The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) isn't just about legal compliance—it's about creating inclusive spaces where everyone can navigate safely and independently. Understanding ADA signage requirements is crucial for any business, and non-compliance can result in costly lawsuits and penalties.
Important Note
This guide provides general information about ADA requirements. Always consult with ADA compliance professionals and local building codes for your specific situation.
What Signs Must Be ADA Compliant?
Not all signs require ADA compliance, but certain types are mandated by law:
Required ADA Signs
- • Permanent room identification
- • Restroom signs
- • Exit signs
- • Elevator floor designations
- • Stairwell identification
- • Parking space identification
- • Accessible route markers
Not Required (But Recommended)
- • Temporary signs
- • Company logos
- • Advertising signs
- • Changeable message signs
- • Directory signs
- • Maps (unless part of wayfinding)
Key ADA Signage Requirements
1. Raised Characters and Braille
All tactile signs must include both raised characters and Grade 2 Braille:
- Raised characters must be 5/8" to 2" high
- Characters raised 1/32" minimum
- Sans serif or simple serif fonts only
- Braille must be positioned below corresponding text
- Braille dots raised 0.025" to 0.037"
2. Visual Character Requirements
Visual elements must meet specific contrast and sizing requirements:
- 70% minimum contrast between text and background
- Non-glare finish required
- Character width 55% to 110% of character height
- Stroke width 10% to 30% of character height
- Spacing between characters 1/8" minimum
3. Mounting Height and Location
Proper placement is critical for accessibility:
- Baseline of lowest tactile character: 48" minimum, 60" maximum from floor
- Clear floor space 18" x 18" minimum
- Mounted on wall adjacent to latch side of door
- Close enough to door so person can approach within 3" without door swing hitting them
- No protruding objects above 27" in path of approach
Common ADA Compliance Mistakes
Avoid These Costly Errors:
- • Using decorative or script fonts
- • Insufficient color contrast
- • Mounting signs too high or too low
- • Missing or incorrect Braille
- • Glossy or reflective finishes
- • Signs in door swing paths
- • Characters too small or too large
- • Inadequate clear floor space
ADA Sign Types and Applications
Tactile Signs
Required for permanent rooms and spaces. Include raised text and Braille.
Examples: Restrooms, Office 101, Conference Room A
Visual-Only Signs
Don't require tactile elements but must meet visual requirements.
Examples: Overhead directional, Exit signs, Floor numbers
Pictogram Signs
Symbols with text description field below in Braille.
Examples: Men's/Women's restrooms, Accessible symbols
Material and Manufacturing Considerations
The materials and manufacturing process significantly impact ADA compliance:
Approved Materials
- Acrylic: Durable, easy to clean, available in many colors
- Wood: Traditional look, must be properly sealed
- Metal: Very durable, good for high-traffic areas
- Photopolymer: Precise raised characters, professional appearance
Manufacturing Methods
- Raster Braille: Precision-drilled Braille dots
- Subsurface engraving: Characters engraved and filled with contrasting color
- Appliqué: Raised elements applied to base material
- Cast/molded: Characters formed during manufacturing
Cost Considerations
ADA compliance doesn't have to break the budget. Here's what affects pricing:
| Sign Type | Typical Size | Price Range | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Room ID | 6" x 2" | $25-45 | 3-5 days |
| Restroom Sign | 8" x 8" | $45-75 | 5-7 days |
| Custom Office Sign | 12" x 3" | $65-120 | 7-10 days |
Compliance Testing and Verification
Before installation, verify compliance with these checks:
Pre-Installation Checklist:
- Character height measured
- Contrast ratio verified
- Braille accuracy confirmed
- Mounting location planned
- Clear floor space confirmed
- Installation height marked
- Door swing clearance checked
- Surface finish verified
Working with ADA Signage Professionals
While ADA requirements might seem complex, working with experienced signage professionals ensures compliance and peace of mind. Look for companies that:
- Have certified ADA compliance specialists on staff
- Can provide compliance documentation
- Offer site surveys to verify proper placement
- Use quality materials and manufacturing processes
- Provide installation services with compliance verification
John Thompson
Founder & CEO, SignCityWPG
John is a certified ADA compliance specialist with over 20 years in the signage industry. He has helped hundreds of businesses achieve full accessibility compliance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.