{
  "name": "ESA Housing Law Index",
  "publisher": "Support Animal",
  "source": "https://supportanimal.com/blog/esa-law-index/",
  "cite": "Support Animal, \"ESA Housing Law Index\"",
  "updated": "2026-09-23",
  "rows": [
    {
      "state": "alabama",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "No Alabama statute in our research names the emotional support animal; an ESA request runs on the general accommodation duty in Ala. Code § 24-8-7(g)(2).",
        "cite": "Ala. Code § 24-8-7(g)(2)",
        "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Alabama statute says what ESA documentation must contain or who may write it; the handicap definition in § 24-8-3(6) keeps the substantially-limits test.",
        "cite": "Ala. Code § 24-8-3(6)",
        "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "Bars extra compensation for a trained service animal in housing; an ESA must reach the same result through the accommodation analysis in § 24-8-7(g)(2).",
        "cite": "Ala. Code § 21-7-9(c)(2)",
        "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Misrepresenting oneself as using or training a service animal is a Class C misdemeanor plus 100 hours of community service; a repeat is a Class B misdemeanor with a $100 fine.",
        "cite": "Ala. Code § 21-7-4(h)-(i)",
        "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "A written complaint must be filed with the Office of ADECA (Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs) within 180 days of the practice.",
        "cite": "Ala. Code § 24-8-12(b)",
        "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama"
      },
      "stateName": "Alabama"
    },
    {
      "state": "alaska",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "A full-text search of the Alaska Statutes finds 'emotional support' zero times; Alaska ESA protection comes from the federal Fair Housing Act.",
        "cite": "AS 18.80.240",
        "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#18.80.240"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Alaska statute says what an ESA letter must contain or who may sign it; AS 18.80.240(3) bars a landlord from inquiring into or recording a disability.",
        "cite": "AS 18.80.240(3)",
        "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#18.80.240"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "Allows an extra pet deposit of up to one month's rent except for an individually trained service animal; an ESA is spared only by federal law.",
        "cite": "AS 34.03.070(h), (i)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#34.03.070"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "Our full-text search of the Alaska Statutes found no offence for misrepresenting a service or assistance animal; AS 11.76.130 is an access-denial crime, not one.",
        "cite": "Alaska Statutes, all titles (no such provision)",
        "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "300 days",
        "detail": "A complaint to the State Commission for Human Rights must be filed within 300 days of the act, or of when a continuing practice stopped.",
        "cite": "6 AAC 30.230",
        "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/aac.asp#6.30.230"
      },
      "stateName": "Alaska"
    },
    {
      "state": "arizona",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "Arizona has no statute written for assistance animals in housing; an ESA request runs on the general accommodation duty in the state Fair Housing Act.",
        "cite": "A.R.S. § 41-1491.19(E)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01491-19.htm"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Arizona statute sets what ESA documentation must contain or who may write it; the accommodation duty turns on necessity.",
        "cite": "A.R.S. § 41-1491.19(E)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01491-19.htm"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No Arizona statute bars a pet fee for an ESA; § 33-1321 caps all security, however denominated, at one and one-half month's rent.",
        "cite": "A.R.S. § 33-1321",
        "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/33/01321.htm"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Fraudulently misrepresenting an animal as a service animal to a public place carries a civil penalty of up to $250 per violation; it does not govern dwellings.",
        "cite": "A.R.S. § 11-1024",
        "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/11/01024.htm"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "A complaint goes to the Arizona Attorney General within one year after the practice occurred or terminated, whichever is later.",
        "cite": "A.R.S. § 41-1491.22",
        "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01491-22.htm"
      },
      "stateName": "Arizona"
    },
    {
      "state": "california",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "mentions",
        "detail": "Health & Safety Code § 122318 names the 'emotional support dog' to regulate documentation; the housing right itself runs on FEHA's general accommodation duty.",
        "cite": "Cal. Health & Safety Code § 122318",
        "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&sectionNum=122318"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "A practitioner documenting an emotional support dog needs an active licence, a 30-day client relationship (homeless excepted), a clinical evaluation and a Penal Code § 365.7 notice.",
        "cite": "Cal. Health & Safety Code § 122318",
        "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&sectionNum=122318"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "A FEHA regulation, not a statute, bars pet deposits, pet rent or other fees for a support animal; the Civil Rights Department states this on its housing page.",
        "cite": "Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, § 12185(d)",
        "url": "https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/housing/"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Fraudulently representing oneself as the owner or trainer of a service dog is a misdemeanor: up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.",
        "cite": "Cal. Penal Code § 365.7",
        "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&sectionNum=122318"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "A complaint must be filed with the California Civil Rights Department within one year of the date the violation occurred or terminated.",
        "cite": "Cal. Gov. Code § 12980(b)",
        "url": "https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=12980"
      },
      "stateName": "California"
    },
    {
      "state": "colorado",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "From August 12, 2026, HB26-1045 defines an assistance animal to include an emotional support animal and presumes allowing one in housing is a reasonable accommodation.",
        "cite": "C.R.S. § 24-34-301(2.5) and (8.5)",
