ADA Frequently Asked Questions

Category: Title III: Places of Public Accommodations

Who can purchase tickets for accessible seats at a venue or event?

Even though accessible seats are referred to as “wheelchair spaces” under the 2010 ADA Standards, a person does not need to be a wheelchair user or have a mobility disability to purchase a ticket for an accessible seat. People with disabilities that require the features of accessible seating can also purchase those tickets. For example, a person with a service animal may purchase a ticket for accessible seating if they require additional space for their animal.

Tickets may be sold to individuals who need accessible seating for themselves or to someone purchasing on their behalf.

Generally, tickets for accessible seats may not be sold to people who do not need the specific features of the accessible seats. However, unsold accessible seats may be released and sold to the general public in three specific circumstances:

1. All non-accessible seats have been sold (excluding luxury boxes, club boxes, suites, and seats the venue holds back when declaring a sell-out).
2. If all non-accessible seats in a particular seating section have been sold, the accessible seats in that section can be released.
3. If all non-accessible seats in a particular price category have been sold, the accessible seats in that price category can be released.

In addition, if a venue or event permits patrons to transfer or sell their tickets to others, these same rights must be extended to patrons with disabilities who hold tickets for accessible seating. The ticket seller cannot require that accessible seats only be transferred to someone with a disability.

Resource(s):

• ADA Requirements: Ticket Sales