Service dog and in-training laws, state by state

A trainer has the same public-access rights, and the same liability for damage, while training a service animal. "Trainer" includes an owner with a disability, anyone with at least a year's experience training animals, or a program employee, volunteer or graduate with photo ID. The dog must wear a harness, collar, leash, cape or backpack marked in writing as a service animal in training, readable from 20 feet.

Ala. Code §21-7-4(c); §21-7-1(b)(1), (8)

A business may ask only whether the animal is required because of a disability and what tasks it's trained to do, may not require proof of training, and may not charge a deposit or surcharge. Chapter 21-7 sets no criminal penalty for refusing access. A separate law makes refusing a blind person's guide dog a misdemeanor with a fine up to $50, where the person shows school credentials or the dog is being trained by an accredited school's employee.

Ala. Code §21-7-4(d); §3-1-7

Knowingly misrepresenting yourself as using a service animal, or as a trainer of one, is a Class C misdemeanor (up to 3 months, up to $500) plus 100 hours of community service. A second offense is a Class B misdemeanor with a $100 fine. Separate housing rules penalize fake service or assistance animal documents and gear, $500 or a Class C misdemeanor the first time.

Ala. Code §21-7-4(h), (i); §24-8A-4; §24-8A-5; §13A-5-7; §13A-5-12

No state registry. Documentation that the animal is trained is not a condition of service. A dog in training must wear gear that identifies it in writing as a service animal in training.

Ala. Code §21-7-4(d), (c)(2)

A service animal is an animal trained to do work or perform tasks directly related to a person's disability, following the federal ADA definition. For public places it's limited to a dog or miniature horse, and emotional support, comfort and crime deterrence don't count as tasks.

Ala. Code §21-7-1(b)(7)

Harassing a service dog after being warned is a Class C misdemeanor; injuring one is a Class B or Class A misdemeanor; killing or disabling one is a Class A misdemeanor. Full restitution is required, including retraining and lost wages, and the handler may also sue. Allergies and fear of animals aren't valid reasons to refuse access.

Ala. Code §13A-11-232 to -235; §21-7-4(g)(3)

Any trainer or person with a disability may take a dog that's being trained as a service animal into public places for training, the same as a working service dog. No professional or program requirement. The dog must be on a harness, leash or tether unless the disability or task prevents it, and the handler is liable for any damage.

A.R.S. §11-1024(E), (F), (G)

Refusing entry, charging a fee or deposit, demanding disability information or requiring ID for the animal is a class 2 misdemeanor, with a fine up to $750. Civil remedies are separate.

A.R.S. §11-1024(J), (L); §13-802(B)

Fraudulently passing off an animal as a service animal, or a service animal in training, to a public place carries a civil penalty of up to $250 per violation.

A.R.S. §11-1024(K)

No state registry, and a business may not require ID for a service animal. Counties may not charge a dog license fee for a service animal or to a person training one; the owner signs a statement instead.

A.R.S. §11-1024(M)(2)(e); §11-1008(F)

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse individually trained, or in training, to do work or perform tasks for a person with a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. Emotional support, comfort and crime deterrence don't count as tasks.

A.R.S. §11-1024(M)(5)

Interfering with or harming a service animal, or letting your dog injure one, ranges from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 5 felony, with restitution for vet, training and replacement costs. That section uses a narrower definition (a dog that has completed a formal training program).

A.R.S. §13-2910

A dog trainer in the act of training guide, signal or service dogs may not be refused access because of the dog to streets, transportation, lodging, public buildings, schools, restaurants and other places open to the public. The trainer pays no extra charge but is liable for damage the dog does. The law doesn't require a certification or program.

Ark. Code §20-14-308 (Act 1107 of 2003)

A person with a disability and their guide, signal or service dog, or a trainer with a dog in training, may not be denied admittance or charged extra because of the dog.

Ark. Code §20-14-308 (Act 1107 of 2003)

Misrepresenting an animal as a service animal or service animal in training to a public accommodation carries a civil penalty of up to $250 per violation. Selling or presenting an emotional support dog as entitled to service-animal rights carries civil penalties of $500, $1,000 and $2,500 for repeat violations.

Ark. Code §20-14-310 (Act 1002 of 2019); §20-14-1004 (Act 268 of 2023)

The access law doesn't require an ID, tag or registration for the dog or the trainer.

Ark. Code §20-14-308 (Act 1107 of 2003)

A person with a disability has the right to be accompanied by a service animal trained to do work or perform tasks for them, including a service dog as defined under Titles II and III of the federal ADA, with no extra fee or charge.

Ark. Code §20-14-304(a) (Act 652 of 2017)

Sellers of emotional support dogs, vests and ID must give written notice that these don't carry service-animal rights.

Ark. Code §20-14-1002 (Act 268 of 2023)

Any trainer, or a person with a disability, may take a dog into public places for the purpose of training it. The dog must be on a leash and wear an ID tag issued by the county clerk or animal control. The trainer is liable for any damage the dog does.

Pen. Code §365.5(i); Civ. Code §54.1(c), §54.2(b)

Misdemeanor, fine up to $2,500. In a civil case, up to three times actual damages (at least $1,000) plus attorney's fees; under the Unruh Act, at least $4,000 (not both for the same act). Complaints go to the Civil Rights Department.

Pen. Code §365.5(c); Civ. Code §54.3, §51, §52

Knowingly and fraudulently claiming to own or train a service dog is a misdemeanor: up to 6 months in county jail, a fine up to $1,000, or both. Separately, passing off an emotional support animal as a service dog carries a civil penalty of $500, $1,000, then $2,500.

Pen. Code §365.7; Health & Safety Code §122319

County animal control issues an assistance-dog tag on a signed affidavit, for use only by a person with a disability or a trainer. A trained dog doesn't need it for access; a dog in training does (see above). The dog must meet local licensing.

Food & Agric. Code §30850–§30854

A service dog is any dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. Any disability counts; psychiatric tasks are neither named nor excluded.

Pen. Code §365.5(f); Civ. Code §54.1(b)(6)(C)(iii)

Your dog injuring or killing a service dog through lack of ordinary care is an infraction (up to $250); intentionally injuring or killing one is a misdemeanor (up to 1 year, up to $10,000). Restitution covers vet, replacement and training costs and lost wages.

