Accessibility Info Mapper
v3.1: Powered by the new Google Places API. This tool finds locations where specific wheelchair accessibility features have not been officially confirmed.
Pro-Tip for built-up areas: If you get 0 results in a dense city, the major chains and large institutions are overshadowing the results. Try searching for specific niche categories in the Place Type box (like "bakery", "pharmacy", "thrift store", or "florist") to find the smaller shops that need their accessibility confirmed!
Why Confirming Accessibility Matters
Welcome to the Accessibility Mapper. As a dedicated Google Maps Local Guide, verifying wheelchair accessibility is one of the most vital contributions you can make. Accurate accessibility data helps people with mobility needs navigate their neighbourhoods with confidence. However, finding places with unconfirmed data in busy cities can often be difficult.
How to Utilise This Scanner
Our tool utilises the Google Places API to scan your chosen area and filter out locations that already have confirmed accessibility statuses. You can now use the filter dropdown to specifically hunt for missing Entrance, Restroom, Parking, or Seating data. By submitting an approved edit for these missing details, you provide immediate assistance to future customers while maximising your Local Guide points. Whether you are exploring your own suburb or travelling somewhere new, this scanner ensures your mapping efforts are highly efficient and genuinely helpful.
Why is the map showing zero results?
In highly developed urban centres, many prominent businesses already have fully completed accessibility profiles. To uncover missing information, try searching for smaller, niche business types (e.g., "bakery", "chemist", "florist") instead of leaving the Place Type blank.
Is my personal location stored or tracked?
No. If you enable the "Use My Location" feature, your coordinates are only utilised temporarily within your own browser to request data from the Google Places API. We do not store, track, or log your personal location.
A Local Guide's Guide to Mapping Accessibility
Accurate accessibility information can make or break someone's day. As a Local Guide, you have the power to make the world easier to navigate for individuals with mobility needs. However, knowing exactly what to look for when verifying these details is crucial. Here is a breakdown of how to accurately assess a location's accessibility features before you update Google Maps.
1. The Entrance Test
A "wheelchair-accessible entrance" means the doorway is at least 32 inches (about 81 cm) wide and offers step-free access. If there is a step, is there a permanent, sturdy ramp with a reasonable incline? A small, single step without a ramp usually means the entrance is not accessible. Be sure to check secondary entrances too; sometimes the main entrance has stairs, but a side or rear door is fully accessible.
2. Assessing the Parking Situation
To confirm "wheelchair-accessible parking," look for designated parking spots marked with the international symbol of access. These spots should be significantly wider than standard bays to allow for wheelchair lifts or ramps to deploy from vans. Crucially, these spots must be located near the accessible entrance and have a clear, step-free route from the parking space to the building.
3. Reviewing Restroom Facilities
A "wheelchair-accessible restroom" must be on the ground floor or reachable by a reliable elevator. The stall itself needs to be wide enough for a wheelchair to enter, turn around, and close the door behind them (typically requiring a 60-inch turning radius). Additionally, check for securely mounted grab bars next to and behind the toilet, and ensure the sink is at an appropriate height with knee clearance underneath.
4. Seating and Interior Layout
Confirming "wheelchair-accessible seating" goes beyond just having a table. The aisles must be wide enough to navigate without bumping into displays or other patrons. If it's a restaurant, there should be tables at a suitable height where a wheelchair user can comfortably pull up without their knees hitting the underside, and the chairs should be movable (not fixed to the floor or the table).
Have a suggestion or found a bug?
We are constantly updating Local Guide Tools based on community feedback. If you have an idea for a new feature or need help with a tool, let us know!
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