Government entities are expected to treat accessibility as a formal, ongoing obligation—not a one-time technical fix. A written accessibility policy demonstrates organizational commitment, defines responsibilities, and provides documentation that courts and regulators look for during enforcement.
Below are policy templates and guidance you can adapt for cities, counties, school districts, and special districts. Use them as a starting point and align them with your specific services, content workflows, and legal counsel guidance.
**Important Note:** This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult qualified ADA counsel before adopting any policy language.
→ Need a documented baseline? Get a Good Faith Compliance Certificate to establish your assessment date.
Template 1: Core Accessibility Policy (All Government Entities)
We are committed to ensuring equitable digital access to all residents, including individuals with disabilities. Our websites and digital services will conform to WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
Scope:
• All websites, web applications, online forms, and public documents
• Third-party content or platforms used for public services
• Mobile and device-based access when applicable
Governance:
• Accessibility coordinator designated by leadership
• Department heads responsible for compliance in their areas
• Centralized oversight for accessibility remediation and reporting
Template 2: Accessibility Statement for Public Posting
• Accessibility standard (WCAG 2.1 AA)
• Known limitations and remediation timelines
• Contact method for accessibility issues
• Alternative access process for urgent services
Example Language:
"We are committed to providing digital accessibility for all users. We aim to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. If you experience difficulty accessing content, contact us at [email/phone] so we can provide the information in an alternative format."
Template 3: Accessible Procurement Policy
• Vendor contracts must include accessibility requirements
• Third-party platforms must meet WCAG 2.1 AA
• Accessibility testing required before launch
• Vendors must provide remediation timelines
Why it matters: Third-party tools and portals are common sources of accessibility violations. Procurement language prevents new liabilities.
Template 4: Training & Content Standards
• Annual accessibility training for content staff
• Accessible PDF and document creation standards
• Image alt text and heading structure requirements
• Captioning and transcript policies for video/audio
Why it matters: Policies are only effective when staff apply them. Training requirements reduce repeat violations.
Template 5: Complaint Response & Escalation
• Public contact point for accessibility issues
• Response time target (e.g., 5 business days)
• Escalation workflow to accessibility coordinator
• Documentation of complaints and resolutions
Why it matters: Demonstrating responsiveness to accessibility complaints is a key part of good-faith documentation.
Get a Documented Compliance Baseline
The Government Compliance Action Kit includes a compliance certificate and documentation templates to support your policy and governance records.
Get the Compliance Action KitA written accessibility policy is one of the most defensible forms of documentation in ADA enforcement. It shows that accessibility is institutional, not incidental. Start with the templates above, tailor them to your entity, and document adoption dates and leadership approval. These records will support your compliance story and reduce enforcement risk.