North Dakota’s Laws & Regulations for Assistance Animals are as follows:
Acceptance
Housing
North Dakota landlords must comply with the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), which requires reasonable accommodation for ESAs, PSAs, and Service Animals. North Dakota additionally supports disability protections under the North Dakota Human Rights Act.
Air Travel
North Dakota follows the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Only trained service dogs may fly in cabin as Service Animals. ESAs must follow airline pet rules. DOT forms may be required at Fargo (FAR), Bismarck (BIS), Minot (MOT), Grand Forks (GFK), or Williston (XWA).
Public Access
North Dakota follows the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the state’s Century Code 25-13. Only trained Service Dogs must be allowed in restaurants, hotels, public transit, medical buildings, and government offices. ESAs do not have public-access rights under ADA or state law.
Additional Notes
- ADA: Only task-trained dogs may qualify as Service Animals.
- ACAA: Airlines accept only trained Service Dogs in cabin.
- FHA & ND Human Rights Act: ESAs, PSAs, and Service Animals are protected for housing.
- Misrepresentation penalties: North Dakota imposes fines for fraudulent Service Animal claims.
- Recognition Gear: Very useful in rural parts of the state.
Applicable Laws
Emotional Support Animals (ESA):
Protected under housing law; not recognized for public access or airline travel.
Psychiatric Support Animals (PSA):
Recognized as Service Animals only when trained to perform tasks.
Service Animals:
Protected under ADA, ACAA, FHA, and North Dakota Century Code 25-13.