        "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb26-1045"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "A licensee must make written findings on disability and on need, and a mental health licensee must have met the patient in person (physicians: in person or telemedicine).",
        "cite": "C.R.S. § 12-245-229(3)(a)",
        "url": "https://dpo.colorado.gov/MentalHealth/Laws"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No statute expressly bars a pet charge for an ESA. § 38-12-106 caps pet deposits and pet rent for pets; our pages argue waiver as an accommodation under § 24-34-501(3.5).",
        "cite": "C.R.S. § 38-12-106",
        "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb23-1068"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Class 2 civil infraction, only after a prior warning: $25, then $50 to $200, then $100 to $500. A licensee's written finding is an affirmative defence.",
        "cite": "C.R.S. § 18-13-107.3",
        "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb16-1426"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Colorado Civil Rights Division. The Division says it cannot extend the deadline, and CaseConnect intake alone is not a filed charge.",
        "cite": "C.R.S. § 24-34-504(1)",
        "url": "https://dre.colorado.gov/sites/dre/files/documents/2025%20Colorado%20Fair%20Housing%20(24-34-401%20et%20seq).pdf"
      },
      "stateName": "Colorado"
    },
    {
      "state": "connecticut",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "mentions",
        "detail": "Since 1 July 2024, § 46a-64d names emotional support animals, but only to direct CHRO to publish educational materials. It grants no housing right.",
        "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46a-64d",
        "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_814c.htm"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Connecticut statute says what an ESA letter must contain or who may sign it; § 46a-64d only tells CHRO to explain existing state and federal law.",
        "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46a-64d",
        "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_814c.htm"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No statute addresses pet fees or pet rent. A refundable pet deposit counts inside the general security deposit cap of two months' rent (one month at 62+).",
        "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(b)",
        "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_831.htm"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "Our Connecticut research does not address any ESA or assistance-animal misrepresentation offence either way, so none is established.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "300 days",
        "detail": "Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, for acts on or after 1 October 2021 (180 days before that). A housing complaint need not be notarized.",
        "cite": "Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46a-82(f)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_814c.htm"
      },
      "stateName": "Connecticut"
    },
    {
      "state": "delaware",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "The phrase appears in no chapter we fetched and grepped, and the Code-wide search returns 0 (the research notes that index has gaps).",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No statute says who may sign a housing letter or what it must contain; § 4603A(a)(2) asks only for a disability and that the accommodation may be necessary.",
        "cite": "6 Del. C. § 4603A(a)(2)",
        "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title6/c046/index.html"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "§ 5514(i)(3) bars a pet deposit only for a 'duly certified and trained support animal', which § 5141(38) defines as trained to do work or perform tasks.",
        "cite": "25 Del. C. § 5514(i)(3) and § 5141(38)",
        "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title25/c055/index.html"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "Our Code-wide research found no offence of misrepresenting an assistance animal, in Title 11 or elsewhere.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Division of Human and Civil Rights, one year from the act or its termination, or from when it was or should have been discovered. No filing fee.",
        "cite": "6 Del. C. § 4610(a)(1)a.1.",
        "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title6/c046/index.html"
      },
      "stateName": "Delaware"
    },
    {
      "state": "district-of-columbia",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "The D.C. Code never uses 'emotional support'; an ESA is protected by the Human Rights Act's general accommodation duty. OHR guidance names the 'support animal', and D.C. Law 25-308 adds 'assistance animal' from Oct 1, 2026.",
        "cite": "D.C. Code § 2-1402.21(d)(3)(B)",
        "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/2-1402.21"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No D.C. statute or rule found says who may write ESA documentation. § 7-1006(d)'s physician rule covers trained service animals only; OHR's guidance asks for a healthcare provider's verification.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "Bars a pet deposit and pet rent for an assistance animal required as a reasonable accommodation, but only from Oct 1, 2026, when D.C. Act 26-416 § 7259 (an emergency act) applies it. The codified Code still read 'Not Funded' in Sept 2026.",
        "cite": "D.C. Law 25-308 § 2(c)(2), § 42-3505.10(b-3); D.C. Act 26-416 § 7259",
        "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/laws/25-308"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "A full-text search of the D.C. Code and every session law found no offence for misrepresenting a service or assistance animal.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "DC Office of Human Rights, within one year of the act or its discovery; or sue in court within two years under § 2-1403.16(b), tolled while an OHR complaint is pending.",
        "cite": "D.C. Code § 2-1403.04(a)",
        "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/2-1403.04"
      },
      "stateName": "District of Columbia"
    },
    {
      "state": "florida",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "A dedicated ESA housing statute (ch. 2020-76) requires a housing provider to allow an emotional support animal as a reasonable accommodation.",
        "cite": "Fla. Stat. § 760.27",
        "url": "https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0760/Sections/0760.27.html"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Lists acceptable supporting information, bars requests for diagnosis or records, and counts an out-of-state practitioner only after one in-person visit.",
        "cite": "Fla. Stat. § 760.27(2)(b)4.",
        "url": "https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0760/Sections/0760.27.html"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "A person allowed to keep an ESA as a reasonable accommodation may not be required to pay extra compensation for the animal.",
