Emotional support animals in New York

New York follows the federal Fair Housing Act for emotional support animals. Housing documentation means a letter from a licensed professional who knows you; a registration card is not documentation in New York, or anywhere.

What the law says here

Emotional support animals are protected in housing under the federal Fair Housing Act. They are not service animals and do not have public-access rights, and U.S. airlines are no longer required to accept them in the cabin.

Where a registration card fits

Our card and certificate are convenience items for everyday situations: a doorman, a walker, a neighbor. They carry a registration number anyone can check on our verification page. They do not establish a disability or a need for an accommodation, and a New York housing provider is not required to accept them in place of a letter. If you need housing protection, get a letter from a licensed professional.

What a New York housing provider may ask

If your disability isn't obvious, they may ask for reliable documentation from a licensed professional that you have a disability and a disability-related need for the animal. They may not ask for your diagnosis or medical records, and may not charge pet rent or a pet deposit for an approved assistance animal.

Sources

42 U.S.C. § 3604(f)(3)(B); HUD FHEO Notice FHEO-2020-01

General information, not legal advice. Laws change; we update this page when they do.