Pen. Code §600.2, §600.5

A trainer of a service animal, or a person with a disability with a dog being trained as a service animal, may bring it into public places, transportation, housing and work, at no extra charge. No professional or program requirement. The owner, handler or trainer is liable for any damage.

C.R.S. §24-34-803(2), (4)

Denying or interfering with these rights is a petty offense: a fine up to $300, up to 10 days in jail, or both. The person refused (handler or trainer) can also sue; since 2025 they can recover either actual and noneconomic damages (capped at $50,000) or a $5,000 statutory fine per violation, plus attorney's fees.

C.R.S. §24-34-804; §24-34-602 (HB 25-1239)

Intentionally passing off an animal as a service animal, or one in training, is a class 2 petty offense, but only after the person was warned (in writing or out loud) that it's illegal. Fines: $25 first offense, $50–$200 second, $100–$500 after that.

C.R.S. §18-13-107.7

No state ID tag or registration. A person with a disability who owns a service animal doesn't pay state or local licensing fees for it, and the legislature found that no vest or documentation is required.

C.R.S. §24-34-803(5); HB 16-1426 §1

Service animal has the federal ADA meaning. A "trainer of a service animal" is a person who individually trains one.

C.R.S. §24-34-301

Interfering with, injuring or harming a service animal, or letting your dog do it, is a class 2 misdemeanor (up to 120 days, up to $750). Someone who willfully harms a service animal or one in training owes the owner three times the actual damages.

C.R.S. §24-34-804(1)(d), (2)(b), (3)

Any person training an animal as a service animal has the same full and equal access to places of public accommodation as a person with a disability, at no extra charge. The animal must be in that person's direct custody and control. No certification or program is required, and a business can still recover for damage the animal causes.

C.G.S. §46a-64(a)(5)

Refusing entry to a person with a disability and a service animal, or denying full access to a person training one, is a class D misdemeanor (up to 30 days, up to $250). Staff may ask only whether it's a service animal required because of a disability and what task it's trained to do. Discrimination complaints can be filed with the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

C.G.S. §46a-64(a), (c); §53a-36; §53a-42; §46a-82

Connecticut's service-animal statutes have no separate offense for misrepresenting an animal as a service animal.

C.G.S. §46a-64; §22-345

A person with a disability whose dog is a service animal or in training gets a dog license and tag from the town clerk at no fee, and so does a volunteer raising a dog placed by a nonprofit service-dog program. Public access under §46a-64 doesn't depend on the tag.

C.G.S. §22-345; §46a-64(a)

"Service animal" has the federal ADA meaning (28 CFR 35.104) and, under Connecticut law, includes a service animal in training.

C.G.S. §22-345; §46a-64(a)

Owners must leash their dogs near a person with a disability and a readily identifiable, licensed service animal; breaking that rule is an infraction, and an owner whose dog attacks and injures the service animal is liable for vet, rehabilitation or replacement costs and attorney's fees.

C.G.S. §22-364b

A place of public accommodation must admit an individual training a service animal to be used by people with disabilities, along with the animal. The law doesn't require a certification or program.

6 Del. C. §4504(a)(3)(b)

Refusing access is a discriminatory practice. A complaint goes to the Division of Human and Civil Rights within 180 days; a hearing panel can award damages (including for humiliation), attorney's fees and civil penalties up to $5,000 for a first violation, rising to $25,000 for repeat violators. Under the White Cane Law, denying or interfering with access for a person who is blind or has a physical disability is a misdemeanor with a $100 fine per violation.

6 Del. C. §4504(a)(3); §4508; §4512; 16 Del. C. §9504; §9506

Delaware's Equal Accommodations Law has no offense for misrepresenting an animal as a service animal.

6 Del. C. ch. 45

Delaware's access laws have no state ID tag or registration, and access doesn't depend on one.

6 Del. C. §4504(a)(3)

A service animal is a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.

6 Del. C. §4502(28)

Drivers must take all necessary precautions near a blind pedestrian using a guide dog or white cane and are liable for injuries if they don't.

16 Del. C. §9503

A service animal trainer, or the owner of a service animal in training, has the same public access and the same liability for damage as a person with a disability. The animal must be at least 6 months old, undergoing special training, with an experienced trainer or its owner, and wearing a harness, backpack or vest identifying it as a service animal in training.

D.C. Code §7-1002(c); §7-1009(6)

Denying or interfering with access is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine up to $300, or both, or a $250 civil fine. Businesses may ask only whether the animal is needed because of a disability, what it's trained to do, whether it meets the service-animal definition, and whether it's housebroken. Disability discrimination complaints can be filed with the D.C. Office of Human Rights within one year.

D.C. Code §7-1007; §7-1002(d); §2-1402.31; §2-1403.04

The District's service-animal chapter has no offense for misrepresenting an animal as a service animal.

D.C. Code ch. 7-10

No registry. A service animal in training must wear a harness, backpack or vest identifying it as in training; access for a working service animal doesn't depend on any ID.

D.C. Code §7-1009(6)(D); §7-1002

A service animal is an animal, including a guide dog, specially trained to assist a person with a physical or mental disability who relies on it for disability-related help. It includes an animal in training by an organization that provides service animals, and excludes animals kept only for crime deterrence or companionship.

D.C. Code §7-1009(5)

Housing providers must allow service animals without extra charge; they may ask for a health professional's verification of the disability but no description of it, and must allow 30 days to provide it.

D.C. Code §7-1006

Any trainer of a service animal, while training it, has the same public-access rights, and the same liability for damage, as a person with a disability using one. The law doesn't define "trainer" or require a certification or program. The dog must be on a harness, leash or tether unless the disability or task prevents it.

Fla. Stat. §413.08(8), (3)(a)

Denying or interfering with access, for a handler or a trainer, is a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine) plus 30 hours of community service. Documentation isn't a condition of entry, and staff may ask only the two questions.

Fla. Stat. §413.08(4), (3)(b); §775.082; §775.083

Knowingly misrepresenting yourself as using a service animal, or as a service-animal trainer, is a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days, up to $500) plus 30 hours of community service.

