Last updated: October 5, 2026 · 3 min read · By Ali Raza
Under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), designated public sector organisations and businesses and non-profits with 50 or more employees in Ontario must make their public websites and web content (published after January 1, 2012) conform to WCAG 2.0 Level AA. The requirement has applied since January 1, 2021. Live captions and pre-recorded audio descriptions are excepted. The organisation that controls the website is responsible, even if an agency built it.
Ontario was one of the first places in North America to set a clear legal deadline for website accessibility. Many organisations still are not sure whether it applies to them, or what “WCAG 2.0 AA” means in practice.
This guide explains the requirements in plain language and how to meet them. It is practical guidance, not legal advice.
Does AODA’s website rule apply to you?
Who has to comply?
The website requirement applies to designated public sector organisations and to private businesses and non-profits with 50 or more employees in Ontario. Organisations with fewer than 50 employees are not covered by this specific website rule, but accessibility still helps them reach more customers and reduces risk under other laws.
What does the rule require?
- Public websites and web content published after January 1, 2012 must conform to WCAG 2.0 Level AA.
- Two Level AA criteria are excepted: live captions (1.2.4) and pre-recorded audio descriptions (1.2.5).
- Internal sites such as intranets are generally exempt for private organisations.
- Some content that cannot practically be made to conform, such as complex maps, may be exempt.
- The organisation that controls the site, directly or through a contract, is responsible.
Should we aim for WCAG 2.0 or 2.2?
AODA names WCAG 2.0 AA. Newer versions build on it, so a site that meets WCAG 2.2 AA also meets 2.0 AA, plus newer criteria about focus visibility, target size and easier logins. For new builds and redesigns, aim for 2.2 AA. Our WCAG 2.2 AA checklist covers the essentials.
What about reporting?
Organisations covered by AODA have separate obligations, such as filing accessibility compliance reports with the province on a set schedule. Check your organisation’s current obligations on the Ontario government website.
How do you get an Ontario website compliant?
- Inventory your public pages, documents (PDFs) and key journeys.
- Audit templates and journeys with automated tools and manual keyboard and screen reader testing.
- Fix issues in templates and components first, since one fix often repairs many pages.
- Fix or replace inaccessible PDFs and media.
- Train staff who publish content and re-test regularly.
Selling into the US or Europe too? See our guides to ADA website compliance and the European Accessibility Act. Our web accessibility service audits and fixes Ontario sites to WCAG 2.2 AA.
Frequently asked questions
Does AODA apply to small businesses?
The website requirement applies to private businesses and non-profits with 50 or more employees in Ontario, and to designated public sector organisations.
What WCAG level does AODA require?
WCAG 2.0 Level AA, except for live captions and pre-recorded audio descriptions.
When did the AODA website deadline take effect?
January 1, 2021, for websites and web content published after January 1, 2012.
Who is responsible if an agency built our website?
The organisation that controls the website, directly or through a contract, is responsible for meeting the requirement.