Assistance Animals and ESAs

Assistance animals — service animals and emotional support animals — are not pets under fair housing law. No-pet policies and pet fees do not apply.

If the disability is not obvious, you may request reliable documentation from a health professional confirming the disability-related need. You may not require a specific form, a certification, or a diagnosis.

You can deny the accommodation only if the specific animal poses a direct threat or would cause substantial physical damage — and only after an individualized assessment.