Accessibility
A map everyone can use
A map that only some people can use is not much of a map. We aim to build every map, and this website, to WCAG 2.1 level AA.
Eight things every map does.
- Keyboard first. Everything on the map can be done without a mouse: search, filters, choosing a place, opening its details and getting directions.
- The list is the map, in words. Every map comes with a list of places that carries the same information and stays in sync with the map and the filters.
- No information on the map alone. Anything you can learn from a pin, you can learn from the list: names, categories, hours, addresses and links.
- Color is never the only signal. Every pin carries a letter or number as well as its color.
- Good contrast and clear focus. Text and controls are built to WCAG AA contrast ratios, and the keyboard focus outline is always visible.
- Works on phones. Large tap targets, a map and list toggle on small screens, and no hidden gestures required.
- Respects your settings. If a visitor has asked their device to reduce motion, the map does not animate between places.
- Clear alternatives. Print-ready PDFs come with the Seasonal Care and Year-Round Care plans.
The Year-Round Care plan includes a yearly accessibility check. We test the finished map with a keyboard and automated accessibility tools, review it against the WCAG 2.1 AA checklist, and tell you in plain language what we tested and what we found.
Maps rely on third-party map tiles and your own content (like photos and their descriptions), so we also give you short guidance on writing good descriptions and alt text.
ADA Title II, for public entities
If you are a public entity, such as a state or local government, a county, a city, a public library or a special district, a Department of Justice rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act applies to your web content and mobile apps. It points to WCAG 2.1 level AA as the standard.
If you are a nonprofit, a business association or a private company, your situation may be different. Other laws and funders' requirements may apply, and some organizations make their sites accessible simply because it is the right thing to do and it helps everyone.
This is not legal advice. It is a plain-language summary to help you plan. Rules and dates can change, and how they apply depends on who you are. Please check with your own counsel or compliance office, and see the Department of Justice and ADA.gov for the official rule.
| If you are a public entity… | Comply by |
|---|---|
| Serving 50,000 people or more | April 26, 2027 |
| Smaller public entities and special districts | April 26, 2028 |
Found a barrier?
No site is perfect. If something on this website or on one of our sample maps does not work for you, email [email protected] and tell us what happened. We will fix it and write back.
The free preview
See your own places on a map, free.
Send us a link to your current map. We will send back a private preview within 3 business days. No payment, no commitment.
or write to [email protected]