under are treated as level surfaces. Slopes between 2-5% are classified as accessible routes. Slopes 5% (1:20) and greater are ramps, and trigger stricter requirements. As an ARE candidate, it’s important to understand the 2% slope rule and its real-world applications before heading into the exam. If you have any other questions about the 2% slope rule, let us know down in the comments! Ryan Rendano, Assoc. AIA, LEED GA Architect 3D Model Designer **[Black Spectacles](https://www.blackspectacles.com/en-us/)**