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ESA Letter Minnesota

Minnesota ESA Laws: A Complete 2026 Guide (Housing, Travel & Workplace)

Ivana Crnec, DVMWritten by: Ivana Crnec, DVM - Updated:Feb 04, 2026
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If you live in Minnesota and rely on an emotional support animal (ESA), the Fair Housing Act ensures you can live with your ESA in most housing situations. Minnesota stands out among states by offering additional protections through the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA), which extends reasonable accommodation requirements for ESAs to employment settings, a unique protection not found in most other states.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything Minnesota residents need to understand about emotional support animals: federal and state legal protections, your housing rights, the proper process for securing legitimate documentation, workplace considerations unique to Minnesota, and crucial information about where ESAs are and aren’t permitted, helping you navigate the system with confidence.

Warning: It’s important to note that Minnesota law prohibits the misrepresentation of service animals. Under Minnesota Statute § 609.833, it is a misdemeanor to misrepresent an animal as a service animal knowingly. While this statute specifically addresses service animals (not ESAs), individuals who misrepresent animals face legal consequences:

  • Criminal misdemeanor charge
  • Fines are determined by the court
  • Potential community service

For ESAs specifically, Minnesota Statute 504B.113 prohibits tenants from misrepresenting themselves as a person with a disability requiring a support animal or misrepresenting an animal as a support animal. Landlords may deny rental applications or support animal requests if tenants violate this provision.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota ESA Owners

  • An emotional support animal in Minnesota is strongly protected in housing through the Fair Housing Act and the Minnesota Human Rights Act
  • Unique workplace protections: The Minnesota Human Rights Act provides reasonable accommodation requirements for ESAs in employment; a protection not commonly found in other states
  • No state-specific relationship requirement: Minnesota does not require a minimum therapeutic relationship period for ESA letters
  • No pet fees or deposits for properly documented Minnesota ESAs in housing
  • Breed and size restrictions don’t apply to ESAs in Minnesota when they present compliant documentation
  • No automatic public access rights: ESAs in Minnesota generally can’t go to restaurants, stores, or most public places unless they’re pet-friendly
  • No free air travel: Airlines have treated ESAs in Minnesota as regular pets since 2021

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What is a Minnesota Emotional Support Animal?

In Minnesota, emotional support animals are regulated under both federal law (the Fair Housing Act) and state law (the Minnesota Human Rights Act), with enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. An emotional support animal in Minnesota is any domesticated animal that provides therapeutic emotional support to individuals with mental health or emotional disabilities through its presence and companionship.

ESA vs. Service Dog in Minnesota (Quick Comparison)

FeatureEmotional Support AnimalService Dog
Main RoleComfort and emotional supportSpecifically trained tasks for disability
Training RequiredNo special training requiredYes, individually trained for specific tasks
Key Protection in MNHousing (FHA + MHRA) + Limited Workplace (MHRA)Housing, public access, and employment (ADA + MN law)
Public PlacesGenerally treated as a petMust be allowed under ADA
AirlinesTreated as a pet (fees apply)Must be allowed as a service animal
Housing Pet FeesNo pet fees for valid ESAsNo fees
Provider RelationshipNo state minimum requirementNot applicable
Identification RequiredESA letter onlyNo specific identification required by law
Misrepresentation PenaltiesCan be denied housing under Minn. Stat. 504B.113Misdemeanor under Minn. Stat. § 609.833

How to Get a Legitimate Minnesota ESA Letter (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Work With a Licensed Mental Health Professional

Under Minnesota Statute 504B.113, your ESA letter must be issued by a “licensed professional,” defined as:

  • A person licensed by the Board of Medical Practice under chapter 147 (physicians)
  • A physician assistant licensed under chapter 147A
  • A nurse licensed under chapter 148
  • A psychologist licensed by the Board of Psychology under Chapter 148
  • A social worker licensed by the Board of Social Work under chapter 148E
  • A professional counselor licensed by the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy under Chapter 148B
  • A marriage and family therapist licensed by the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy under chapter 148B
  • A mental health professional licensed by the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy under chapter 148B
  • Any professional listed above who holds a valid license in any other state, provided the professional has an existing treatment relationship with the tenant requesting a reasonable accommodation.

Important: Minnesota law explicitly excludes “any person who operates primarily to provide certification for a service or support animal” from the definition of licensed professional.

Minnesota does not require a minimum period for the therapeutic relationship. However, Minnesota Statute 504B.113 requires that out-of-state providers have an “existing treatment relationship” with the Minnesota resident.

The healthcare provider must have genuine knowledge of your disability and disability-related need for the animal to issue a legitimate letter that will be accepted under fair housing law.

