By law, businesses open to the public must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas where the public can go. This is regardless of whether the dog is wearing a service tag or not.

Businesses can ask if a dog is a service dog and what task the dog performs. They cannot ask for any proof of disability or service animal certification.

You can file a complaint if you have a service animal and were denied access to a public place or facility. Learn how to report a public accommodation complaint on the Discrimination page.

If a dog is in a food establishment but is not a service dog, it is a health code violation. You can report it on the Food Safety Complaint page.

Emotional support animals provide comfort or emotional support through companionship.

Emotional support animals are not considered service animals. Business owners are not required to allow emotional support animals in their establishments.