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ESA Letter Ohio

ESA Letter Ohio: How to Get It and ESA Laws in Ohio

Athena Angela Gaffud, DVMWritten by: Athena Angela Gaffud, DVM - Updated:May 14, 2025
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For many individuals, the companionship of an emotional support animal (ESA) provides vital comfort and stability, especially in challenging times. Under the Ohio regulations for emotional support animals, obtaining an ESA letter provides legal and practical benefits, ensuring the owner has the support they need from their emotional support animal in housing, even in certain campus/college situations and other potential circumstances, such as workplaces. Ohio residents benefit from an ESA letter by gaining protection under federal and state laws, which prevent discrimination and ensure reasonable accommodations. The major laws covering ESAs in Ohio are the Fair Housing Act (FHA), Ohio Landlord-Tenant Laws, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Transportation and Travel Laws. By knowing the rights and the applicable laws, owners confidently navigate the benefits of having an emotional support animal in Ohio.

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What is the Importance of ESA Letters for Ohio Residents?

ESA letters are important for Ohio residents because they provide legal benefits and protections associated with having an emotional support animal in Ohio. ESA letters, which are issued by a licensed professional, serve as official documentation verifying that an individual has a mental or emotional disability requiring the support of an ESA animal. The primary purpose of an ESA Letter is to ensure that individuals live with their emotional support animal, even in housing situations where pets are otherwise prohibited. Additionally, ESA Letters protect against fees or penalties typically associated with pet ownership. For Ohio residents, having an ESA Letter ensures compliance with the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and other laws prohibiting discrimination against individuals with legitimate emotional support needs. Without this critical documentation, Ohioans face barriers to accessing the full therapeutic benefits provided by their ESA animal.

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How do ESA Letters in Ohio differ from those in other States?

While the fundamental purpose of ESA Letters remains consistent nationwide—providing legal recognition and support for individuals with emotional support animals—there are notable differences in ESA Letters by state, including Ohio. In Ohio, ESA Letters must adhere to federal guidelines under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and state-specific housing laws, ensuring landlords do not deny reasonable accommodation requests for emotional support animals. Compared to states with stricter local ordinances or registration requirements, Ohio does not mandate additional certifications or state-specific registries for ESA Letters, simplifying the process for residents. However, unlike states like California or New York, Ohio does not provide additional legal provisions for ESA access in public places. Understanding these differences in ESA Letters by state helps Ohio residents ensure compliance while benefiting from these letters’ protections.

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What are the Specific Emotional Support Animal Laws in Ohio?

Understanding Ohio Emotional Support Animal Laws is essential for residents relying on ESAs for mental or emotional well-being. The specific laws for emotional support animals in Ohio are listed below.

  • Ohio ESA Housing Laws: Under the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords in Ohio are required to accommodate individuals with emotional support animals, even in properties with “no pets” policies. Landlords must not charge additional pet fees or deposits for an ESA.
  • Ohio ESA Employment Laws: Unlike service animals, emotional support animals are not covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for workplace accommodations in Ohio. However, some employers consider ESAs on a case-by-case basis.
  • Ohio ESA Laws for Public Places: ESAs do not have the same rights as service animals when accessing public places, such as restaurants or stores, in Ohio. They are generally only permitted where pets are allowed.
  • Ohio ESA Travel Laws: Federal law changes in 2021 removed ESA protections under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)*. Airlines no longer recognize ESAs as service animals, and in Ohio, travel accommodations for ESAs depend on the carrier’s pet policy.

While Ohio ESA Laws provide robust housing protections, residents must be aware of the limits in employment, public access, and travel contexts.

*Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer legally recognized for air travel under the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. As a result, CertaPet no longer offers ESA travel letters. However, you may qualify for a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD), which is protected under the Air Carrier Access Act. A PSD can travel with you in the cabin without additional pet fees.

Yes, getting an ESA letter online is legal in Ohio as long as it complies with Emotional Support Animal Laws. To be valid, the ESA letter must be issued by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP), or another licensed health care provider who has evaluated the individual’s mental health needs. Reputable online platforms connect individuals with licensed professionals who conduct assessments via telehealth, ensuring the process meets federal and state legal requirements. However, Ohio residents must be cautious of fraudulent services offering instant ESA letters without proper evaluation, as these do not hold any legal value. Residents obtain an ESA letter recognized under the Fair Housing Act and other Emotional Support Animal Laws by choosing a legitimate online provider.

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Can Individuals who Falsely Claim to have an ESA be Fined in Ohio?