        "cite": "Fla. Stat. § 760.27(2)",
        "url": "https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0760/Sections/0760.27.html"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Falsifying ESA documentation or misrepresenting a disability-related need is a second-degree misdemeanor, plus 30 hours of community service within six months.",
        "cite": "Fla. Stat. § 817.265",
        "url": "https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0817/Sections/0817.265.html"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Florida Commission on Human Relations, by Housing Discrimination Questionnaire, within one year after the alleged practice occurred.",
        "cite": "Fla. Stat. § 760.34",
        "url": "https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0760/Sections/0760.34.html"
      },
      "stateName": "Florida"
    },
    {
      "state": "georgia",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "excludes",
        "detail": "Since July 1, 2026 (HB 668), Georgia's service dog definition excludes a dog that solely provides comfort, companionship, or emotional support; ESA housing requests run on fair housing law instead.",
        "cite": "O.C.G.A. § 30-4-1(5)",
        "url": "https://gov.georgia.gov/document/2026-signed-legislation/hb-668/download"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Georgia statute or rule sets what ESA documentation must contain or who may write it; the Commission's rule imports the federal accommodation analysis.",
        "cite": "Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 186-2-.02(4)(e)",
        "url": "https://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/186-2-.02"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "The Title 30 no-extra-charge rule in housing covers task-trained service dogs only; Georgia does not regulate pet fees, so an ESA fee comes off only through the accommodation duty.",
        "cite": "O.C.G.A. § 30-4-3",
        "url": "https://gov.georgia.gov/document/2026-signed-legislation/hb-668/download"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Deliberately misrepresenting yourself as qualified to use a service dog to secure Title 30 rights is a high and aggravated misdemeanor: up to $2,000, 30 days, or both.",
        "cite": "O.C.G.A. § 30-4-4(b)",
        "url": "https://gov.georgia.gov/document/2026-signed-legislation/hb-668/download"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (Fair Housing Division), within one year of the practice occurring or terminating; two years to sue under O.C.G.A. § 8-3-217.",
        "cite": "Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 186-2-.03(2)(b)",
        "url": "https://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/186-2-.03"
      },
      "stateName": "Georgia"
    },
    {
      "state": "illinois",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "The Illinois Human Rights Act never uses the words animal or emotional; an ESA is protected through the general reasonable accommodation duty in rules and policies.",
        "cite": "775 ILCS 5/3-102.1(C)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ILCS/details?ActID=2266&ChapterID=64&SeqStart=1900000&SeqEnd=3000000"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Illinois statute or IDHR rule sets ESA documentation contents or who may sign; 71 Ill. Adm. Code 2300 never mentions an animal.",
        "cite": "71 Ill. Adm. Code 2300",
        "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/071/071023000000100R.html"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "The Act's no-extra-charge rule covers guide, hearing or support dogs of blind, hearing impaired or physically disabled tenants only; Illinois caps no pet fee or deposit.",
        "cite": "775 ILCS 5/3-104.1(C)",
        "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ILCS/details?ActID=2266&ChapterID=64&SeqStart=1900000&SeqEnd=3000000"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "Our Illinois research does not address a misrepresentation offence; it records only that the old Service Animal Access Act (720 ILCS 630) was repealed by P.A. 97-1108.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Illinois Department of Human Rights, within one year of the violation being committed or terminated; or sue in circuit court within two years under 775 ILCS 5/10-102(A).",
        "cite": "775 ILCS 5/7B-102(A)(1)",
        "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ILCS/details?ActID=2266&ChapterID=64&SeqStart=7200000&SeqEnd=7700000"
      },
      "stateName": "Illinois"
    },
    {
      "state": "iowa",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "Iowa gives a housing right to an 'assistance animal', defined by reference to the federal Fair Housing Act, which reaches an untrained emotional support animal.",
        "cite": "Iowa Code § 216.8B(1)(a)",
        "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/216.8B.pdf"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "A written finding must contain eight elements, from six named licence types or an out-of-state licensee in good standing, and disclose whether a 30-day relationship exists.",
        "cite": "Iowa Code § 216.8C",
        "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/216.8C.pdf"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "Landlords must make reasonable accommodations in the rules, policies, practices and services normally required for pets for an assistance animal, which reaches pet rent, fees and deposits.",
        "cite": "Iowa Code § 216.8B(6)(b)",
        "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/216.8B.pdf"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Intentionally misrepresenting an animal as a service animal or service-animal-in-training is a simple misdemeanor; chapter 216 has no parallel housing offence.",
        "cite": "Iowa Code § 216C.11(3)",
        "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/216C.11.pdf"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "300 days",
        "detail": "Iowa Office of Civil Rights, within 300 days of the practice; a housing case may also go to district court within two years under § 216.16A(2).",
        "cite": "Iowa Code § 216.15(13)",
        "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/216.15.pdf"
      },
      "stateName": "Iowa"
    },
    {
      "state": "kansas",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "None of the Kansas statutes in our research names an ESA; the housing right rests on the general accommodation duty, and the service dog sections exclude an ESA by description.",
        "cite": "K.S.A. 44-1016(h)(3)(B)",
        "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch44/044_010_0016.html"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "Kansas has no statute setting ESA documentation contents or who may sign; the only test is disability and whether the accommodation may be necessary.",
        "cite": "K.S.A. 44-1016(h)(3)(B)",
