Source data
Federal ADA Title III service animal rules by business situation
Sources checked
- 01Assess public access
Allow the service dog in the areas where customers normally go. Source 2
- 02Ask only the permitted questions
When the task is unclear, ask about disability-related need and the trained task. Source 1
- 03Apply the conduct rules if needed
A business can require removal for a dog that is not housebroken or remains out of control. Source 2
The ADA requires public access for qualified service animals in ordinary circumstances. Specific behavior or safety conditions can affect access.
Federal ADA Title III service animal rules by business situation
The examples cover businesses open to the public under federal ADA Title III. Air travel, employment and housing have separate legal frameworks. State or local protections can also apply.
| Source | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant or shop with a no-pets policy | Generally admit a qualified service dog in customer areas | The business’s ordinary pet policy does not decide this access right | Source 1 |
| Business cannot tell whether a dog is a service animal | Ask the two permitted questions | Questions cover disability-related need and the task it has been trained to perform | Source 1 |
| Business asks for certification or a task demonstration | Prohibited as an ADA entry requirement | The business cannot demand registration, medical details or a demonstration | Source 1 |
| Dog is out of control and the handler fails to take effective action | The business can require removal | Offer the person the opportunity to obtain goods or services without the dog | Source 2 |
| Dog is not housebroken | The business can require removal | The duty to offer the person goods or services still applies | Source 2 |
| Hotel cleaning or actual damage | Ordinary hair or dander cleaning fees are prohibited | The hotel can charge for actual damage if its usual guest damage policy applies | Source 3 |
| Individually trained miniature horse | Make reasonable modifications where appropriate | Assess type, size, weight, control, housebreaking and legitimate safety requirements | Source 2 |