Free ADA Compliance Self-Audit Checklist

Parking & site approach

• At least 1 van-accessible space per every 6 accessible spaces
• Access aisle at least 8 ft wide (van) / 5 ft wide (standard)
• Signage mounted 60 in above ground, not obscured
• Route from parking to entrance max slope 1:20 (or ramp with 1:12)
• Route at least 36 in wide, stable, firm, slip-resistant
• No steps without a parallel ramp or elevator

Entrance

• At least one accessible entrance (same as main entrance when possible)
• Door clear opening at least 32 in
• Door pull force 5 lbf or less (interior) / 8.5 lbf (exterior, varies)
• Threshold max 1/2 in (beveled)
• Hardware operable with one hand, no tight grasping

Interior circulation

• Primary routes at least 36 in clear
• Carpet pile max 1/2 in, securely attached
• Protruding objects (signs, fixtures) no more than 4 in into path between 27–80 in high
• Elevator where required by floor area & occupancy

Restrooms

• Clear floor space for 60 in turning circle
• Grab bars: rear (36 in min) + side (42 in min), mounted 33–36 in above floor
• Toilet seat 17–19 in above floor, 16–18 in from side wall
• Sink knee clearance 27 in high, 30 in wide, 11–25 in deep
• Mirror bottom edge max 40 in above floor
• Dispensers reachable (max 48 in forward reach, 54 in side reach)

Counters & service

• Primary service counter max 36 in high, min 36 in wide section
• At least one accessible checkout lane open during business hours

Website (WCAG 2.1 AA highlights)

• All images have meaningful alt text
• All forms have associated labels
• Keyboard reaches every interactive element; focus indicator visible
• Text contrast ratio ≥ 4.5:1 (3:1 for large text)
• No content relies on color alone
• Site announces dynamic changes to screen readers (ARIA live)
• Video has captions; audio has transcript

Policies & staff

• Staff trained to allow service animals
• Written policy for reasonable modifications to procedures
• Emergency evacuation plan includes people with disabilities