This is simply a layman’s guide for business and website owners seeking a simplified guide to make their businesses more accessible. It holds no legal bearing and should not be relied upon for litigation.

For more detailed understanding of ADA compliance, visit our ADA compliance section.   

Who is this for?

• Businesses open to the public (retail, restaurants, hotels, etc.)
  
• Commercial facilities
  
• Public accommodations
  
• Websites and mobile applications
  
• Employers (with 15+ employees) under Title I
  

1. General Facility Accessibility (Physical Locations)

Parking & Exterior Access

• At least one accessible parking space per 25 standard spaces
  
• Accessible parking is clearly marked with signage
  
• Path from parking to entrance is level, stable, and slip-resistant
  
• Ramps have slope no steeper than 1:12 and handrails on both sides
  
• Entrance is on an accessible route (no steps or steep inclines)
  

Building Entrance & Doors

• At least one accessible entrance is available to the public
  
• Doorways are at least 32 inches wide
  
• Doors can be opened with minimal force (5 lbs or less)
  
• Handles are usable with one hand and don’t require tight grasping or twisting
  

Interior Accessibility

• Hallways and paths are at least 36 inches wide
  
• Floors are stable and non-slippery
  
• Elevators are available for multi-floor access (where necessary)
  
• Signage includes braille and raised characters where required
  
• Fire alarms include visual and audible signals
  

2. Restrooms

• At least one accessible stall per restroom (60″ turning radius)
  
• Grab bars are properly positioned (33–36″ from the floor)
  
• Sink and soap dispensers are accessible (no higher than 34″ from the floor)
  
• Pipes under sinks are insulated
  
• Toilet paper dispensers are within reach of the toilet
  

3. Service Counters and Seating

• At least one lowered service counter (maximum height: 36″)
  
• Accessible tables and seating areas (27″ clearance underneath)
  
• Aisles between tables are at least 36″ wide
  

4. Communication & Customer Service

• Staff are trained to assist individuals with disabilities
  
• Auxiliary aids are provided when necessary (e.g., sign language interpreters, written materials)
  
• TTY, text relay, or equivalent service is available for phone communication
  
• Service animals are permitted
  

5. Website and Digital Accessibility (WCAG 2.1 AA Guidelines)

ADA requires websites to be accessible as well. Use the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA as the benchmark.

Perceivable

• Text alternatives (alt text) are provided for all images
  
• Captions or transcripts are available for videos and audio
  
• Content is distinguishable (color contrast ≥ 4.5:1 for text)
  
• Layout is responsive and resizable without loss of content
  

Operable

• All functionality is accessible via keyboard
  
• Users have enough time to read and use content (e.g., timeout warnings)
  
• No content flashes more than three times per second (to avoid seizures)
  
• Page titles, headers, and focus indicators are clear
  

Understandable

• Navigation is consistent across the site
  
• Forms include clear instructions, labels, and error messages
  
• Language is set in the HTML
  

Robust

• Website works with screen readers and assistive technologies
  
• Semantic HTML is used (e.g., proper use of headings, lists, tables)
  
• ARIA roles and labels are implemented correctly
  

6. Employment Practices (ADA Title I – for Employers)

• Non-discriminatory hiring practices for applicants with disabilities
  
• Reasonable accommodations offered in the workplace
  
• Accessible interviews and onboarding processes
  
• Policies in place for handling accommodation requests
  

7. Documentation, Auditing & Ongoing Maintenance

• Accessibility policy is documented and available
  
• Routine audits are scheduled for facilities and websites
  
• Feedback mechanisms are in place (e.g., accessibility contact forms)
  
• Vendor contracts include accessibility requirements (if applicable)
  
• Accessibility updates are part of future planning (renovations, redesigns, etc.)
  

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Civil lawsuits from private individuals or advocacy groups
  
• Fines of up to $75,000 for first violations and $150,000 for additional ones
  
• Reputational damage and potential loss of federal funding (if applicable)