Find accessibility services
Report accessibility issues, request alternative formats and find out what accessibility features are available at city facilities.
On this page:
- How we support accessibility
- Report an accessibility issue
- Get financial or inclusion support
- Join the Hidden Disability Sunflower program
- Find accessible public washrooms
- Find accessible parking
- Request an alternate format
- Find assistive devices at city facilities
How we support accessibility
Our goal is to remove barriers and provide accessible goods, services and facilities for all of our residents. We’re investing in staff training and building a more inclusive culture across the city.
All public meetings are held in accessible venues, with supports available on request.
Our accessibility work follows the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) with guidance from the Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee.
Where we report on our progress:
- Get READI Plan (PDF)
- Annual status report (PDF)
- Accessibility policy (PDF)
- Multi-year accessibility plan 2025 to 2030 (PDF)
Report an accessibility issue
Report accessibility issues with city services or facilities using our online form:
- it goes directly to the service area responsible
- if follow-up is needed, staff will contact you within 1 to 3 business days
Get financial and inclusion support
Find support that helps everyone take part in city programs, including:
- financial help to join recreation, sports and arts activities
- inclusion support
- PAL cards for support persons
- sensory backpacks to use at city facilities
- translation and interpretation services
Visit the financial and inclusion support page.
Join the Hidden Disability Sunflower program
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program supports people with hidden or non-visible disabilities.
Use a sunflower lanyard or bracelet to discreetly show you may need extra help when using city services.
Get a lanyard or bracelet:
- visit any city facility, or Waterloo Public Library branch and ask customer service for a free sunflower lanyard or bracelet
- you do not need to explain why you want one
Use your sunflower:
- wear it when you visit a city facility or Waterloo Public Library
- ask staff for help if you need it
- take it with you and use it at other sunflower-friendly places
Find a list of sunflower locations on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website. If you have any questions about the program, email info@waterloo.ca.
Accessible public washrooms
Most public washrooms at city facilities are wheelchair accessible. Some locations also have features like tactile indictors and adult change tables.
Accessible parking
Accessible parking permit holders can park for free in all city-owned parking lots, except the Uptown Parkade.
Learn more about accessible parking.
Request an alternate format
If you need a document or communication support in another format, call 519-747-8780. This includes Braille, large print, audio, closed captioning, ASL interpretation or translation and interpretation support.
These requests are sent directly to project managers or support staff that can help.
Assistive devices at city facilities
Find accessibility features and assistive devices available at city facilities across Waterloo.
| Facility | Address | Assistive devices and features |
|---|---|---|
| Albert McCormick Community Centre | 500 Parkside Drive |
|
| City of Waterloo Museum | 550 King Street North in Conestoga Mall |
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| Community Pavilion | 101 Father David Bauer Drive |
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| Moses Springer Community Centre and outdoor pool | 150 Lincoln Road |
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| RIM Park Manulife Sportsplex | 2001 University Avenue East |
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| Waterloo City Hall | 100 Regina Street South |
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| Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex | 101 Father David Bauer Drive |
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| Waterloo Service Centre | 265 Lexington Court |
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