Structure · WCAG 2.1 Level AA
CSS Media queries must not lock display orientation
Ensure content is not locked to any specific display orientation, and the content is operable in all display orientations.
What it means
The css-orientation-lock rule flags elements that fail this check. It maps to WCAG success criterion 1.3.4.
Who it affects
Screen reader users who navigate by structure, and people who change text spacing or orientation.
How to fix it
Do not force portrait or landscape with CSS unless essential.
/* remove transforms that rotate content in an orientation media query */Check it on your site
Run a free scan. If this rule fails, the results list the affected elements. Deque, which maintains axe-core, also documents this rule in detail: Deque University: css-orientation-lock.
Quick answers
What does the axe rule "css-orientation-lock" check?
Ensure content is not locked to any specific display orientation, and the content is operable in all display orientations.
How do I fix "CSS Media queries must not lock display orientation"?
Do not force portrait or landscape with CSS unless essential.
Who is affected by css-orientation-lock failures?
Screen reader users who navigate by structure, and people who change text spacing or orientation.
Automated accessibility scan. Results are informational and may not identify every accessibility issue. This service is not legal advice, a compliance certification, or a substitute for comprehensive manual accessibility testing.