        "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch44/044_010_0016.html"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "The housing no-extra-charge bars cover dogs specially selected, trained and tested (guide, hearing, service); K.S.A. 58-2550(a) allows a half-month pet deposit where the lease permits pets.",
        "cite": "K.S.A. 39-1108",
        "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch39/039_011_0008.html"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Class A nonperson misdemeanor to claim an assistance dog's access to public places listed in K.S.A. 39-1101, or a disability to acquire an assistance dog; not housing requests.",
        "cite": "K.S.A. 39-1112",
        "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch39/039_011_0012.html"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "6 months",
        "detail": "Kansas Human Rights Commission, within six months of the act (or the last act of a continuing pattern); dismissal on request after 300 days without a finding.",
        "cite": "K.S.A. 44-1005(i)",
        "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch44/044_010_0005.html"
      },
      "stateName": "Kansas"
    },
    {
      "state": "maine",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "5 M.R.S. § 4553(1-H)(A) defines an untrained, clinician-determined 'assistance animal' for housing; the statute's term is assistance animal, not the words 'emotional support animal'.",
        "cite": "5 M.R.S. § 4553(1-H)(A); 5 M.R.S. § 4582-A(3)",
        "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/5/title5sec4553.html"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "The determination must come from a listed clinician or other licensed health professional with knowledge of the disability-related need; no training or minimum relationship period.",
        "cite": "5 M.R.S. § 4553(1-H)(A)",
        "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/5/title5sec4553.html"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "Use of an assistance animal may not be conditioned on a fee or security deposit, though the tenant stays liable for damage the animal does.",
        "cite": "5 M.R.S. § 4582-A(3)",
        "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/5/title5sec4582-A.html"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Knowingly misrepresenting an assistance animal, or creating or providing false documents for one, is a civil violation with a fine of up to $1,000 per occurrence.",
        "cite": "17 M.R.S. § 1314-A",
        "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/17/title17sec1314-A.html"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "300 days",
        "detail": "A complaint must be filed with the Maine Human Rights Commission not more than 300 days after the alleged act; there is no fee to file.",
        "cite": "5 M.R.S. § 4611",
        "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/5/title5sec4611.html"
      },
      "stateName": "Maine"
    },
    {
      "state": "maryland",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "excludes",
        "detail": "Title 20 says 'emotional support' once, to exclude a dog that provides only emotional support from 'service dog'; ESAs are protected only through the general accommodation duty in § 20-706(b)(4).",
        "cite": "Md. Code, State Gov't § 20-706(a)(3)(ii)2",
        "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gsg&section=20-706&enactments=false"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Maryland statute sets what ESA documentation must contain or who may write it; the accommodation duty asks only whether a disability exists and the animal is needed.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "The bar on additional rent or fees covers a trained service dog only, and the definition excludes a dog that provides only emotional support; Human Servs. § 7-704(c) is likewise trained-only.",
        "cite": "Md. Code, State Gov't § 20-706(d); Md. Code, Human Servs. §§ 7-701(g), 7-704(c)",
        "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gsg&section=20-706&enactments=false"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "Our research found no Maryland offence of misrepresenting a service or assistance animal; Human Servs. §§ 7-701 to 7-707 never use 'misrepresent', and § 7-707 penalises denial of access.",
        "cite": "Md. Code, Human Servs. §§ 7-701 to 7-707",
        "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ghu&section=7-707&enactments=false"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "A housing complaint must reach the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights within 1 year after the practice occurred or terminated.",
        "cite": "Md. Code, State Gov't § 20-1021(a)(2)",
        "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gsg&section=20-1021&enactments=false"
      },
      "stateName": "Maryland"
    },
    {
      "state": "massachusetts",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "The words 'emotional support animal' appear nowhere in the General Laws; ESAs are protected through the general accommodation duty, applied to untrained animals by MCAD in 2024.",
        "cite": "M.G.L. c. 151B § 4(7A)(2)",
        "url": "https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXXI/Chapter151B/Section4"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Massachusetts statute or regulation sets ESA documentation rules; the letter guidance comes from the Massachusetts Office on Disability, not from law.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "Move-in charges are limited to first and last month's rent, a one-month deposit and a lock and key, so no tenant can be charged a pet deposit or up-front pet fee; monthly pet rent is not covered.",
        "cite": "M.G.L. c. 186 § 15B(1)(b)",
        "url": "https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartII/TitleI/Chapter186/Section15B"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "Our research found no Massachusetts criminal or civil penalty for faking assistance-animal documentation.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "300 days",
        "detail": "A complaint must be filed with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) within 300 days, counted from when you knew or should have known of it.",
        "cite": "M.G.L. c. 151B § 5; 804 CMR 1.04(3)",
        "url": "https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXXI/Chapter151B/Section5"
      },
      "stateName": "Massachusetts"
    },
    {
      "state": "michigan",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "No Michigan statute mentions emotional support animals; ESAs are protected through the general accommodation duty in the Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act.",
        "cite": "MCL 37.1506a(1)(b)",