Step 2: Complete a Clinical Evaluation

Your mental health professional must:

  • Evaluate your mental or emotional disability
  • Have knowledge of your condition and how it affects you
  • Determine that an ESA is necessary to help alleviate your disability-related symptoms
  • Confirm that the ESA enables you to use and enjoy your dwelling

Important: “Instant letters” or same-day evaluations from providers who have no knowledge of your condition do not meet Minnesota’s “existing treatment relationship” requirement and may be denied by landlords.

Step 3: Get a Compliant Minnesota ESA Letter

Under Minnesota Statute 504B.113, landlords can request “supporting documentation from a licensed professional confirming the tenant’s disability and the relationship between the tenant’s disability and the need for a service or support animal.”

A legitimate Minnesota ESA letter should include:

  • Provider’s full name, license type, license number, and state of licensure
  • Written on professional letterhead
  • Statement confirming you have a mental or emotional disability (specific diagnosis not required for housing)
  • Explanation that the animal helps alleviate disability-related symptoms
  • Confirmation that the provider has knowledge of your condition and disability-related need for the animal
  • Date, signature, and contact information
  • There is a clear indication that the ESA is necessary as a reasonable accommodation in housing

Important: ESA Letter Validity and Renewal

ESA letters are valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. To maintain your ESA housing privileges in Minnesota, you must renew your letter annually before it expires. Landlords and property managers can request current, valid documentation, and an expired ESA letter may not be accepted as proof of your accommodation needs. 

Step 4: Avoid Fake Registries, Fraudulent Documentation, and Online Scams

The University of Minnesota Disability Resources office explicitly warns against fraudulent documentation:

“Disability Resources discourages paying individuals found on websites for certificates or template letters. As per the guidance document by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): ‘Some websites sell certificates, registrations, and licensing documents for assistance animals to anyone who answers certain questions or participates in a short interview and pays a fee.'”

Minnesota Statute 504B.113 specifically excludes from the definition of “licensed professional” any person who “operates primarily to provide certification for a service or support animal.”

Red flags to watch out for:

  • Sites promising instant letters with no genuine evaluation
  • “Official” ESA registries or certification databases (these don’t exist federally or in Minnesota)
  • Providers who never ask about your mental health history or therapeutic needs
  • Pre-printed certificates or ID cards are sold as proof of ESA status
  • Any site suggesting you “just say you’re disabled” to qualify
  • Extremely cheap letters ($25-50) with no real consultation
  • Services that guarantee approval before any evaluation
  • Providers that don’t have valid licenses in Minnesota (or an existing treatment relationship if licensed out-of-state)

ESA registrations, certificates, and vests are neither legally required nor recognized under Minnesota or federal law. What matters for housing is a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional with knowledge of your disability and disability-related need for the animal.

Minnesota landlords can request valid documentation under Minn. Stat. 504B.113 and deny tenants who cannot provide legitimate ESA letters. Using fraudulent documentation can result in denial of accommodations and potential eviction.

CertaPet telehealth services connect you with a licensed clinician in Minnesota to conduct a compliant assessment that meets federal fair housing requirements and Minnesota Statute 504B.113. All our therapists will be with you every step of the way.

Understanding Your Minnesota ESA Housing Rights

Minnesota ESAs are protected in housing by:

  • Federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and HUD’s assistance animal guidance
  • Minnesota Human Rights Act (Minn. Stat. 363A.09, 363A.10)
  • Minnesota Statute 504B.113 (Service and Support Animal Documentation)
  • Minnesota Department of Human Rights enforcement
  • U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

What Landlords, HOAs, and Property Managers Can and Cannot Do

Landlords MUST:

  • Make reasonable accommodations for tenants with legitimate Minnesota ESA documentation
  • Waive “no pets” policies for ESAs
  • Allow ESAs without charging pet rent, pet fees, or pet deposits (Minn. Stat. 504B.113)
  • Consider ESA requests on an individualized basis, not on breed or size alone
  • Evaluate requests and reliable supporting documentation fairly
  • Disclose in the lease the prohibition on additional fees, charges, or deposits for support animals if the landlord has a pet policy

Landlords CAN:

  • Request supporting documentation if your disability or need isn’t obvious or readily apparent
  • Verify that your ESA letter comes from a licensed professional with knowledge of your condition
  • Charge for any actual physical damage caused by the ESA beyond normal wear and tear (tenants are liable for damage)
  • Ask for documentation that verifies the disability and the disability-related need for the ESA
  • Deny requests in specific, limited circumstances (see below)

Minnesota law explicitly prohibits landlords from requiring:

  • Disclosure of medical records or medical providers
  • Access to medical records
  • Any other information or documentation of a person’s physical or mental disability beyond the supporting documentation from a licensed professional

When Can a Minnesota Landlord Deny Your ESA Request?

