The Department of Civil Rights & Equal Opportunity (CREO) provides this practical ADA compliance guide to help small businesses plan, renovate, audit, and train effectively while meeting accessibility obligations.

Who Does This Apply To?

Under 42 U.S.C. §2000a(b), places of public accommodation include:

• Hotels, motels, and lodging facilities
• Restaurants, cafeterias, lunch counters, and convenience stores
• Gasoline stations
• Theaters, arenas, stadiums, and entertainment venues

This list is not exhaustive. Coverage may vary based on ownership, size, or operational factors.

What Applies to You?

• Federal ADA (Title III): Applies to all public accommodations. Barriers must be removed when readily achievable.
• Missouri Law: Adds parking signage, van‑accessible requirements, and a Disabled Access Tax Credit.
• Kansas City Ordinances: Include curb‑ramp standards, on‑street parking accommodations, and local application processes.

Exterior: Parking, Routes, and Entrances

Accessible Parking (Lots & Garages)

• Provide required accessible spaces based on total parking count
• One in four accessible spaces must be van‑accessible (96" aisle minimum)
• Post Missouri‑required signage with $50–$300 fine notice (RSMo §301.143)

On‑Street Accessible Parking (Kansas City)

• Placarded vehicles may park up to four hours in time‑limited zones
• Parking meters waived unless parking is prohibited
• Reserved on‑street spaces require application via Public Works

Accessible Routes

• Continuous accessible path ≥ 36" wide
• Ramps ≤ 1:12 slope with handrails when required
• Curb ramps must remain unobstructed (fines $25–$50)

Entrances & Doors

• At least one accessible entrance
• Door clear width ≥ 32"
• Opening force ≤ 5 lbs; lever or push hardware recommended

Interior: Navigation, Counters, Seating, and Fixtures

Circulation

• Aisles ≥ 36" wide
• 60" turning spaces at key locations
• Avoid temporary obstructions

Sales & Service Counters

• Counter height ≤ 36"
• 30" × 48" clear floor space for approach
• Payment terminals within 15"–48" reach range

Restrooms

• 60" turning diameter or T‑turn
• Door clearance ≥ 32"
• Toilet height 17"–19" with grab bars
• Sinks ≤ 34" high with knee clearance

Policies, Service Animals, and Staff Training

• Written ADA accommodation policy
• Allow service animals and assistive devices
• Train staff on disability etiquette and assistance
• Kansas City private‑business complaints handled by CREO via 311 or myKCMO app

“Readily Achievable” Barrier Removal

Barrier removal may be phased based on resources and feasibility.

• Low‑cost: striping, signage, hardware, aisle clearing
• Moderate: ramps, counter modifications, automatic doors

Financial Help

• Federal Disabled Access Credit (up to $5,000 annually)
• Missouri Disabled Access Tax Credit (up to $5,000 annually)
• Architectural Barrier Removal Tax Deduction (up to $15,000)