Do Accessible Dining Tables Need ISA Stickers? A Clear Answer from the 2010 ADA Standards

If you're a restaurant owner, facility manager, or designer working to make your dining spaces accessible, you've probably asked yourself: "Do I need to put those blue wheelchair symbols on my accessible tables?" It's a common question, and the answer is simpler than you might think.

The Short Answer: No ISA Stickers Required

According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, you are NOT required to place International Symbol of Accessibility (ISA) stickers or signs on accessible dining tables.

That's right—while many accessibility features require clear identification, dining tables are specifically excluded from ISA signage requirements.

What the 2010 ADA Standards Actually Say

The 2010 ADA Standards address dining surfaces in Section 226 and Section 902.

Here's what they require:

Scoping Requirements (Section 226.1)

Where dining surfaces are provided for food or drink consumption, at least 5 percent of seating spaces and standing spaces must comply with accessibility requirements. This means if you have 20 tables, at least 1 must be accessible.

Technical Requirements (Section 902)

Accessible dining surfaces must have:

• Clear floor space for a forward approach

• Knee and toe clearance underneath

• Tabletops between 28-34 inches above the floor

Dispersion Requirement (Section 226.2)

Accessible dining surfaces must be dispersed throughout the space—not clustered in one corner. This ensures people with disabilities have the same range of seating choices as other patrons.

Where ISA Symbols ARE Required

The 2010 ADA Standards are very specific about where ISA signage is mandatory. According to Section 216, you MUST use the International Symbol of Accessibility at:

• Accessible parking spaces (Section 502.6)

• Accessible entrances where not all entrances are accessible (Section 216.6)

• Accessible elevators where not all elevators comply (Section 216.7)

• Accessible toilet rooms where not all restrooms are accessible (Section 216.8)

• Check-out aisles where aisles are identified by numbers or functions (Section 216.11)

Notice what's NOT on this list? Dining tables.

Advisory Notes Confirm This Interpretation

The Advisory notes accompanying the Standards provide helpful guidance but do not suggest any signage requirement for dining tables. Advisory 226.1 discusses work surfaces and reasonable accommodations for employees, while Advisory 902.1 defines dining surfaces as including "bars, tables, lunch counters, and booths"—but neither mentions ISA signage.

Why This Makes Sense

Think about it from a practical standpoint:

• Accessible tables should be integrated seamlessly into your dining area

• Forcing people with disabilities to sit only at "marked" tables would be counter to the ADA's integration principles

• The dispersion requirement already ensures accessible tables are available throughout your space

The Bottom Line for Your Business

Focus on compliance, not labeling. Your accessible dining tables must meet the technical requirements (proper height, clearance, and dispersion), but you don't need to mark them with ISA stickers. Instead, ensure:

• At least 5% of your tables are accessible

• They're distributed throughout your dining area

• Staff knows where they are so they can assist guests when needed

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney or consultant for advice tailored to your situation.