ADA Accessibility Checklist - New South Memphis, TN

Civil Rights and Equity Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

New South Memphis, Tennessee property owners and managers must meet federal ADA accessibility standards and local building rules when constructing, renovating, or operating public-facing buildings. This checklist explains key technical requirements, who enforces compliance, and practical steps to prepare for inspections and permits. Use it to assess entrances, routes, restrooms, signage, parking, and alterations so your site serves people with disabilities and reduces enforcement risk.

Start accessibility planning early to avoid costly retrofits and permit delays.

What the ADA and local rules require

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets baseline design and technical requirements for accessible routes, door clearances, ramps, handrails, toilet rooms, signage, and parking. For federal standards and technical specifications see the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (ADA Standards)[1].

  • Accessible route from public right-of-way to primary entrance, minimum clear widths and slopes.
  • Ramps where level changes exceed thresholds; required handrails and edge protection.
  • Accessible toilet facilities and clearances in public buildings and where customer facilities are provided.
  • Accessible signage with Braille at permanent rooms and wayfinding markers.
  • Accessible parking stalls located on the shortest accessible route to the accessible entrance.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement may be initiated by federal agencies for ADA violations or by local building/code enforcement for construction and permit issues. The City of Memphis Building and Code Services handles local inspections and compliance for building permits and code enforcement (City Building & Code Services)[2].

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, correction orders, withheld certificates of occupancy, and court enforcement actions are used by enforcement authorities.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: City Building and Code Services handles local complaints and inspections; federal ADA enforcement can be pursued through the U.S. Department of Justice.
  • Appeals and review: permit decisions and code orders typically have administrative appeal routes; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Local building permit denial or stop-work orders are common enforcement tools when accessibility conditions are not met.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes building permit applications and plan submission requirements through Building and Code Services; specific ADA variance or exemption forms are not listed on the cited page. For building permits and plan review, use the City portal and follow the plan submittal checklist (Building & Code Services)[2].

Checklist - Site survey items

  • Entrance slope and threshold: measure ramp slope and landing dimensions.
  • Door clearances: clear width, maneuvering clearance, lever hardware height.
  • Restroom layout: stall sizes, grab bar locations, lavatory height and knee clearance.
  • Accessible parking: number of van spaces, access aisle width, signage and route to entrance.
  • Signage: tactile signs at permanent rooms; contrast and mounting height.
  • Site amenities: counters, drinking fountains, public phones, and seating areas for accessible use.
Document measurements and photos during survey to support plan review and any appeals.

Action steps

  • Assess existing conditions using the checklist items above and the ADA Standards reference (ADA Standards)[1].
  • If alterations are planned, include accessibility upgrades in permit drawings and submit to City Building & Code Services for plan review.
  • Budget for accessible elements early to avoid retrofit costs and delays to occupancy.
  • If you receive a correction order, follow the notice instructions and use appeal channels listed on the enforcement notice.

FAQ

Who must comply with ADA accessibility requirements?
Most public accommodations, commercial facilities, and local government facilities in New South Memphis must comply with the ADA and local building codes.
Do I need a permit to make accessibility alterations?
Yes, most structural alterations, ramps, and restroom changes require building permits and plan review through City Building & Code Services.
How do I report an accessibility violation?
Report local code violations or permit issues to City Building & Code Services; federal ADA complaints may be filed with the U.S. Department of Justice.

How-To

  1. Conduct a site survey comparing existing conditions to the ADA Standards and document noncompliant items.
  2. Prepare permit-ready drawings showing accessible routes, parking, restrooms, and signage; include specifications from ADA Standards.
  3. Submit plans and permit application to City Building & Code Services and address plan review comments.
  4. Schedule inspections during and after construction; obtain final approval and certificate of occupancy.

Key Takeaways

  • Follow federal ADA Standards as the baseline for design and technical requirements.
  • Coordinate with City Building & Code Services early in project planning to avoid delays.
  • Document measurements and keep records of permits and inspections for defense against enforcement actions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] U.S. Department of Justice - 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
  2. [2] City of Memphis - Building & Code Services.

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