Free, on-demand StopGap entrance ramps are now available for eligible local businesses

Apply by October 3 for the 2025 program

The Town of Orangeville and the Access Orangeville Committee, in partnership with the StopGap Foundation, are working to increase accessibility to businesses in the Town of Orangeville. By using these temporary ramps, businesses can increase access and remove barriers for customers.

Applications for the 2025 StopGap Ramp Program are now open.  Ramps are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Businesses are encouraged to apply early to confirm eligibility and secure their custom ramps.

What is a StopGap ramp?

A StopGap ramp can be used at locations that have one step entrances. The sturdy, colourful ramps reduce barriers and allow more people to access more spaces. They also aim to raise awareness about the importance of creating accessible spaces in our built environment.

Ramps are suitable for entrances that:

  • Have one step, between 2 inches to 7 inches high
  • Are at least 34 inches wide
  • Have 5 to 7 feet of space leading up to the entrance to ensure sufficient clearance for safe ramp deployment and usage (Note that this space can be on public property such as sidewalks).

What does a StopGap ramp look like?

Ramps are custom built for each location, based on the size of the step. The length of the ramp depends on the height of the step. All ramps have an angled top surface with a 1:6 rise to run ratio, which translates to a nine-degree slope. Ramps are 34 inches wide, weigh approximately 30 pounds, and are made with dimensional lumber side supports and exterior grade plywood tops. All surfaces are treated with high-grade exterior paint containing a non-slip additive. Each ramp is equipped with two rope handles on either side to allow for easier installation and removal. Ramps for Orangeville’s program will be green.

How can we use a StopGap ramp?

A StopGap ramp is not intended to be a permanent solution. It is to be used on an “as-needed” basis to increase the accessibility of single-stepped situations. Business owners and staff will be responsible for installing and removing the ramp on their own based on the needs of customers. Safe lifting techniques should be followed when transporting, installing, and removing the ramp.

Who can apply?

To ensure that all StopGap ramp locations are safe and suitable, businesses must meet the following requirements to apply:

  • Be a commercial property with public access located within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Orangeville,
    • Businesses located in Priority Zone 1 will be prioritized
      • Priority Zone 1 includes areas in and around downtown Orangeville, east Broadway (Third Street to Highway 10), west Broadway (Faulkner Street to Ada Street), and the First Street corridor (north of Broadway to south of Hansen Boulevard).
      • Use this interactive map to determine if your property is located in the Priority Zone 1 (marked in blue).
  • Have an entrance that is at least 34" wide with a single step 2" to 7" high
  • Have 5 to 7 feet of space leading up to the entrance to ensure sufficient clearance for safe ramp deployment and usage
  • Have dry, interior space to store the ramp when not in use
  • Have the ability to maintain the ramp in all seasons to ensure the ramp is not exposed to moisture for extended periods of time
  • Have the ability to adhere to the following use instructions:
    • Ramp should be flush and level against the step with no gaps present
    • Ramp should rest on its supporting surface (eg. sidewalk, pavement, floor, etc.) and must not move
    • Entrance must be free from all actual or potential hazards and be well lit
  • Provide a Certificate of Insurance indicating proof of $2 million commercial liability insurance with "The Corporation of the Town of Orangeville, 87 Broadway, Orangeville, L9W 1K1" included as an additional insured

How do I apply?

If your business fulfills all of the eligibility requirements above, follow these steps to apply:

  1. Complete the online application 
  2. When your eligibility is confirmed by the Town, you will:
    • Measure your step and provide photos so the ramp can be customized for your needs
    • Review and sign the StopGap Customer Supply Agreement 
    • Provide a Certificate of Insurance indicating proof of $2 million commercial liability insurance with "The Corporation of the Town of Orangeville, 87 Broadway, Orangeville, L9W 1K1" included as an additional insured
  3. Be ready to receive your ramp, delivered by the Town of Orangeville in November

Apply by Friday, October 3 for the 2025 program 

What if I have more questions?

Please contact the Town's Economic Development and Culture division.