Do ADA Requirements Apply To Churches?

Federal ADA requirements generally do NOT apply to churches and other religious organizations. Churches, synagogues, mosques, and religious entities controlled by religious organizations are broadly exempt from ADA Title III (Public Accommodations).

However, that does not mean churches can ignore accessibility.

What churches are usually exempt from

A typical church is not federally required under ADA Title III to provide:

• ADA-compliant parking
• ADA-compliant restrooms
• ADA-compliant entrances
• ADA door openers
• Wheelchair seating areas
• Accessible routes

because religious organizations are specifically exempt from Title III.

What churches may still be required to do

1. Employment requirements

If a church has enough employees to meet ADA Title I coverage thresholds, it may have obligations related to employees with disabilities.  This is generally more than 15 employees.

2. State and local building codes

While the federal ADA exemption is nationwide, some states and local jurisdictions adopt accessibility requirements through:

• Building codes
• Accessibility codes
• State civil rights laws
• Construction permitting requirements

A church building project may therefore need accessible features to obtain permits even though the federal ADA exemption exists.

3. Federal funding

If a church or ministry receives certain federal funding, other accessibility laws such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may apply.

4. Non-religious tenants

If a church leases space to a daycare, coffee shop, preschool, counseling center, or other non-religious business, that tenant may be subject to ADA requirements even though the church itself remains exempt.

What most churches voluntarily install

Even though they may not be legally required, many churches add:

• Accessible parking spaces
• Wheelchair-accessible entrances
• ADA door openers
• Accessible restrooms
• Hearing loop systems
• Elevator or lift access
• Accessible communion and fellowship areas
• Wheelchair seating locations in sanctuaries

This is often done because:

• Congregations are aging
• It helps attract visitors
• It supports ministry to people with disabilities
• It reduces liability concerns
• It reflects a welcoming mission.

At Careprodx, we have helped hundreds of chruches navigate ADA access.  Our "Smart Swing Commercial Door Openers" are literally opening church doors at hundreds of locations across the United States.  Please give us a call for assistance at 800-413-3302 and be sure to check our our line of "Commercial Door Openers Here"