Yes, individuals who falsely claim to have an emotional support animal (ESA) can face fines in Ohio. Misrepresenting the need for an ESA undermines legitimate Emotional Support Animal Laws and leads to penalties, including monetary fines, as established under Ohio’s legal framework. These measures aim to prevent abuse of ESA accommodations, ensuring protections are reserved for individuals with genuine needs. Landlords and housing providers in Ohio are legally allowed to request documentation, such as a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional, to verify the legitimacy of an ESA request.

Landlords in Ohio legally deny an ESA in situations like the ones listed below.

  • If the ESA poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.
  • If the ESA causes significant property damage.
  • If the tenant does not provide a valid and verifiable ESA letter.
  • If accommodating the ESA imposes an undue financial or administrative burden.

Can a Landlord Deny an Emotional Support Animal in Ohio?

Yes, a landlord can deny an emotional support animal (ESA) in Ohio under specific circumstances. While Emotional Support Animal Laws under the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) generally require landlords to accommodate ESAs, exceptions exist. A landlord legally denies an ESA if the tenant does not provide a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional or if the ESA poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others. Additionally, denial is permitted if the animal potentially causes significant property damage or if accommodating the ESA imposes an undue financial or administrative burden on the landlord.

Instances where a landlord legally denies an ESA in Ohio are listed below.

  • The tenant fails to provide valid documentation (an ESA letter).
  • The ESA demonstrates aggressive or dangerous behavior.
  • The ESA causes substantial property damage.
  • Housing the ESA imposes an unreasonable financial or logistical hardship on the landlord.
What are ESA Campus Housing Laws in Ohio?

ESA laws grant students with mental health issues the right to have their animal assistant live in campus housing and residence halls. However, the student must prove the dog is an ESA by providing a letter from a licensed mental health professional confirming their claim.January 2016 saw a successful lawsuit brought on behalf of two students. Their case was against Kent State University who had prohibited them from living in public accommodation on campus with their ESAs. The civil lawsuit found in favor of the students, awarding damages of $100,000.

Can you have Multiple Emotional Support Animals in Ohio?

Yes, you can have multiple emotional support animals (ESAs) in Ohio, provided each animal serves a documented need and is supported by a valid ESA letter from a licensed professional. Under Emotional Support Animal Laws, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) allows tenants to have multiple ESAs if necessary for their emotional or mental well-being. Each ESA must be individually assessed and justified in the documentation to ensure compliance with the law.

However, landlords legally deny multiple ESAs in the following situations:

  • The tenant does not provide valid and specific documentation for each animal.
  • The ESAs, collectively or individually, pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others.
  • The ESAs cause significant property damage.
  • Accommodating multiple ESAs imposes an undue financial or administrative burden on the landlord.
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Are ESA Laws the Same for All Cities in Ohio?

No, ESA laws are not the same for all cities in Ohio. While federal statutes like the Fair Housing Act (FHA) provide overarching protections for emotional support animals (ESAs), individual municipalities within Ohio have enacted specific ordinances that influence the rights and responsibilities of ESA owners.

For instance, Lima’s ordinance §618.08 imposes strict regulations on pit bull ownership, including confinement requirements and liability insurance mandates. Similarly, Ashtabula’s ordinance §505.14 designates pit bulls as vicious dogs, restricting their ownership unless specific conditions are met, such as adoption from the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League and compliance with microchipping and sterilization requirements. Cleveland’s ordinance §604.03 outlines control measures for dogs deemed threats to public safety, mandating secure confinement and muzzling when in public spaces. In contrast, Cincinnati repealed its pit bull ban in 2012, removing breed-specific restrictions and allowing pit bulls within city limits.

These examples illustrate that while federal laws provide a baseline for ESA rights, local ordinances in Ohio impose additional requirements or restrictions. Therefore, individuals must familiarize themselves with federal and local regulations to ensure compliance.

ESA Laws in Columbus

Emotional support animals in Columbus are gaining recognition for their role in supporting mental health. While public perception has improved, ESAs in Columbus differ from service animals regarding regulations and rights. City ordinances require all dogs over three months to be licensed annually and vaccinated against rabies. To promote responsible ownership, Franklin County offers reduced licensing fees for spayed or neutered dogs. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not have the same public access rights under the ADA, meaning establishments are not obligated to allow them unless they have pet-friendly policies. Individuals must consult a licensed mental health professional to obtain an ESA Letter in Columbus. Services like CertaPet help connect clients with professionals for required documentation, crucial for housing exemptions under the Fair Housing Act.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are welcome at any pet-friendly establishment that allows dogs and cats. If you’re looking for pet-friendly spots in Columbus, the restaurants and hotels listed below are known to accommodate pets.

