Oregon’s Laws & Regulations for Assistance Animals are as follows:
Acceptance
Housing
Oregon landlords must follow the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), which requires accommodations for ESAs, PSAs, and Service Animals with proper documentation. Oregon also enforces the Oregon Fair Housing Law to protect disabled tenants.
Air Travel
Oregon follows the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Only trained service dogs may fly as Service Animals. ESAs must fly under airline pet policies. DOT forms may be required when departing from Portland (PDX), Eugene (EUG), Medford (MFR), or Bend/Redmond (RDM).
Public Access
Oregon follows the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and additional state protections under ORS 659A.143. Only trained Service Dogs—including psychiatric service dogs—must be allowed in grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, public transit, hospitals, schools, and government buildings. ESAs do not have public-access rights under ADA or Oregon law.
Additional Notes
- ADA: Only trained task-performing dogs qualify as Service Animals.
- ACAA: Airlines accept only trained Service Dogs in cabin.
- FHA & Oregon Fair Housing Law: ESAs, PSAs, and Service Animals qualify for housing accommodations.
- State penalties: Oregon enforces fines for fraudulent Service Animal misrepresentation.
- Recognition Gear: Highly recommended in Portland metro and rural areas.
Applicable Laws
Emotional Support Animals (ESA):
Protected for housing under FHA and Oregon Fair Housing Law; not recognized for public access.
Psychiatric Support Animals (PSA):
Considered Service Animals only when trained to perform tasks.
Service Animals:
Recognized under ADA, ACAA, FHA, and ORS 659A.143.