ADA Requirements for Retail Stores: Standards and Compliance

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark piece of legislation that ensures equal opportunities and access for people with disabilities across various areas of public life.

For retail store owners, understanding and complying with the ADA is not just a legal obligation but a commitment to inclusivity and customer service excellence. 

A retail store, by definition, is a business that sells goods directly to consumers. These can range from small local boutiques to large chain stores, encompassing a variety of sectors such as clothing, electronics, groceries, and more. 

Under Title III of the ADA, retail stores are classified as places of public accommodation, which means they are required to remove barriers to access and provide an environment where customers with disabilities can shop with ease and dignity.

In the following sections, we will delve into the specific ADA requirements for retail stores, offering practical advice and actionable steps to help you achieve full compliance.

You can also download an easy-to-follow ADA Requirements for Retail Stores Checklist at the end of this document.

What Are the ADA Requirements for Retail Stores?

Let’s get into the specifics of the obligations that the ADA requires retailers to comply with.

Parking Lots

Accessible parking lots at retail stores are essential as they provide a safe and convenient entry point to your store. 

These parking spaces are designed to be wider and closer to the entrance, minimizing the distance and effort required to reach the store. By facilitating ease of access, these parking spaces enhance the shopping experience for people with disabilities, promoting independence and equal participation in retail activities.

Here are the ADA requirements for retail store parking lots:

Number of Accessible Spaces:

• For every 1 to 25 parking spaces, at least 1 must be accessible.
• For 26 to 50 parking spaces, at least 2 must be accessible.
• For 51 to 75 parking spaces, at least 3 must be accessible.
• The number of required accessible spaces increases with the total number of parking spaces.

Dimensions:

• Accessible Parking Space: Must be at least 96 inches (8 feet) wide.
• Access Aisle: Must be at least 60 inches (5 feet) wide, adjacent to the accessible parking space.
• Van-Accessible Spaces: Must be at least 132 inches (11 feet) wide with a 60-inch access aisle or 96 inches (8 feet) wide with a 96-inch (8 feet) access aisle.

Signage:

• Accessible parking spaces must have clear and visible signage with the International Symbol of Accessibility.
• Van-accessible spaces must include additional signage indicating “van accessible.”

Location:

• Accessible spaces must be located on the shortest accessible route to the accessible entrance of the building.
• The route from the accessible parking spaces to the entrance must be stable, firm, and slip-resistant, with a slope not exceeding 1:12.

Doors and Entrances

Accessible doors and entrances provide the first point of access to your retail store and reduce physical barriers, allowing all customers to enter the store independently and safely. Features such as automatic doors, appropriate door widths, and level thresholds ensure that customers with disabilities can enter and exit the store with ease, promoting a more inclusive shopping experience.

Here are the key ADA requirements for doors that you need to be aware of:

• Minimum Clear Width: The clear width of doorways must be at least 32 inches (81.28 cm) when the door is open 90 degrees. This ensures enough space for wheelchair users to pass through comfortably.
• Front Approach: A minimum of 48 inches (121.92 cm) of clear space is required in front of the door.
• Side Approach: At least 42 inches (106.68 cm) of clear space is required from the latch side of the door.
• Threshold Height: The height of thresholds at doorways must not exceed 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) for exterior sliding doors and 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) for other types of doors.
• Threshold Edges: If the threshold is higher than 1/4 inch (0.64 cm), it must have beveled edges with a slope not steeper than 1:2.
• Door Handles: Door handles, pulls, latches, locks, and other operable parts must be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. These operable parts should be placed no higher than 48 inches (121.92 cm) above the floor.
• Automatic Doors: Automatic doors are recommended but not required. When provided, they should be easily activated by sensors or push plates.
• Door Opening Force:
  • Interior Doors: Must require no more than 5 pounds (2.27 kg) of force to open.
  • Exterior Doors: While the force requirements can vary due to weather conditions, they should still be as easy to operate as possible.

• Signage: Entrances that are not accessible must have directional signage indicating the location of the nearest accessible entrance.
• Protruding Objects: Objects projecting from walls (e.g., signage, lights) must not reduce the clear width of an accessible route or protrude into the path of travel more than 4 inches (10.16 cm) from the wall.

Service Counters

Accessible service counters provide a lower, reachable surface for transactions, making it easier for individuals using wheelchairs, scooters, or other mobility aids to interact with staff and complete purchases. 

