Creating an inclusive, accessible space isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also the law. An ADA compliant sign is a legal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), making it possible for individuals with disabilities to navigate public and commercial spaces with confidence and independence. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed by ADA signage requirements, tactile signs, and all the nuances around placement and design, we get it. At Excel Lighting & Signs, we install ADA signs every day, and we’ve put together this helpful FAQ to answer your most common questions.
Whether you’re designing signs for a permanent room, mounting directional signs near an elevator, or updating outdated signage with raised characters and Braille, this guide will help you understand what’s expected and how to stay compliant without sacrificing style.
The Basics
What does “ADA-compliant” mean when it comes to signs?
ADA-compliant signs meet the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act to make spaces more accessible for all individuals, especially those who are visually impaired. These signs must meet requirements around tactile characters, Braille, contrast, non-glare finish, and placement.
Definition of ADA Signage
ADA signage refers to signs that are designed and installed in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. These signs are intended to provide visual and tactile information to individuals with disabilities. ADA signage includes a wide range of signs, such as room identification signs, directional signs, informational signs, and warning signs.
By adhering to these guidelines, businesses and public facilities can create an inclusive and compliant environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can navigate and use the space effectively.
Who is required to have ADA compliant signs under the Americans with Disabilities Act?
Most businesses, local government buildings, public facilities, and commercial spaces are required to install an ADA compliant sign. If your building has permanent rooms, restrooms, exits, or public access areas, compliant signs are a must.
Why is ADA signage important for accessibility in public and commercial facilities?
ADA signage provides essential information through visual characters and tactile features for individuals who are blind, low-vision, or otherwise visually impaired. These signs help people to find their way and access services with dignity.
ADA Sign Design & Features
What makes a sign ADA compliant according to current ADA signage requirements?
Signs must include raised characters, Braille, and visual contrast, and follow standards for line spacing, character spacing, font type (sans serif), and size to be considered a tactile sign. Proper installation height and placement near the latch side of doors is also required.
Do all ADA compliant signs need Braille or raised characters?
Signs identifying permanent rooms and spaces must include Grade 2 Braille and raised characters. However, overhead signage or temporary signs may not require these features.
What kind of fonts are required for ADA signage? Can I use a sans serif font?
Yes, ADA signage MUST use a sans serif font that is simple, easy to read, and not decorative.
Fonts like Helvetica and Arial are commonly used.
Are there specific color contrast and non-glare finish requirements for ADA sign design?
Yes. The sign background and text must have a high level of contrast (light on dark or dark on light), and the surface must be non-glare for readability in various lighting conditions.
How big do the letters need to be on ADA signs?
The character height must be between 5/8 inch and 2 inches, depending on the sign’s location and viewing distance. Raised characters and visual characters actually have different sizing rules.
Can ADA signs include branding, logos, or other design elements without violating compliance?
Yes, as long as all required elements (like tactile characters and Braille) are present and the logo does not interfere with legibility or contrast.
What is the difference between visual characters and tactile characters?
Visual characters are printed or engraved for sighted readers, while tactile characters are raised so they can be read by touch. Both are required in most ADA compliant signs.
Types of ADA Signs
There are several types of ADA signs, each serving a specific purpose:
- Identification Signs: These signs identify permanent rooms and spaces, such as restrooms, exits, and room numbers. They are essential for helping individuals locate specific areas within a facility.
- Directional Signs: These signs provide direction to accessible routes, exits, and facilities. They guide individuals through the building, ensuring they can find their way to important locations.
- Informational Signs: These signs provide information about accessible features, such as accessible restrooms, drinking fountains, and telephones. They inform users about the availability of accessible amenities.
- Warning Signs: These signs warn of potential hazards, such as stairs, elevators, and emergency exits. They are crucial for safety, alerting individuals to areas that require caution.
Placement & Installation
Where must ADA signage be installed to comply with the Disabilities Act?
ADA signs must be installed adjacent to the latch side of the door to a permanent room, restroom, or utility space, unless otherwise specified. Signage must be mounted on the nearest adjacent wall with clear floor space for access.
What is the proper sign mounting height and clear floor space for ADA signs?
Wall-mounted signs with tactile characters must be installed between 48 and 60 inches from the finished floor to the baseline of the lowest and highest characters. Clear floor space must be provided so users can approach and read the sign.
How close to the latch side or nearest adjacent wall should wall-mounted signs be installed?
