Inappropriate Fieldset Element Check

Description

The “Inappropriate Fieldset Element Check” evaluates whether there is any <fieldset> element placed outside a <form> element.

Example outcome

I found 1 <fieldset> element outside the form.

Impact

• Visual Impairments: Screen readers may not associate grouped inputs correctly without a proper form context, resulting in miscommunication of relationships between form controls.
• Motor Impairments: Form behavior and validation may be skipped or broken if controls aren’t enclosed in a <form>, causing frustration or data loss.
• Cognitive Disabilities: Improperly grouped or standalone inputs might cause confusion, especially when context is lacking.

Fixes

To address inappropriately placed <fieldset> elements:

1. Locate the <fieldset> element.
2. Ensure it is nested within a valid <form> element.

Resources

• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criteria 1.3.1
• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criteria 3.3.2
• WCAG 2.2 Techniques: Technique H71: Providing a description for groups of form controls using fieldset and legend elements
• WebAIM: Semantic Structure: Regions, Headings, and Lists
• WebAIM: Creating Accessible Forms