Wheel stops play a crucial role in creating safer car parks across Australia, helping prevent vehicle overrun, protecting pedestrians, and maintaining tidy, controlled parking bays. Whether you’re installing them for a commercial site, residential complex, or public facility, knowing the requirements of AS 2890.1 ensures your setup is safe, compliant, and long-lasting.
Below is a clear guide to what the Australian Standard requires and how to install wheel stops the right way.
What Is AS 2890.1 and Why Does It Matter?
AS 2890.1: Off-Street Parking Facilities outlines the minimum design and installation requirements for car parks in Australia.
When it comes to wheel stops, the standard defines:
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Maximum height
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Correct placement
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Clearances in front of and behind wheel stops
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Performance and durability expectations
Following AS 2890.1 ensures your car park:
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Minimises damage to vehicles and buildings
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Improves pedestrian safety
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Provides consistent, predictable parking behaviour
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Remains compliant for council approvals, audits, and insurance purposes
Key AS 2890.1 Requirements for Wheel Stops
1. Height & Dimensions
AS 2890.1 specifies that wheel stops must:
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Be between 90 mm and 100 mm high
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Be approximately 1650 mm long (typical industry standard)
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Have chamfered edges to reduce tyre damage
Materials commonly used in compliant wheel stops include rubber, concrete, and polyethylene, with rubber becoming the preferred option for safety and ease of installation.
2. Correct Placement in a Parking Bay
Per AS 2890.1, wheel stops should be positioned:
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From 0.9 m to 1.0 m from the front of the parking space
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Centred along the bay
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Installed to restrict vehicle overhang without creating a trip hazard
This placement ensures vehicles stop safely without encroaching into pedestrian walkways, walls, signage, or landscaped areas.
3. Suitable Surfaces for Installation
Wheel stops can be fixed to:
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Concrete slabs
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Asphalt surfaces
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Pavers (with suitable fixings)
Rubber wheel stops are particularly popular due to their flexibility, shock absorption, and ability to be installed with standard fixing bolts.
4. Fixing Requirements
AS 2890.1 recommends using fixings suitable for the installation surface.
For example:
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Concrete → Dynabolts or anchor bolts
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Asphalt → Screw bolts or spikes
Each wheel stop typically requires 3 fixings to remain securely anchored.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Here’s a quick, compliant installation process:
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Mark the placement
Measure 900–1000 mm from the front line of the parking bay and mark the centre.
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Position the wheel stop
Align it with your markings to ensure it sits straight.
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Pre-drill holes
Use the wheel stop’s fixing holes as a guide.
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Install the fixings
Anchor securely using concrete or asphalt-appropriate bolts.
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Check stability
Ensure the wheel stop sits flush and does not move under pressure.
This simple process ensures compliance and long-term performance.
Benefits of Using AS 2890.1-Compliant Wheel Stops
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Improved safety for pedestrians and neighbouring vehicles
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Reduced property damage, especially near walls and structures
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Uniform parking, which improves overall site organisation
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Easier council approval for new projects
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Long-term cost savings by avoiding non-compliant rework
Takeaway
Installing wheel stops in line with AS 2890.1 is essential for car park safety, compliance, and functionality across Australia. By selecting compliant materials and following the correct installation guidelines, you ensure your project meets industry standards and delivers reliable, long-term results.
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