Fla. Stat. §413.08(9)

No state ID tag or registration. Documentation of training isn't a condition of entry.

Fla. Stat. §413.08(3)(b)

A service animal is trained to do work or perform tasks directly related to a person's physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. For public places it's limited to a dog or miniature horse. Emotional support and comfort don't count as tasks.

Fla. Stat. §413.08(1)(d)

Recklessly interfering with a service animal, or letting your dog do it, is a misdemeanor. Intentionally injuring or killing one is a third-degree felony (up to 5 years, $5,000). Full restitution is required. Allergies and fear of dogs aren't valid reasons to refuse access.

Fla. Stat. §413.081; §413.08(3)

A person with a disability training their own dog, a puppy raiser, and a trainer who is owner-training or works for a service-dog school all have the same access as a handler with a trained dog, and dogs in training have the same rights and protections as working service dogs. The trainer must tell an onsite manager a dog in training is coming in, is liable for any damage, and must keep the dog under control on a harness, leash or tether (unless the disability or task prevents it). The dog must be at least six months old, reliably housebroken, and wearing a collar, leash or other gear identifying it as a service dog in training; if these conditions aren't met, a business may ask that the dog be removed.

O.C.G.A. §30-4-2(b)(2), (b)(3), (c), (d); §30-4-1(3), (6)

Denying or interfering with access for a person with a disability, or a person training or raising a service dog, is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature: a fine up to $2,000, up to 30 days in confinement, or both.

O.C.G.A. §30-4-4(a)

Deliberately misrepresenting yourself as qualified to use a service dog, or to train or raise one, to get accommodations or rights is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature: a fine up to $2,000, up to 30 days, or both.

O.C.G.A. §30-4-4(b)

There's no state ID or registration program. A dog in training must wear a collar, leash or other gear that identifies it as being trained as a service dog.

O.C.G.A. §30-4-2(b)(3)

A service dog is a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks that directly assist a physically or mentally impaired person and relate to their specific disability, or, if still in training, a dog working under the guidance of a trainer. A dog that only provides comfort, companionship or emotional support doesn't count.

O.C.G.A. §30-4-1(5)

Intentionally frightening, harassing or obstructing a service dog is a misdemeanor (up to 12 months, $1,000). Harming one is a high and aggravated misdemeanor (6 to 12 months, up to $5,000), and killing or disabling one is a felony (2 to 10 years, up to $50,000). Restitution covers vet bills, retraining and replacement.

O.C.G.A. §16-11-107.1

A public place may not deny a person with a disability, or an assistance animal trainer, the right to be accompanied by an assistance animal trainee in areas open to the public. A trainer is anyone with care and control of the dog during a course of training; no program is required. The dog must be on a harness, leash or tether unless that would interfere with its work, may be removed if it isn't housebroken or is out of control, and the handler or trainer can be charged for damage.

10 GCA §34401(a)(5)-(6); §34404(i)-(k)

A public accommodation that refuses access, or charges a fee for access, to a person using a service dog or to a service animal trainer commits a misdemeanor. Guam adopts a fine schedule for ADA violations of $1,000 for a first offense, $2,000 for a second and $5,000 after that. Denying or interfering with a blind or other disabled person's access to public places is also a misdemeanor.

10 GCA §34406(a), (c); 19 GCA §2117

Fraudulently misrepresenting an animal as a service animal or a service animal in training is unlawful. Knowingly misrepresenting it out loud, or putting a false service-dog ID tag or license tag on a dog, is a misdemeanor with fines of $1,000, $2,000, then $5,000.

10 GCA §34406(b)

No certification is required, and a business may not demand proof that a dog is certified, trained or licensed as a service animal. Every dog, service dogs included, still needs a regular Guam pet license, though a blind or deaf person's guide or hearing dog is exempt from the license fee. Handlers are encouraged to use ID such as a vest.

10 GCA §34403; §34404(b)(3); §34104

Guam's law covers a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability, using the federal ADA's meaning of disability. A dog kept for comfort, protection or personal defense doesn't qualify as a service dog.

10 GCA §34401(a), (b), (c)

Willfully taunting, harassing or obstructing a service dog at work is a second-degree misdemeanor. Willfully causing serious harm to one, or killing an assistance animal, is first-degree animal abuse, with full restitution for vet bills, replacement, retraining and lost wages.

10 GCA §34406(d)-(g)

A person with a disability who is training or socializing their own dog to be a service dog has the right to bring it into public places as part of that training. A trainer without a disability has the same privilege only while carrying, and showing on request, an ID card from a recognized service-dog school or disability organization. Either way the dog must wear a jacket, collar, scarf or similar item marking it as a dog-in-training, and be properly leashed.

Idaho Code §56-704B; §56-701A(2); §18-5812B

Intentionally refusing a person with a disability because of their service dog is a misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine). The person can also sue, and a winning plaintiff gets punitive damages equal to their other damages, at least $500. A dog-in-training may be turned away for the moment if it's poorly groomed enough to be a health hazard or isn't under control.

Idaho Code §18-5812A; §18-113; §56-705; §18-5812B(2)

Using a service dog or assistance animal to try to get treatment or benefits as a person with a disability, when you aren't one or aren't training a dog to assist one, is a misdemeanor. It can also be the subject of a civil suit with punitive damages.

Idaho Code §18-5811A; §56-705

No state registry, and a business may not require proof that a service dog is certified, trained or licensed. A trainer without a disability must carry an ID card from a recognized school or organization to use the in-training privilege.

Idaho Code §56-704A(5); §56-704B(2)

A service dog is a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. Other species don't count, and crime deterrence and emotional support or comfort aren't tasks.

Idaho Code §56-701A(5)

Intentionally injuring or killing a service dog or dog-in-training is a misdemeanor (up to 1 year, $5,000), with full restitution for vet bills and replacement. Intentionally startling, obstructing or interfering with a service dog is also a misdemeanor. For a non-disabled trainer, the school or organization on the ID card is liable for any damage the dog-in-training does.