        "url": "https://law.justia.com/codes/michigan/chapter-37/statute-act-220-of-1976/article-5/section-37-1506a/"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No statute sets ESA letter content or authorship; Riverbrook v Fabode lets courts test a letter under the rules of evidence but requires no expert witness.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No Michigan statute addresses pet fees for assistance animals; a refundable pet deposit counts inside the 1.5-months'-rent deposit cap for every tenant, and pet rent is uncapped.",
        "cite": "MCL 554.602; MCL 554.601(d)",
        "url": "https://law.justia.com/codes/michigan/chapter-554/statute-act-348-of-1972/section-554-602/"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Falsely claiming a service animal in a public place carries up to 90 days, a $500 fine or 30 days of community service; it does not reach ESA requests to a landlord.",
        "cite": "MCL 752.61–752.64",
        "url": "https://law.justia.com/codes/michigan/chapter-752/statute-act-82-of-1981/section-752-62/"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "The Michigan Department of Civil Rights publishes a 180-day filing window; the statute text read sets no deadline, and older claims may go to state court within three years.",
        "cite": "Michigan Department of Civil Rights, published jurisdiction rule (MCL 37.1605 procedure)",
        "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mdcr/enforcement/investigation/jurisdiction"
      },
      "stateName": "Michigan"
    },
    {
      "state": "minnesota",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "Defines a 'support animal' that provides emotional support and need not be trained, and gives the tenant accommodation rights in the landlord-tenant chapter.",
        "cite": "Minn. Stat. § 504B.113, subd. 1(c)",
        "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/504B.113"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Closed list of licensed professionals (out-of-state only with an existing treatment relationship), excludes certificate sellers, and bars demands for medical records.",
        "cite": "Minn. Stat. § 504B.113, subd. 1(e) and subd. 2",
        "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/504B.113"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "A landlord must not charge an additional fee, charge or deposit for a service or support animal; the tenant stays liable for actual damage.",
        "cite": "Minn. Stat. § 504B.113, subd. 3(a)",
        "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/504B.113"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Civil only: knowingly misrepresenting a disability or giving fraudulent documentation lets the landlord deny the application or request. No fine or criminal charge in housing.",
        "cite": "Minn. Stat. § 504B.113, subd. 4-5",
        "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/504B.113"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Charge with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (or a local commission, or a civil action in district court) within one year of the practice.",
        "cite": "Minn. Stat. § 363A.28, subd. 3",
        "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/363A.28"
      },
      "stateName": "Minnesota"
    },
    {
      "state": "montana",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "excludes",
        "detail": "The service animal definition ends 'The term does not include an emotional support animal.' The ESA housing right rests on the general accommodation duty in MCA 49-2-305(5)(a)(ii).",
        "cite": "MCA 49-4-203(2)",
        "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0490/chapter_0040/part_0020/section_0030/0490-0040-0020-0030.html"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Montana statute says what an ESA letter must contain or who may write it; there is no statutory clinician list.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "The bar on 'extra compensation' in housing covers a service animal only, and MCA 49-4-203(2) excludes the ESA, so no Montana statute bars a pet fee for an ESA.",
        "cite": "MCA 49-4-214(2)",
        "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0490/chapter_0040/part_0020/section_0140/0490-0040-0020-0140.html"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "No section of MCA 49-4 part 2 penalises misrepresenting an animal, but our research did not search Title 45 (crimes), so absence is not established.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "Verified complaint to the Department of Labor and Industry's Human Rights Bureau within 180 days after the practice occurred or was discovered.",
        "cite": "MCA 49-2-501(4)(a)",
        "url": "https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0490/chapter_0020/part_0050/section_0010/0490-0020-0050-0010.html"
      },
      "stateName": "Montana"
    },
    {
      "state": "new-jersey",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "No New Jersey statute uses the term. The ESA right comes from the DCR regulation N.J.A.C. 13:13-3.4(f)(2), as applied by the Supreme Court in Players Place II (2024).",
        "cite": "N.J.A.C. 13:13-3.4(f)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Final-Title-13-12.30.pdf"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No statute sets letter content or authors. DCR guidance (not a rule) says internet documentation not from a treating healthcare professional is generally not reliable.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "N.J.A.C. 13:13-3.4(e) bars extra compensation or an additional deposit because of disability, which reaches an ESA. The statute, N.J.S.A. 10:5-29.2, covers service and guide dogs only.",
        "cite": "N.J.A.C. 13:13-3.4(e)",
        "url": "https://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Final-Title-13-12.30.pdf"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "A $100 to $500 fine for fitting a dog with a guide-dog harness to pass it off as a trained guide dog. No general offence of misrepresenting an ESA.",
        "cite": "N.J.S.A. 10:5-29.5",
        "url": "https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1?f=templates&fn=default.htm&vid=Publish:10.1048/Enu"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "Complaint to the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights within 180 days of the act; or sue in Superior Court with no complaint first.",
        "cite": "N.J.S.A. 10:5-18",
        "url": "https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1?f=templates&fn=default.htm&vid=Publish:10.1048/Enu"
      },
      "stateName": "New Jersey"
    },
    {
      "state": "new-mexico",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "excludes",
        "detail": "The Service Animal Act says a qualified service animal does not include an emotional support animal. The exclusion is limited to that Act; the housing accommodation right is federal.",
        "cite": "NMSA 1978, § 28-11-2(B)",
