In Washington, D.C., emotional support animals (ESAs) are protected under the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), which requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with verified emotional or psychological disabilities. This includes allowing ESAs in no-pet housing and waiving pet fees, deposits, and breed restrictions.

ESA letters must be issued by licensed mental health professionals (LMHPs) authorized to practice in the District of Columbia. While there is no local law requiring a 30-day provider-client relationship, ESA letters must be based on a valid therapeutic relationship and mental health evaluation.

Washington, D.C. also enforces its own Human Rights Act, which expands protections against housing discrimination and may support ESA accommodations in additional settings. However, ESAs are not considered service animals and do not have public access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Misrepresenting a pet as an ESA or submitting fraudulent documentation may lead to lease termination or legal penalties.

To be protected under the FHA:

• You must have a valid ESA letter issued by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) who is authorized to practice in Washington DC.
• The letter must confirm that you have a mental or emotional disability and that your ESA provides necessary support related to that condition.

At Pawtenant, we ensure full compliance with these legal standards by working only with certified LMHPs who conduct thorough assessments based on your individual condition. Your ESA letter is issued only if you qualify—and is backed by full documentation to meet legal housing requirements across Washington DC.