ADA Accessibility

Every organization that offers services to the public is prohibited from discriminating against a person because of his/her disability. The ADA sets physical accessibility standards to public and private facilities offering goods or services to the public. Generally, these standards apply to buildings that were constructed or modified after 1990.

When access to a public accommodation has been denied, the ADA provides a complaint procedure to eliminate any possible discrimination. If you feel you have been discriminated against, or have noticed a business that does not appear to be accessible for people with disabilities, there are several options you may want to consider. The list of options may be found under the section “Sources for Assistance” included on this website.

• Americans with Disabilities Act Notice
   
• Frequently Asked Questions

County Accessibility Resources

• Land Development Services (LDS) enforces building code requirements in new construction and in building renovations. Many building code provisions include accessibility features for people with disabilities, but LDS does NOT enforce the civil rights provisions of the ADA. More information about LDS' role in ensuring that buildings in Fairfax County are accessible to people with disabilities.
   
• Office of Human Rights and Equity Programs, Human Rights Division enforces civil rights laws including the ADA in private facilities and businesses within the county. Also, enforces provisions of the ADA in Fairfax County Government. If you feel that you have been discriminated against of your disability by a private business or organization or you have been denied acces to a county service or physical access to a county facility contact 703-324-2953, TTY 703-324-2900.
   
• Department of Cable and Consumer Services - Channel 16 programming, including Board of Supervisors meetings, is accessible to the hearing impaired community through its complete closed-captioning service. More information about DCCS' role in ensuring that its programming is accessible to people with disabilities.
   
• Department of Family Services' Disability Rights & Resources promotes the self-sufficiency and well-being of people with disabilities through advocacy, education, and solution management so that people of all abilities can fully participate in our community. Provides additional guidance on the ADA as well as assistance with advocacy strategies and ways to follow up on discrimination complaints.
   
• Library Access Services removes barriers to library services for people with disabilities. Services include:
  • providing opportunities to learn about assistive technology and equipment,
  • providing books in alternative formats to people with vision impairments and
  • delivering books to readers who cannot visit a local library.
     
• Fairfax Connector Rider Guide - All Fairfax Connector buses are wheelchair lift-equipped.
   
• Circuit Court ADA Accomodations
   
• The United States Department of Justice is the Federal Agency charged with enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act.  More information about what the DOJ can do for you.  To file a complaint with the DOJ, visit https://www.ada.gov/filing_complaint.htm or, call 1-800-514-0301, TTY 1-800-514-0383.