Accessibility Information

Fortland is listed on the National Register of Historic Places under the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.) or is designated as historic under State or local law (§ 36.405 Alterations: Historic preservation.). Thus, we are not able to offer handicap-accessible accommodations since such alterations would destroy the historical significance of the property. However, we are committed to doing whatever we reasonably can to make our property accessible. Therefore, we have added the following accessible features:

The property was built prior to 1992 and is listed on the historic registry. While we strive to maintain safe and convenient access for all guests, the property’s setting on a coastal Maine island means that some standard urban accessibility features are not feasible. Guests with accessibility needs are encouraged to contact us in advance so we can assist with arrival planning and provide personalized support where possible.

Fortland provides parking in an open, public parking lot under the management of the City of South Portland, which maintains ADA compliance for this space. Guests may pull up to the boat ramp for loading and unloading before moving vehicles to the designated parking lot. There are not covered loading/unloading or parking spaces.  

The property that Fortland operates on (House Island) is privately owned and does not have direct access by any sidewalk, public transport, or public ferry. The route from the parking area to the property entrance requires transportation by a private boat service, which may not maintain ADA compliance. 

The property does not have a formal building entrance.  The Dock and Wharf serve as the official entry to the site. Because they are private dock systems on a private property, they do not conform with ADA accessibility. Ramps on the dock always exceed 1:12.  

On-site staff are available to assist with luggage handling and arrival support.

Due to the property’s setting, routes consist of natural and compacted surfaces rather than fully paved walkways; however, care is taken to keep pathways as level and navigable as possible within the natural environment. Walkways and entry areas are kept clear of unnecessary obstacles and protruding objects to support safe navigation. Exterior routes are not fully paved. Pathways include uneven ground, elevation changes, or and various slopes, typical of an island setting. Pathways allow for general accessibility, though not formally measured to ADA specifications.

Pathways within the dining space are generally open and allow for ease of movement between tables. The terrain in the dining area consists of grass and woodchips, which may limit mobility. Dining tables and seating are not specifically designed to meet ADA height or clearance standards. There are no designated wheelchair-specific seating stations or fixed accessible tables. The dining space is not formally measured for ADA turning radius requirements, though it is generally open. The dining area is well-lit and clearly defined, supporting visibility and navigation. Lighting levels may vary depending on time of day and ambiance settings.

We offer an ADA accessible site, the North Star Tent Cabin, which offers step-free entry. 

The site’s interior provides an accessible layout able to support guests with mobility needs. It does not include an emergency call system or alert device and there are no visual or audible alert systems. The site does not include an adjustable-height bed or specialized medical equipment. 

We are unable to offer a restroom with step-free access from the common areas. The restroom does not include interior space to allow for wheelchair turning and maneuverability. There is no automatic door, no tactile or braille signage elements, and does not include emergency call buttons or alert systems.

All signage is made of nonreflective materials with numbers and lettering that contrast with the background. We do not have braille signage.