Which signs have to be tactile under the ADA?
Room signs need raised characters and braille; directional and informational signs don't. A plain-language tour of §216, the part of the 2010 ADA Standards that decides which rules apply to which sign.
ADA Sign Guides
Plain-language guides to the 2010 ADA Standards for signs, with the official sources cited in every article and sample signs you can open and customize. General information, not legal advice — always verify with your local building official.
Tactile characters and braille: the numbers in §703
Uppercase sans serif, 5/8 to 2 inches tall, raised 1/32 inch, with Grade 2 braille below. The dimensions behind a compliant tactile sign, and what the builder does for you.
Where to mount a tactile sign: height, side and clear space
Between 48 and 60 inches, on the latch side, with an 18 by 18 inch clear space beyond the door swing. The §703.4 placement rules, including double doors and doors with closers.
Accessible parking signs: the ISA, 60 inches and VAN ACCESSIBLE
Every accessible space gets a sign with the International Symbol of Accessibility, mounted at least 60 inches up; van spaces add VAN ACCESSIBLE. What §216.5 and §502.6 require, and where the MUTCD R7-8 fits in.
New: area of refuge, stairway and elevator signs
Four new builders for the signs that help people get out of a building: areas of refuge and assisted rescue, IBC stairway identification, elevator jambs and controls, and occupant load.
The four symbols of accessibility, and where each one goes
The International Symbol of Accessibility, the TTY symbol, the volume-control telephone and the assistive-listening ear: what §703.7 and §216 require, plus hearing loops and reserved seating.