Fan resources

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Know Your Rights, Plan Your Nights

Your Guide to Accessible Live Music

At Access Verified, we believe everyone deserves to experience the magic of live music. This page is your go to resource for understanding your rights, planning your concert night, and advocating for the access you need.

Quick Check List

  • Can you easily get inside without stairs?

  • Is there a clear line of sight or a reserved space for you?

  • Are facilities available and usable for your needs?

  • If you are Deaf or hard of hearing, can you access the show's audio?

  • Can you step away and easily re-enter without losing your designated spot?

  • Is there someone on site who can help if needed?

Need to confirm one of these? Scroll down for details on how to make your request.

Title III in Plain English

Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life. For live music, this means:

Public venues, like most clubs, bars, and theaters in the United States, must provide equal access to disabled individuals unless doing so would cause an extreme hardship on the venue.

In practice, this means venues generally can’t just tell you "no" when you ask for reasonable help getting in, seeing the stage, or understanding the show.

Download a summarized PDF Advocacy Letter by the NAD

Read the full text on ADA.gov

WHAT YOU CAN ASK FOR

  • Examples:

    • ASL interpreter

    • Real-time captions (e.g., CART)

    • Assistive listening devices (ALDs)

    • Printed lyrics or set lists

    • Visual impairment support (large print materials, audio descriptions if applicable)

  • Examples:

    • Step-free entrance or ramp

    • Accessible restroom

    • Reserved sight line space

    • Space for mobility devices

    • Accessible pathways within the venue

    • Accessible seating/viewing area

  • These extras MAY be offered by certain venues with the resources:

    • A low stim or "quiet" spot if the venue has space

    • Early entry or easy re-entry for breaks

    • Venue provided earplugs

    • Information on strobe lighting/haze warnings

    • Specific staff training on disability awareness (while not a fan request, it's something Access Verified advocates for!)

Understanding This Table

The first two dropdowns are clearly protected under ADA Title III.

The third dropdown lists common extra requests.* 

*Venues are encouraged to help with extras when they can, but they are not strictly required by law. Ask in advance and be ready to discuss options!

HOW TO MAKE A REQUEST

Early and effective communication is the key to a positive experience!

1) Plan Ahead!

  • For ASL Interpreters or other specialized communication aids: Reach out as early as possible, ideally 4-6 weeks or even more in advance. Qualified interpreters are in high demand and book quickly.

  • For all other accommodations (physical access, reserved space, etc.): Reach out at least two weeks before the show if possible. This gives the venue time to plan and respond. If it's last minute, still reach out immediately and document.

2) State exactly what you need.

  • Example (ASL): "Hi, I am attending the [Artist Name] show on [Date] at [Venue Name]. I am Deaf and will need an ASL interpreter. Please note that ASL interpreters often require significant lead time for booking and preparation. If an ASL interpreter isn't available, are real-time captions an option?"

  • Example (Physical Access): "Hello, I am attending the [Artist Name] show on [Date]. I use a power wheelchair and will need a step-free entrance and an accessible viewing area. Is this available?"

3) Ask for written confirmation.

  • Email is best for a paper trail.

4) If you have not heard back a few days before the event, send a polite reminder.

  • Example: “Just wanted to send a quick reminder about my access request for the [Artist Name] show on [Date of Show].

    I'm requesting [briefly state your primary need] as previously detailed in my email on [Date of Your Original Email].

    Please let me know if you've had a chance to review it or if you require any further information from me. I'm really looking forward to the show!”

If the Venue Cannot Accommodate

It can be frustrating when a venue can't meet your needs. Here's what to do!

  1. Ask what alternatives they can offer. They might have a creative solution.

  2. Keep names, dates, and details of every conversation. This documentation is vital.

  3. If you are still stuck, save any emails or screenshots.

  4. File a short report with Access Verified through our contact form. This helps us track common barriers and advocate for better access within the music industry.

  5. If you choose to take legal action, start with your state ADA office or the Department of Justice complaint form. Your state ADA office can often provide local guidance and mediation, while the Department of Justice handles federal complaints.

Going to lots of shows?

If you hit multiple gigs a month, consider building a relationship with the venue staff. Let them know your usual needs and timing. A heads-up helps small DIY spaces plan and usually gets better results for everyone. A little proactive communication can go a long way in fostering an inclusive environment.

Extra reads and downloads!

Dive deeper into resources that empower disabled music fans.