Accessibility

Richmond Hill is working to create an inclusive community. Richmond Hill is committed to finding and removing barriers faced by people with disabilities. We're committed to providing quality goods and services that are accessible to everyone.

Richmond Hill introduced the Accessibility Policy and Procedures in January 2013, following the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation.

Learn more about:

• Accessibility in Richmond Hill
• Accessibility Policy and Procedures
• Inclusion Services

Applications open for Accessibility Advisory Committee

Due to a vacancy, Richmond Hill is currently accepting applications to join the Accessibility Advisory Committee. The Accessibility Advisory Committee works with City staff and makes recommendations to City Council to create a barrier free community for all. The Committee helps the City fulfil its commitment under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, providing guidance and advice regarding the removal of barriers in the environment (accessible customer service, design of public spaces, employment practices, information and communication, and general policy matters).

People who have a disability, experience supporting persons with disabilities, and a passion for/expertise in accessibility issues are encouraged to apply to join the committee. Applicants should be prepared to attend daytime meetings approximately every two months. Applications will be accepted until Tuesday, February 16 at 4:30 p.m. For more information, please contact clerks@richmondhill.ca.

Accessibility Advisory Committee Application Form

Inclusion Charter

The Inclusion Charter for York Region is a community initiative that brings together businesses, community organizations, municipalities, police services, hospitals, school boards, conservation authorities and agencies with a common commitment to create an inclusive environment with equality for all who work, live and play here. Together our organizations share the vision of York Region as a welcoming and inclusive community where diversity is celebrated and where everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. The Charter reflects an evolving approach in support of existing federal and provincial legislation that promotes human rights and accessibility. By endorsing this Charter we affirm our commitment to inclusion, whereby all people feel they belong and have access to the same opportunities.

Together with other participating organizations, The City of Richmond Hill is committed to taking action to achieve the vision of the Charter in our organization and in the community. Richmond Hill celebrates its growing and diverse population and staff as a source of strength and vitality. The Charter supports the City's commitment to inclusion and enhances our ongoing work to attract and retain the best talent, promote innovation and provide an excellent service experience. Richmond Hill’s dedication to inclusion enhances its vision to be a place where people come together to build their community.

Richmond Hill signed the Inclusion Charter on September 24, 2018. 

Accessibility Plan and Annual Status Report

Richmond Hill also has an Annual Status Report that reports on progress made on initiatives in the City's Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP). The MYAP and status reports were developed by senior Richmond Hill staff, the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) and the public.

2018-2022 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

2019 Status Report for the Richmond Hill Accessibility Plan

Alternative formats and hard copies of the reports are available upon request.

Accessibility legislation and standards

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) was passed by the Province of Ontario in 2005. The AODA provides regulations for the development and enforcement accessibility standards.

There are currently five standards under the AODA, including:

• Customer service
• Transportation
• Information and communications
• Employment
• Built environment 

Businesses and organizations that don't follow AODA standards can be fined up to $100,000 per day.

Accessibility Advisory Committee

Richmond Hill's Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) gives Council advice about accessibility issues affecting residents. The AAC gives comments and advice about the preparation, implementation and effectiveness of our Annual Status Report and Multi-Year Accessibility Plan.

Council also asks the AAC for advice about the accessibility for people with disabilities to a building, park, structure or premises (or part of a building, park, structure or premises) that Richmond Hill purchases, constructs or renovates. Advice is also needed about the accessibility of any other buildings used by Richmond Hill, according to Section 29 of the AODA.

The AAC also watches presentations from staff about development plans and drawings regarding accessibility issues, under Section 41 of the Planning Act. The Committee advises Council of concerns they have about any development plans and drawings.

Learn about the AAC's Terms of Reference.

BrowseAloud

We have joined BrowseAloud to help people with visual disabilities experience Richmond Hill's website.

Feedback

We want to know what you think about accessibility services in Richmond Hill. Fill out our Accessibility Feedback Form and help us create an accessible community for everyone. If you require an alternative format or the use of communication supports for submitting your feedback, please contact clerks@richmondhill.ca or 905-771-8800.

The process for receiving and responding to feedback is governed by Richmond Hill's Accessible Customer Service Procedures. For more information about this process or to receive a copy of the Procedures, please contact clerks@richmondhill.ca.