ADA bathroom requirements affect every small business with a brick-and-mortar retail space. Since passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, business owners are mandated to modify their physical structures in order to meet the needs of millions of Americans with disabilities. Broadly speaking, the federal legislation applies to a building’s approach and entrance, access to goods and services, and ability of disabled individuals to use water fountains and other public amenities. It also applies — with very specific guidelines — to the accessibility and use of a building’s public restroom.
Of course, bathrooms in every commercial setting should be designed to impress customers, rather than drive them away. But it’s also every business’s responsibility to follow ADA bathroom requirements, or risk facing severe penalties. Consider the following guidelines when designing your bathroom: