What legal obligations do I have as a website owner regarding accessibility?

Overview 

As a website owner, you must ensure your site is accessible to people with disabilities by following recognized standards (WCAG 2.1 AA) and applicable laws. 

Key accessibility duties 

Key duties include: 

• providing perceivable content (e.g., text alternatives) 
   
• ensuring operable navigation (e.g., keyboard access) 
   
• creating understandable interfaces 
   
• implementing robust code  

Accessibility statement and contact mechanism 

You also need to: 

• publish an accessibility statement 
    
• offer a feedback/contact mechanism 
   
• fix barriers within a reasonable time  

Relevant laws in the EU and Germany 

In the EU, the following apply: 

• the Web Accessibility Directive (public sector) 
   
• the European Accessibility Act (from 28 June 2025 for many private services) 
    

In Germany, this is implemented via harmonized laws. 

Possible consequences of non-compliance 

Non-compliance can trigger complaints, supervisory action, and potential fines. 

Important note 

Always check applicable laws and regulations in their most recent versions.