        "url": "https://nmonesource.com/nmos/nmsa/en/4365/1/document.do"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No statute sets ESA letter content or authors. A Bureau rule says disability evidence in a complaint investigation may be a physician's or other medical authority's written certification.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No housing statute addresses pet fees. The two 'no additional charges' bars cover public accommodations (qualified service animals) and guide dogs, not dwellings.",
        "cite": "NMSA 1978, § 28-11-3(A)(1)",
        "url": "https://nmonesource.com/nmos/nmsa/en/4365/1/document.do"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Misdemeanor to knowingly present an animal as a qualified service animal when it is not one. It says nothing about ESA housing paperwork.",
        "cite": "NMSA 1978, § 28-11-6",
        "url": "https://nmonesource.com/nmos/nmsa/en/4365/1/document.do"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "300 days",
        "detail": "Complaint to the Human Rights Bureau (Workforce Solutions Department) within 300 days of the last alleged act; the date counts from receipt of a perfected complaint.",
        "cite": "NMSA 1978, § 28-1-10(A)",
        "url": "https://nmonesource.com/nmos/nmsa/en/4365/1/document.do"
      },
      "stateName": "New Mexico"
    },
    {
      "state": "new-york",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "No New York statute uses the term; Exec. Law § 296 instead names 'the use of an animal' as a reasonable accommodation. Bill S9086, which would define ESAs, has not passed.",
        "cite": "N.Y. Exec. Law § 296(18)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EXC/296"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No statute sets letter contents or authors; state HCR guidance says documentation need not come from a physician and a therapist's letter may suffice.",
        "cite": "NYS Homes and Community Renewal, assistance animal FAQ",
        "url": "https://hcr.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/03/doc-p-2017.12.12-assistance-animal-faq_7.9.2019.pdf"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No statute addresses animal fees; state HCR guidance bars a pet deposit, fee or insurance requirement for an assistance animal. GOL § 7-108 caps all deposits at one month's rent.",
        "cite": "NYS Homes and Community Renewal, assistance animal FAQ",
        "url": "https://hcr.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/03/doc-p-2017.12.12-assistance-animal-faq_7.9.2019.pdf"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "Repo research found no New York misrepresentation offence but flags that absence as unconfirmed; bill S9086 would create penalties and is not law.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "3 years",
        "detail": "File with the NYS Division of Human Rights within three years for conduct on or after Feb 15, 2024. The NYC Commission on Human Rights allows one year.",
        "cite": "N.Y. Exec. Law § 297(5)",
        "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/EXC/297"
      },
      "stateName": "New York"
    },
    {
      "state": "north-carolina",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "The phrase appears nowhere in the General Statutes; an ESA is protected through the State Fair Housing Act's duty to make reasonable accommodations in rules and policies.",
        "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. § 41A-4(f)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_41A/GS_41A-4.html"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No North Carolina statute governs who may write ESA documentation or what it must contain.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "§ 168-4.4 bars extra compensation only for trained service animals, and § 42-53 expressly allows pet fees; an approved ESA escapes them through the § 41A-4(f)(2) accommodation.",
        "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. § 168-4.4",
        "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_168/GS_168-4.4.html"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Disguising an animal as a service animal or service animal in training is a Class 3 misdemeanor; no offence addresses ESAs.",
        "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. § 168-4.5",
        "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_168/GS_168-4.5.html"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "File with the NC Human Relations Commission (OAH Civil Rights Division); local agencies in five localities take the case under § 41A-7(c).",
        "cite": "N.C. Gen. Stat. § 41A-7(b)",
        "url": "https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_41A/GS_41A-7.html"
      },
      "stateName": "North Carolina"
    },
    {
      "state": "north-dakota",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "The term appears in none of chs. 25-13, 14-02.4, 14-02.5 or 47-16; the housing statutes use 'assistance animal' and 'companion animal' and define neither.",
        "cite": "NDCC 47-16-07.5",
        "url": "https://ndlegis.gov/cencode/t47c16.pdf"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Documentation may come from a physician or medical professional not operating in ND solely to certify animals, and must confirm the disability and its link to the need.",
        "cite": "NDCC 47-16-07.5",
        "url": "https://ndlegis.gov/cencode/t47c16.pdf"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "A pet security deposit is allowed only for an animal that is not a service or companion animal required by a tenant with a disability as a reasonable accommodation.",
        "cite": "NDCC 47-16-07.1(2)",
        "url": "https://ndlegis.gov/cencode/t47c16.pdf"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Knowingly false disability claims or fraudulent documentation for an assistance animal are an infraction; on plea or conviction, eviction and a damage fee up to $1,000.",
        "cite": "NDCC 47-16-07.6",
        "url": "https://ndlegis.gov/cencode/t47c16.pdf"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "File with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights within one year of the practice occurring or terminating, whichever is later.",
        "cite": "NDCC 14-02.5-18(1)",
        "url": "https://ndlegis.gov/cencode/t14c02-5.pdf"
      },
      "stateName": "North Dakota"
    },
    {
      "state": "ohio",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "Repo research does not state whether the term appears in any Ohio statute; Ohio housing law uses 'animal assistant' (OAC 4112-5-02(C)), undecided as applied to ESAs.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "Repo research cites no Ohio rule on ESA letter content or authors but does not say it searched for one; R.C. 4112.02(H)(17) limits screening questions only.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "No statute; OAC 4112-5-07(C) bars any extra charge for an 'animal assistant', but no Ohio ruling confirms an ESA is one. R.C. 955.43's no-fee rule is public places only.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "Repo research does not address whether Ohio penalises misrepresenting an assistance animal or its documentation.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "File a written, sworn charge with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission within one year; a civil action in common pleas court also has one year.",
