Planning tool
Assistive Listening Receiver Calculator
Choose your building code and enter the capacity of each room to see how many receivers you need, and how many must work with hearing aids.
ADA Table 219.3: Receivers for Assistive Listening Systems
| Seats in the assembly area | Minimum receivers | Hearing-aid compatible |
|---|---|---|
| 50 or less | 2 | 2 |
| 51 to 200 | 2, plus 1 per 25 seats over 50 | 2 |
| 201 to 500 | 2, plus 1 per 25 seats over 50 | 1 per 4 receivers |
| 501 to 1,000 | 20, plus 1 per 33 seats over 500 | 1 per 4 receivers |
| 1,001 to 2,000 | 35, plus 1 per 50 seats over 1,000 | 1 per 4 receivers |
| 2,001 and over | 55, plus 1 per 100 seats over 2,000 | 1 per 4 receivers |
A partial block of seats counts as a full one ("or fraction thereof"). At least 25% of receivers, and no fewer than two, must be hearing-aid compatible.
Good to know
- An assistive listening system is required in each assembly area where audible communication is integral to the use of the space. Other than in courtrooms, it isn't required where no audio amplification is provided (ADA 219.2).
- Assembly areas that must provide assistive listening also need signs, with the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss, telling patrons the system is available (ADA 216.10).
- The count covers receivers the venue provides. Listeners with Auracast™ hearing aids or earbuds can also join the broadcast with their own devices.
- This tool is a planning aid, not legal advice. The authority having jurisdiction or building certifier decides what a project needs.