28 CFR Part 35 · Subpart E — Communications
§ 35.163 Information and signage
Last updated June 11, 2026
What 28 CFR §35.163 requires of state and local governments.
In Plain Language
Public entities must provide information about accessible services in accessible formats, and must use the international accessibility symbol to identify accessible facilities and services. Entrances that are not accessible must have signs directing people to accessible entrances. This section ensures that people with disabilities can find and use accessible services, not just that accessible services theoretically exist.
This summary is not official legal text. For authoritative guidance, consult the official regulatory text and Department of Justice guidance at ada.gov.
This summary is educational, not legal advice. The official text below controls.
Official Regulatory Text — 28 CFR § 35.163
Verbatim from 28 CFR Part 35, current through June 9, 2026.
(a) A public entity shall ensure that interested persons, including persons with impaired vision or hearing, can obtain information as to the existence and location of accessible services, activities, and facilities.
(b) A public entity shall provide signage at all inaccessible entrances to each of its facilities, directing users to an accessible entrance or to a location at which they can obtain information about accessible facilities. The international symbol for accessibility shall be used at each accessible entrance of a facility.
What § 35.163 Means in Practice
- Entities must make sure interested people, including those with vision or hearing disabilities, can find out about accessible services, activities, and facilities
- Signage is required at inaccessible entrances directing users to the nearest accessible entrance
- The international symbol of accessibility must be used at accessible entrances where not all entrances are accessible
- Publishing accessibility information on your website is a practical way to meet the information duty
Common Questions
Do we need the accessibility symbol on our website?
Not specifically required, but information about accessible services must be available online in accessible formats. An accessibility statement on your website addressing available accommodations is good practice.
Our main entrance is not accessible. What signage is required?
You must post signs at the inaccessible entrance directing people to the accessible entrance, including directions.
Does § 35.163 apply to your entity?
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