Washington Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Complete Guide

Emotional support animal laws in Washington are designed to protect individuals with mental health conditions who require ESAs for emotional well-being. Unlike service animals, ESAs aren’t trained for specific tasks, but their companionship is legally recognized for certain rights under federal and state laws.

Washington follows the Fair Housing Act (FHA), requiring landlords to provide reasonable accommodations for ESA owners, even in pet-free properties. Moreover, ESA owners cannot be charged additional fees or denied housing based solely on their animal.

Washington state ESA housing laws ensure ESA owners can live with their animals, regardless of strict no-pet rules. Here are key provisions:

Responsibilities of Landlords

• Cannot deny housing to ESA owners if valid documentation is provided.
• Cannot charge extra fees for the animal.
• Can request documentation, such as a Washington ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional, stating the need for the ESA to alleviate symptoms of a diagnosed condition.

Housing Limitations

Landlords can deny accommodation if:

• The ESA poses a threat to others.
• The animal causes significant property damage.

Specific ESA-friendly housing options in Washington include:

• Capitol Hill Apartments (Seattle): Acknowledges and accommodates ESA owners.
• Overlook at Lakemont Apartments (Bellevue): Known for ESA-friendly policies.

While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not mandate ESA accommodations in the workplace, many employers in Washington adopt inclusive policies to support employees with mental health needs.

Example Workplaces with ESA-Friendly Policies

• Amazon (Seattle HQ): Known for pet-friendly office spaces.
• Microsoft (Redmond): Offers case-by-case accommodations for ESA owners.

To improve your chances of approval, provide:

• A detailed letter from a mental health professional.
• A plan to ensure the ESA doesn’t disrupt work operations.

University housing policies fall under Washington state ESA housing laws, ensuring equitable treatment for students with mental health needs.

Notable University Policies

• University of Washington (Seattle): Offers a streamlined process for ESA accommodations in dorms.
• Washington State University (Pullman): Provides clear guidelines for ESA housing requests.

Universities typically require:

• A mental health professional’s letter.
• Documentation proving the ESA assists with symptoms of a disability.
• Approval from the university’s housing office.

Traveling with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) requires a clear understanding of the laws and policies governing their presence in various modes of transportation and public spaces within Washington. This guide outlines the essential information for ESA owners.

Air Travel

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) previously permitted ESAs to travel in the cabin with their owners without additional charges. However, as of January 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation revised its regulations, and ESAs are no longer recognized as service animals under the ACAA. Airlines are now allowed to treat ESAs as regular pets. This means:

• Passengers must pay the standard pet travel fees, which vary depending on the airline.
• Airlines may impose restrictions on the size, breed, and type of animal allowed in the cabin.
• ESAs must be transported in airline-approved pet carriers that fit under the seat.
• Most airlines require advance notice and reservation for traveling with pets. Passengers should check specific airline policies before booking their tickets.

Ferry Travel

Washington State Ferries offers flexibility for passengers traveling with ESAs. While they do not have the same legal recognition as service animals, they are generally accommodated as pets, provided the following conditions are met:

• The ESA must be calm and not disrupt other passengers.
• All ESAs must remain leashed or in an appropriate carrier.
• Passengers may be directed to designated pet-friendly areas on the ferry.