Idaho Code §18-5812; §18-5811; §56-704B(2); §18-5812B(3)

The access law's definition of service animal includes a dog "being trained," and it protects both a person with a disability and "a trainer of a service animal." The White Cane Law separately lets a person with a disability, or a trainer of support, guide, seizure-alert, seizure-response or hearing dogs, bring a dog that is being trained into public places with no extra charge, and that person is liable for any damage. Neither law requires a program, certificate or ID.

720 ILCS 5/48-8(a); 775 ILCS 30/3

Knowingly denying entry to a person with a service animal, or a trainer with one, is a Class C misdemeanor (up to 30 days in jail, fine up to $1,500). Denying or interfering with access under the White Cane Law is a Class A misdemeanor (less than 1 year, fine up to $2,500).

720 ILCS 5/48-8(b); 775 ILCS 30/4; 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-55, 5-4.5-65

Illinois has no offense for faking a service animal. The animal article of the Criminal Code has no misrepresentation section.

720 ILCS 5/Art. 48

Neither access law sets up a state ID tag or registration, and access doesn't depend on one.

720 ILCS 5/48-8; 775 ILCS 30/3

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse trained or being trained as a hearing, guide, assistance, seizure-alert, mobility, psychiatric or autism service animal, or for any other physical, mental or intellectual disability. A business must reasonably accommodate a miniature horse, weighing its size, control, housebreaking and safety.

720 ILCS 5/48-8(a)

Willfully taunting, striking or interfering with a service animal or a service animal in training is a Class A misdemeanor, and a Class 4 felony for a repeat offense. Willfully injuring one is a Class 4 felony, or Class 3 if the animal is killed or totally disabled.

510 ILCS 70/4.03; 510 ILCS 70/4.04

A service animal trainer, while training a service animal, has the same access to public accommodations as a person with a disability. The animal must be under the trainer's control at all times. The law doesn't define "trainer" or require a program.

IC 16-32-3-2(c)

Refusing access to, or charging a fee to, a person with a disability because of their service animal is a Class C infraction, with a judgment of up to $500. Staff may ask only the two questions and may not require proof that the animal is certified, trained or licensed.

IC 16-32-3-2(b); IC 16-32-3.5-9; IC 34-28-5-4(c)

Indiana's service animal and criminal codes don't include an offense for faking a service animal.

IC 16-32-3; IC 16-32-3.5; IC 35-46-3

No state ID tag or registration. A business may not require documentation that the animal is certified, trained or licensed as a service animal.

IC 16-32-3.5-9(b)

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability.

IC 16-32-3-1.5

Knowingly interfering with, or striking, tormenting or injuring, a service animal while it's assisting its handler is a Class A misdemeanor; it's a Level 6 felony if the animal is permanently disabled or killed. A business may remove a service animal that's out of control or not housebroken.

IC 35-46-3-11.5; IC 16-32-3.5-5

A person with a disability, a person helping them by controlling the animal, or a person training a service animal may bring a service animal or service-animal-in-training, under control, into public places with no extra charge. No program, certificate or ID is required. The person is liable for any damage the animal does.

Iowa Code §216C.11(1)

Knowingly denying or interfering with these rights is a simple misdemeanor: a fine of $105 to $855, and up to 30 days in jail.

Iowa Code §216C.11(2); §216C.7; §903.1(1)(a)

Intentionally misrepresenting an animal as your service animal or service-animal-in-training, to get rights or privileges under state or federal law, is a simple misdemeanor ($105 to $855, up to 30 days).

Iowa Code §216C.11(3); §903.1(1)(a)

Chapter 216C sets up no state ID tag or registration, and access doesn't depend on one.

Iowa Code ch. 216C

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse as set out in the federal ADA regulations. A service-animal-in-training is a dog or miniature horse undergoing development and training to do work or perform tasks directly related to a person's disability.

Iowa Code §216C.1A(2), (3)

A property owner isn't liable for injury or damage caused by a service animal or service-animal-in-training if they believed in good faith it was one and weren't negligent themselves.

Iowa Code §216C.12

A trainer of an assistance dog counts as a "person" with the same access rights. Trainers must carry identification showing they train assistance dogs. The law doesn't require a program or certification or say who issues the ID. The dog must be tagged, vaccinated, licensed, leashed (unless the disability prevents it) and under control.

KRS 258.500(1)(c)2., (7), (8)

Denying access or accommodations, charging extra, or interfering with an assistance dog or its user carries a fine of $500 to $1,000. No one can be charged if the handler hadn't met the trainer-ID and tag, leash, control and license conditions.

KRS 258.991(1); 258.500(2)-(6), (12)

Misrepresenting a dog as an assistance dog to get an accommodation, by words, writing, or a harness, vest, collar or sign, is a violation with a fine of up to $1,000.

KRS 258.335(2); 258.991(2)

No state registry, but access rights depend on the dog having its rabies tag and local license. Assistance dogs are exempt from licensing fees, and the licensing office must accept the dog as an assistance dog when the person is disabled or is its trainer.

KRS 258.500(8)(a), (e), (9), (10)

An assistance dog is a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with disabilities and considered a service animal under the ADA. Emotional support animals aren't assistance dogs and don't get public access.

KRS 258.500(1)(a), (b), (16)

Willfully or maliciously interfering with an assistance dog or its user is prohibited (fine $500 to $1,000). Emergency vet care can't be refused to an assistance dog because of ability to pay. The handler is liable for damage the dog causes.

KRS 258.500(11), (12), (15); 258.991(1)

During training, any trainer or puppy raiser has the same access rights as a person with a disability, with no extra charge, and is liable for any damage. No program or certification is required. Because the definition includes dogs "being trained", a person with a disability with a dog in training is also covered.

La. R.S. 46:1955; 46:1952(3)

Denying, interfering with, threatening or punishing a person with a disability, or a trainer or puppy raiser during training, is a misdemeanor: a $100 to $500 fine, up to six months in jail, or both. The person harmed can sue for actual damages, and the court may award costs and attorney fees.

La. R.S. 46:1956(A), (C), (D)

Misrepresenting an animal as a service dog or service dog-in-training to a public accommodation or housing provider is prohibited. Fines are up to $500 for a first offense, $1,000 for a second and $2,500 after that.

