A plain-language overview of the federal rules that protect emotional support animals — plus the specific notes that apply in each of the 50 states.
Two federal laws define the landscape. The Fair Housing Act requires most housing providers to reasonably accommodate a valid emotional support animal, without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. The Americans with Disabilities Act governs service animals in public places — and emotional support animals are not service animals under it, so they have no public-access rights.
Air travel changed in 2021: the Department of Transportation no longer requires airlines to treat emotional support animals as service animals, so they may be handled as pets. Psychiatric service dogs, which are individually task-trained, are treated differently and retain access rights.
On top of the federal baseline, some states add their own requirements — for example, requiring an established clinical relationship before a letter is issued, or imposing penalties for fraudulent documentation. Expand any state below for the detail that applies there, and select a state to see full local pricing and FAQs.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Alabama, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Alabama after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Alabama license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Alabama state law: Alabama has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Alabama they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Alabama; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Alaska, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Alaska after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Alaska license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Alaska state law: Alaska has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Alaska they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Alaska; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Arizona, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Arizona after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Arizona license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Arizona state law: Arizona has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Arizona they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Arizona; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Arkansas, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Arkansas after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Arkansas license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Arkansas state law: Arkansas penalizes fraudulent assistance-animal documentation and expects a genuine clinical relationship, so your Arkansas-licensed mental health professional follows those standards.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Arkansas they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Arkansas; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In California, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in California after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active California license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
California state law: California, under AB 468, requires that the licensed mental health professional be licensed in California and, in most cases, hold an established client relationship of at least 30 days before issuing an ESA letter. Our matching accounts for this automatically.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in California they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in California; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Colorado, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Colorado after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Colorado license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Colorado state law: Colorado has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Colorado they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Colorado; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Connecticut, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Connecticut after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Connecticut license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Connecticut state law: Connecticut has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Connecticut they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Connecticut; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Delaware, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Delaware after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Delaware license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Delaware state law: Delaware has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Delaware they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Delaware; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Florida, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Florida after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Florida license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Florida state law: Florida (SB 1084) requires that ESA documentation come from a provider with personal knowledge of your condition and penalizes false information.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Florida they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Florida; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Georgia, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Georgia after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Georgia license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Georgia state law: Georgia has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Georgia they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Georgia; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Hawaii, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Hawaii after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Hawaii license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Hawaii state law: Hawaii has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Hawaii they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Hawaii; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Idaho, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Idaho after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Idaho license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Idaho state law: Idaho has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Idaho they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Idaho; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Illinois, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Illinois after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Illinois license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Illinois state law: Illinois has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Illinois they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Illinois; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Indiana, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Indiana after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Indiana license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Indiana state law: Indiana has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Indiana they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Indiana; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Iowa, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Iowa after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Iowa license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Iowa state law: Iowa requires that an ESA recommendation come from a provider with a real therapeutic relationship and prohibits misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Iowa they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Iowa; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Kansas, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Kansas after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Kansas license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Kansas state law: Kansas has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Kansas they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Kansas; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Kentucky, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Kentucky after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Kentucky license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Kentucky state law: Kentucky has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Kentucky they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Kentucky; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Louisiana, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Louisiana after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Louisiana license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Louisiana state law: Louisiana law (Act 154) addresses assistance-animal documentation and penalizes misrepresentation, so your Louisiana-licensed mental health professional issues letters that meet that standard.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Louisiana they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Louisiana; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Maine, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Maine after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Maine license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Maine state law: Maine has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Maine they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Maine; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Maryland, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Maryland after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Maryland license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Maryland state law: Maryland has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Maryland they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Maryland; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Massachusetts, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Massachusetts after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Massachusetts license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Massachusetts state law: Massachusetts has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Massachusetts they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Massachusetts; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Michigan, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Michigan after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Michigan license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Michigan state law: Michigan has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Michigan they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Michigan; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Minnesota, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Minnesota after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Minnesota license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Minnesota state law: Minnesota has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Minnesota they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Minnesota; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Mississippi, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Mississippi after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Mississippi license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Mississippi state law: Mississippi has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Mississippi they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Mississippi; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Missouri, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Missouri after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Missouri license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Missouri state law: Missouri has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Missouri they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Missouri; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Montana, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Montana after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Montana license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Montana state law: Montana regulates assistance-animal documentation and penalizes fraudulent letters, so your evaluation is conducted by a Montana-licensed mental health professional accordingly.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Montana they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Montana; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Nebraska, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Nebraska after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Nebraska license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Nebraska state law: Nebraska has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Nebraska they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Nebraska; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Nevada, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Nevada after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Nevada license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Nevada state law: Nevada has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Nevada they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Nevada; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In New Hampshire, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in New Hampshire after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active New Hampshire license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
