Accessible Parking Rights for Disabled Renters in Kansas

If you’re a Kansas renter with a disability, having safe and accessible parking is more than a convenience—it’s your legal right under both federal and state law. Understanding your rights helps you advocate for necessary accommodations in your rental home, including designated accessible parking. Here’s what you need to know to request, secure, or resolve issues related to disability parking accommodations in Kansas.

Understanding Disability Parking Rights in Kansas Rentals

Federal law—specifically the Fair Housing Act—requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations so disabled tenants can fully enjoy and use their rental property. Kansas law also protects individuals under the Kansas Act Against Discrimination and the Kansas Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act. These rights include designated or modified parking spaces for tenants with mobility impairments or other qualifying disabilities.^[1][2][3]

How to Request Accessible Parking Accommodations

As a renter, you have the right to ask your landlord for parking modifications if you or a household member has a disability. "Reasonable accommodations" might include:

• Installing an accessible parking spot close to your unit
• Adding signage or curb cuts for accessibility
• Assigning a reserved space if none currently exist

Landlords cannot charge a fee for these reasonable accommodations, nor can they refuse simply because it involves changes to common areas like parking lots.

Required Documentation & Forms

You may need to provide supporting documentation that shows your need for an accessible parking space, such as:

• A letter from your healthcare provider confirming your disability and the necessity of accommodation (no specific official Kansas form is required for parking accommodation requests, but written communication is recommended)
• A valid disability parking placard or license plate issued by the Kansas Department of Revenue. See the "Certification of Disability for Disabled Parking Placard and/or Plate" (Form TR-159): Download Form TR-159

Action Steps for Tenants

• Write a formal request to your landlord or property manager, including any documentation.
• If you do not receive a timely or reasonable response, contact the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) to learn more about your rights or file a complaint.
• Maintain copies of all written communications and forms submitted.

If Your Request Is Denied or Ignored

If a landlord refuses or unjustifiably delays your request for an accessible parking accommodation, you have the right to file a formal complaint. In Kansas, the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) is the tribunal handling residential tenancy discrimination complaints regarding accessibility.

• File a complaint online or by mail with the KHRC: How to File a Complaint
• Complaints should be filed within six months of the last alleged discriminatory act.

If found in violation, landlords may be ordered to provide the accommodation and could face penalties.

FAQ: Parking Accommodations for Disabled Renters in Kansas

1. Can my landlord charge me more for an accessible parking space?
   No. Under the Fair Housing Act and Kansas law, landlords cannot charge extra fees for providing a reasonable parking accommodation.
2. Do I need to use a specific state form to request an accessible space?
   There is no official form required for the accommodation request. However, providing the "Certification of Disability for Disabled Parking Placard and/or Plate" (Form TR-159) may support your request.
3. What if my landlord says no to modifying or assigning a parking space?
   If your landlord refuses your request, you can file a fair housing complaint with the Kansas Human Rights Commission.
4. How long does my assigned accessible parking spot last?
   Your parking accommodation should remain in effect as long as you live at the property and need it, or until your lease ends or the disability status changes.
5. Can visitors with disabilities request accessible parking for a short-term stay?
   Accommodations are usually for tenants, but landlords should consider reasonable requests under fair housing laws for recurring guests or caregivers.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters

• Kansas and federal law require landlords to provide reasonable parking accommodations for tenants with disabilities.
• Make your request in writing, including supporting documents like Form TR-159 or a healthcare provider's letter.
• The Kansas Human Rights Commission oversees fair housing complaints—don’t hesitate to contact them if your rights are denied.

Knowing your rights as a renter can make a big difference in accessing the accommodations you need for daily living and mobility.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Human Rights Commission – Fair Housing Division: File complaints or get more information on reasonable accommodations.
• Kansas Department of Revenue – Disability Placards Information
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing Complaint Process
• Kansas Act Against Discrimination (Statute)
• Kansas Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act (Statute)

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1. Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq.)
2. Kansas Act Against Discrimination (K.S.A. Chapter 44, Article 10)
3. Kansas Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act (K.S.A. 44-1001 et seq.)

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