        "cite": "R.C. 4112.05(B)(1)",
        "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4112.05"
      },
      "stateName": "Ohio"
    },
    {
      "state": "oklahoma",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "The landlord-tenant code defines an assistance animal to include an emotional support animal supporting a person with a disability-related need, and allows an accommodation to keep one.",
        "cite": "41 O.S. § 113.2(A)",
        "url": "https://oksenate.gov/sites/default/files/2019-12/os41.pdf"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Where the need is not readily apparent, documentation must verify the FHA disability, describe the accommodation and link the two; purchased documentation is presumed fraudulent.",
        "cite": "41 O.S. § 113.2(B)",
        "url": "https://oksenate.gov/sites/default/files/2019-12/os41.pdf"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "Oklahoma's deposit statute sets no cap and has no pet-deposit rule, and no Oklahoma statute bars a pet fee for an assistance animal in housing.",
        "cite": "41 O.S. § 115",
        "url": "https://oksenate.gov/sites/default/files/2019-12/os41.pdf"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Knowingly making a false disability claim or supplying fraudulent documentation allows eviction plus court costs, fees and damages of up to $1,000.",
        "cite": "41 O.S. § 113.2(D)",
        "url": "https://oksenate.gov/sites/default/files/2019-12/os41.pdf"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Written, sworn complaint to the Attorney General's Office of Civil Rights Enforcement within one year of the practice occurring or terminating, whichever is later.",
        "cite": "25 O.S. § 1502.2(C)",
        "url": "https://oksenate.gov/sites/default/files/2019-12/os25.pdf"
      },
      "stateName": "Oklahoma"
    },
    {
      "state": "oregon",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "ORS 90.300(4) bars a pet security deposit for a 'companion animal' a disabled tenant requires as an accommodation; the statute's term is companion animal, not 'emotional support animal'.",
        "cite": "ORS 90.300(4); ORS 659A.145(2)(g)",
        "url": "https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_90.300"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "ORS 659A.145 names no clinician, form or relationship period; it asks only whether the accommodation may be necessary because of a disability.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "covers-esa",
        "detail": "A landlord may not charge a pet security deposit for a service or companion animal a disabled tenant requires; a capped $50 waste-cleanup fee after written warning survives.",
        "cite": "ORS 90.300(4); ORS 90.302(3)(b)(C)",
        "url": "https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_90.300"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "No misrepresentation offence was found in ORS chapters 659A or 90, but our research did not search Oregon's criminal code, so absence is not established.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Verified, signed written complaint to the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor and Industries no later than one year after the unlawful practice.",
        "cite": "ORS 659A.820(2)",
        "url": "https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_659A.820"
      },
      "stateName": "Oregon"
    },
    {
      "state": "pennsylvania",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "Act 118 defines an assistance animal to include an emotional support animal that qualifies as a reasonable accommodation; the housing duty itself is in PHRA § 5(h)(3.2).",
        "cite": "Act 118 of 2018 § 2; Pa. Human Relations Act § 5(h)(3.2)",
        "url": "https://legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/US/HTM/2018/0/0118..HTM"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Documentation may be required only if the need is not readily apparent or known, and must be written, reliable, based on direct knowledge and describe the need.",
        "cite": "Act 118 of 2018 § 3(a)-(b)",
        "url": "https://legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/US/HTM/2018/0/0118..HTM"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "We cite no Pennsylvania statute on pet fees for assistance animals; its pages say pet charges do not attach to an approved ESA but give no statutory cite.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Intentionally misrepresenting entitlement to an assistance animal is a third-degree misdemeanor; falsifying documents or fitting a vest is a summary offense, fine up to $1,000.",
        "cite": "Act 118 of 2018 §§ 5-6",
        "url": "https://legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/US/HTM/2018/0/0118..HTM"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "Complaint to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission within 180 days after the alleged act; Philadelphia's own commission allows 300 days.",
        "cite": "Pa. Human Relations Act § 9(h)",
        "url": "https://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/US/HTM/1955/0/0222..HTM"
      },
      "stateName": "Pennsylvania"
    },
    {
      "state": "south-carolina",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "§ 31-21-70(N) deems documentation sufficient for a non-service animal providing 'emotional support' in housing; § 47-3-920(6) defines 'emotional support animal'.",
        "cite": "S.C. Code Ann. § 31-21-70(N); § 47-3-920(6)",
        "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t31c021.php"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Documentation 'shall be deemed sufficient' if it establishes a disability and that the animal will provide disability-related assistance or emotional support.",
        "cite": "S.C. Code Ann. § 31-21-70(N)(2)",
        "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t31c021.php"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No South Carolina statute caps or bars pet fees, pet rent or pet deposits; the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act never uses the word 'animal'.",
        "cite": "S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-410",
        "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t27c040.php"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Misrepresenting an animal as a service animal draws fines of $250, $500 and $1,000 for successive offences and is expressly not a criminal offense.",
        "cite": "S.C. Code Ann. § 47-3-980",
        "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t47c003.php"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "Written, verified complaint to the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission within 180 days; a civil action may be filed within one year regardless.",