Accessible service counters also improve the overall customer experience by creating an inclusive environment where all customers can access the services and assistance they need without barriers.

The ADA has specific requirements for service counters to ensure they are accessible:

• Height: The top of the accessible portion of the counter must be no higher than 36 inches (19.44 cm) above the floor.
• Width: The accessible portion of the counter must be at least 36 inches (19.44 cm) wide to provide adequate space for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
• Knee Clearance: A minimum of 27 inches (68.58 cm) high, 30 inches (76.2 cm) wide, and 19 inches (48.26 cm) deep under the counter.
• Toe Clearance: A minimum of 9 inches (22.86 cm) high and 6 inches (15.24 cm) deep under the counter.
• Depth: The accessible counter space should be deep enough to accommodate a variety of transactions, typically at least 17 inches (43.18 cm) deep.
• Protruding Objects: Any items placed on the counter, such as display stands or cash registers, should not protrude into the accessible portion of the counter in a way that obstructs access.

Ramps

Accessible ramps provide an alternative to stairs, allowing people who rely on mobility aids to enter and move within the store without barriers. Accessible ramps enhance independence and promote inclusivity by ensuring that all customers, regardless of their physical abilities, can access the store and its services. 

They also benefit shoppers with strollers, shopping carts, or temporary mobility impairments, making the retail environment more accommodating for everyone.

Here are the ADA requirements for ramps:

• Slope: The maximum slope of a ramp must be 1:12. This means that for every inch of height, there must be at least 12 inches (30.48 cm) of ramp length.
• Rise: The maximum rise for any single ramp run is 30 inches (76.2 cm). If the height difference is greater, intermediate landings or additional ramp runs must be provided.
• Width: Ramps must be at least 36 inches (91.44 cm) wide between handrails. This ensures sufficient space for wheelchair users and others to navigate the ramp comfortably.
• Top and Bottom Landings: Ramps must have level landings at the top and bottom. Each landing must be at least 60 inches (152.4 cm) long and at least as wide as the ramp.
• Intermediate Landings: If a ramp changes direction, a landing at least 60 inches by 60 inches (152.4 cm) is required at the turn.
• Handrail Height: Handrails must be provided on both sides of ramps if the rise is greater than 6 inches (15.24 cm). The handrail height should be between 34 inches (86.36 cm) and 38 inches (96.52 cm) above the ramp surface.
• Extension: Handrails must extend at least 12 inches (30.48 cm) beyond the top and bottom of the ramp runs.
• Curbs or Barriers: Ramps must have curbs, walls, railings, or projecting surfaces that prevent the wheels of wheelchairs from slipping off the edge. Curbs must be at least 2 inches (5.08 cm) high.
• Surface: The surface of the ramp must be stable, firm, and slip-resistant to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
• Cross Slope: The cross slope of ramp surfaces must not exceed 1:48 to ensure stability for wheelchair users.
• Level Landings: Landings must be level to provide a safe and stable area for resting and maneuvering.

Stairs

While ramps and elevators are essential for ensuring accessibility for people with mobility impairments, accessible stairs also play an important role in the overall accessibility of a retail store. 

Accessible stairs are designed with features that enhance safety and usability for customers with various disabilities, including those with visual impairments, balance issues, or other conditions that affect mobility. These features help prevent accidents and make it easier for all customers to navigate between different levels of the store.

Here are the requirements to take note of:

• Tread Depth: Treads must be at least 11 inches (27.94 cm) deep from front to back.
• Riser Height: Risers must be a maximum of 7 inches (17.78 cm) high and a minimum of 4 inches (10.16 cm) high. The height of each riser within a flight of stairs must be uniform.
• Nosing Projection: If stairs have nosings (the part of the tread that projects over the riser below), they must project no more than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm).
• Nosing Shape: Nosing must be curved or beveled to reduce tripping hazards. The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread should be no greater than 0.5 inches (1.27 cm).
• Handrails:
  • Placement: Handrails must be provided on both sides of the stairs.
  • Height: The top of the handrail gripping surface must be between 34 inches (86.36 cm) and 38 inches (96.52 cm) above the stair nosing.
  • Continuity: Handrails must be continuous along both sides of the stairs and extend at least 12 inches (30.48 cm) beyond the top and bottom risers.
  • Grip Size: Handrails must have a circular cross-section with an outside diameter of 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) to 2 inches (5.08 cm), or if the cross-section is non-circular, it must have a perimeter dimension of 4 inches (10.16 cm) to 6.25 inches (15.88 cm).

