Ontario Accessibility Standards

A 2025 guide for presenters and performing arts organizations in Ontario.

Striving for an Accessible Ontario

In 2005, Ontario took a step toward building a more inclusive province with the passing of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The AODA enables the government to develop enforceable standards that remove barriers for people with disabilities – physical, sensory, cognitive, or otherwise.

The vision remains clear: an Ontario where every person can participate fully in community life – from transportation and employment to public events and the arts. As presenters and arts organizations, we play an important role in making that vision a reality.

The AODA

The AODA sets out five key standards that organizations may need to follow, depending on their size and activities:

1. Customer Service – Break down barriers that prevent customers with disabilities from accessing the services they need. Link here.
    
2. Information and Communications – Making content (including websites, print materials, and signage) accessible to all. Link here.
    
3. Employment – Make workplaces and employment practices accessible to all potential or current employees. Link here.
    
4. Transportation – Make transportation routes and vehicles accessible to passengers with disabilities. Link here.
    
5. Design of Public Spaces – Make newly constructed or redeveloped public spaces accessible (e.g. venue entrances, washrooms, seating areas). Link here.

Legality

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is legally enforceable in Ontario. Organizations with one or more employees are required to comply with accessibility standards and submit regular compliance reports.

Failure to comply can result in enforcement measures such as inspections, compliance orders, and significant fines—up to $100,000 per day for corporations and $50,000 per day for individuals. While most enforcement starts with education and notices, persistent non-compliance can escalate.

The AODA works alongside the Ontario Human Rights Code, which guarantees equal access and accommodation. Staying compliant helps ensure your organization is inclusive, accountable, and aligned with both legal and ethical responsibilities.

Reporting

If your organization has at least one paid employee, you’re required to file an Accessibility Compliance Report with the Government of Ontario every three years. This report confirms that your organization is meeting its obligations under the AODA.

The next deadline is December 31, 2026. Filing is straightforward and can be completed online.

Learn how to file and download the form here.

Training Your Team

Everyone in your organization—staff, board, and volunteers—has a role to play in creating accessible experiences. Board members, in particular, have a role in ensuring compliance, setting policy priorities, and budgeting for access.

Training can help your team:

• Understand accessibility rights and responsibilities
   
• Communicate respectfully and effectively with people of all abilities
   
• Identify and remove barriers in customer service, communication, and more

Learn more and access free resources here.

What Accessibility Looks Like in Practice

Accessibility isn’t just about removing barriers—it’s about proactively creating welcoming experiences for all. Here are some ways arts presenters are putting accessibility into action:

• Offering alternative formats (e.g., large print, digital programs, audio description) for show materials.
   
• Designing or adapting venues with clear signage, step-free entrances, and accessible seating.
   
• Training staff and volunteers in disability-inclusive customer service.
   
• Building accessible websites that follow WCAG standards and support screen readers.
   
• Programming relaxed performances for neurodivergent audiences.
   
• Partnering with artists and consultants who bring lived experience of disability.
   

Small changes can make a big difference—and thoughtful planning builds stronger connections with your audience.

Helpful Tools & Resources for Presenters

Legislation & Standards

• AODA Overview
• AODA Rules for Organizations
• Customer Service Standards Review – 2024 Recommendations

Toolkits & Templates

• ArtsBuild Ontario: Accessibility Webinars and Toolkit – Practical tools for improving physical and programmatic accessibility in arts facilities.
   
• StopGap Foundation: Community Ramp Project – DIY ramps and community design models for improving physical access to venues.
   
• Ontario Arts Council: Accessibility Policies & Funding Guidance – Sample accessibility policies and info for applicants.
  
   

Digital Accessibility & Inclusive Design

• OCAD: Inclusive Design Research Centre – Tools, case studies, and frameworks for accessible digital content and adaptive interfaces.
   
• RGD Accessibility Handbook – A graphic design-focused guide to accessible visual communications.
   
• WebAIM – Web Accessibility Basics – Friendly tutorials and checklists for WCAG-compliant websites.
  
   

Training, Workshops & Expert Help

• Accessibility Ontario – Offers workshops, AODA compliance audits, accessible document remediation, and customized training.
  
   

Programming & Community Engagement

• Relaxed Performance Guide (British Council) – Step-by-step guide to presenting inclusive performances for neurodivergent audiences.
   
• Creative Users Projects: Accessing the Arts – A Canada-wide directory of artists, consultants, and organizations leading accessible cultural work.