The first question every business owner asks is simple: "Does this even apply to me?" The answer, in most cases, is yes. The accessibility obligation in Israel is far broader than most people imagine, and it does not depend on the size of the business but on the nature of its activity. This guide helps you identify exactly which group you belong to.
What "service to the public" means
The legal test is not how large the business is, but whether the site addresses the general public and lets it receive information or a service. A site that shows opening hours, lets people book an appointment, sells a product, or even just invites contact, counts as providing a service to the public.
Main groups that must be accessible
- Shops and e-commerce sites that sell to the private consumer.
- Professional service providers such as doctors, lawyers, consultants, and therapists.
- Restaurants, cafes, and hotels that show a menu or take reservations.
- Public bodies and institutions of every kind.
- Independent professionals with a brochure site that invites inquiries.
Who may be exempt
Exemptions exist but are narrow. A fully internal site, intended only for staff and not accessible to the public, is not necessarily subject to the same requirements. Even here, be careful: being "small" or "simple" does not grant an exemption.
How to be sure
The safe approach is to examine two things: whether the site is accessible to the general public, and whether it provides any information or service. If the answer to both is yes, the assumption should be that you are obligated. In borderline cases it is worth seeking advice, but it is better to treat the obligation as the default rather than the exception.
What to do from here
The first practical step is to check where your site stands today. An automated accessibility check gives a first snapshot within minutes, and shows which failures exist and what is missing, including an accessibility statement. From there it is easier to plan the path to conformance.