Why ADA Compliance of your Custom Sign Matters

A breakdown of ADA signage regulations and best practices to ensure accessibility for all.

When it comes to custom signage, design and branding are important—but so is accessibility. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets regulations to ensure that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can navigate spaces safely and efficiently.

Here’s why ADA compliance is essential and how to ensure your signs follow the right guidelines.

What is ADA-Compliant Signage?

ADA signage includes any sign that provides important information about a space, such as room names, exits, restrooms, and emergency routes. These signs must be designed in a way that people with visual impairments or other disabilities can easily read and understand.

ADA regulations apply to most public buildings, including:

Offices & Corporate Buildings
Hospitals & Medical Facilities
Retail Stores & Restaurants
Schools & Universities
Hotels & Apartment Complexes

Key ADA Signage Requirements

To ensure your signs are ADA-compliant, they must meet specific design and installation guidelines. Here are the key elements:

1. Tactile (Raised) Letters & Braille

Text must be raised at least 1/32 inch.
Grade 2 Braille is required beneath the text for visually impaired individuals.

2. Font & Lettering Guidelines

Simple, sans-serif fonts (like Helvetica or Arial) must be used.
No decorative or script fonts.
Lettering should be between 5/8 inch and 2 inches in height.

3. High Contrast & Non-Glare Finish

The text and background must have strong contrast (light text on a dark background or vice versa).
Signs should have a finish to reduce glare.

4. Proper Mounting & Placement

Wall-mounted signs should be placed 48 to 60 inches from the floor to ensure easy reach.
When possible, they must be positioned next to the door on the latch side for easy identification.

5. Pictograms & Symbols

Universal symbols (such as restroom or wheelchair-accessible icons) should be included when necessary.
Pictograms must be at least 6 inches in height.

SignCraft Solutions creates ADA-compliant signage that not only meets legal requirements but also enhances your business’s professionalism and inclusivity.