Small Business and ADA Readily Achievable Requirements - A Factsheet from the ADA National Network

Developing a plan based on priorities

ADA guidance recommends businesses develop a long-term plan for bringing their facilities into compliance. Where should a business start when there are numerous changes that need to be made? Should the most expensive changes they can afford be made first? The easiest? The cheapest?

To help businesses develop a long-range plan maximizing the access they can provide for the amount they can pay, the ADA regulations list four priority areas for readily achievable barrier removal.

Priority 1: Getting through the Door

The first priority is to make sure individuals with disabilities can physically enter the facility as independently as possible. “Getting through the door” also means providing physical access to a facility from public sidewalks and/or public transportation. If the business offers parking to its customers, providing accessible parking is also part of “getting through the door.”

Note: Portable ramps are permitted when the installation of a permanent ramp is not readily achievable. In order to promote safety, a portable ramp should be properly secured; have railings; and a firm, stable, nonslip surface.

Priority 2: Access to the Goods and Services

Once inside, people with disabilities need access to the business’s services including access to the front desk or checkout, access through the aisles, and any retail displays.

Priority 3: Restrooms

The third priority is to provide accessible restrooms, if restrooms are provided to other customers and clients.

Priority 4: Remaining Barriers

Features such as drinking fountains and telephones available to the public should be made accessible.