Building accessibility standards

Follow city standards for accessible design and construction as required by provincial legislation.

On this page:

  1. How these standards apply
  2. Download the guide
  3. Follow the highest level of accessibility
  4. Connect with other accessibility resources

How these standards apply

The City of Waterloo applies accessibility standards for the built environment under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

Developers, organizations and city staff must use these standards to identify, remove and prevent barriers in new or renovated spaces.

These standards apply to:

  • city-owned and operated buildings and public spaces
  • new private developments and site plans
  • outdoor areas such as parking lots, parks and pathways

Download the guide

The guide includes:

  • standards that meet or exceed the provincial Design of Public Spaces Standards (DOPSS)
  • requirements for accessible paths, parking, entrances, washrooms and outdoor spaces
  • best practices that promote a high level of accessibility

Download accessibility standards guide (PDF)

Follow the highest level of accessibility

Developers, designers and organizations are responsible for meeting all applicable accessibility requirements.

When city standards differ from another act or regulation, the higher level of accessibility must be applied.

The guide does not include every detail of the DOPSS. Designers, developers and organizations must comply with all relevant legislation.

Connect with other accessibility resources

Learn more about how accessibility applies across city programs and services: