Frequently Asked Questions

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. Local governments must ensure that their programs, services, activities, and facilities are accessible to all community members.

An ADA Transition Plan is a required planning document that identifies physical barriers in public facilities and public rights‑of‑way, outlines strategies for removing those barriers, and sets a schedule and budget for improvements. It also identifies the staff responsible for implementation.

Accessibility barriers on private property fall into a different legal category than barriers on public facilities or public rights‑of‑way, and Carrboro’s authority over them is more limited. Carrboro can require ADA-related compliance when a private property owner is seeking a permit for new construction, major renovations or use changes through the Carrboro Land Use Ordinance and NC Building Code. Outside of permitting, the Town cannot require a private business or property owner to retrofit their building solely under local authority, but can work to educate property owners, encourage voluntary compliance, and provide resources/technical guidance.

Federal regulations require all public entities with more than 50 employees to develop and maintain an ADA Transition Plan. It demonstrates compliance with the ADA and helps ensure that public facilities and services are accessible to everyone.

To request a reasonable accommodation or auxiliary aid/service for effective communication, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ada@carrboronc.gov or 919-913-3193, preferably at least 14 days before the activity or event. 

To report an accessibility issue, please submit an ADA Complaint Form. You may also file a complaint directly with the ADA Coordinator by email or phone. Include your name, address, phone number, a description of the alleged action, the date(s) of the alleged action, any prior accommodation requests and responses, and a description of any known regulatory violations. The ADA Coordinator will document the information on a complaint form and follow up with you before processing the complaint. For more information on the process and procedures, please click here.