Signs must be installed on the latch side of the door, preferably on the nearest adjacent wall. For double doors and outward swinging doors, exact placement rules apply to support usability.
Do restroom signs and elevator signs have specific ADA signage requirements?
Yes. Restroom signs and elevator signs must include tactile characters and Braille, proper mounting height, and high-contrast visual characters to be considered a tactile sign. International symbols are often required as well.
Are directional signs and overhead signage required to meet ADA compliance standards?
Yes, directional signs and overhead signs must include legible visual characters, contrast, and be mounted at readable heights. However, Braille and raised characters may not be required for these.
How to Install ADA Compliant Signs
To install ADA compliant signs (and help with an ADA sign package shipped anywhere!):
- Choose the correct sign type: Select the correct type of sign based on the information it will provide, such as identification, directional, or informational.
- Determine the sign location: Identify the location where the sign will be installed. Consider the door swing and the nearest adjacent wall for ideal placement.
- Use the correct font and character size: Use a clear, sans-serif font with a minimum character size of 5/8 inch and a maximum of 2 inches.
- Provide adequate contrast: Ensure the sign has adequate contrast between the background and text, with a minimum of 70% light reflective value (LRV) contrast.
- Check proper mounting height: Mount the sign at a height of 60 inches above the floor, with a minimum of 48 inches and a maximum of 60 inches to the baseline of the lowest and highest characters.
- Install the sign securely: Install the sign securely to the wall or door, using screws or adhesive strips.
Exceptions & Special Cases
Are all informational signs and exit signs required to be ADA compliant?
Most informational signs must follow ADA signage guidelines. Exit signs should include visual characters with appropriate contrast, and if wall-mounted, may need raised characters and Braille.
What types of signs identifying permanent rooms fall under ADA rules?
Any sign that labels a room or space that won’t change function, such as restrooms, offices, or conference rooms, requires tactile and Braille elements under ADA regulations.
Are temporary signs exempt from ADA compliance requirements?
Temporary signs used for seven days or less (like event signage or short-term closures) are typically exempt. However, longer-use signage should be ADA compliant.
Are there ADA regulations for outdoor signage or exterior signs?
Yes. ADA exterior signs, especially those for accessible entrances, parking signs, and accessible parking spaces, must meet visibility and placement standards. Tactile characters are not always required outdoors, however.
Compliance & Enforcement
What happens if my ADA signs are not compliant?
You could face fines, lawsuits, or accessibility complaints, and even lawsuits. Non-compliant signage can prevent people with disabilities from accessing your space safely and independently.
Can a business be fined or sued for failing to follow ADA signage requirements?
Yes. Non-compliance with ADA regulations can lead to legal action, especially if it results in discrimination or inaccessibility.
How do I verify if my signage meets current ADA sign design standards?
Work with a signage expert or ADA consultant. At Excel Lighting & Signs, we help you evaluate your current signage and recommend updates to meet ADA signage requirements.
Who enforces ADA signage compliance for businesses?
Enforcement is handled by the U.S. Department of Justice, and complaints can also be filed by individuals or advocacy groups.
Custom Signs & Practical Advice
Can custom-made or branded signs be ADA compliant?
Absolutely. ADA compliant signs can still reflect your brand. The key is to incorporate raised characters, Braille, and proper layout into the design.
How can I update outdated signage to meet modern ADA compliance standards?
Start with a signage audit to identify non-compliant elements. Excel Lighting & Signs can handle everything from design to install, bringing your building up to code.
What’s a common mistake businesses make with ADA signage?
Mounting signs too high or low, using decorative fonts, or skipping Braille are all common missteps. Be sure to follow exact sign mounting height and tactile character guidelines.
How much does it typically cost to install ADA compliant signs?
Costs vary based on size, materials, quantity, and whether you need custom design. Excel Lighting & Signs offers affordable options for all facility types – give us a call to order your custom braille and ADA signs.
Ready to Get Compliant?
ADA signage isn’t just a legal checkbox, it’s a key part of making your space welcoming and usable for everyone. From tactile signs with Braille to signs identifying permanent rooms and directional signs in high-traffic facilities, every detail counts.
But following ADA signage requirements doesn’t have to be difficult.
At Excel Lighting & Signs, we make ADA compliance easy. Our team handles everything from ADA sign design and placement to expert installation (or shipped to you), so you can focus on your business.
Let’s get your signage up to code. Reach out to Excel Lighting & Signs today and take the next step toward making your space accessible, safe, and fully aligned with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