La. R.S. 46:1975; 46:1977

No state registry. A public entity may not require documentation that a service dog is certified, trained or licensed, and may ask only the two questions. Service dogs are exempt from state and local license fees.

La. R.S. 46:1953(E); 46:1958

A service dog is a dog that has been trained, or is being trained, to do work or perform a task for a person with a disability, such as guide, hearing, seizure alert, mobility, autism, medical-crisis and PTSD/TBI dogs.

La. R.S. 46:1952(3)

Purposely or negligently injuring a service dog, or letting your uncontrolled dog injure one, is a misdemeanor ($100 to $500, up to six months), plus liability for the dog's injuries and replacement. Sellers of support animals and letters must give a written notice that they aren't service dogs.

La. R.S. 46:1956(B); 46:1976

A service animal trainer, defined as anyone who trains or raises service animals, professional or volunteer, may take a dog in training anywhere a person with a disability can take a service animal, with no extra charge. The dog can be excluded if it creates a clear danger of disturbance or harm.

Md. Code, Hum. Servs. §7-701(h); §7-704; §7-705(c), (d)(2)

Denying or interfering with a service animal with a person with a disability (or a parent of a disabled minor) is a misdemeanor, fine up to $500 per offense. Denying a trainer with a dog in training carries a fine up to $25. A civil suit for an injunction is also available.

Md. Code, Hum. Servs. §7-705(e); §7-707

Maryland's service-animal law doesn't create an offense for misrepresenting or faking a service animal.

Md. Code, Hum. Servs. §§7-701 to 7-709

No state registry. The law mentions an orange license tag or orange collar, but not using one doesn't take away any rights.

Md. Code, Hum. Servs. §7-705(a)(2); §7-704(b)(2)

A service animal is a guide dog, signal dog or other animal individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability, such as guiding, alerting to sounds, pulling a wheelchair, fetching items or detecting seizures.

Md. Code, Hum. Servs. §7-701(g)

Willfully and maliciously killing or injuring a service animal is a misdemeanor (up to 2 years, $2,500); interfering with one is up to 1 year, $1,000. Restitution can include replacement, retraining, vet bills and the handler's lost wages.

Md. Code, Crim. Law §10-626

A person accompanied by, and engaged in raising or training, a service dog has the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a person with a disability under the ADA. No program, certification or professional status is required.

M.G.L. c.129 §39F

Depriving a person with a disability and a dog guide of access is punishable by a fine up to $300, plus damages to the person (at least $100). Disability discrimination at a public accommodation generally carries up to $2,500 and/or one year in jail, plus damages of at least $300.

M.G.L. c.272 §98A; c.272 §98

Massachusetts law doesn't make misrepresenting or faking a service animal a separate offense.

M.G.L. c.272 §98A; c.129 §39F

No state registry. Service animals still get a regular town dog license, but no license fee may be charged for one.

M.G.L. c.140 §139(c)

Massachusetts' access law doesn't define "service animal". It protects people with disabilities accompanied by a "dog guide" and points to the ADA's definition of service animal for licensing and trainer rights.

M.G.L. c.272 §98A; c.140 §139(c); c.129 §39F

A person who uses an assistance animal, or its owner, can sue someone who steals or attacks it for economic and non-economic damages, including vet bills and the replacement cost of an equally trained animal.

M.G.L. c.272 §85B

A public accommodation must admit an animal raiser or trainer with a service animal in training, for training or socialization. The law defines a raiser or trainer as a person who raises and socializes an animal intended to become a service animal, with no program requirement. The dog must be on a harness, leash or tether (or otherwise under control if a tether would get in the way), and the raiser or trainer is liable for any damage it causes.

MCL 750.502c(3), (6), (12), (14)

A public accommodation that refuses access, charges an extra fee, or demands ID, training papers or medical documentation is guilty of a misdemeanor, up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine. Staff may ask only the two ADA questions, and allergies or fear aren't grounds to exclude the dog.

MCL 750.502c(1), (3), (11), (13); MCL 750.504

Falsely representing that you have a service animal, or a service animal in training, in a public place is a misdemeanor if done knowingly: up to 90 days in jail, a $500 fine and up to 30 days of community service. The Department of Civil Rights takes reports on its complaint hotline and may refer them to police.

MCL 752.62; 752.63; 752.64

No state registry, and a business may not require a special ID card. A service animal used by a person with a disability, or owned by an organization that trains service animals, is exempt from dog license fees.

MCL 750.502c; MCL 287.291

A service animal is an animal that meets the federal ADA definition (28 CFR 36.104), plus a miniature horse individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. The disability definition also names veterans with PTSD, traumatic brain injury or other service-related disabilities.

MCL 750.502c(14)

Willfully and maliciously assaulting, harassing or injuring a service animal, or interfering with its work, is a misdemeanor (up to 90 days, $500). Continuing after the handler asks you to stop is presumed malicious.

MCL 750.50a

Any person training a dog to be a service dog has the same right to be accompanied by the dog in public places as a person with a disability. No program or certification is named. The person is liable for any damage the dog does to the premises.

Minn. Stat. §256C.02

Barring a person with a disability from bringing a properly harnessed or leashed service animal into a hotel, restaurant, public conveyance or other public place, or charging extra for it, is an unfair discriminatory practice under the Human Rights Act. A person can file a charge with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or bring a civil action in district court.

Minn. Stat. §363A.19; §363A.33

Intentionally misrepresenting an animal as a service animal in a place of public accommodation, knowing you aren't entitled to the rights it brings, is a petty misdemeanor the first time and a misdemeanor after that. Businesses may post a sign saying so.

Minn. Stat. §609.833

No state ID tag or registration program in these laws.

Minn. Stat. §256C.02; §363A.19

Under the Minnesota Human Rights Act, "service animal" has the meaning given in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

Minn. Stat. §363A.19(c)

Intentionally harming a service animal, or leaving it unable to work, while it's serving or with its handler, is a gross misdemeanor up to a felony (up to 4 years and $10,000 if the animal dies or is badly hurt). Restitution is mandatory, including the handler's lost income and replacement or retraining costs.

