Request Reasonable Modifications - Windsor City Services

Civil Rights and Equity Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In Windsor, Ontario, people with disabilities can ask municipal staff for reasonable modifications to access city services, programs and facilities. This guide explains who to contact at the City of Windsor, how to make a request, likely timeframes, enforcement and appeal options, and what to include in a request so staff can respond promptly and fairly.

How to make a request

Requests should describe the service or facility you need changed, the barrier you face, and the specific modification you seek. Provide contact details and a preferred format for the response (phone, email, large print or other). Local staff may accept a verbal, written or electronic request and will work with you to find an appropriate solution. See the City of Windsor accessibility contact information for help. City of Windsor Accessibility[1]

  • Describe the service, location and date or schedule you need modified.
  • Give preferred contact details and communication format.
  • Attach or offer any supporting documentation that explains the disability-related need.
  • Propose practical solutions if you have them, but be open to alternatives from staff.
Keep the request focused on the specific barrier and desired change for faster resolution.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Windsor implements accessibility practices through municipal policies and customer service procedures; specific monetary fines for failure to provide a requested reasonable modification are not specified on the cited City accessibility page. City of Windsor Accessibility[1]

  • Enforcer: Accessibility Coordinator and relevant City departments oversee compliance and handle complaints.
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: submit a complaint or request assistance to the City accessibility contact or By-law Enforcement as appropriate.
  • Appeals and external review: for discrimination issues, individuals may pursue remedies under provincial processes; procedural time limits are not specified on the cited city page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to change practices, corrective measures, and administrative directives may be used; specific sanctions are not specified on the cited page.
If you believe a refusal is discriminatory, note dates, staff names and any written responses for evidence.

Applications & Forms

The City does not publish a universal, named "reasonable modification" form on its accessibility landing page; requests are typically handled by contacting the Accessibility Coordinator or the relevant service area. For provincial guidance on accessible customer service obligations, see the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) resources. Accessibility laws (AODA)[2]

  • Form name/number: not specified on the cited City page.
  • Fees: the City does not list fees tied to making a request on the cited page.
  • Submission: contact Accessibility Coordinator by phone, email or the department that provides the service.

How the City responds

Staff should assess requests promptly, considering public safety, undue hardship and alternative accommodation. Responses may include adjustments to communication, provision of assistive equipment, or procedural changes. If an immediate safety concern exists, expect staff to prioritize that risk.

Action steps

  • Step 1: Prepare a short written note describing the barrier and requested modification.
  • Step 2: Contact the City accessibility contact or the service area handling the program.
  • Step 3: Keep records of all communications and any offered alternatives.
  • Step 4: If unsatisfied, ask about internal review and consider external complaint routes.
Document dates and names when you request a modification to preserve a clear record.

FAQ

How long will the City take to respond to a request?
The response timeframe is not specified on the City accessibility landing page; response times vary by department and urgency.
Do I need medical proof to request a modification?
Medical evidence is generally not required just to make a request, but staff may ask for information necessary to assess the accommodation; specifics are handled case by case.
Where can I take a complaint if the City refuses my request?
If you believe the refusal is discriminatory, you may pursue provincial complaint routes; consult Ontario human rights resources for next steps.

How-To

  1. Write or phone the department that provides the service and describe the barrier and the modification you request.
  2. If the first contact is not helpful, ask to speak with the Accessibility Coordinator or supervisor.
  3. Accept or propose reasonable alternatives and agree on a timeline for implementation.
  4. Keep copies of emails, notes of phone calls and any written decisions from the City.
  5. If not resolved, request an internal review and note deadlines; consider external options if discrimination is alleged.

Key Takeaways

  • Make requests clearly and in writing when possible to create a record.
  • Contact the City Accessibility Coordinator for help navigating the process.
  • Keep documentation and ask about internal review options if a request is denied.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Windsor Accessibility
  2. [2] Accessibility laws (AODA)

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