Pet-Friendly RestaurantsPet-Friendly Hotels
Bodega
BrewDog
Brown Bag Deli
Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace
Fourth Street Taproom & Kitchen
Hofbrauhaus Columbus
Katzinger’s Delicatessen
Knotty Pine Brewing
Land-Grant Brewing Co.
Local Cantina
Northstar Cafe
Seventh Son Brewing
Tommy’s Diner
Winans Chocolates + Coffees
Short North Pint House		The Westin Columbus
Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection
Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Downtown
Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square
Hilton Columbus Downtown
Drury Plaza Hotel Columbus Downtown
Hyatt Regency Columbus
Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph
The Blackwell Inn and Pfahl Conference Center
The Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel
Crowne Plaza Columbus North
Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Convention Center
Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus – Downtown

ESA Laws in Cincinnati

Emotional support animals in Cincinnati are increasingly recognized for supporting individuals with mental health conditions, though they are regulated differently than service animals. All dogs over three months old must be licensed annually and vaccinated against rabies. Dogs who are spayed or neutered receive a discount on licensing fees. ESAs in Cincinnati do not have the same public access rights as service animals under the ADA. Therefore, businesses are not required to allow ESAs unless they have pet-friendly policies. Individuals must consult a licensed mental health professional to obtain an ESA Letter for Cincinnati. Services like CertaPet help connect clients with certified professionals that will issue the correct documentation for housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act, exempting ESAs from pet-related fees.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are welcome at any pet-friendly establishment that allows dogs and cats. If you’re looking for pet-friendly spots in Cincinnati, the restaurants and hotels listed below are known to accommodate pets.

Pet-Friendly RestaurantsPet-Friendly Hotels
The Filson
MadTree Brewing
13 Below Brewery
Little Miami Brewing Company
Milton’s The Prospect Hill Tavern
Gypsy’s
Somerset Bar
Big Ash Brewing
Fifty West Brewing Company
Rosedale OTR
The Eagle Food & Beer Hall
The Overlook Lodge at Mount Adams
The Precinct		The Westin Cincinnati
Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection
Residence Inn by Marriott Cincinnati Downtown
Sheraton Cincinnati Hotel at Capitol Square
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza
Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati Midtown
The Cincinnatian Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Downtown
21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati
The Westin Cincinnati
Residence Inn by Marriott Cincinnati Downtown/The Phelps

ESA Laws in Cleveland

Emotional support animals in Cleveland are increasingly recognized for aiding individuals with mental health conditions. However, they are not granted the same public access rights as service animals under the ADA. Regulations mandate that all dogs over three months must be licensed annually and vaccinated against rabies. Cuyahoga County offers discounted licensing for spayed or neutered dogs, and the previous ban on pit bull terriers was lifted in 2012. Individuals must consult a licensed mental health professional to obtain an ESA letter for Cleveland. Services like CertaPet help connect clients with licensed professionals who will issue legitimate documentation, essential for housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act, allowing ESAs in Cleveland to be exempt from pet-related fees and restrictions.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are welcome at any pet-friendly establishment that allows dogs and cats. If you’re looking for pet-friendly spots in Cleveland, the restaurants and hotels listed below are known to accommodate pets.

Pet-Friendly RestaurantsPet-Friendly Hotels
Great Lakes Brewing Company
TownHall Ohio City
Terrestrial Brewing Company
Fat Cats
Luxe Kitchen & Lounge
Nano Brew Cleveland
Scotti’s Italian Eatery
Market Garden Brewery
Mia Bella Restaurant
Great Lakes Brewing Company		The Westin Cleveland Downtown
Kimpton Schofield Hotel
Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown
Hilton Cleveland Downtown
Residence Inn by Marriott Cleveland Downtown
Sheraton Cleveland Hotel at Capitol Square
Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade
The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland
InterContinental Cleveland
Cleveland Marriott Downtown

How to Get an ESA Letter in Ohio?

Obtaining an ESA letter in Ohio is straightforward if you follow the steps below.

  1. Consult with a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP). Only a qualified LMHP, or other certified health care provider evaluates the owner’s mental health needs and determines if an emotional support animal is appropriate for their condition.
  2. Undergo a Mental Health Assessment. The professional assesses the owner’s emotional or psychological needs and conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, to determine if an ESA is beneficial.
  3. Request the ESA Letter. If approved, the LMHP issues a legally compliant ESA letter in Ohio, which is used to access housing accommodations and other protections.
  4. Verify the Legitimacy of Online Services. If using an online service, ensure it connects the owner with a licensed professional who performs a thorough evaluation.
  5. Understand the Rights and Limitations: While ESAs are protected under housing laws, they are not covered for public access in places like stores. If owners wonder, “Are emotional support animals allowed in stores?” the answer is generally no—stores are not required to permit ESAs unless they have pet-friendly policies.

