Can Hotels Charge for Service Dogs?

For individuals with disabilities, service dogs provide essential support and companionship. However, confusion often arises regarding hotel policies and whether hotels can charge additional fees for these highly trained animals. Understanding your legal rights and the regulations surrounding service dogs can help ensure you are treated fairly during your stay.

What Laws Protect Service Dogs?

Service dogs are protected under federal laws in the United States, primarily:

• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

• The Fair Housing Act (FHA) (for long-term accommodations)

• The Air Carrier Access Act (for flights)

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Under the ADA, hotels are considered public accommodations, meaning they must comply with specific laws regarding service animals. According to the ADA:

• Hotels cannot charge extra fees or pet deposits for service dogs.

• Service dogs must be allowed in all areas accessible to guests.

• Hotels cannot refuse service to a guest because they have a service dog.

• Service dogs do not require documentation, special identification, or certification.

Difference Between Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals

Many people confuse service dogs with emotional support animals (ESAs). It is essential to understand the distinction:

• Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that aid an individual with a disability (e.g., guiding the blind, alerting to seizures).

• Emotional support animals provide comfort but are not trained for specific tasks and do not have the same legal protections under the ADA.

• Hotels are not required to accept emotional support animals but must accommodate service dogs.

What Fees Can Hotels Charge for Service Dogs?

While hotels cannot charge additional fees for service dogs, they may enforce standard guest policies:

• Damage fees: If a service dog causes damage to the hotel property, the guest may be charged a reasonable repair fee.

• Behavior policies: Hotels can require that service dogs remain well-behaved and under control.

• Noise complaints: If a service dog barks excessively or disturbs other guests, the hotel may ask the owner to take action.

How Should You Respond If a Hotel Tries to Charge You?

If a hotel attempts to charge a fee for your service dog, follow these steps:

1. Politely inform them of the ADA regulations – Many businesses are unaware of the laws.

2. Request to speak with a manager – Higher-level staff may be better informed.

3. Show official ADA guidance – You can refer to the Department of Justice’s ADA guidelines.

4. File a complaint – If the issue persists, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.

What Questions Can a Hotel Ask About Your Service Dog?

Under the ADA, a hotel cannot ask for documentation but may ask:

1. Is the dog required because of a disability?

2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

They cannot ask about your specific disability or request proof of training.

Common Myths About Service Dogs in Hotels

Myth 1: Service Dogs Must Wear a Vest or ID

Fact: There is no legal requirement for service dogs to wear a vest, badge, or carry certification.

Myth 2: Hotels Can Assign Pet-Only Rooms for Service Dogs

Fact: Service dogs must be allowed in any guest room, not just designated pet-friendly rooms.

Myth 3: Hotels Can Refuse Certain Breeds of Service Dogs

Fact: No breed restrictions apply to service dogs under the ADA.

FAQs About Hotels Charging for Service Dogs

Can a hotel charge a cleaning fee for my service dog?

No, hotels cannot charge a cleaning fee for a service dog. However, if the dog causes damage, a hotel can charge for necessary repairs.

Are service dogs allowed in all areas of a hotel?

Yes, service dogs must be allowed in all public areas, including lobbies, dining areas, and guest rooms.

What should I do if a hotel refuses to accommodate my service dog?

Remind them of the ADA regulations and, if necessary, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.

Can hotels ask for proof that my dog is a service animal?

No, hotels cannot request documentation but may ask whether the dog is required for a disability and what tasks it performs.

Can a hotel evict me if my service dog barks or misbehaves?

Yes, if a service dog is not under control and disturbs other guests, the hotel can request corrective action.

Conclusion

Hotels cannot charge fees for service dogs under ADA regulations, but they can enforce behavior policies. Knowing your rights and responsibilities can ensure a smooth and stress-free hotel stay with your service dog. If you encounter any issues, calmly educate hotel staff on the law and take action if necessary. By staying informed, you help promote better accessibility and understanding for all service dog users.