Housing providers can deny an ESA request if:

  • The animal would cause substantial property damage that cannot be mitigated
  • Allowing the animal would impose an undue financial or administrative burden or fundamentally alter the housing program
  • The documentation is fraudulent, inadequate, or doesn’t establish both a disability and a disability-related need for the animal
  • Your documentation is not from a licensed professional with knowledge of your condition
  • The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be reduced through reasonable measures
  • You violated Minn. Stat. 504B.113 by misrepresenting yourself as having a disability or misrepresenting the animal

Small landlord exemption: Owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units may be exempt from FHA requirements. Religious organizations and private clubs may also have limited exemptions.

If you believe you’ve been wrongly denied, you can file a complaint with:

  • Minnesota Department of Human Rights: (651) 296-5663 / TTY: (651) 296-1283 / Toll-Free: (800) 657-3704
  • St. Paul Human Rights Office: (651) 266-8966 / Email: hrightscomplaints@ci.stpaul.mn.us
  • HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development): (800) 669-9777 / TTY: (800) 927-9275

Where Can You Take Your ESA in Minnesota? (Rules, Risks & Limits)

Public Places (Stores, Restaurants, Hotels)

ESAs do NOT have public access rights under the ADA or Minnesota law. Businesses in Minnesota may treat ESAs as regular pets.

Minnesota law is explicit: Only service dogs have public access rights. Service animals in Minnesota are defined under Minn. Stat. 343.20 and federal ADA rules as dogs (and sometimes miniature horses) individually trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.

  • Hotels: May refuse ESAs unless they have pet-friendly policies
  • Restaurants and grocery stores: Only service animals are allowed; ESAs can be excluded
  • Stores and shops: Business owners have complete discretion to allow or deny ESAs

Some establishments implement pet-friendly policies. In those cases, ESAs are allowed as well, but it’s always best to call ahead.

Air Travel

Following revisions to the Air Carrier Access Act, airlines are no longer required to accept ESAs as service animals, effective January 2021. This means that:

  • Most major carriers (United, American, Delta, Southwest) now treat ESAs as regular pets
  • ESAs are subject to pet fees (typically $95-$125 each way)
  • Must travel in airline-approved carriers that fit under the seat
  • Size and breed restrictions may apply
  • Some smaller airlines may have different policies; always contact your airline in advance
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Public Transportation, Parks, and Facilities

ESAs are not permitted on Minnesota buses, trains, or other public transit under service animal policies. Some systems may allow them at their discretion under pet policies.

State and local parks:

  • Many Minnesota parks are pet-friendly and may welcome ESAs under regular pet policies
  • Leash laws apply (varies by city and county)
  • Some parks have restricted areas or seasonal limitations
  • Always check specific park regulations

Minnesota ESA Rules for the Workplace (Unique State Protections)

ESAs do not have automatic workplace access rights in Minnesota, but Minnesota provides more workplace protections than most states.

Minnesota Human Rights Act and ESAs at Work

Unlike most states, the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) provides some accommodation requirements for ESAs in employment. Under Minn. Stat. 363A.09 and 363A.19, employers must provide “reasonable accommodations” to employees with disabilities, which can include ESAs in certain circumstances.

This is a unique protection, most states do not extend reasonable accommodation requirements to ESAs in the workplace. Minnesota is one of the few states that explicitly provides some workplace protections for ESAs beyond federal ADA requirements (which only cover service animals).

However, employers still have significant discretion in deciding whether to allow ESAs.

Can You Request an ESA at Work in Minnesota?

Yes, you can request it under the Minnesota Human Rights Act, and your employer must consider it as a reasonable accommodation. However, your employer can deny it if allowing the ESA would create an undue hardship.

Your request may be stronger if:

  • You have a documented mental health disability
  • A licensed Minnesota mental health professional confirms in writing that the ESA is necessary for you to perform your job duties or access employment opportunities
  • The animal is well-behaved and won’t disrupt operations
  • Your employer can accommodate the animal without undue hardship

Minnesota ESA Resources for Students

University and College Housing

College and university housing in Minnesota falls under the FHA, meaning that ESAs are allowed as a reasonable accommodation for students. Still, their access is limited only to the students’ living quarters. Animals can be removed from University housing if they pose health/safety threats or interfere with University programs.

How it typically works:

  • Contact your school’s Disability Services office or Accessibility Resources (not housing first)
  • Provide ESA documentation from a qualified licensed mental health provider
  • Follow the approval process and any requirements (vaccines, behavior standards, designated areas)

Minnesota schools with documented ESA policies:

University of Minnesota (All Campuses – Twin Cities, Duluth, Morris, Crookston, Rochester):

  • Support animals (ESAs) are permitted in University housing if approved by campus disability services
  • Students must request approval through campus disability services before bringing an ESA to campus
  • ESAs must remain in the student’s assigned housing and are NOT permitted in other campus areas (dining halls, classrooms, labs, recreation facilities, common areas except in transit)
  • Only one ESA per housing unit is permitted
  • The animal must be under the student’s control at all times
  • Contact: Disability Resources (varies by campus)
  • Twin Cities: Boynton Health Mental Health & Counseling may consider ESA letters as part of treatment