• Curbs or Barriers: Stairs must have curbs, walls, or railings to prevent customers from accidentally slipping off the edge.
• Surface: Stair surfaces must be stable, firm, and slip-resistant to prevent accidents.
• Contrasting Colors: Stair treads should have contrasting colors to enhance visibility for customers with visual impairments.
• Landings:
  • Size: Landings must be at least as wide as the stairs and a minimum of 36 inches (91.44 cm) long in the direction of travel.
  • Level Landings: Landings must be level to provide a safe and stable area for resting and turning.
  • Protruding Objects: Any objects projecting into the stairway must have at least 80 inches (203.2 cm) of clearance from the stair surface to the object to prevent head injuries.

Aisles

Accessible aisles in retail stores provide sufficient space for people using wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or other mobility aids to move freely between displays and shelves. 

Here are the ADA guidelines for retail store aisles:

• Minimum Width: Aisles must be at least 36 inches (91.44 cm) wide to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
• Aisles Serving Fixed Shelves: In areas where aisles serve fixed shelves, such as in grocery stores or libraries, a minimum clear aisle width of 36 inches (91.44 cm)must be maintained.
• Turning Space: At intersections of aisles or at the end of aisles, there must be a clear turning space of at least 60 inches (152.4 cm) in diameter to allow people using wheelchairs to turn around.
• Obstructions: Aisles must be free of obstructions such as displays, merchandise, or equipment that could impede movement. Any temporary obstructions should be promptly removed or relocated.
• Reach Range: Merchandise and services should be within reach range for people using wheelchairs. The reach range is typically between 15 inches (38.1 cm) and 48 inches (121.92 cm) above the floor for a forward reach, and between 9 inches (22.86 cm) and 54 inches (137.16 cm) above the floor for a side reach.
• Floor Surface: The floor surface of aisles should be stable, firm, and slip-resistant to prevent accidents. Any changes in level along the aisle should be beveled or ramped, with slopes not exceeding 1:12.
• Clear Signage: Aisles should be clearly marked with signs that are easily readable and include accessible information. Signs should have high contrast and be mounted at a height that is visible to both standing and seated customers.

Shelves

Accessible shelves are designed to be within a reachable height for customers using wheelchairs, scooters, or other mobility aids, as well as for those with limited reach or strength. 

Here are the ADA requirements to be aware of:

• Forward Reach: The maximum height for a forward reach is 48 inches (121.92 cm) above the floor, and the minimum height is 15 inches (38.1 cm) above the floor.
• Side Reach: If the side reach is unobstructed, the maximum height is 48 inches (121.92 cm) and the minimum height is 15 inches (38.1 cm) above the floor. If the side reach is obstructed, the maximum height remains 48 inches (121.92 cm), but the minimum height for objects to be reachable is 9 inches (22.86 cm) above the floor.
• Shelf Height:
  • Top Shelves: Merchandise should be placed no higher than 48 inches (121.92 cm) to be reachable for customers using wheelchairs.
  • Bottom Shelves: Merchandise should be placed no lower than 15 inches (38.1 cm) from the floor to avoid excessive bending or reaching down.
  • Shelf Depth: Shelves should not be so deep that items at the back are unreachable. Typically, the accessible reach range applies to a depth of 20 to 25 inches for a forward reach.

• Display Placement: Items frequently used or purchased should be placed within the accessible reach range. Products should also be displayed in a manner that makes them visible and accessible to people with visual impairments.
• Signage and Labels: Shelves and products should have clear, high-contrast labels that are easily readable from a seated position. Signs should include accessible information, such as braille or raised characters, for shoppers with visual impairments.

Bathrooms

Accessible bathrooms accommodate the needs of shoppers who rely on mobility aids, as well as those with limited strength, dexterity, or reach, enhancing the shopping experience.

Here are the restroom guidelines for retail stores as outlined in the ADA:

• Toilet:
  • Height: The toilet seat must be 17 to 19 inches (43.18 to 48.26 cm) above the floor.
  • Clear Space: There must be at least 60 inches (152.4 cm) of clear space from the side wall and 56 inches (142.24 cm) from the rear wall for a wall-mounted toilet, or 59 inches (149.86 cm) for a floor-mounted toilet.
  • Grab Bars: Grab bars must be installed on the side wall closest to the toilet and the rear wall. The side grab bar must be at least 42 inches (106.68 cm) long, located 12 inches (30.48 cm) from the rear wall, and extending 54 inches (137.16 cm) from the rear wall. The rear grab bar must be at least 36 inches (91.44 cm) long, centered on the toilet, and located 33-36 inches (83.82-91.44 cm) above the floor.

