Accessibility Rules for Small Businesses in Ontario (AODA)

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and its standards apply to every business in Ontario with at least one employee.

Customer service basics

• Write a policy on providing goods and services to people with disabilities.
• Allow assistive devices, service animals and support persons.
• Give notice when facilities people rely on, such as an elevator, are temporarily unavailable.
• Set up a way for customers to give feedback on accessibility.

Training

Train employees and volunteers who deal with the public, or who help set your policies, and keep a record of the training if you have 20 or more employees.

Information and communications

Provide information in accessible formats when asked, such as large print or an accessible document.

Employment

Make recruitment, hiring and the workplace accessible, and have a process for accommodation plans.

Compliance reports

Businesses with 20 or more employees must file an accessibility compliance report every three years. Check your due date on the Ontario website.

Good practice

An accessible website, clear signage and staff who know how to help build trust with every customer.

Sources

• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
• Integrated Accessibility Standards (O. Reg. 191/11)
• Ontario: accessibility rules for businesses

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General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: An accessible transport service helping a wheelchair user · Paper shopping bags on a shelf.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.