Minn. Stat. §343.21, subds. 8a, 9, 9a

Because the service-dog definition includes a dog that is being trained, a person with a disability may be accompanied by their dog in training. A trainer from a recognized training center, or a member of a service dog team, may bring a dog into public places while training it, with no extra charge, and is liable for any damage.

RSMo §209.150(3); §209.152; §209.200

Denying or interfering with admittance of a blind, deaf or physically disabled person is a class B misdemeanor, up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

RSMo §209.160; §558.011; §558.002

Knowingly misrepresenting a dog as a service dog is a class C misdemeanor (class B for a repeat) plus civil liability for damages. That includes fake documents, putting a service vest on a dog that isn't one, or claiming a dog is a service dog before it has completed task training. Impersonating a person with a disability to get service-dog accommodations is also a class C misdemeanor.

RSMo §209.204(1), (2)

No state ID tag or registration program in these laws. The Governor's Council on Disability publishes a "service dogs welcome" placard and a brochure on the questions a business may ask.

RSMo §209.204(4)

A service dog is a dog that "is being or has been" individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. The law lists guide, hearing, medical alert, psychiatric, mobility and autism search-and-rescue dogs, among others.

RSMo §209.200(2)

Causing substantial injury to or the death of a service dog, or letting your animal do so, is a class A misdemeanor; harassing or chasing one is a class B misdemeanor. The handler can sue for replacement value, vet and retraining costs, and attorney's fees.

RSMo §209.202

A person with a disability may be accompanied by a service animal in training, and anyone training a service animal has the same rights and responsibilities. The animal in training must wear a leash, collar, cape, harness or backpack that says in writing it's a service animal in training, legible from at least 20 feet. No extra charge, but the handler is liable for damage.

MCA 49-4-214(1), (3), (4)

Denying or interfering with admittance to public places, or with the rights of a person with a disability, is a misdemeanor. A business may ask only the two ADA questions and may exclude an animal only if it's out of control or not housebroken.

MCA 49-4-215; 49-4-214(5), (6)

A business that posts notice may file a written complaint with local police about a suspected fake service animal. After a written warning, continuing to misrepresent an animal as a service animal is a misdemeanor: $50 the first time, $75 to $200 the second, and $100 to $1,000 after that, plus possible community service.

MCA 49-4-221; 49-4-222

No state registry for trained service animals. A dog in training must wear gear labelled "service animal in training" to have access.

MCA 49-4-214(4)

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse individually trained to provide assistance to a person with a disability. Emotional support animals are excluded.

MCA 49-4-203(2)

Repeatedly interfering with a service animal or its handler after a warning, negligently harming one, or letting your dog do so is a misdemeanor with a fine up to $1,000. Taking unauthorized control of a service animal is a separate offense, and restitution covers the animal's full value including training.

MCA 45-8-226 to 45-8-229

A business may not refuse a person who is training a service animal, including its own employee. The text isn't limited to professional trainers. Staff may ask only whether it's a service animal or one in training and what tasks it does or is learning; no proof, fee or deposit. An out-of-control animal may be removed, and the person is liable for damage.

NRS 651.075

Denying or interfering with access, for a service dog or one in training, is a misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail, a fine up to $1,000, or both). You can also sue for damages, an injunction and attorney's fees; an illegal fee or deposit adds punitive damages of at least $750. Complaints can go to the Nevada Equal Rights Commission; suits must be filed within a year.

NRS 651.080, 651.090, 651.110, 651.120; NRS 193.150

Fraudulently passing off an animal as a service animal or service animal in training is a misdemeanor with a fine up to $500.

NRS 426.805

No state ID or registry, and a business may not require proof that an animal is a service animal or in training.

NRS 651.075(1)(f)

Service animal has the federal ADA meaning, plus a miniature horse trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. A service animal in training is a dog or miniature horse being trained as one.

NRS 426.097, 426.099

Interfering with a service animal or one in training is a gross misdemeanor; beating one is a category E felony and killing one a category D felony. Letting your dog injure or kill one is a misdemeanor. Restitution is ordered in every case.

NRS 426.790, 426.810, 426.820

A person training a dog to guide or aid people with disabilities has, while training, the same access rights as a person with a disability, and so does the person with a disability the dog is being trained for. No professional requirement in this law. The dog must be under control, and no extra charge is allowed.

Civ. Rights Law §47-b(2), (3)

Refusing a person with a disability and their guide, hearing or service dog at any public facility is a violation (fine up to $250); two or more within two years brings a $1,000 fine. It's also an unlawful discriminatory practice under the Human Rights Law.

Civ. Rights Law §47, §47-c; Penal Law §80.05; Exec. Law §296(14)

New York's service dog laws don't include a general offense for faking a service dog. Knowingly putting a false or improper special ID tag (guide, service, therapy or hearing dog) on a dog is a violation, with fines starting at $25 and rising for repeats.

Agric. & Mkts. Law §118(1)(c), (2)

Optional. Towns and cities may waive the license fee for guide, hearing, service and other working dogs and mark the license "Service Dog" (or similar), and may issue a special tag the state supplies free. Neither is required for access.

Agric. & Mkts. Law §110(2), §111(4)

A service dog is any dog under its handler's control that has been or is being individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. Guide and hearing dogs are defined the same way.

Civ. Rights Law §47-b(4), (5), (7)

Intentionally injuring a dog that's aiding a person with a disability so it can't work is a class B misdemeanor; disabling it permanently or killing it is a class A misdemeanor. A dog that attacks a service dog without justification can be declared dangerous.

Penal Law §195.11, §195.12; Agric. & Mkts. Law §108(24)

An animal in training to become a service animal may go into any public place for training when it's with a person who is training it and wears a collar and leash, harness or cape identifying it as a service animal in training. The law doesn't require the trainer to be a professional or from a program. The trainer is liable for any damage the animal causes and can't be charged extra for it.

G.S. 168-4.2(b); 168-4.4

Depriving a person with a disability, or a person training a service animal, of these access rights, or charging a fee for the animal, is a Class 3 misdemeanor. The fine is up to $200, and for someone with three or fewer prior convictions the sentence is a fine only.

