Requirements for Oregon Service Dogs

A service dog can greatly help an individual with a disability. The dog can relieve stress and anxiety, or help a person navigate. Service animals are regulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and owners must follow all rules and regulations regarding the animal. Oregon's Department of Human Services follows and enforces the ADA.

  1. Definition of a Service Animal

    • According to the ADA, a service animal is defined as "any guide dog, signal dog or other animal trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability." Service animals do not need to be licensed or certified if the animal performs some functions that an individual with a disability cannot do by himself. The ADA states that a service animal is not considered a pet. Service animals may sometimes be identified by special collars or other harnesses.

    Service Animals in Businesses

    • Businesses are required to treat individuals with service animals the same as other customers. These individuals are permitted to go to all areas that other customers visit. The owner may have licensing or certification proving the animal is a service animal, but owners are not required to carry documentation and may not be asked for it. Businesses with "no pet" policies must allow service animals, as service animals are not considered pets. According to the ADA, its regulations take priority over any local or state laws regarding animals in businesses. No additional fees or charges may be asked of the customer with a disability unless the same charges would apply to someone without a disability. The guest with disabilities is solely responsible for the service animal, and additional accommodations, such as food or a location for the animal, are not required of the business. Animals that are threatening or disruptive may, of course, be removed from the premises.

    The Federal Fair Housing Act

    • According to the Federal Fair Housing Act, individuals with service animals may not be discriminated against. Rental or housing providers must allow service animals regardless of a "no pets" policy. No charges, such as pet fees, may be charged to the renter. Oregon law OR ST 346.630 further states that a landlord is not allowed to refuse rent to a person who is blind based on a service animal. Under the law, a person who is blind may recover "compensatory damages or $200, whichever is greater, from any landlord" who refuses to rent based on a service animal. The owner of the service animal is still liable for any damages caused by the animal.