It is generally considered a discriminatory housing practice to deny an individual a reasonable
accommodation to allow them an equal opportunity to enjoy their property.
If the resident or owner provides the information needed to evaluate the service or emotional support
animal request, the board must act in a timely manner.
Boards can ask certain questions regarding the need for a service animal. Board members can ask if
residents have a disability; however, they can't ask what the disability is. All information gathered should
be treated confidentially.
There is misinformation in the market about service animals and what questions boards can ask. When
in doubt, ask legal counsel to assist with the evaluation and help your board develop policies and
processes to handle such matters fairly.
How Should Boards Handle Requests for
Service or Emotional Support Animals?
