AODA Compliance
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is an Ontario provincial law that sets accessibility standards for organizations. The Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR) includes specific web accessibility requirements.
Who does AODA apply to?
AODA applies to organizations in Ontario:
- Public sector — Ontario government, municipalities, hospitals, school boards, colleges, universities, public transit
- Large private organizations — 50+ employees in Ontario
- Small private organizations — 1-49 employees have fewer requirements but must still meet core standards
What standard does AODA require?
AODA requires websites to conform to WCAG 2.0 Level AA. The deadlines have already passed:
- Public sector: WCAG 2.0 AA required since January 1, 2021
- Large private sector (50+ employees): WCAG 2.0 AA required since January 1, 2021
While AODA formally references WCAG 2.0, meeting WCAG 2.1 or 2.2 AA automatically satisfies AODA requirements as well.
What are the penalties?
- Fines — up to $50,000/day for individuals, $100,000/day for corporations
- Compliance orders — the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario can issue orders requiring corrective action
- Audits — organizations must file accessibility compliance reports and may be audited
These are maximum penalties — in practice, typical fines are lower ($500–$15,000/day). Penalties currently apply only to organizations with 50+ employees. The Ontario government conducts regular audits and has issued monetary penalties to non-compliant organizations.
Beyond Ontario
Other Canadian provinces have their own accessibility legislation. The federal Accessible Canada Act (ACA) applies to federally regulated organizations. While each law has different specifics, WCAG AA compliance is the common thread.
Check your AODA compliance
Scan your site for free against WCAG 2.2 AA — covers AODA requirements and beyond.