G.S. 168-4.5; 15A-1340.23

Disguising an animal as a service animal or a service animal in training is a Class 3 misdemeanor (fine up to $200).

G.S. 168-4.5; 15A-1340.23

The Department of Health and Human Services issues a free "NORTH CAROLINA SERVICE ANIMAL PERMANENT REGISTRATION" tag to a person with a disability or a person training a service animal. Access rights attach on showing that tag, or on showing that the animal is trained or being trained as a service animal.

G.S. 168-4.2(a); 168-4.3

The access law refers to a service animal trained to assist the person with their specific disability. The harm-to-animals law defines an assistance animal as any animal trained and used to assist a person with a disability, not only dogs.

G.S. 168-4.2(a); 14-163.1(a)(1)

Willfully killing an assistance animal is a Class H felony, seriously harming one a Class I felony, harming one a Class 1 misdemeanor, and taunting or obstructing one a Class 2 misdemeanor, with restitution for vet, replacement and training costs.

G.S. 14-163.1

An assistance animal trainer, meaning anyone who has care, custody and control of a trainee during its course of training, may not be denied the right to bring the trainee into areas open to the public. No program or certification is required. The dog must be on a harness, leash or tether unless that interferes with its work, and it can be removed if it's out of control or not housebroken.

ORS 659A.143(1)(c), (5), (6)

Places may ask only whether the animal is needed for a disability and what task it does or is being trained to do. They can't ask for documentation or charge a pet fee. A person refused can file a complaint with the Bureau of Labor and Industries or sue in circuit court for injunctive relief, compensatory damages (at least $200), punitive damages and attorney fees.

ORS 659A.143(2)–(3); §659A.820; §659A.885(1)–(3)

No Oregon offense for misrepresenting an animal as an assistance animal.

ORS ch. 167, 659A

No state registry, and businesses may not require proof that an animal is an assistance animal or a trainee. Counties and cities may not charge a fee to license a dog used as an assistance animal.

ORS 659A.143(2)(b); §609.105

An assistance animal is a dog (or another animal designated by rule) individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person. An "assistance animal trainee" is an animal going through a course of training to do disability-related work or tasks.

ORS 659A.143(1)(a)–(b)

Intentionally injuring or interfering with an assistance animal is a Class A misdemeanor. The handler or owner can also sue for economic and noneconomic damages if the animal is stolen or attacked, including the cost of an equally trained replacement.

ORS 167.352; §659A.141

Refusing a public place to someone using a service dog, or to someone training a service dog for a person with a disability, is a crime. The Human Relations Act separately protects handlers and trainers of guide or support animals in public accommodations. Neither law requires a program or certification.

18 Pa.C.S. §7325(a); 43 P.S. §955(i)(1)

Denying access is a summary offense (up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine). A person refused can also file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

18 Pa.C.S. §7325(a); §1101(7); §1105; 43 P.S. §955(i), §959(a)

In housing only: falsely claiming a disability-related need for a service or assistance animal is a third-degree misdemeanor, and faking documents or putting a service vest or harness on an animal that isn't one is a summary offense with a fine up to $1,000. No offense covers faking a service dog in a store or restaurant.

68 P.S. §§405.5, 405.6

No state registry for access. Under the Dog Law, a person who uses a service dog pays no license fees, and puppies brought into the state for under 18 months for formal service-dog training don't need a license.

3 P.S. §459-217

A service, guide or support dog is a dog that is trained, or is being trained, to work or perform tasks for a person with a disability, consistent with federal and state service-animal law.

18 Pa.C.S. §5531

If someone's dog kills, maims or disfigures a service dog without provocation and the owner knew of its tendency to attack, it's a third-degree misdemeanor with a fine up to $5,000 plus vet and replacement costs, and a civil penalty up to $15,000.

18 Pa.C.S. §5535

A person with a disability may be accompanied by a service animal trained for them, and the definition includes dogs still being trained. Every trainer or puppy raiser of a service animal has the same rights during training. No program or certification is named. No extra charge may be made, and the handler, trainer or puppy raiser is liable for any damage the dog does.

R.I. Gen. Laws §40-9.1-2; §40-9.1-2.1

Denying, threatening or punishing someone over these rights is a misdemeanor: up to 6 months in jail or a fine of at least $100, or both. The person refused can sue for actual and punitive damages plus attorney fees, or file a charge with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights.

R.I. Gen. Laws §40-9.1-3(a), (d), (e); §40-9.1-4

Knowingly passing off a pet or other animal as a service animal to get into or stay in a public area is a civil violation, punishable by up to 30 hours of community service for an organization serving people with disabilities. Businesses may post a decal saying so.

R.I. Gen. Laws §40-9.1-3.1

Chapter 40-9.1 sets up no ID tag or registration, and access doesn't depend on one.

R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 40-9.1

A service animal is a dog that has been, or is being, specifically trained to assist a person with a disability. It includes guide dogs and hearing dogs.

R.I. Gen. Laws §40-9.1-1.1(6)

It's unlawful to injure a service animal, or to let your unleashed or uncontrolled animal injure one. The person is liable for the injuries and, if needed, replacement and compensation for the loss.

R.I. Gen. Laws §40-9.1-3(b), (c)

Every trainer of an assistance or guide dog, while training it, has the same public-access rights as a person with a disability, including bringing a dog in training into public places with no extra charge. No program or certification is named. The trainer is liable for any damage the dog does.

S.C. Code §43-33-20(d)

Denying or interfering with admittance is a misdemeanor, with a fine at the court's discretion, up to three years in prison, or both.

S.C. Code §43-33-40

Knowingly misrepresenting an animal as a service animal or service animal-in-training to get a disability right is a civil violation, not a crime: up to $250 for a first offense, $500 for a second and $1,000 after that. Investigators may ask only the two federally allowed questions.

S.C. Code §47-3-980

No state ID tag or registration, and access doesn't depend on one.

S.C. Code §43-33-20; §§47-3-910 to -990

A service animal, or service animal-in-training, is a dog or miniature horse trained or being trained to do work or perform tasks directly related to a person's disability. Crime deterrence and emotional support, comfort or companionship don't count as tasks.

