Resources on issues of accessibility and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Under the Design of Public Spaces Standard of the AODA, cities and other organizations building or redeveloping outdoor play spaces, such as playgrounds or parks, must make those spaces accessible to children and caregivers with disabilities. Rules for accessible outdoor play spaces apply to private organizations with fifty or more workers and to all public sector organizations.
Outdoor public play spaces are areas containing:
Under the Design of Public Spaces Standard of the AODA, cities and other organizations building or redeveloping beach access routes must make those routes accessible to visitors with disabilities. Beach access routes are paths allowing people of all abilities to walk to beaches. The beach itself is not part of the route. The route may start at a parking lot, sidewalk, trail, or convenient landmark such as a bench or fountain.
Under the Design of Public Spaces Standard of the AODA, cities and other organizations building or reconstructing exterior paths of travel, such as sidewalks and walkways, must make those paths accessible to travellers with disabilities. Rules for accessible exterior paths of travel apply to private organizations with 50 or more workers and all public sector organizations.
Under the Design of Public Spaces Standard of the AODA, cities and other organizations building or reconstructing on-street or off-street parking spaces must make those spaces accessible to visitors with disabilities who hold accessible parking permits. Some people with permits will drive themselves, while others will drive with family or friends. Moreover, some people need accessible spaces because they use mobility aids and need more room to enter and exit their vehicles. In contrast, other people need accessible spaces close to the places they are going to because they cannot walk long distances.
Under the Design of Public Spaces Standard of the AODA, cities and other organizations building or reconstructing recreational trails must make those trails accessible to visitors with disabilities. Accessible recreational trails are paths allowing people of all abilities to move through natural environments or public spaces, like parks or playgrounds.
