Ontario’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) aims to make Ontario accessible by 2025.
What are my requirements under the AODA?
It depends on the number of employees you have. See the following requirements:
1. 1-19 employees
2. 20-49 employees
3. 50+ employees
*Note: Open links above with Chrome.
Are there any exemptions to the AODA?
Yes. Your business is exempt if you are self-employed and have no employees. If you employ full-time, part-time, seasonal and/or contract workers, you are required to comply with the AODA.
The Accessibility Standards Employer Handbook contains a list of organizations that are required to comply. The types of organizations include, but are not limited to:
- Stores, restaurants, hotels, bars and hair salons;
- Garages, service stations, home renovators, architects, and builders;
- Travel agencies, tour operators, amusement parks, farmers’ markets and traveling fairs;
- Manufacturers and wholesalers;
- Professionals, such as doctors, dentists, chiropractors, physiotherapists, lawyers, and accountants, whether services are offered to individuals or to businesses;
- Consultants, programmers, engineers and event planners;
- Theatres, stadiums and conference centres
If I am federally regulated, am I required to comply with the AODA?
Federally regulated businesses do not need to comply with AODA, but they must comply with the federal Accessible Canada Act. A summary of the Act is also available.
Am I expected to build an accessible washroom and add a wheelchair ramp to my business?
The AODA does not require you to re-construct your workplace; however, if you are undergoing significant construction and/or renovation to your business, you might need to review your AODA compliance requirements through the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Are there any AODA requirements for my website?
If you are creating a new website or significantly updating your current website, you must make it accessible. If you are wondering if your website is compliant with the AODA, review the Ontario web-page on Testing Websites for Accessibility.
*Note: Website accessibility requirements only apply to businesses that employ more than 50 people.
Is there any funding available to help my business become AODA compliant?
Yes. Under the federal government's Enabling Accessibility Fund, funding is available for projects that help create and maintain job opportunities for people with disabilities. Please contact your municipality prior to engaging in any renovations to check for any other accessibility requirements.
The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities program helps people with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment or self-employment. Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)/Service Canada accepts Opportunities Fund applications for local and regional projects on an ongoing basis.
Do I have to file an accessibility compliance report by December 31, 2023?
You are required to complete an accessibility compliance report if you employ 20 or more people in Ontario. The report may be accessed and downloaded here. If you require assistance on how to complete your accessibility report, visit the Ontario web page on How to fill out your report.
What should I do about the accessibility compliance report if I no longer have at least 20 Ontario employees?
Businesses with fewer than 20 employees must still comply with the AODA, but do not have to file an accessibility compliance report. Update your organization’s profile by using the Organization Profile Update Form. This form may also be used to update your address, primary contact information, and business status.
Where can I get help with filing my accessibility compliance report?
Please contact the Ontario government:
- Phone: 416-849-8276 or Toll-free: 1-866-515-2025
- TTY: 416-325-3408 or Toll-free: 1-800-268-7095
- Email: accessibility@ontario.ca
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