ADA design requirements for building signage varies depending upon the type of signage and its related application. This guide details ADA-mandated sign finishes, colors, fonts, character height, character spacing and stroke, mounting options, use of Braille, and other features that fall under the purview of ADA regulations. Sign types covered by this guide include identification, informational, directional, and overhead-mounted.

This guide provides a detailed overview of how ADA regulations apply to sign design which includes example sizes and layouts for reference. Topics covered include ADA-permitted typefaces, text sizes and colors, character spacing and height, required pictograms, finishes, and situations where Braille is required.

There are many rules that govern proper Braille use:

• Braille shall be dome shaped—not flat or pointed
• Braille shall be precisely sized and spaced
• Braille shall 3/8" to 1/2" below last line of text
• Braille shall be contracted Grade II
• Braille shall be in lower case except for proper names and acronyms or as a letter in a room number (B320)

Businesses and organizations often fail to recognize the strictness with which the ADA regulates color choices in signage, and particularly the necessary level of contrast between colors. This guide specifies the ADA-compliant materials, colors, and mounting options used in the manufacture and design of our signs.

ADA laws require distinct contrast between the background color and the lettering color. Custom colors are available. Actual colors may vary slightly from the colors shown.

• Non-Glare Finish
• ADA—Braille
• Subsurface, Digital and Vinyl

When designing a new development or renovating an existing building, it’s easy to overlook the many room, areas and internal design structures for which informational, wayfinding, or room identification signage is required by the ADA. This guide features an easy-to-follow floorplan that details the many types of signs required in both public and employee areas, and the required design elements of various types of signs.

Use the floor plan to the right to see a snippet of what ADA signs are required on a typical project. Standard sizes and mounting locations are indicted. Other sizes and layouts are available.