• Sink:
  • Height: The sink must be no higher than 34 inches (86.36 cm) above the floor.
  • Knee Clearance: There must be at least 27 inches (68.58 cm) of knee clearance under the sink, extending at least 8 inches (20.32 cm) back from the front edge of the sink.
  • Clear Floor Space: There must be a clear floor space of at least 30 inches by 48 inches (76.2 cm by 121.92 cm) in front of the sink to allow wheelchair access.
  • Faucet: Faucets must be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.
  • Mirrors: Mirrors above the sink must be mounted with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface no higher than 40 inches (101.6 cm) above the floor. Full-length mirrors must be at least 74 inches (187.96 cm) high.

• Accessories:
  • Dispensers: Soap dispensers, hand dryers, paper towel dispensers, and other accessories must be mounted within reach range, typically no higher than 48 inches (121.92 cm) above the floor for a forward reach or 54 inches (137.16 cm) for a side reach.
  • Toilet Paper Dispensers: Must be mounted within 7 to 9 inches (17.78 to 22.86 cm) in front of the toilet and at least 15 inches (38.1 cm) above the floor.
  • Alarms: An emergency alarm should be provided and reachable from the floor, typically located within 48 inches (121.92 cm) above the floor, ensuring it can be activated by shoppers from a seated position.

Change Rooms

Accessible change rooms in retail stores accommodate the needs of people who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids, as well as those with limited strength, dexterity, or reach. 

Accessible change rooms promote inclusivity by providing a safe and convenient space for all customers to try on garments, enhancing their shopping experience.

Here are the requirements as outlined in the ADA:

• Size and Space:
  • Clear Floor Space: The accessible change room must provide a clear floor space of at least 60 inches (152.4 cm) in diameter to allow a wheelchair to turn around.
  • Maneuvering Space: A clear floor space of 30 inches by 48 inches (76.2 by 121.92 cm) must be provided within the room, positioned for a forward or parallel approach to the changing bench.

• Door and Entry:
  • Width: The door to the accessible change room must be at least 32 inches (81.28 cm) wide when the door is open 90 degrees.
  • Maneuvering Clearance: There must be adequate space on both sides of the door for maneuvering. For a front approach, there should be at least 48 inches (76.2 cm) of clear space in front of the door.

• Bench:
  • Size: The bench must be at least 42 inches (106.68 cm) long and 20 to 24 inches (50.8 to 60.96 cm) deep.
  • Height: The top of the bench must be 17 to 19 inches (43.18 to 48.26 cm) above the floor.
  • Position: The bench must be fixed to the wall along the longer dimension and provide clear floor space alongside it for a wheelchair transfer.

• Grab Bars:
  • Location: Grab bars must be installed on the side wall and rear wall adjacent to the bench.
  • Dimensions: Grab bars must be 33 to 36 inches (83.82 to 91.44 cm) above the floor and should have a diameter of 1.25 to 1.5 inches (3.18 to 12.7 cm), providing a secure grip.

• Mirror:
  • Full-Length Mirror: A full-length mirror must be provided and positioned so that it is usable by both standing and seated users.
  • Height: The bottom edge of the mirror must be no higher than 20 inches (50.8 cm) from the floor, and the top edge must be at least 74 inches (187.96 cm) above the floor.

• Coat Hooks and Shelves: Coat hooks, shelves, and other accessories must be mounted within reach range, typically no higher than 48 inches (121.92 cm) above the floor for a forward reach or 54 inches (137.16 cm) for a side reach.

• Lighting: The change room must be well-lit to accommodate shoppers with visual impairments and provide a safe environment.
• Signage: Accessible change rooms must be clearly marked with the International Symbol of Accessibility and directional signage should be provided to guide customers to the accessible facilities.

Final Thoughts

By adhering to these ADA guidelines, you can create a more inclusive retail space that attracts every type of customer, while staying in line with any legal requirements.

Customers appreciate and are more loyal to brands that show their commitment to inclusivity, boosting sales and your brand’s reputation.

Click here to download the ADA Requirements for Retail Stores Checklist.

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