5 Tips to Ensure Your Business Is ADA Compliant with Signage

Accessibility is more than a regulation to follow. It is a reflection of your brand’s commitment to inclusion, safety, and customer experience. For business owners, franchise operators, property managers, healthcare providers, schools, and event venues, understanding ADA signage requirements is essential.

From tactile room identification signs to compliant parking and wayfinding systems, ADA signage helps visitors navigate confidently and independently. When done correctly, it strengthens both compliance and brand perception.

Here are five practical tips to help your organization meet ADA signage standards and avoid common compliance issues.

Why ADA Compliance Matters

The Americans with Disabilities Act was created to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities in public spaces. Signage plays a vital role by providing clear visual and tactile information for navigation and safety.

Non compliance can result in:

• Federal fines beginning at $75,000 for a first violation

• Increased legal exposure

• Frustration for customers and employees

• Safety risks during emergencies

Compliant signage supports accessibility, reduces liability, and demonstrates that your business prioritizes every visitor’s experience.

Tip 1: Understand ADA Signage Standards

ADA guidelines establish clear requirements for permanent room identification signs and wayfinding systems. These standards apply to restrooms, stairwells, exits, offices, conference rooms, and other permanent spaces.

Core requirements include:

• Raised characters on permanent room signs

• Grade 2 Braille positioned directly below the corresponding text

• Mounting height between 48 and 60 inches from the finished floor

• Proper spacing and character sizing

Signs must also meet visual requirements:

• Sans serif fonts

• High contrast between text and background

• Non glare finishes for readability

Failure to follow these technical details can lead to costly corrections and potential penalties.

Tip 2: Focus on Visibility and Proper Placement

Even a technically compliant sign can fall short if it is difficult to locate or read. ADA signage must be positioned for clear visibility and easy access.

Best practices include:

• Installing tactile signs beside the latch side of doors

• Placing directional signage at hallway intersections and decision points

• Ensuring signs are not obstructed by furniture, décor, or door swings

• Using strong color contrast to improve legibility in low light environments

Regular walkthroughs of your facility can help identify visibility gaps and improve overall wayfinding flow.

Tip 3: Get Braille and Tactile Elements Right

Braille and tactile features are essential components of ADA compliance. Permanent room signs must include Grade 2 Braille and raised lettering to allow individuals with visual impairments to navigate independently.

Important details include:

• Braille dots must be domed and properly spaced

• Raised characters must be at least 1/32 inch thick

• All tactile characters must be uppercase

• Decorative or script fonts should not be used for tactile text

Precision matters. Incorrect Braille translation or improper spacing can render a sign non compliant. Working with experienced signage professionals helps ensure accuracy.

Tip 4: Address Exterior and Parking Signage

Accessibility begins before a visitor enters your building. Exterior signage plays a crucial role in guiding guests safely and clearly.

ADA parking signage requirements typically include:

• The International Symbol of Accessibility

• Proper mounting height to maintain visibility

• Clearly marked accessible spaces and van accessible designations

• Durable materials that withstand weather conditions

In addition to parking areas, exterior directional signs should clearly identify accessible entrances, ramps, and pathways. Sign placement should consider lighting conditions, visibility from various angles, and long term durability.

Failing to address exterior accessibility can create barriers before visitors even reach your front door.

Tip 5: Stay Current with Regulations

ADA standards can evolve, and local building codes may introduce additional requirements. State and municipal regulations sometimes add layers beyond federal guidelines.

To maintain compliance:

• Conduct annual signage audits

• Review signage during renovations or layout changes

• Confirm that new rooms or reconfigured spaces receive updated signs

• Monitor updates to local accessibility codes

A proactive approach helps prevent costly retrofits and ensures your facility remains accessible as your business grows.

Why Professional ADA Signage Is the Smart Choice

While do it yourself signage may appear cost effective, it often fails to meet precise ADA specifications. Inaccurate measurements, improper Braille translation, or incorrect mounting can result in expensive replacements.

Professional ADA signage offers:

• Accurate compliance with federal and local standards

• Custom design options that align with your brand

• Durable materials suited for interior and exterior use

• Consistent quality across multiple locations

Partnering with experts simplifies the process and provides confidence that your signage program meets both regulatory and aesthetic goals.

Ready to Improve Your ADA Signage?

At Signs By Tomorrow, we help businesses create compliant, professional signage solutions that support accessibility and elevate brand presentation. Whether you need room identification signs, wayfinding systems, parking signage, or a full facility assessment, our team delivers customized solutions designed to meet ADA standards.

Contact your local Signs By Tomorrow center today to learn how compliant signage can enhance accessibility, improve navigation, and strengthen your customer experience.