Accessibility Statement

Effective Date: July 17, 2025
Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Entity: Oak & Ember Group LLC 

The Oak & Ember Group accessibility statement is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible online experience and Smoky Mountain cabin rental for all guests, including those with disabilities. We believe accessibility is not only a legal responsibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), but also an extension of our hospitality promise.

Our Commitment

  • Compliance Framework: We follow Title III of the ADA, which requires places of lodging to provide equal access in reservations and effective communication. We also align our digital accessibility efforts with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level AA.

  • Scope: This statement applies to our official website (www.oakandembergroup.com), online booking system, digital documents, and communications.

Website Accessibility Standards

Our website aims to conform to WCAG 2.2 Level AA. Key practices include:

  • Clear visible focus indicators for navigation.

  • Adequate target sizes for clickable elements.

  • Non-drag alternatives for interactive features.

  • Avoiding repetitive form inputs across booking steps.

  • Authentication without memory/cognitive tests.

  • Respect for user preferences such as prefers-reduced-motion and prefers-contrast.

Third-Party Content & Equal Access

Some functions (e.g., maps, booking widgets, payment gateways) may rely on third-party vendors. If any content is not fully accessible, guests can access the same availability, pricing, and promotions through our phone, email, or direct assistance. We also actively work with vendors to address accessibility gaps.

Reservations & Lodging Disclosures

We comply with ADA Title III’s reservation rule by ensuring guests can make informed choices about our cabins’ accessibility. While our cabins may not meet all ADA standards, we provide accurate descriptions of accessibility-related features and limitations upon request.

Information available includes (when applicable):

  • Parking surface and slope.

  • Entryway dimensions and steps.

  • Interior clearances and pathways.

  • Bathroom layouts and fixture details.

  • Bed heights and circulation space.

Guests may request this information by contacting us at info@oakandembergroup.com. We will provide the details promptly to ensure you can determine if a cabin meets your needs before booking.

Non-Web Content

All downloadable documents (PDFs, rental policies, insurance certificates, etc.) are either compliant with PDF/UA standards or alternative accessible formats are provided upon request.

Forms & Security Features

  • We avoid inaccessible CAPTCHA. If spam prevention is required, we use accessible alternatives (honeypots, server-side checks).

  • Booking sessions are designed to preserve entered data. If timeouts occur, we warn in advance, allow extensions, and retain entered information for at least 20 hours whenever possible.

Communication Channels

We provide multiple accessible contact methods:

  • Phone: 865-224-6717 (711 Telecommunications Relay Services welcome).

  • Email: info@oakandembergroup.com

  • Contact Form: Our online form is accessible and keyboard-navigable

Continuous Testing & Improvements

  • We audit our site annually using the WCAG-EM methodology (manual testing, automated scans, and assistive technology).

  • We request Accessibility Conformance Reports (ACR/VPAT 2.5) from critical vendors, including booking and payment providers.

  • Known limitations are tracked and published in a “roadmap” list with remediation timelines and alternative access methods.

Governance & Training

  • Accessibility Coordinator: A designated team member is responsible for monitoring compliance.

  • Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Accessibility inquiries are acknowledged within 2 business days and resolved or updated within 10 business days.

  • Staff Training: All staff receive annual training on effective communication and accessibility standards.

Feedback & Assistance

We welcome feedback. If you encounter accessibility barriers on our website or at our properties, please contact us so we can assist you:

Disclaimer

While we strive for full compliance, accessibility is a continuous process. Some content may not yet fully conform, especially content provided by third parties. In such cases, we commit to providing a timely and equally effective alternative.