ADA requires lever handles (not knobs), maximum 5 lbs opening force on interior doors, 1/2 inch max threshold height, and 32-inch minimum clear width. All public accommodations in Florida must comply. Non-compliance risks lawsuits and fines. Most upgrades cost $200-$600 per door.
What Does ADA Require for Door Hardware?
Four main requirements that every business owner needs to know:
- Lever handles, not knobs. Door hardware must be operable with one hand and without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Round knobs fail this test. Lever handles pass. ADA Standards Section 404.2.7.
- 5 lbs maximum opening force for interior doors (measured at the latch edge). Exterior doors and fire doors can require more force. ADA Standards Section 404.2.9.
- 1/2 inch maximum threshold height. Anything higher creates a barrier for wheelchair users. Beveled thresholds up to 3/4 inch are allowed if the slope doesn't exceed 1:2. ADA Standards Section 404.2.5.
- 32 inches minimum clear width when the door is open 90 degrees. Most standard 36-inch commercial doors meet this, but double-check if your door has a closer arm or surface-mounted hardware that reduces the clear opening.
Who Must Comply with ADA Door Requirements?
Every "place of public accommodation" in Florida. That's defined broadly by Title III of the ADA and includes: retail stores, restaurants, hotels, medical offices, dental offices, law offices, banks, gyms, salons, theaters, museums, and any other business open to the public. If customers or clients enter your building, you need to comply.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, ADA complaints related to physical access (including door hardware) increased 23% between 2023 and 2025 in the Southern District of Florida. This isn't a theoretical risk. Businesses get sued.
What Does ADA Door Compliance Cost?
$200-$600 per door for most upgrades. The most common fix is swapping round knobs for lever handles ($100-$200 per door). Adjusting or replacing a door closer to meet the 5 lb force limit runs $150-$300. Threshold modifications cost $100-$200.
For businesses with automatic door openers, the ADA activation button must be mounted at 48 inches max height and within reach of a wheelchair. Adding a push-button opener to an existing door costs $400-$600.
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
Lawsuits and DOJ enforcement actions. In Florida, there are law firms that specialize in ADA non-compliance lawsuits. They send testers to businesses, document violations, and file suit. First-offense penalties can reach $75,000. Repeat offenses up to $150,000. Plus the cost of remediation and legal fees.
The good news: getting compliant is usually quick and affordable. We assess your doors, identify non-compliant hardware, and fix everything in one visit. ADA compliance service from us runs $200-$600 per door depending on what needs changing.