CertaPet simplifies the process by connecting owners with licensed professionals who evaluate the needs of the business and issue a valid ESA letter, ensuring compliance with Ohio and federal laws.

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What are the Advantages of Getting an ESA Letter in Ohio through CertaPet?

Getting an ESA letter in Ohio through CertaPet is convenient and efficient for securing the necessary documentation while ensuring compliance with animal laws regarding emotional support. CertaPet connects individuals with licensed mental health professionals who conduct thorough evaluations and issue valid ESA letters, allowing owners to get an online ESA letter easily. Their streamlined process ensures that all ESA letters meet federal and state requirements.

The advantages are listed below.

  • Convenience: Complete the process from the comfort of the owner’s home through an easy online platform.
  • Speed and Accessibility: Fast connection to licensed mental health professionals for timely assessments.
  • Legitimacy and Compliance: Reliable issuance of an ESA letter that adheres to housing and legal requirements.
  • Legal Protection Benefits: Ensuring protections under the Fair Housing Act and other emotional support animal laws.
  • Continuity of Care: CertaPet’s licensed mental health professionals are there to assist you every step of the way, and will help customers dispute undue pushback by landlords when necessary.

While CertaPet helps owners obtain their ESA documentation, it’s essential to understand when can a landlord legally reject an ESA in Ohio, which includes situations such as property damage, an ESA posing a direct threat to the safety of other tenants, or undue financial burdens. CertaPet ensures the ESA letter meets these requirements to safeguard the owner’s rights under the law.

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Consult with a therapist

CertaPet automatically searches for a mental health professional licensed in Texas with whom a patient will conduct their teleconsultations from the comfort of your own home.

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The CertaPet ESA letter provided by the LMHP is accessible online or is mailed directly to your address.

What are the Requirements for Getting an ESA Letter in Ohio?

To obtain a valid ESA letter in Ohio, certain criteria must be met to comply with Ohio emotional support animal guidelines and Ohio emotional support animal laws. First, an individual must have a diagnosed mental health or emotional condition, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, which substantially affects daily life. A licensed mental health professional (LMHP), or another health care provider must evaluate the owner’s condition and determine whether an emotional support animal is a necessary therapeutic support. The ESA letter must be written on the licensed professional’s official letterhead, including their contact information and license details. The letter clearly states that the animal emotionally supports the owner’s mental health needs. Unlike service animals, emotional support animals do not require specialized training but must be prescribed by a legitimate ESA letter to qualify for protections under Ohio emotional support animal laws, such as housing accommodations and landlord interactions.

Are ESA Letters Valid in Ohio only if Issued by a Licensed Professional within the State?

No, ESA letters are not restricted to being valid only if issued by a licensed mental health professional within Ohio, as long as the letter complies with Ohio ESA laws and federal requirements. According to these laws, an ESA letter must come from a qualified mental health professional, or any other licensed health care provider whether they are based in Ohio or another state. The key requirement is that the professional hold a valid license and is authorized to conduct mental health evaluations. Licensed professionals, including therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and social workers, are legally allowed to issue an ESA letter. To ensure compliance with Ohio ESA laws, it’s essential to verify the mental health professional’s credentials and licensing information, including their name, licensing number, contact details, and state of licensure. This information is often found on the professional’s official letterhead or verified through state mental health boards. Adhering to these requirements guarantees tenants and individuals can secure the necessary protections and accommodations under Ohio emotional support animal registration and guidelines, regardless of where the mental health professional is based.

How to Avoid Online Scams in ESA Letters in Ohio?

To avoid online scams in ESA Letters in Ohio and ensure compliance with Ohio emotional support animal laws, follow the steps below. 

  1. Verify the Credentials of the Professional. Only work with a licensed mental health professional (LMHP), or other licensed health care provider. Check their licensing information and professional credentials.
  2. Look for Official Documentation. Ensure that the ESA letter is on official letterhead, includes the professional’s contact information, and contains their state licensing details.
  3. Research the Service’s Reputation. Check reviews and testimonials of any online service offering emotional support animals and make sure they comply under state laws. Look for verified customer feedback and trusted sources.
  4. Avoid Upfront Fees for Fake Services. Be cautious of websites asking for large upfront payments without a legitimate evaluation process. Genuine platforms charge reasonable fees for professional services.
  5. Consult Ohio ESA Laws Guidelines. Be familiar with the Ohio emotional support animal laws, which outline the documentation requirements and housing protections for ESAs.

For a trustworthy and legitimate experience, CertaPet connects individuals with licensed mental health professionals who follow state and federal guidelines, ensuring that the ESA letter in Ohio adheres to Ohio emotional support animal laws and emotional support animal laws by state, safeguarding the owner’s rights and benefits.

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