S.C. Code §47-3-920(4)

Under "Layla's Law," recklessly injuring a guide dog or service animal is a misdemeanor (up to $2,500 or 6 months), intentionally injuring or killing one is up to $5,000 or 3 years, and courts may order full restitution, including replacement and retraining.

S.C. Code §§47-3-940, 47-3-960, 47-3-970

A business may not keep out an individual who is training an animal to perform as a service animal for a person with a disability. The law doesn't require a program, certification, gear or ID, and it doesn't limit who the trainer is.

9 V.S.A. §4502(b)(2)

A person refused can file a charge with the Vermont Human Rights Commission or sue in Superior Court for an injunction and compensatory and punitive damages, with attorney's fees. Violating the chapter also carries a fine of up to $10,000 per violation.

9 V.S.A. §4506(a), (b); §4507

Vermont's statutes don't make misrepresenting a pet as a service animal a separate offense.

9 V.S.A. ch. 139 (no such offense)

Vermont has no service-animal ID or registry, and access under §4502 doesn't depend on one. The dog-licensing law has no service-dog fee exemption.

9 V.S.A. §4502; 20 V.S.A. §3581

Vermont's public-accommodations law protects a person with a disability accompanied by a "service animal" but doesn't define the term in that chapter. The guide-dog protection law defines a guide dog broadly: a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability, such as guiding, alerting, seizure help or retrieving.

9 V.S.A. §4502(b); 13 V.S.A. §355(a)(2)

Recklessly injuring or killing a guide dog (or letting your dog do it) carries up to 2 years and $3,000. Continuing to interfere after notice carries up to 1 year and $1,000; first-time reckless interference is a civil offense with fines up to $100, then $250. Restitution is considered.

13 V.S.A. §355(b)-(f)

Access extends to a dog in training at least six months old when the person is an experienced trainer or is "conducting continuing training" of the dog, or is part of a three-unit service dog team. The dog must wear the matching gear: a harness (guide dogs), a blaze orange leash (hearing dogs), a harness, backpack or vest identifying it as a service dog, or a jacket naming a recognized organization. The handler is liable for damage.

Va. Code §51.5-44(E)

A person with a disability can ask a circuit court for an injunction, compensatory damages (not pain and suffering) and attorney's fees; punitive damages aren't available. Written notice must reach the business within 180 days and suit must be filed within one year.

Va. Code §51.5-46

Knowingly fitting a dog with a harness, collar, vest or sign, or using an ID card, to pass it off as a service or hearing dog and gain public access is a Class 4 misdemeanor (fine up to $250).

Va. Code §51.5-44.1; §18.2-11(d)

Virginia has no service-dog registry. Localities may not charge the dog license tax on a trained guide, hearing or service dog. Note the working-dog access rule itself expects a harness, vest or similar gear identifying the dog.

Va. Code §3.2-6528(A); §51.5-44(E)

A service dog is a dog trained to do work or perform tasks directly related to the disability of a mobility-impaired or otherwise disabled person. Virginia also names guide dogs and hearing dogs separately. Emotional support, comfort and companionship don't count as tasks.

Va. Code §51.5-40.1

Willfully interfering with a dog you know is a guide or leader dog is a Class 3 misdemeanor (fine up to $500); willfully injuring one is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months and $2,500). Leader dogs include dogs assisting a person with a physical disability.

Va. Code §3.2-6588; §18.2-11

A business may not deny a service animal trainer the right to be accompanied by a dog in training in areas open to the public. A trainer is anyone with care, custody and control of the dog during a course of training, so there's no professional requirement. The dog must be on a harness, leash or tether (or under voice control if a tether would interfere), can be removed if it isn't housebroken or is out of control, and the trainer may be charged for damage.

RCW 49.60.215(6)

An unfair practice under the Law Against Discrimination. You can file with the Washington State Human Rights Commission within 6 months, or sue for an injunction, actual damages and attorney's fees. Denying a person with a disability entry to public places is also a misdemeanor.

RCW 49.60.215, 49.60.230, 49.60.030; RCW 70.84.070

Passing off an animal as a service animal or service animal trainee, when you knew or should have known it doesn't qualify, is a civil infraction with a $500 penalty. No warning is required first.

RCW 49.60.214; RCW 7.80.120

No state ID tag or registration. Cities and counties must waive the license fee on request, and no one may require certification or a demonstration of the task.

RCW 49.60.380; RCW 49.60.214(2)

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse individually trained to do work or perform tasks directly related to a person's physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. Emotional support and crime deterrence don't count as tasks.

RCW 49.60.040

Recklessly injuring or killing a service animal (including one in training) is a gross misdemeanor; doing it intentionally is a class C felony, with restitution. A person who negligently or maliciously injures or kills one also owes the handler a $1,000 civil penalty plus attorney's fees.

RCW 9.91.170; RCW 49.60.370

Public places may not refuse or surcharge a person with a disability or a "service animal trainer" because of the animal, and the definition includes animals being trained. A trainer is covered only if the animal wears a harness or leash and a special cape, and a trainer may be asked for a credential from a service-animal training school. A person with a disability can't be required to show any certification.

Wis. Stat. §106.52(3)(am)1., 2.

A complaint can be filed with the state department within 300 days. A willful violation means a forfeiture of $100 to $1,000, and $1,000 to $10,000 for a repeat within 5 years. A person can also sue within one year for an injunction, damages including punitive damages, and attorney's fees.

Wis. Stat. §106.52(4)(a), (d), (e)

Wisconsin's statutes have no offense for faking a service animal. A 2025 bill to create one (SB 327) failed to pass in March 2026.

Wis. Stat. §106.52 (no such offense)

No state registry. A service animal is exempt from the dog license tax, and the owner gets a free dog license each year on application. Access doesn't depend on it.

Wis. Stat. §174.055

A service animal is a guide dog, signal dog or other animal individually trained, or being trained, to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. It isn't limited to dogs.

Wis. Stat. §106.52(1)(fm)

Interfering with a service dog after being asked to stop, letting your dog interfere with or injure one, injuring or killing one, or taking one are all prohibited. Restitution can include replacement or retraining costs, vet bills and the user's lost income.

Wis. Stat. §951.097; §951.18(4)