Minnesota State University, Mankato:

  • Emotional Support Animals are housing accommodations authorized by Section 504 and the Fair Housing Act
  • Applications for ESAs must be approved through Accessibility Resources and Residential Life prior to arrival
  • Students can log into MavAccess or schedule an intake meeting with Accessibility Resources
  • Contact: Accessibility Resources – Phone: (507) 389-2825 / Email: ar@mnsu.edu / Memorial Library 132

Minnesota ESA Resources for Veterans

Minnesota veterans have both federal and state resources:

  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) – provides mental-health services and, for some conditions, support related to service dogs
  • Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs – helps veterans with benefits, claims, and referrals (including disability-related supports)

For many Minnesota veterans:

  • ESAs/assistance animals help them maintain stable civilian housing under the FHA and the Minnesota Human Rights Act enforcement
  • Psychiatric service dogs (when realistic) can offer public-access help and are sometimes supported through VA-related programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord charge pet rent or a pet deposit for my ESA?

No. Under both federal FHA and Minnesota Statute 504B.113, landlords “must not require a tenant with a reasonable accommodation under this section to pay an additional fee, charge, or deposit for the service or support animal.” However, you’re still responsible for actual physical damage beyond normal wear and tear. If a landlord has a pet policy requiring fees, they must disclose in the lease that these fees don’t apply to support animals.

Are there breed or weight limits for ESAs in Minnesota housing?

No. Breed and weight limits that apply to pets generally do not apply to ESAs. Decisions must be individualized to the specific animal, not based on stereotypes or blanket policies.

Can my landlord deny my ESA in Minnesota?

Yes, but only under specific circumstances:

  • You don’t meet disability requirements
  • Your documentation doesn’t establish both a disability and a disability-related need for the animal.
  • You refuse to provide valid documentation when legitimately requested
  • Your documentation is fraudulent or from an unlicensed provider without knowledge of your condition
  • The animal poses a direct threat that can’t be mitigated
  • The animal would cause substantial damage that cannot be reduced
  • You violated Minn. Stat. 504B.113 by misrepresenting yourself or the animal
  • Your landlord qualifies for a small landlord exemption (owner-occupied, four or fewer units)
Do I have to register my ESA in Minnesota or get a special ID?

No. There is no official Minnesota ESA registry, and federal law doesn’t require registration. Minnesota law and HUD explicitly state that registration documents “do not convey any rights under the ADA or Fair Housing Act.”

The only required documentation is a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional with knowledge of your disability and disability-related need for the animal.

Does my ESA need special training in Minnesota?

No specific task training is required (that’s what distinguishes ESAs from service animals). Minnesota Statute 504B.113 defines support animals as animals that “do not need to be trained to perform a specific disability-related task.” However, your ESA must:

  • Be under your control
  • Be housebroken
  • Not be aggressive or pose a safety threat
  • Not cause ongoing disturbances that fundamentally alter the housing environment
  • Comply with reasonable rules applicable to all residents
Can I have more than one ESA in Minnesota?

Yes, if each animal is necessary for your disability-related needs. You’ll need documentation from a licensed provider explaining the need for multiple animals. Landlords can consider whether multiple ESAs would create an undue burden, pose safety concerns, or cause significant property damage.

Can I bring my ESA to work in Minnesota?

Minnesota provides more workplace protections than most states. Under the Minnesota Human Rights Act, employers must consider ESA requests as reasonable accommodations. However, employers aren’t automatically required to allow ESAs and can deny requests that create undue hardship. Whether your request is granted depends on factors like the animal’s behavior, workplace operations, available alternatives, and whether allowing the ESA would fundamentally alter the job’s nature.

What happens if I use fraudulent ESA documentation in Minnesota?

Under Minnesota Statute 504B.113, if a tenant violates the provision prohibiting misrepresentation of disability or support animal status, the landlord may deny the tenant’s rental application or request for a service or support animal.

Consequences:

  • Landlords can deny or revoke housing accommodations
  • Potential eviction if fraud is discovered after move-in
  • Liability for damages
  • Loss of credibility for future accommodation requests

Note: While Minn. Stat. § 609.833 makes it a misdemeanor to misrepresent service animals, this statute specifically addresses service animals, not ESAs.

Can I recover the pet fees I already paid if my landlord didn't disclose the exemption?

Yes. Under Minn. Stat. 504B.113(c), if a landlord fails to disclose in the lease that additional fees, charges, or deposits are prohibited for support animals, and you can demonstrate that you would have requested and likely received a reasonable accommodation had the disclosure been provided, you can bring an action to recover any fees, charges, or deposits paid pursuant to a pet policy.

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