Facility Accessibility Design Standard
Project Description
The 2026 Facility Accessibility Design Standard (FADS) initiative aimed to modernize the existing 2005 FADS, originally adopted from the City of London Standard, considered one of Ontario's best practices, and implemented in many other municipalities across the province. This has been a multi-year initiative involving multiple departments with responsibility for the built environment, and the Windsor Accessibility Advisory Committee (WAAC).
A Facility Accessibility Design Standard provides architectural and engineering specifications for both the interior and exterior environment that include everything from recreational trails to washrooms, police stations, and arenas. These are comprehensive specifications designed primarily by and for architects, engineers, and city planners. Mandated by council, these are mandatory standards that apply to all city-owned facilities and properties. They do not include commercial or residential properties or structures.
The updated standard reflects and incorporates changes to the Ontario Building Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) where applicable.
Project Status — Public Consultation
As of November 2026, the 2026 Facility Accessibility Design Standard is now available for public comment and feedback. This standard is not yet published for use and must receive council approval before it is officially adopted.
Committee and Council History
| Date | Authority | Action | Link if Available |
| 9/24/2026 | WAAC | WAAC votes to endorse the finalized FADS before it goes to council. | September 24, 2026, WAAC Minutes |
| 6/1/2026 | Administration | The internal working group completes a review of the updated standard. | No link available |
| 1/13/2025 | City Council | Council consents to formation of an internal review working group | January 13, 2025, Council Minutes |
| 10/17/2024 | WAAC | WAAC completes FADS review | February 17, 2024, WAAC Minutes |
| 2/22/2022 | WAAC | WAAC approves FADS Subcommittee to review and recommend | February 22, 2022, WAAC minutes |
| 2022 | Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) | CAO approves an agreement with the City of London to adopt their standard | No link available |
Download
2026 Facility Accessibility Design Standard
Provide Feedback
We would like to hear your thoughts or concerns with respect to the new standard before it is submitted to Council for approval in early 2027. You may share your feedback with us at accessibility@citywindsor.ca by email.
The deadline for feedback is December 15, 2026.