        "cite": "S.C. Code Ann. § 31-21-120(B)",
        "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t31c021.php"
      },
      "stateName": "South Carolina"
    },
    {
      "state": "south-dakota",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "mentions",
        "detail": "SDCL 43-32-33 names the emotional support animal, but only for the rental documentation sections 43-32-34 to 43-32-36; the housing right itself comes from elsewhere.",
        "cite": "SDCL 43-32-33",
        "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/43-32-33"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Documentation must confirm the disability and its relationship to the need for the animal, from a licensed provider not operating in the state solely to certify animals.",
        "cite": "SDCL 43-32-35",
        "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/43-32-35"
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "No statute bars a pet fee for an assistance animal; a fee is argued off under the general bar on disability discrimination in rental terms, SDCL 20-13-20(2).",
        "cite": "SDCL 20-13-20(2)",
        "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/20-13-20"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "A knowingly false claim of disability or knowingly fraudulent documentation lets the landlord evict and claim a damage fee of up to $1,000.",
        "cite": "SDCL 43-32-36",
        "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/43-32-36"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "180 days",
        "detail": "Charges go to the Division of Human Rights, Department of Labor and Regulation, within 180 days after the practice occurred, with no discovery rule.",
        "cite": "SDCL 20-13-31",
        "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/20-13-31"
      },
      "stateName": "South Dakota"
    },
    {
      "state": "texas",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "absent",
        "detail": "Texas has no ESA statute; HB 5206 (2023) died in committee, and Chapter 121 defines assistance and service animals as specially trained canines.",
        "cite": "Tex. Hum. Res. Code § 121.002",
        "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HR/htm/HR.121.htm"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Texas statute sets letter contents, provider type or a relationship period; landlords may ask only for reliable documentation under fair-housing law.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "trained-only",
        "detail": "Section 121.003(h) bars extra compensation or a deposit for a service animal only; the ESA no-fee rule comes from fair-housing law, not state statute.",
        "cite": "Tex. Hum. Res. Code § 121.003(h)",
        "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HR/htm/HR.121.htm"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Knowingly representing an untrained animal as an assistance or service animal is an offense: a fine of up to $1,000 plus 30 hours of community service.",
        "cite": "Tex. Hum. Res. Code § 121.006",
        "url": "https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/88R/billtext/html/HB04164F.htm"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "A written, sworn complaint goes to the Texas Workforce Commission on or before the first anniversary of the date the practice occurred or ended.",
        "cite": "Tex. Prop. Code §§ 301.0015, 301.081",
        "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.301.htm"
      },
      "stateName": "Texas"
    },
    {
      "state": "washington",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "excludes",
        "detail": "RCW 49.60.040(25) says emotional support is not 'work or tasks' for a service animal, then states the subsection does not apply to housing (RCW 49.60.222 through 49.60.227).",
        "cite": "RCW 49.60.040(25)",
        "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=49.60.040"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No statute sets letter contents or provider rules; WAC 162-38-110 only bars inquiry into personal matters beyond what the tenancy requires.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "unverified",
        "detail": "The bar is a regulation, WAC 162-38-100(5), not a statute, and its text says 'dog guide or service animal'; we do not establish that it reaches an ESA.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "service-only",
        "detail": "Misrepresenting an animal as a service animal to gain public-access rights is a civil infraction with a $500 maximum and default penalty; it does not apply to housing.",
        "cite": "RCW 49.60.214; RCW 7.80.120(1)(a)(iii)",
        "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=49.60.214"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "1 year",
        "detail": "Housing complaints go to the Washington State Human Rights Commission within one year of the practice occurring or terminating (six months for other complaints).",
        "cite": "RCW 49.60.230(2)(a)",
        "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=49.60.230"
      },
      "stateName": "Washington"
    },
    {
      "state": "wyoming",
      "esaInStateLaw": {
        "value": "protects",
        "detail": "W.S. 35-13-205(a)(iv) defines an assistance animal to include one giving emotional support for identified symptoms of a disability; W.S. 35-13-201(c) says it shall be permitted in rentals.",
        "cite": "W.S. 35-13-205(a)(iv); W.S. 35-13-201(c)",
        "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title35.pdf"
      },
      "documentationRule": {
        "value": "no",
        "detail": "No Wyoming statute says what a letter must contain or who may sign it; the definition only requires identified symptoms or effects of a disability.",
        "cite": "",
        "url": ""
      },
      "petFeeRule": {
        "value": "none",
        "detail": "The rental act never mentions pets or animals and caps no deposit; an assistance-animal fee comes off only under the general fair-housing bar in W.S. 40-26-107(b) and (c)(ii).",
        "cite": "W.S. 40-26-107(b), (c)(ii)",
        "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title40.pdf"
      },
      "misrepresentation": {
        "value": "yes",
        "detail": "Knowingly and intentionally misrepresenting an animal as a service or assistance animal (which includes an ESA) to obtain rights is a misdemeanor, fine up to $750.",
        "cite": "W.S. 35-13-203(b)",
        "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title35.pdf"
      },
      "stateComplaint": {
        "value": "no state agency",
        "detail": "The one-year filing in W.S. 40-26-118 runs to an enforcing authority HUD has never accepted; complaints go to HUD Denver, or to district court within 2 years (W.S. 40-26-139).",
        "cite": "W.S. 40-26-102(a)(viii); W.S. 40-26-118; W.S. 40-26-139",
        "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title40.pdf"
      },
      "stateName": "Wyoming"
    }
  ]
}