New Hampshire state law: New Hampshire has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in New Hampshire they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in New Hampshire; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In New Jersey, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in New Jersey after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active New Jersey license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
New Jersey state law: New Jersey has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in New Jersey they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in New Jersey; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In New Mexico, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in New Mexico after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active New Mexico license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
New Mexico state law: New Mexico has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in New Mexico they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in New Mexico; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In New York, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in New York after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active New York license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
New York state law: New York has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in New York they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in New York; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In North Carolina, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in North Carolina after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active North Carolina license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
North Carolina state law: North Carolina has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in North Carolina they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in North Carolina; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In North Dakota, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in North Dakota after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active North Dakota license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
North Dakota state law: North Dakota has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in North Dakota they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in North Dakota; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Ohio, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Ohio after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Ohio license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Ohio state law: Ohio has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Ohio they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Ohio; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Oklahoma, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Oklahoma after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Oklahoma license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Oklahoma state law: Oklahoma has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Oklahoma they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Oklahoma; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Oregon, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Oregon after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Oregon license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Oregon state law: Oregon has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Oregon they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Oregon; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Pennsylvania, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Pennsylvania after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Pennsylvania license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Pennsylvania state law: Pennsylvania has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Pennsylvania they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Pennsylvania; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Rhode Island, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Rhode Island after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Rhode Island license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Rhode Island state law: Rhode Island has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Rhode Island they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Rhode Island; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In South Carolina, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in South Carolina after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active South Carolina license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
South Carolina state law: South Carolina has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in South Carolina they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in South Carolina; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In South Dakota, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in South Dakota after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active South Dakota license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
South Dakota state law: South Dakota has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in South Dakota they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in South Dakota; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Tennessee, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Tennessee after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Tennessee license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Tennessee state law: Tennessee has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Tennessee they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Tennessee; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Texas, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Texas after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Texas license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Texas state law: Texas has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Texas they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Texas; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Utah, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Utah after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Utah license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Utah state law: Utah has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Utah they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Utah; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Vermont, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Vermont after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Vermont license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Vermont state law: Vermont has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Vermont they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Vermont; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Virginia, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Virginia after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Virginia license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Virginia state law: Virginia has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Virginia they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Virginia; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Washington, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Washington after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Washington license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Washington state law: Washington has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Washington they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Washington; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In West Virginia, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in West Virginia after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active West Virginia license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
West Virginia state law: West Virginia has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in West Virginia they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in West Virginia; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Wisconsin, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Wisconsin after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Wisconsin license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Wisconsin state law: Wisconsin has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Wisconsin they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Wisconsin; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Fair Housing Act (federal): In Wyoming, most landlords and property managers must grant a reasonable accommodation for a valid emotional support animal — even in no-pet housing — without pet fees, deposits, or breed and size limits. Narrow exemptions apply to owner-occupied buildings of four units or fewer and certain owner-managed single-family rentals.
Who can write the letter: Your ESA letter must be issued by a mental health professional licensed in Wyoming after a genuine evaluation. A landlord may verify that the licensed mental health professional holds an active Wyoming license but cannot require your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Wyoming state law: Wyoming has not enacted an ESA-specific statute beyond the federal Fair Housing Act. The FHA itself is what protects you, and standard tenancy rules — noise, cleanliness, and responsibility for any damage — continue to apply. A housing provider may still deny or remove an animal that poses a documented direct threat to others or causes substantial property damage.
Public access & air travel: Emotional support animals are not service animals under the ADA, so in Wyoming they carry no public-access rights to stores, restaurants, or other public places, and airlines are not required to accommodate them. A psychiatric service dog, which is individually task-trained, is treated differently and retains ADA access.
Registration & fraud: No registry, certificate, ID card, or vest is legally required in Wyoming; any such items are optional and carry no legal weight. Knowingly misrepresenting a pet as an assistance animal can carry penalties, which is why a real, licensed mental health professional-issued letter is what matters.
Begin with a free pre-screening. A licensed mental health professional takes it from there — and you’re only charged if approved.
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